Lighting Up The Jukebox

This was the first time I had reviewed a show for Ossett Youth Theatre, although not the first time I had seen one of their productions so I knew that it would be an entertaining evening.

Ossett Youth Theatre have grown significantly over the last few years and now have separate junior and senior sections, however this production brought them all together to showcase what outstanding talent they have.

As the lights went down we were transported to the Bohemian era of Paris and a selection of songs from Moulin Rouge. It was quickly evident just how fortunate the company is to have so many talented young men and they all demonstrated their abilities during this section. I particularly enjoyed Come What May, performed by Liam Ibbotson and Emilya Owen-Herrera who sang it with lovely characterisation.

We were then transported to Greece and a medley of numbers from Mamma Mia. What I particularly enjoyed in the segment was that so many of the young people got to shine and take solo parts.

Act 1 culminated in a return to a Bohemian state, this time in the distant future where young people struggle to restore the free exchange of thought and fashion and live music. Opening with We Will Rock You, this was the point that I knew my eight year old was thoroughly enjoying herself as she joined in with the audience in clapping along. Emilya Owen-Herrera performing Somebody To Love is a huge talent and a star of the future, I am sure. She has a fabulous voice and acts every line with such poise and maturity beyond her years. Elliott Cosgrove took the lead vocal in Don’t Stop Me Now and demonstrated just what an impressive vocal range he has.

Act 2 began with another rock musical and the music of the legendary Meatloaf. I confess, I didn’t really know the song Objects In The Rearview Mirror, however, it was performed with such tenderness by Oliver Hornby and Tyler Warren that I shall ensure I listen to the soundtrack fully in the near future

The juniors shone in their rendition of ABC from The Jackson 5 and there is no doubt that the company has longevity with these young people as it’s future. The confidence from them all, from soloists, duo’s and those in the ensemble was a pleasure to see but more so, was the pure joy on their faces as they performed their hearts out to their families and friends.

Sue and Jess Winstanley should be extremely proud of what they have created here and I hope that they continue to provide the facility for young people to develop their performing skills for years to come.

Congratulations, on a wonderful evening’s entertainment, Charlotte and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.