Magic Of The Movies/ Best of Broadway

As part of the Festival Fringe, E.M.T. once again delivered a treat of musical numbers from their double bill ‘Magic Of The Movies’ and ‘Best Of Broadway.’

‘Be Our Guest’ opened ‘Magic Of The Movies’ with the cast immediately exuding energy and enthusiasm which was maintained throughout the evening. This most varied programme from the movies, many from Disney, provided an opportunity for all of the cast members to show off their talents both vocally and in the precise imaginative choreography.

There were some excellent small ensemble numbers. ‘I Got A Dream’ and ‘I Won’t Say I’m In Love’ were delightful. The two voices in the duet ‘True Colors’ blended so well. ‘A Medley Of Songs’ from ‘Moanna’ were so carefully put together with the cast portraying various characters and having fun with creative choreography. A dynamic solo performance of ‘Surface Pressure’ was followed by quite enchanting, delicate choral singing of ‘A Dream Is A Wish’/’Once Upon A Dream.’ The mood once again changed to a most slick and animated performance of ‘You Should Be Dancing.’ An explosive and well characterised rendition of ‘Life Is A Highway’ had the audience clapping along. The ladies of the company gave a most powerful and meaningful presentation of ‘Touch The Sky’ while the gentlemen had their moment with a most amusing and somewhat stylised ‘Lost In The Woods.’

A well-controlled and powerful duet ‘Hallelujah’ was sung with real sincerity. A sassy, spirited ‘Car Wash’ was delivered with real confidence preceding an excellent quartet ‘Welcome To New York’ with great vocals and dancing.

‘I’m A Believer’ rounded off this part of the programme with a rousing finale leaving us anticipating what was to come in the next part of the programme.

 

‘Best Of Broadway’ started with the cast again oozing energy and enthusiasm as they burst into the auditorium assuring us that there is ‘No Business Like Show Business.’ A powerful soloist led ‘All That Jazz’ backed by the ladies in a most sensual and slick dance routine. The scene was calmed with ‘A Medley Of Songs’ by Rogers and Hammerstein with the company standing quite still showing off the strength of their choral singing and strong harmonies.

‘Master Of The House’ is always a winner and the ‘pub scene’ here was joyous with excellent soloists and characterisations. The solo number ‘Lucky Star’ was performed with real charm and sentiment and was followed by ‘Honey Honey’ where the personalities of the ladies shone through.

One of the most stirring numbers ‘Seize The Day’ was performed by fine male and female soloists and an ensemble whose vocals and movement were dramatic and convincing. For me one of the standout performances was ‘Step One’ with the soloist totally engaging with the audience. A ‘Rocky Horror Medley’ had the audience rocking along with the company with action packed fun and a polished ‘Time Warp.’

The two ladies could certainly belt out ‘What Is This Feeling?’ and had great interaction. The ever popular ‘Seasons Of Love’ went with a swing with strong choral singing and effective positioning.

A very well balanced trio were an excellent blend of voices singing ‘Soft Place To Land.’ An excellent male soloist led the male chorus in a powerful and emotional ‘Bui Doi’ which was one of the highlights of the section. A dynamic, fun and rousing ‘Shut Up And Raise A Glass’ closed the programme.

This was an evening of sheer entertainment and brilliant performances by an extremely talented and versatile company. The well-constructed programme provided opportunities for all. The fun and enjoyment on stage was very evident and transferred to an audience who were immersed in this fantastic variety of song and dance. The company remaining and sitting on stage when not performing and also mingling with the audience gave a real feeling of togetherness.

Congratulations to all the performers and the small band who supported the singers and the production team who together produced an evening of real joy.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.