Musical Decades

May I first commend you on your choice of songs.  This was a lovely varied programme with something for everyone.  It was admirable to see a youth group tackling some of the older shows so that the participants get a broader knowledge of musical theatre and the director, Joanne Meredith, had worked hard to pick songs that the young people would enjoy singing and which showed off their excellent singing skills.

The show got off to a cracking start with ‘There’s no business like show business’ which started with soloists and slowly built to include the whole cast.  The pace never wavered with song after song equally as enjoyable as the last.  This was a well-rehearsed production with lots of energy and smiling faces.  Whatever direction the cast were going in, there were always faces front and smiles for the audience, which made it a joy to watch.  There were so many excellent voices and performances, I couldn’t mention everyone here.  However highlights were the beautifully sung ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’, the company number ‘Jailhouse Rock’ and ‘I believe’ from Miss Saigon, which was a very strong and emotional rendition by its two young singers.

There were apparently 32 in the cast, aged from 10 to 17.  They had all worked incredibly hard and delivered every number with enthusiasm.  There was a good mix of steps and some lovely patterns by choreographer Tracey English. It was also lovely to see that the front row constantly changed so that every child had a position at the front at some stage in the show.

Musical Director Steve Drew had brought out the best in this young cast.  Not only were the soloists well-rehearsed, but the whole cast produced a lovely sound when singing together in songs such as ‘I’m a believer’ from Shrek.

There were superb costumes with most of the chorus in an assortment of black skirts or trousers, coloured skirts, T shirts, coloured ties, braces, sashes and bows around their necks; changing for each number to give variation.  This worked really well and gave a very polished and professional look to the show.  There were also appropriate costumes for soloists which all looked just right. Many congratulations to the hard working wardrobe team, Pat Cleverdon and Helen Westlake.

Lighting by Andrew Whiting was good and I especially liked the rainbow colours during the Wizard of Oz number.  Likewise sound by Bruce Arnold was lovely and clear and had, on the whole, just the right balance with the band.

The set was simple but effective and left plenty of rooms for the cast to move around the stage in their various numbers.

This was a really excellent show that was well received by the audience. The Director had put together a programme that really showcased what this varied cast could achieve with hard work and enthusiasm.

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