Musical Mash Up

Youth Theatre in Keighley has now been established for fifty years- a real cause for celebration. This group began as HYT and in 2005 became KYDZ the current group now run by David Knights, Sevi Ledgard, Lynsey Fothergill, Jamie Knights, Ellie Woodcock and Bethany Green. So, it was only right that this year’s concert should include a presentation celebrating those years and the young people who have benefitted from the fun and fellowship offered by this very inclusive group.

The concert gave opportunities for all the members who wished to give us a solo of their choice, which is confidence building for them. Well done to everyone, and to the wonderfully supportive audience this evening. There were also sketches, devised from the ideas of the young people, and some of them highlighting the hot topics of today- issues that really matter to young people in 2025. Among the actors was Darcy Norris, a young man with very natural comic timing. He then surprised us with a really sensitive performance of All of Me which was much appreciated by the audience.

The leaders joined in to be part of the show. A great performance by Sevi, Aidan as the compere and David leading the junior group.  I have now been visiting for over a year and even in that time I can see the development of many of the youngsters, and the new emerging talent. Evie Green knocked it out of the park with her rapping of My Shot from Hamilton, but the evening was full of delightful surprises and the audience especially appreciated Maisie Harness singing I Can Hear the Bells from Hairspray. Max Ewbank touched the heart with a flawless rendition of My Love.

The real strength of the evening was in the ensemble numbers, where the combined vocals of the group shone through. The opening number, the enthusiastic juniors, the ‘old’ medley which seemed to me pretty recent and reminded me of my own age! Into Act Two with a great opening medley bringing back songs from a previous show. Big smiles from the kids who got to sing Naughty and then a big finish with Flashlight, It’s on Us and Black Magic.

A mention for the scenery painted by parents and Michelle Corcoran which was really beautiful and to lights and sound (Rob Green, Peter Howarth and Matthew Stewart) for making this whole evening feel very special for the young performers.

Thank you for your warm welcome of all the NODA representatives and your rendition of Happy Birthday for NODA NE Councillor and Vice President of NODA, Les Smith. We had a great evening.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.