Musical Minds

Musical Minds is an inhouse concept dreamt up with the help of society members suggesting appropriate songs that have depth and meaning partly to themselves but for all to appreciate. Their chairperson Sarah Betts collated the many suggestions to form the extensive list we were privileged to enjoy.  The whole point of the exercise was to reflect on situations that are currently so close to so many. Wellbeing and understanding as we all travel through the days and months in particular looking at self-worth, accepting and supporting people as they face varied issues, mental health along with feelings of emptiness and struggling for acceptance of who and what we are.

Dronfield continues its long tradition of community theatre welcoming and encouraging, not judging or questioning, allowing everyone their own space and creating that all exclusive safe space called theatre, a place where life long friendships are made, encouragement freely given and bonds firmly acquired.

Having had the privilege of continued invites to your productions both showcase as this or full musicals I delight in how so many actors grow with strength in stature and ability, confidence and performance with the support of your Society, hopefully creating a stepping stone for whatever is to come. With an age ranging from 11 upwards, what a great opportunity and development experience.

Whilst I often refer to main characters or what I perceive as stand out moments in a musical with a showcase/ showstopper production as this it seems unfair so forgive me that no names will be mentioned. After all, without you all, you have a couple standing and singing which really wouldn’t work. I must however praise the efforts of the whole production team as they have clearly put their extensive combined knowledge to mold this lovely evening of song and movement together. Needless to say, I had my favourites but when songs are chosen from such a wide spectrum this will always be the case. Songs from Jamie to Wicked, Funny Girl to The Wiz, Hairspray to La Cage, 42nd Street to Ghost and many more provided a lovely combination allowing so many performers the opportunity to perform solos duets and smaller group numbers along with full ensemble pieces. I was really impressed with a number of the cast who grasped their individual moments to showcase their growing musical theatre attributes. The whole format of a cabaret style evening with audience members around tables, drinks and food in the interval created a relaxing and enjoyable theatre evening. To name just a few that would include ‘Wall in my Head’ , ‘If only they would listen’ ,’ With you ‘, ‘Believe in Yourself’ and ‘Waving through a window’.

I genuinely felt the message as you Sarah became the production narrator, and I hope made many others think about what you said and listened carefully to those special song words containing so much meaning. I must wish Lily Ward all success as she leaves Dronfield to step out into a new word and trust her dreams and aspirations come true. Thank you for a lovely evening,

Philip Smith Noda NE District 6 Regional Rep

 

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