Oh What a Lovely War

Firstly I feel that it is important for any company embarking on this show to have a real balance of voices ie Ladies and Gentlemen, and this was a big plus with Wivenhoe G & S in having a super selection of voices, both ladies and gents, making the balance solid from the start.

A very emotional show, and probably very poignant to many people in the audience, but laced with a good helping of humour as well, so the mix was good.

From the opening right through to the finale it was just a terrific evening with the Master of Ceremonies involving the audience in the action on stage.

All the soloists were in excellent voice, and many memorable songs were sung.  The listing in the programme did not name each and every song or soloists so I am unable to put all the names here, but  those I know from previous shows

Malcolm, Matt, Rachel, Noelia, Fiona, Greg, Peter, Michael, Jane and all the others not mentioned had such great numbers to sing and all did them justice.

I was impressed at the different languages spoken; German, French and Russian to name a few, and also accents which were maintained through the entire performance.

The most memorable scene for me, amongst so many, was the truce on Christmas Day with friendly banter going on from the trenches between the German Soldiers and the British.  Then the singing, finishing off with all exchanging small gifts one to another.   It was most moving and Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht, sung so well in German by Matt Reynolds, was so poignant and lovely, as was the four part singing of “Joe Soap’s Army” and the lovely Hymn later on. The balance and feel was so good. in fact it was perfect.

 The “Squaddies” who were under the command of the Sgt were good in the humour and banter which went on gave an insight on how they supported one another through  thick and thin.

It felt we were watching a really special story, and I must compliment the crew on lighting  and sound effects which were very good in a hall with limited space, exits and entrances etc.    It was a credit to Mary and David how every scene was set.

The entire cast felt like they were swept up in the emotions of the production, and I applaud them, each and every one, for giving the audience not only a super show, but an evening to remind us of the sacrificies so many people made, many at such an early age and in their millions.

Many congratulations to you all and to Mary and David for a splendid show.

Hilary as Musical Director and Jo as Accompanist, as always, gave us great singing with so much support in songs from Jo, which I know had to be sourced and worked on for many rehearsals.

Thank you for your hospitality.  I always enjoy coming to your productions, and meeting up with everyone. I look forward to your next production.

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