One Night Only

It's always a pleasure to attend a Youth Onstage event, as an enjoyable evening is guaranteed. This time, eighteen talented performers, mostly alumni but with some current members too, delivered an exceptional concert that highlighted their versatility and professionalism. The production team selected musical numbers from popular West End and Broadway shows, many of which have been restricted or not accessible to amateur groups due to licensing restrictions, and it proved challenging for most of the audience not to join in!

Composing this reflection without simply enumerating each item from the programme presents a challenge. Nonetheless, I would like to highlight several standout moments that, in my opinion, exemplified the high calibre of content presented.  Carly Taylor and Dan Burton-Peet delivered an impressive rendition of 'Only Us' from “Dear Evan Hansen”. Ellie Burley, Lauren Chapman, Hannah Southbrook and Dan performed two memorable pieces from “Waitress”: ‘The Negative’ and ‘She Used To Be Mine’. The cast's energetic interpretation of ‘Six’ from “Six” featuring Ellie, Lauren, Hannah, Amy Evans, Gracie Evenden and Hannah Thomas was particularly noteworthy.  Hannah Thomas then captivated the audience with her performance of ‘Taylor the Latte Boy’.

Several new shows to me also made a lasting impression, so much so I needed to do a little research. Duncan Burt’s superbly moving performance of ‘When She Smiles’ from “Lysistrata Jones” introduced me to a new favourite, as did Matty Brook and Lauren Chapman’s emotional delivery of ‘I Paint/Sadness and Joy’ from “The Notebook”. Dylan Hartnell gave a compelling performance of ‘Stars’, while Nico Eynon-Colon imposingly stood out as the King from “Hamilton” in ‘You’ll Be Back’. Additionally, I enjoyed Kia Gates’s version of ‘My House’ from “Matilda”.

The “Jersey Boys” medley was executed with great familiar choreography and timing by James Berryman, Matty, Dan, and James Woodward, contributing to a highly enjoyable segment.

Each and every member of the cast demonstrated remarkable talent, so much so that I could go on and on. My sincere congratulations go out to all involved.

Deb acknowledged all the performers at the end, thanking them for returning for ‘One Night Only’ and for their commitment to an evening that was reportedly rehearsed that afternoon. Andrew and the production team were recognised for selecting a varied programme.  The fundraising event concluded with a standing ovation from the audience.

I would like to add that Youth Onstage is noted for its reputation of encouraging and developing past members, many of whom have followed their dreams and have been fortunate to have gone on to careers as musical theatre performers in the West End, on cruise ships or touring the UK and the world.

Another fantastic evening's entertainment, thank you once again for the invitation.

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