Our Favourite Things

Our Favourite Things was a musical revue featuring some of the members’ favourite songs from musicals. This is a great concept, as it allows for a broad range of numbers and gives performers the chance to sing pieces they might not normally get to perform.

Sarah Bailes directed the show, and I really liked the simplicity of her approach — letting the songs and singers speak for themselves.

The ensemble pieces were beautiful. Vocally, the show showcased just how talented the group is. You Will Be Found was haunting, and both The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables medleys were incredible; the harmonies were crisp and the vocals were spectacular.

It’s impossible to mention all the solos and duets, but here are a few that stood out for me.

Avenue Q is one of my favourite musicals, and Claire Bailes performed Mix Tape wonderfully. She captured both the confusion behind some of the song’s choices and the underlying happiness. Philippa Bayfield gave a beautiful rendition of Someone Else’s Story from Chess.

Why God Why is a powerful and difficult song from Miss Saigon, but Peter Scrowther made it seem effortless. Michael Niles’ version of The Impossible Dream was another strong and moving vocal performance.

The two songs from Chicago — Cell Block Tango and When You’re Good to Mama — were excellent. Holly Bohme, Alison Hudson, Helen Smagala, Janine Reynolds, Caroline Christofi and Nicole Georges gave everything in Cell Block Tango, each performer telling her story in her own distinct way. When You’re Good to Mama needs a powerful performer with a strong voice, and Sarah Cunningham delivered exactly that.

Bob Sulzback sang This Is the Moment from Jekyll and Hyde. It’s a stunning song, and Bob did it justice, it was sung beautifully.

Overall, this was a great evening showcasing Hitchin Thespians’ vocal ability at a high level. Thank you to the Front of House team for their hospitality.

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