POP OF THE TOPS

The First Act cast always put on a good show and this one was no exception. Using the television show ‘Top of the Pops’, which ran from 1964-2006, they renamed it ‘Pop of the Tops’ and took the audience on a fast-paced trip of their favourite tunes. The music choices ranged from ballads, disco and novelty hits from across the decades. The changes were seamless, no mean feat with twenty-two cast members and helpers on stage. Well done to everyone.

Wearing t-shirts emblazoned with the 'Pop of the Tops' logo and blue jeans, together with smiling faces, the audience was treated to hits, sung to taped songs, from the likes of Elvis Presley, Mary Hopkin, Kylie, Kate Bush, Robbie Williams and Queen, to name but a few. There were some wonderful solos and enthusiastic group numbers. It was slick and fast and the audience needed no encouragement to join in with clapping and singing along.

Aside from the singing, the choreography was equally joyful, inventive and very well executed. There were some brilliant dance moves, all performed with confidence. With a nod to the TV show, we were even entertained by ‘Pan’s People’.

There were some stand-out moments. Listening to ‘The Sounds of Silence’ and watching it being signed by most of the cast was extremely moving and will stay in the minds of most of the audience, without doubt. The comedy songs, including ‘Mr Blobby’, ‘Bob the Builder’, ‘The Wombles’ and ‘Kung-Fu Fighting’ were such fun to observe. Even funnier were the comments from Rachel Stone, who took on the role of a keep fit instructor giving out her orders, including ‘put your back into it’ during a workout to ‘Let’s Get Physical’.

It felt that show ended all to soon but that was because it was so enjoyable and nobody wanted it to stop. The feelgood factor was amazing and the joy of people both during and after the show was tangible.

Congratulations to the cast and all the staff and supporters. You should all be very proud of yourselves.

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