Rewind

This was my first visit to The Hub at St Mary’s in Lichfield, and what an atmospheric venue it is, made even more enjoyable by the quality of concert I witnessed by Walsall Operatic Society.

The title of the concert was ‘Rewind’, as the society celebrated pop music from the last 70 years, bringing back memories of events in people’s lives, something that music is very good at. It is always a step into the unknown when societies try to recreate the sounds of familiar songs not usually sung by massed voices, but from the moment Walsall opened the evening with Dancing in the Street, I knew the audience were in for a real treat. Hits flowed smoothly from one into the next with very little disruption, another plus for the society, as it takes some manoeuvring when everyone is sitting on chairs for the duration of the concert. These are the sort of things that often get left to the last minute when putting together a concert, but Steph Coleman, as Director, had obviously not fallen into this trap and the company knew exactly when and where to move to ensure fluidity. When I first saw that the company were using folders, I did wonder what restriction it would put on their performance, but I need not have worried, I’m sure they were just a safety blanket, and many performers did not need them at all. There was still eye contact with the audience and lots of smiling faces – I’m sure the company were enjoying performing as much as we were listening to it. There were even opportunities for choreography, in a seated position!

It is difficult to mention individuals when there are so many people singing solos or duets etc. but I do enjoy going to see a concert. It allows people who perhaps would not want a leading role in a scripted show to be more than willing to sing a few lines of a song.  There is so much strength in depth, and a real pleasure to see so many youthful members enjoying what they are doing. There was a lovely selection of songs, mixing the old with the new, the up-tempo with the tender ballads, big chorus numbers and intimate solo items. It was also a chance to showcase the instrumental ability of some of the members too, with songs accompanied on guitar, and lead breaks played on flute and saxophone, as well as the essential rhythm section at times. The vocal arrangements of the chorus numbers were stunning with accurate harmonies and great balance of parts throughout, credit to Musical Director Ian Room for these and for the intricate accompaniments, just listening, you would not imagine that it was all done on a single keyboard enhanced by appropriate backing tracks when needed.

The atmosphere in The Hub was enhanced by ambient lighting, and Walsall Operatic took full advantage of it. It is a lovely space in which to perform. It was a very enjoyable evening and good to see the other side of performers who are usually just cast members on stage. Thank you for your invitation and congratulations to everyone involved, I certainly look forward to the next one.

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