Show Stoppers

When it comes to performing a ‘song from the shows'’ production, Wales Community Theatre Players have firmly cemented their reputation as being one of the best around. This year’s production had something for everybody. From the classic Oliver! to the contemporary and crowd pleasing, Hamilton, Director and Choreographer, Claire Harriott, should be applauded in putting together a show that performers and audience alike could embrace. Claire also choregraphed some wonderful, high energy dance routines. Ray Gallagher, Musical Director, had clearly worked hard with the cast, as the harmonies were a joy to listen too. The 8 piece band, also under Ray’s direction, provided a wonderful sound. The lights, designed by Tom Dyson, and operated by Nick Clayton, were stunning and added so much to the overall production.

What I personally like most about WCTP, is the opportunities the company gives to its younger members. They are after all the future of amateur theatre. The youngsters sang their hearts out throughout, and I especially enjoyed Listen from School of Rock.  Bethany Wade excelled throughout the production, especially as the dummy in the Chicago section, where she well controlled by Joseph Bairstow. Mollie Antcliff delighted the audience with a beautiful rendition of Neverland from the musical, Finding Neverland. The surprise of the night was the outstanding vocal talent of Miley Shaw, who sang Popular, from the ever-popular musical, Wicked. Miley was a delight to watch and at just 14 years of age, performed with a maturity beyond her years. I’m looking forward to seeing this young performer grow into leading lady roles in the future.

The younger members were not alone, the adults were also on fine form. The always impressive Alison Wade treated our ears with a great performance of Defying Gravity. Alison, along with Karen Fuller and Hollie Riley performed ‘Gotta Get A Gimmick’ from Gypsy. Whenever I see this number performed, I can’t help but smile, and this trio of performers certainly brought the song and characters to life, and I was grinning like a Cheshire Cat. Will Marshall gave a great comic turn during his number, You’ll Be Back from Hamilton. The audience loved this performance, and they couldn’t help but singalong. In complete contrast from the high energy , Leah Gourdin, performed the number Burn, also from Hamilton. One word can describe Leah’s performance, breathtaking. Her technique, vocals and emotion brought this song to life, and you could hear a pin drop in the audience. Leah captivated us all.

There were so many outstanding moments in this production, that I could ramble on for ever, but I can’t sign off without mentioning the brilliance of Lynne Addis. Lynne performed Send In The Clowns, from A Little Night Music, ably supported by Tom Ingall, Lynne blew me away. This number should only ever be performed by a woman of certain years who can pull from her own life experiences. I honestly don’t believe that there was a dry eye in the house. It was a masterclass in acting through song. I shall remember Lynnes’s performance for a long time.

Congratulations, WCTP, it was a triumph. As an audience member I would like to quote your finale, ‘Oh what fun I had’

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