Show Stoppers

Wales Theatre Players once again showed why they are one of the best when it comes to staging a concert. This years offering, Show Stoppers The Best of the Best, was expertly directed and choreographed by Claire Harriott. The choreography was very clever and executed well by this talented cast. I really liked that there was not a moment when the stage was empty. The transitions from one song to the other was seamless. Ray Gallagher, Musical Director, had worked hard with the company, as the harmonies were a delight. The 8 piece band added much to the production. 

It was a show of two-halfs, as Act One focused on numbers from the classic Broadway era such Wouldn’t It Be Lovely and Good Morning. It was a nice touch to have the audience vote on the finale number. Although disappointed my vote didn’t win, Spread The Love Around, was high energy finale with lead vocals from Karen Fuller and Sue Hatton. 


Joseph Bairstow was engaging from start to finish. Bairstows Two Ladies from Cabaret, where he was joined by Agatha Ingall and Leah Goudin, was fabulous and a personal highlight. Will Marshall led the cast in the audience favourite and toe tapping number Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat. A well known face to Rotherham audiences, Adam Wigglesworth, showed yet again what a great vocalist he is. You could hear a pin drop during his performance of Bui Doi. I would honestly pay to see Wigglesworth perform a one man show. The show wasn’t without sentiment, as James Moore performed My Dad from The Great British Bake Off Musical. Moore was joined on stage by talented youngster, Chloe Galllagher, who was simply stunning as the 9 year old Lily. I’m really looking forward to seeing what this talented young performer does next. 

Faye Wood raised many giggle as took on The Diva’s Lament from Spamalot. Woods not only sang this song but she lived it. The always impressive Alison Wade, gave another great performance as she sang the show stopping number Me and the Sky.

WTP should be applauded for the opportunities it gives to the younger performers. Not only do they get to perform with the adults but they also get their own moment in the spotlight. The talented youngsters gave their all in numbers form Nativity!, Annie and The Addams Family. 

However, the night belonged to the powerhouse that is Mollie Antcliff. I was absolutely blown away by her performance of Don’t Rain On My Parade from Funny Girl. Not only did Antcliff give a note perfect performance, she acted every single word and her diction was on point. It’s been a great pleasure to watch this young lady grow from being a junior ensemble member to the talented leading lady she is today. 

Praise must also be given to Jenny Wright, Wardrobe Manager. It’s difficult to costume a cabaret show without breaching copyright, but Wright found new and ingenious ways of costuming the show, that made this production fresh and unique. On the night I attended, there was a few sound issues, and at times made it difficult to hear the full ensemble.

Many thanks again to all at WTP for your hospitality. I agree with the title of your production. It really was the best of the best.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.