Showcase 2015

 Following their hugely successful 25th Anniversary production in the Kings Theatre in May, Showcase once again came up trumps with another wonderful evening of song and dance.Andy Johnston and David McFarlane’s choice of musical numbers is quite inspirational always bringing innovation and freshness to a very varied programme

Jen McIntosh got the evening off to a cracking start with a powerful ‘One Voice’ and this was followed by a medley of numbers as a tribute to the irrepressible Sir Elton John with some fine solo numbers and strong choral singing. The staging in this section made an immediate impact and was enhanced by  most effective and clever lighting bringing each number to life. A compilation of songs by Belgian composer Jacques Brel, followed and here we were treated to something a bit different and  unfamiliar to me. Harry Dozier’s ‘Madame’ was well delivered and most amusing while Craig MacBeth and the chorus certainly sold the more familiar ‘Jackie.’

The final section  of the first act entitled ‘Stage Classics’ was an eclectic selection of show stoppers with again well chosen soloists and ensembles well matched to this diverse choice of numbers. Aghogho Oguniesi’s rendition of ’Maybe This Time’ was outstanding and effortless while Gaynor Boe’s ‘Everything’s Coming Up Roses’ was sung with great panache and rounded off this section triumphantly.

David McFarlane’s vocal and orchestral arrangements were excellent and throughout the evening the choral and ensemble work was quite exhilarating ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ undoubtedly saw the company ‘having a good time’ and in contrast the a cappella ‘Only You’ sounded fabulous  perhaps demonstrating the harmonious choral work at it’s best.This was followed by ‘Always On My Mind’ with it’s slick choreography which was executed with military precision.

A well costumed ‘Priscilla’ section allowed the company members to let their hair down and all on stage appeared to be relaxed and having fun.

The more subdued finale was a fitting reminder of the reason Showcase perform and raise money- £250,000 in 25 years for MacMillan Cancer Support is an amazing achievement.

I had never before heard the wonderful ‘Bring Him Home’ from Les Miserables sung by a female but Susan Broadfoot’s singing was emotive and quite thrilling. Keith Kilgour and the company’s ‘Empty Chairs and Empty Tables  was also extremely moving while ‘Stand By Me’ and ‘He Ain’t Heavy (He’s My Brother)’ brought this thoroughly enjoyable evening to a powerful and meaningful conclusion.

As well as first class singing, the combination of expressive choreography and seamless movement throughout, an excellent orchestra and pertinent technical effects  resulted in yet another Showcase success.

Very well done Showcase family. Where do you find your energy?

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