Sing Sing Sing

This summer concert by the group entertained us with some fine vocals and content. There was much more than just ‘singing’ as the title would have you believe – it was a rounded production with something for everyone. Providing the comedy and continuity was compere Bob Stott with his Geordie accent and rich humour making everyone feel at ease and, judging by the screeching laughs of one young patron in the audience, thoroughly enjoying his ‘patter’.

Natalie Elleithy provided some fine examples of modern dance as she, along with others, showed her talents in interpreting some fine traditional music.  Natalie also sang in several numbers proving what an all round performer she is.

Children, fresh from their success in the groups previous production of “Annie” showed their aptitude to adapt to new material and take it in their stride as they performed numbers such as “When I Grow Up” from ‘Matilda’ as well as integrating into adult chorus numbers.  Well done also to youngster Rhiane Finley for her solo number ‘Castle on a cloud’

Content of the concert was varied with older and newer musicals, movie musicals, traditional pieces and pop and jazz and everyone contributed equally to its success. It was unusual, but pleasing, to hear some traditionally solo numbers such as “This is the Moment” and “Bring Him Home' being performed as a part harmony choral pieces.

It would be difficult amongst the many fine solo pieces to highlight one over the others but, just because they are my own personal favourites, I particularly enjoyed the performances of the Eva Cassidy version of ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’ and the trio performing ‘Scarborough Fair’.  It was good, also, to hear the song ‘This Is The Day’ written by drummer Peter Forster, and performed by Andrea Atkinson and the group – very moving.

Music by Johnny Winter and the quartet of musicians was excellent and didn’t overpower the performers who were heard with great clarity due to the superb sound provided by Tony Atkinson Associates. Lighting by Ian Johnson provided an atmospheric feel.

Finally a big ‘well done’ to director Gwyneth Hunter for pulling the concert together. She is ‘retiring’ after over 50 years performing and directing. If that is the case then Gwyneth certainly went out on a high – well done South Shields G&S

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