Spring Concert

My companion Pauleen and I had the pleasure of visiting our friends Beaconsfield Operatic Society on the occasion of their Spring Concert in Newsham and New Delaval Social Club in Blyth.

In a pre-show conversation with MD Susan Sabourn, she explained that their last year’s concert was themed on shows done during their centenary (unsurprisingly!), whereas the theme of this presentation was shows they have not (yet) performed.

The well-drilled choir consisted of about thirty performers, and it was lovely to see some youngsters and new blood, both in the male and female ranks. We hope they can hang on to them, as we all know how difficult it is to enlist new members these days.

The Concert was, once again, nicely conceived and conducted by Musical Director Susan, with the accompaniment in the safe hands – literally, of Peter Robertson. The programme of twenty-four musical numbers was well balanced and delivered and contained some lovely harmonious musical arrangements; some of which were composed by Susan herself.

The principal soloists all performed with great presence and confidence. Even the youth solos were well delivered. Abigail Batey’s ‘Maybe’ from Annie was quite superb. Congratulations young lady! I should also mention Alex Easton, James Thompson, Mike Douglas, Amber Jessop, Peter Boyd, Laura Batey, Susan Laws, and Kathryn Sabourn who all excelled in their solos. Well done also to Corey Brown, Carly McLeary, Hannah Eldridge, and Grace Dickinson for delightful inserts. My favourite of the night was ‘Tell Me It’s Not True’ from Blood Brothers.

Mike Douglas was in his regular guise of M.C. He never misses a chance to regale us with his very funny jokes and one-liners, which are always welcome and get funnier every year. Well done, Michael; we would all miss you if you were not taking this role.

All in all, it was a lovely and enjoyable occasion as indicated by the applause both during and at the end of the show. Congratulations to everyone involved.

Thanks to Chairman Kathleen for the invitation and hospitality. Also, to Michael for the NODA shout-out. A super night’s entertainment.

 

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