The Classics

Ossett Youth Theatre's production of "The Classics" was a heartfelt and energetic showcase, celebrating iconic songs from beloved musicals. The performance was cleverly structured into sections, featuring both the senior and junior members of the theatre, demonstrating the breadth of talent within the group. This production served as a testament to the vision and dedication of its directors, Sue and Jessica Winstanley and a touching tribute to the founder of Ossett Youth Theatre, Janet Lodge, who, I’m sure would be very proud.

The show kicked off with a high-energy performance of The Deadwood Stage from the senior section. The dynamic choreography and enthusiastic singing immediately engaged the audience, setting an upbeat and vibrant tone for the evening. The Calamity Jane section continued and, despite initially appearing slightly nervous, Kate Gleghorn quickly found her confidence, delivering a beautifully calm and controlled rendition of "Secret Love." Her voice carried a lovely tone, and her performance grew stronger as the song progressed, earning appreciative applause from the audience. We quickly moved into the Guys and Dolls section where Oliver Hornby delivered a standout performance with "Luck Be A Lady." His commitment to the role and natural charisma shone through, supported by a talented group of senior girls who added flair and harmony to the number. The chemistry and synchronicity among the performers were evident and engaging. Marking her final show with Ossett Youth Theatre, Emilya Owen-Herrera captivated the audience with her rendition of "If I Were A Bell." Her impeccable stage presence, expressive facial expressions, and fluid body language made her performance truly memorable. Emilya's ability to connect with the audience highlighted her as a standout performer. Alex Nunes emerged as a talent to watch with his spirited performance of "Rocking The Boat." He displayed a strong understanding of his character, utilizing his strengths to deliver a charismatic and engaging performance that resonated with the audience. In the Mary Poppins section, the junior section's performance of "Chim Chim Cher-ee" was utterly charming. Their adorable presentation demonstrated their potential and hinted at the bright future of Ossett Youth Theatre. The audience responded warmly, appreciating the young performers' enthusiasm and skill. The intricate choreography of "Supercalifragilistic" showcased the precision and dedication of both the junior and senior sections. The sharp and precise hand movements were executed flawlessly, providing a visually stunning and energetic end to Act 1. The collaboration between the sections highlighted the unity and collective talent within the theatre.

The second act opened with a selection of songs from "Oklahoma!" featuring Olli Blakely. His performance demonstrated significant growth and maturity, revealing his versatility beyond comedic roles. Olli's commanding stage presence and confident delivery were noteworthy and well-received. Swiftly moving on to The Sound of Music, the junior section's trio of songs from "The Sound of Music" was heartfelt and endearing. "My Favourite Things," "Edelweiss," and "Do Re Mi" were performed with sincerity and charm, tugging at the audience's heartstrings. Their performances were polished and emotive, leaving a lasting impression. From Austria to America, and West Side Story: The lively and intricate choreography in "America" and "Gee Officer Krupke" sometimes made it challenging to hear the lyrics, but the energy and passion of the performers more than compensated for this. The complex dance routines added excitement and vibrancy to the performance. Emilya Owen-Herrera and Oliver Hornby's duet of "Tonight" was a poignant highlight of the evening. As their final performance together, their emotional connection was palpable, and their delivery of the lyrics was heartfelt and moving. The audience was visibly moved by their swansong, which beautifully encapsulated their journey with Ossett Youth Theatre. The grand finale saw the entire cast come together for a joyful reprise of "Supercalifragilistic." The energy was infectious, and it was clear that the performers were enjoying every moment on stage. The finale was a fitting end to a wonderful show, leaving the audience with a sense of joy and admiration for the talented cast.

The exceptional vision, musical direction, and choreography by Sue and Jessica Winstanley were evident throughout the production. Their dedication and commitment to nurturing young talent shone through in every performance.

The production of "The Classics" was a resounding success, showcasing the immense talent within Ossett Youth Theatre and the strong leadership that drives its continued growth. Janet Lodge's legacy lives on through these vibrant and passionate performances, and it is clear that Ossett Youth Theatre will continue to thrive and inspire for years to come.

Congratulations to all involved.

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