The Magic of Musicals

What a delight to be invited to see Dronfield’s The Magic of Musicals. It was not the usual layout for the Civic Hall but instead a cabaret style evening , tables and chairs, low level table lights and a buffet supplied during the interval . A lovely way to witness the many talents that Dronfield have in a most relaxed atmosphere. 

The evening was formatted around a vast selection of nostalgic musicals with songs performed through solos, duets, full ensemble and dance. The direction by Gavin Ward along with choreography by Andra Powell allowed the whole theatre group to showcase their many talents. The perfect evening where the whole society, young and not so young had the opportunity of being able to undertake an array of songs from Six to Les Misérables, Matilda to Guys and Dolls, Cats to Mama Mia , Phantom of the Opera to Chicago, Waitress to Annie , Wicked to Funny Girl and more. I was delighted with how the evening had been cleverly thought out, moving from small groups to full ensemble to solos and duets. Your musical Director Judith Haywood should also be delighted by the results and whilst a few were using microphones the remaining performers sang their hearts out with good clear projection, clearly enjoying the occasion. Each section was broken up by Paul Black as he narrated the forthcoming songs with touches of humour, clear and interesting factual information all delivered with clarity and often a cheeky glint,particularly when introducing his wife, who, requiring him to speak very slowly as she had a quick change. The projection design by Cara Chester along with lighting projection and sound by John Pashley and Oliver Thompson worked really well, each depicting the different musical numbers. The stage manager and team did a sterling job moving the production along with pace. 

I must mention how lovely the costumes were whilst also thanking all the unsung heroes backstage ensuring the actors looked correctly costumed and ready for each number. 

I feel it awkward to mention only a few names as you cleverly wrote the programme with Christian names only, suffice to say that everyone performed well. I particularly enjoyed how acting through song was well directed and beautifully delivered. The choice of numbers certainly gave license to some great staging, Cell Block Tango, Six, Sit Down, Revolting Children, Mama Mia ,One Day More ,Masquerade , Joseph. The clever mirroring of mothers and daughters in Slipping through my Fingers was really moving. 

Interspersed between songs we were treated to some excellent dancing from Dronfield Dance performing to The Overture from Cats and Welcome to Moulin Rouge both choreographed by Hannah Tricklebank.

And so to those named singers, Sophie, Ellie, Janet, Lily,Lindsey,Rachel,Sarah,Emma,Whitaker,Edward,Karen,Gayle,Charlie,Oscar and Isobel along with the whole supporting ensemble well done to one and all on some beautifully delivered songs throughout, a thoroughly enjoyable evening and having had the privilege of supporting your lovely group over the last few years to say how impressed I am with the ever increasing talent I see not only growing in confidence but also in the quality of delivery. 

Thank you for a really excellent evening of theatre and the continued hospitality received.

My best wishes to you all as you perform to your sell out audiences.

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