The Phoenix Theatre Singers - A Charity Concert for Ross Memory Café

As Regional Councillor for the West Midlands this was my first visit to see and hear The Phoenix Singers. I had however heard of them not least as part of the awards event in April of this year for performances during 2022.

Therefore I arrived with high expectation of the evenings entertainment which was about to unfold.

My expectations were met at this event to raise awareness and funds for Ross Memory Café – Dementia Matters. A service for people living with dementia and their carers.

The setting was a star backcloth with seating on rostra. The singers themselves were well attired wearing black and white with either a light blue scarf or tie during act one. A change during the interval into red tops or dress suit and red bow tie.

The evening opened with a full company rendition of the choral ballad by Greg Gilpin ‘Why We Sing’. This was beautifully sung and set the standard for the evening. This was followed by a medley of several songs from ‘Guys and Dolls’. The whole company sounded fantastic however I must make mention of the sections led by Sandy MacNeill (Adelaide's Lament) and Own Fitzpatrick (Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat).

A break from music and ‘delivery’ of the very funny ‘Nursery School (George Don’t Do That) performed by Suzanne Hill. Suzanne sounded like a stereotypical school mistress – excellently done.

John Spencer’s performance of ‘It Had To Be You’ was sentimental and delivered straight out front to an appreciative audience.

The following piece in the programme is probably best known as the theme tune for The Vicar of Dibley. However Howard Goodhall’s version of ‘The Lord is My Shepherd’ (Psalm 23) was superb. As with all the musical numbers throughout the evening it contained great harmony.

A slight change in direction with Sandy MacNeill singing Adele’s ‘Set Fire to The Rain’. This was well sung.

Another lighter note followed, which was greatly enjoyed by all, was Richard Watson’s (MD and accompanist) rendition of ‘Billericay Dickie’. This showed Richard to not only be a talented musician but also a comic.

‘I Know Him So Well’ from Chess was well done by Mary Brigg and Jenny Spencer.

Before the end of Act One was another show medley, This time West Side Story. This medley did full credit to the masterpiece written by Bernstein and Sondheim.

Act two started with a lively performance of Rock and Roll numbers before a pleasing version of ‘Londonderry Air’.

Suzanne Hill followed with another very funny performance – this time – ‘Cheap Flights’. Could she really get a flight for 50p. Think we all know the answer.

Mary was the true diva with the lament ‘Whatever Happened to my Part’ from Spamalot. Equally Michelle Copper provided a wonderful performance of ‘Now That I’ve Seen Her’ from Miss Saigon

Further company numbers of music from Motown and an American Trilogy before Jack Bedford singing ‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’ all well done.

Finally and with audience participation a tribute to the work of Queen. This could only be described as wonderful.

Thank you to The Phoenix Singers. Not only raising funds for a worthwhile charity but a great evening of entertainment.

I look forward to hearing you again soon.

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