Up Where We Belong

I always expect great things from Showcase and once again they did not disappoint with this superb production of Up Where We Belong. A diverse programme of musical numbers had been skilfully chosen by the dream team of director Andy and musical director David varying from loud, pacey to more mellow, subdued numbers. The vocal and orchestral arrangements were marvellous and highlighted the strength of the solo and ensemble singing. The sound from both singers and orchestra was quite exhilarating and the visual impact of the entire production quite spectacular.

The opening section ‘The 80’s At The Movies’ got the evening off to a cracking start with the company in full flow vocally and physically with ‘Don’t You (Forget About Me)', ’Ghostbusters’, ’Up Where We Belong’,  ’Together in Electric Dreams’, 'The Time Of My Life’, ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now’, ‘It’s A Kind of Magic’ and ‘The Power of Love’ led by the vivacious Harry Dozier, Arlene Tonner and Andy McGarry. Keith Kilgore's subdued and sensitive ‘Unchained Melody’ then concluded this section.

A trip to ‘The Big Apple’ followed. Dan Cook’s ‘Cheering For Me Now’ which I hadn’t heard before and Melissa Archibald’s ‘But the World Goes Round’ were sung with real passion while Nadia Milligan and Cassie Dougal were in fine voice as were the chorus in a most uplifting ‘Empire State of Mind’ and ‘New York New York’.

‘Now That’s What I Call The 90’s’ was a fabulous selection of numbers with Clare Clayton and company delivering a mellow ‘Wonderwall’. Keith and the gentlemen of the company really did have fun in their send up of ‘Common People’ as they strutted their stuff. ‘Tender’ and ‘A Design For Life’ with Andy McGarry in splendid voice really demonstrated the strength of the harmonious singing.

‘Showcase Showtunes’ always goes down well. Heather Gore’s ‘Gimme Gimme’ was delightful and I would hope to hear more from this newcomer in the future. Kym Brydon’s plaintiff ‘Heart Of Stone’ was backed by a most supportive female chorus. ’Make Them Hear You’ was one of the most poignant numbers with Craig Young and the male chorus giving a stirring, soul searching performance. In contrast, Craig MacBeth led the company in a lively and slick ‘Sit Down You’re Rockin’ The Boat’.

Cassie Dougal and Jacqui Mills voices blended beautifully and were again supported by the vocally strong chorus in ‘For Good’.

Throughout this first act, the company moved seamlessly and with ease transitioning from one tableau or interesting grouping to the next. The choreography was dynamic and everyone was totally involved in this hectic programme. ‘Can’t Help Fallin In Love’ brought Act 1 to a climax with the company absolutely static and making a most glorious sound.

The overture to Act 2 ‘Pick Of The Pops’ really gave the orchestra the chance to demonstrate just how wonderful they were. A lively ‘As It Was’ had the company on the move again and was followed by an enchanting ‘Who Wants To Live Forever’ sung by Kirsten Johnstone. Paul Enever and the company delivered a most vibrant ‘Born To Run.’

‘Eurovision Winners’ gave the opportunity for more splendid singing and imaginative choreography. Louise McLaren nailed ‘Tattoo/Euphoria’. Harry Dozier’s ‘Heroes’ and Matt Fullerton’s fabulous ‘Rise Like A Phoenix’ were powerful and visually quite spectacular. The lighting throughout the entire production was indeed awesome and created the ambience needed for the many varied settings. Lisa Fleming’s ‘Love Shines A Light’ was heartfelt with a sensitive choral backing and had the audience shining and waving their lights on their phones. A moving moment.

The ‘Songbirds’ section began with Arlene Tonner giving a powerful rendition of ‘Woman’ and was followed by yet another impressive solo number in Clare Clayton’s ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’. Laura Cross was totally at ease in the charming ‘Songbird'.

The chorus then let rip ‘Running Up That Hill'.

The final section of Showcase productions is always very pertinent to their cause, raising money for MacMillan. Jacqui Mills emotional ‘Hold My Hand’ and the company’s ‘That’s What Friends Are For’ were meaningful and sung with genuine feeling. A rousing ‘Shang A Lang’ lightened the mood before Showcase’s signature number ‘Love & Mercy’ gently led by Lynsey Bailey. The final ‘Dignity’ was most certainly a worthy encore for this stunning, inspirational production.

Showcase has a wealth of talent with brilliant soloists all of whom were perfectly suited to their musical numbers and an ensemble which is second to none. This was a production brimming with a high level of performance and energy. Choreography was terrific and well executed by the specialist dancers and all of the company who rarely stood still. The cast looked fabulous in their many colourful, eye catching costumes which lit up the stage. A most engaging show which moved along at a great pace taking the audience with it.

I have the greatest of admiration for Showcase who not only provide entertainment of a professional standard but whose primary aim is to raise money for MacMillan Cancer Support. Since the company was founded in 1985 they have raised the magnificent sum of £333,000. This is due to the absolute commitment of all it’s members and the wonderful collaboration and dedication of the well established production team and all involved in any way.

I applaud everything that you do and all your achievements, Wonderful!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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