Viva Eurovision

An evening of Eurovision? Why not. Devised by the company as a celebration of all that is the glitz and glamour of our favourite song competition, or one many like to hate, this is not just an excuse for those in the company to show off their singing and dancing skills but a complete show, with hosts: Andy Bennett and Liz Lash, full of interesting information, curated pieces of music that you know and love and maybe don’t even realise began their journey in that infamous show. 

What it’s also given the company is a chance to show who they are, what their ethos is, in a way that other shows have not been able to do. They have a great sense of humour and are not afraid to make fun of themselves as well as each other. Andy Bennett seemed to relish his role as co-host without spotlight, bringing on his own succession of lights instead, and towards the end appearing in a Union Jack mini dress a la Spice Girls. Liz Lash, who is normally the Prompt so we don’t actually want to hear her, was the other calm and collected host with clear voice which was a joy to hear her in a production. Between them they offer such wonderful factual pieces of information as the show progresses which are all interesting. 

The other thing this show – and it is a show, not just a musical revue – tells us about the Company are things perhaps less obvious but absolutely wonderful and heartwarming. This is about community, finding a place where you belong and are embraced for all that you are, and inclusion. There is mentoring, coaching, people becoming braver and overcoming stage fright, of tackling something they’ve never done before – and all with such bravery, such gusto, knowing that the support is there from every single person in the group. It’s clear to see, and it’s exactly what community theatre is all about – bravo, it’s so amazing and wonderful to see. 

There are some incredible vocal talents as well, some jaw dropping moments. Wendy Knowles sang ‘Refrain’ in French in a style reminiscent of Edith Piaf, beautiful incredible and clear vocals, and later the completely different ‘Euphoria’ in a stunning wedding dress with the bell skirt lit up by fairy lights. Damien Castle first appeared taking up the (at the time controversial) mantle of Conchita Wurst’s ‘Rise Like a Phoenix’ in stunning sequin red evening dress, long blonde hair, super long nails and heels that would make most people’s eyes water, and then further surprised us with a stunning range of strong vocals and a fabulous performance. He owned that stage each time he was on, including singing the Celine Dion entry in French; and this first one, he came down to the audience as dancers performed with huge red wings of the phoenix behind him. Glorious. 

Kirsti Bennett-Koster surprised us with ‘De Vogels van Holland’ in Dutch! Such a joy to hear this, and her lovely vocal tones. Many people will know ‘Volare’ but who knew it started life at Eurovision and is about a man painting himself blue to be a bird? It was a joy to see Charisse Goddard actually on the stage for a change as well as doing everything to support the production, and the charming homage to Sandie Shaw’s ‘Puppet on a String’ singing barefoot was lovely, as was her showing ballet skills in supporting one song with a dance. Costumes all the way through were a strength: the 60s dresses including the tell tale formula one flag dress with matching cap and white boots was brilliant. Sue Davies let her beautiful soprano voice soar in all her songs including her lovely solo rendition of Dana’s ‘All Kinds of Everything’. The infamous dance in ‘Save Your Kisses for Me’ was recreated on stage by a huge circle of the company and was so charming.  

Zara Belcher has the most beautiful voice and it’s always such a pleasure to hear her sing, there could happily have been more focus on her voice for all to hear, and it’s good to see her becoming braver with each production as there is zero reason for her to hold back: she’s amazing. Tristan Goddard had lovely presence on stage as well and showcased a lovely voice. The company took a moment to talk about ‘Flying The Flag’ as a celebration of inclusion and pride for all communities including marginalised and LGBTQ+ which was truly wonderful, as was their hilarious full cabin crew outfits, coming through the audience with a trolley a la being on an aeroplane, and giving out complimentary snacks and the pilot offering drinks: all super fun. Mark Canelle also showcased his lovely voice with a solo of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ which he did so well, which the company then reprised all together: such heartfelt and emotional work and a perfect end to the show. 

This love letter to Eurovision is also a love letter to them as a company in all that they are: celebrating each other, supporting each other, fully committed to every single thing they were doing on the stage. This was such an inspiring and original production, showcasing so much of each person’s talent, giving them space to perhaps try something new and each of them took flight and soared as a result. Each person on the stage gave it everything and it was so beautiful to see. Congratulations to everyone involved in this brilliant, heart warming and life affirming production. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.