Check out the 2026 NODA Theatre Summer School courses

Wheel of Fortune

Author: Kate Marshall for Katie Jones

Information

Date
6th November 2025
Society
Wellington Arts Association
Venue
Wellington Arts Centre
Type of Production
Variety of Musical Numbers
Director
Shane Mace
Choreographer
Becky Mansfield
Producer
Jenny Owens

The variety show brought together a kaleidoscope of musical styles - pop anthems, golden oldies, Britpop swagger, and even a burst of glittery disco sparkle - all tied together by a clever interactive feature: a giant illuminated wheel that spun, game show style, to decide the next genre. Each spin arrived with a burst of pumping music and a clear sense of anticipation across the audience, adding an element of playful suspense to the evening.

 The show opened with the entire cast joining together for ‘I’ll Be There for You,’ a feel-good start that set the tone for the rest of the night. It was followed by a delightful mix of solos, duets, and smaller group numbers, ensuring everyone had their chance to shine. Smiles were abundant, the energy stayed high throughout, and the dance routines featured in several of the songs were skilfully choreographed, adding an extra layer of visual flair and excitement to the performances.

 The compere from behind the scenes kept the tempo of the evening lively with his enthusiastic facts and anecdotes about the songs and performers throughout the night, ensuring the audience remained fully engaged and entertained. The staging was simple, a plain black set with four tiers illuminated by strip lighting, while overhead lights created a dramatic and atmospheric effect that highlighted the performers beautifully. The sound was loud but perfectly suited to the ambiance, filling the venue with energy and ensuring that every note resonated clearly. The balance between the vocals and the backing tracks was well maintained, creating a polished and immersive atmosphere that enhanced the overall production.

 There were countless highlights throughout the evening, each performance brimming with talent, passion, and vitality. To name just a few, the smooth vocals and commanding stage presence in ‘Mr Brightside’ and ‘My Way,’ along with the stunning rendition of ‘Someone Like You,’ left a lasting impression. I absolutely adored ‘Bye Bye Baby,’ which we were treated to twice after the smoke alarm prompted an unexpected encore and ‘Dead Ringer for Love’ came alive in true Meat Loaf fashion, rich with theatrical flair and dramatic power. All the dance routines that accompanied the evening were dynamic, radiating pizzazz and precision, and I particularly enjoyed ‘Thriller,’ ‘Tragedy,’ and ‘Footloose,’ which were well executed and thoroughly entertaining.

 The evening was a triumph, with the audience joining in song, tapping along to every beat, and swept up in the sheer excitement of the performance. Each performer brought vibrancy, charisma, and enthusiasm to the stage, creating a show that was lively, engaging, and utterly delightful. Thank you for inviting me to the event. It was a pleasure to attend and to see the effort and talent that went into the evening.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.

Other recent show reports in the South West region

Funders & Partners