Billed as a dazzling selection of music and songs from the greatest shows of stage and screen, this didn’t disappoint.
There was plenty to enjoy including music hall favourites, songs inspired by the Big Apple, a tribute to the Everly Brothers and some West End Showshoppers. The set celebrating the 25th birthday of hit musical Miss Saigon was particularly good.
The First World War and Second World War were remembered at the start of each act with Paul Stone’s poignant rendition of A Soldier’s Farewell a real stand-out.
My favourite section was the California Dreamin’ set featuring the hits of the Mamas and the Papas.
I found the comedic numbers a bit hit and miss, with Ellie Downes and Sian Naylor’s Flying the Flag and Sue Goodall, Maggie Mud and Angelea Rankin’s A Big Finish falling in the former category.
Being opening night it wasn’t completely perfect; the band needed to take it down a notch at times and I think nerves affected some of the solo vocals. The costumes and wigs were an unnecessary distraction; you don’t need added frills when you’ve got some strong singers armed with strong songs.
Finishing with a rousing version of Raise Your Voice from Sister Act, it was a great night and well worth seeing.
Wayne Savage
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