The Sound of Musicals, King's Lynn
Music of the major musicals has become part and parcel of life – we instantly recognise the opening bars of the classics from great West End and Broadway shows.
By RICHARD PARR
Music of the major musicals has become part and parcel of life – we instantly recognise the opening bars of the classics from great West End and Broadway shows.
In the latest show by the West Norfolk-based Hanover Productions company, some of the world's best-known songs from the shows have been brought together.
Set in a cabaret style against a stunningly-designed set, The Sound of Musicals on Thursday's opening night at King's Lynn Corn Exchange was like watching a colourful kaleidoscope of cameos from favourite shows appearing one after another.
Leading amateur vocalists Amanda Arterton and Jamie Thurston teamed up with professional singers Heather Jackson and Chris Marlow, and their quartet of strong, powerful voices did justice to numerous showstoppers.
These included Maria from West Side Story, I Know Him So Well from Chess, Ol' Man River from Showboat, Can You Feel the Love Tonight? from The Lion King, Climb Every Mountain from The Sound of Music, and I Dreamed A Dream from Les Miserables.
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In such a full show there were many highlights but among mine were the talented 15-year-old Shean Williams singing the beautiful Where Is Love, from Oliver!, the medley from Phantom of the Opera by Heather and Chris, the Hanover children singing No Matter What from Whistle Down The Wind, and Miss Arterton singing With One Look, from Sunset Boulevard.
Peter Eldridge's dramatic and stunning set, combined with effective lighting, created a visual delight. Glamorous evening wear of the soloists added to the effect.
This lavish show was produced and directed by Amanda and Colin Arterton. Their attention to detail and professional approach clearly paid off.
The soloists were well supported by the musical ensemble led by musical director Rick Godsall and arranger Colin Campbell.
All proceeds from the show's three performances will be given to the NSPCC Full Stop Campaign. The final performance is tonight, Saturday September 22.
