Returning to the stage at the Manor Pavilion Theatre recently for their 47th production after a two-year break, Sidmouth Youth Theatre chose to present a compilation of songs from West End shows aptly named “The Show Will Go On”.
Director, Producer and Founder of SYT Angela Davies put together a fast-paced and excellent show, skilfully weaving together a company of 75 students aged between 12 and 19, and 15 Alumni, graduates of past productions bringing their wealth of experience to the stage.
Songs were presented from well-known shows such as “The Lion King” and “Frozen” but also from those not so familiar – “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Me and the Sky.”
The full company numbers were amazing and well-rehearsed with everyone on stage knowing their place. “A Million Dreams” was especially moving, with the youngsters entering in groups, each group in individual colour themed T-shirts, the fading of the lights at the end section by section was particularly effective.
With some excellent choreography on show, “Don’t lose Your Head” from “Six” was brilliantly performed and great fun! “Voulez Vous” from “Mamma Mia” was uplifting especially when one dancer in the “split” position was held high above the others!
There were stunning solos and duets from, Matt Colson, Iona Gray, Samantha Landy, Jessica-Rose Morris, Jai Prettejohn, Myles Reed, Cara Shepherd, Jamie Taylor and Hannah Thompson, covering highlights from a range of musicals.
The ending of Act I was just superb as the curtains came back to a perfect representation of the opening of Les Misérables, Cameron Retter and Molly Morton were both simply spot-on as the Thénardiers – brilliant!
Scene changes were smoothly performed, the lighting well designed and effective, and the costumes appropriate for each extract.
At the end of the day, the production had a great “company” feel. Everyone performed with energy and enthusiasm and supported each other. The warmth generated by the performers spilt out into the audience and certainly deserved the rapturous and enthusiastic applause received on the packed first night. The finale number “We Will Rock You” simply summed it all up because they certainly did!
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