A recent one-night-only production, staged at the Beehive Theatre, Honiton was a buzzing success.

The show, produced by local musician and director, Edward Jacobs was a real hit with the audience as they reacted to and participated in a whole range of songs and music arranged especially for the show by Edward and his band of musicians, 'Trichord Plus.'

Energy and warmth were brilliantly combined, as the seemingly unflagging musicians, James Clemas on keyboard/synthesiser, Edward Jacobs on piano and keyboard, and Jim Newton on drums and percussion were joined by well-known southwest singers, Jacqueline Bourne, Maggie Reeday and Mary Bowles who delighted the audience with Edward’s harmonic arrangements.

The music was varied, upbeat and thought-provoking and included all-time standards as well as some less well-known but well-received songs. Fly me to the Moon was performed in two styles and the audience joined in with the popular classic, Blue Moon. A unique and dramatic arrangement of the opening section of Greig’s Piano concerto in A minor, coupled with a sparkly Latin medley proved popular and we also heard emotional renditions of I know him so well from the musical Chess, Roberta Flack’s, Killing Me softly, Touch me in the morning by Diana Ross and Abba’s Thank you for the music.

The powerful finale was the beautiful Somewhere out there from Disney’s American Tale, originally recorded by Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram. These were interspersed with more great favourites – My baby just cares for me, Copacabana, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Billy Joel’s My life and Close to you, by the Carpenters and many more.

Feelgood Fantasia involved around 100 people as members of two local choirs from West Dorset and East Devon - The Jurassic Coast Inspirational Choir, and the Axe Valley Community Choir provided an enlarged and powerful chorus of 83 people – they sang with great energy and enthusiasm, showing their passion for the music and the emotions of each diverse number. As well as singing their own songs, the joint choir also provided backing harmonies for the solo vocal items. An amazing mix of musical genres, verve, and enjoyment. I couldn’t help but admire the complete engagement and spirit of the choir members who ranged in age from mid-30s to possibly late 80s. They obviously enjoy what they do 100%

Prior to the main show starting, local concert pianist and piano teacher, Katarina Kovac played a relaxing and sensitive selection of music whilst the audience were taking their seats. This was a lovely introduction to the evening.

Compere, Louise Bray-Mussell kept everything moving with her continuity and friendly banter and involved willing members of the audience in a variety of solo singing slots – all received with great enthusiasm.

All in all, a highly successful and invigorating musical evening with a host of very talented people. Look out for the next show, produced by Edward – definitely not to be missed.