On Wednesday, the opening night of Garforth Musical Society’s anticipated April/May show, ‘The Sound of Musicals’, I paid for my ticket, bought my J2O, and leafed through the programme in front of me. Having recently spoken to Erin, the Chair of the society, I knew a little of what to expect (performances from musicals performed over the last 80 years) but there was still more mystery waiting for me.
One thing that I loved all throughout the show was that it all unfolded like some fine tableaux- various worlds held within the box of the stage, a mini representation of heartbreak and trips to the pub and matchmaking. The members of the society never broke character or left behind any energy.
Some of my favourite performances were those done in a group- I found that often the members’ energy bounced off each other in the best ways. Some of my favourites in this regard were ‘Oom-Pah Pah’, ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man’, ‘The Oklahoma Medley’ and ‘Spread The Love Around’ as well. The dancing and the props in these songs were super entertaining- including the towels and fake booze. I also loved whenever any members wore a feather boa for that on-stage pizzazz!
Not that the solo and duet performances were not excellent either though. I greatly enjoyed ‘As Long as He Needs Me’, ‘Suddenly Seymour’, which were performed with ernest emotion, and ‘Luck Be a Lady’. Trio songs like ‘Matchmaker’ and ‘Three Little Maids’ were super fun too, with the performers embodying the spirit of the characters (especially in ‘Three Little Maids’… if you know, you know!)
Of course, I can’t not mention the raffle that took place during the interval, where people won their prizes and seemed really chuffed! One thing I love about events in Garforth is that there always seems to be a raffle… at everything. People here love their raffles- and who can blame them? It’s lovely wondering if you’ve won something while raising money for a good cause.
What struck me the most, though, was the real sense of community spirit. There were people of all ages there to support their parents, friends, family and other people that they knew- and some that were just there for the performance. During the finale, there was a sense of energy and a lot of people were dancing in their seats, clapping their hands or just enjoying the music! I am really looking forward to seeing this too at Garforth Musical Society’s Christmas pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, and what will be performed there too.
Overall, I’m sure that my review doesn’t have to do much heavy lifting, as the reception by the public to ‘The Sound of Musicals’ speaks for itself. I hope that every cast member is proud of the excellent work that they have done and is ready to move on to the next challenge in December! The Garforth Gazette certainly has its eyes on that…
Pictures are courtesy of the Garforth Musical Theatre Society.
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