REVIEW: A Night of Musical Theatre

‘A Night of Musical Theatre’ at Red Door Theatre, Wednesday 20 November. Reviewed by Daniel de Clercq.

On Wednesday night, I was fortunate enough to go along to the opening night of Nelson Musical Theatre’s  latest concert, and I am very glad I went.

‘A Night of Musical Theatre’ is exactly what the title implies - a great night out for the audience, and a chance for performers from all around Nelson (and beyond) to sing their hearts out with the songs they’ve always wanted to perform.

The cast included both returning veterans and newcomers to the Nelson theatre scene, who were invited to select up to two of their favourite musical theatre songs (from classics like Cabaret and My Fair Lady to more modern hits like Six and Waitress) and given the opportunity to dig into what makes those songs special for them.

While each performer brought their own fresh take on their chosen songs, some highlights included; Rod Olive's charming, rich baritone rendition of Phantom of the Opera’s ‘Music of the Night’. Michaela Biddick giving us equal parts Disney Princess charm and heart wrenching melancholy with songs from ‘Anastasia’ and ‘Waitress’. And Saul Gibney, who spearheaded the production of this concert (and hopefully many more), wowing the crowd with his powerful vocals in The Hunchback of Notre Dame’s ‘Out There’.

It wasn't all solos either, with Daryl Page’s rousing rendition of the Sound of Music classic ‘Edelweiss’ getting the audience tapping their toes and singing along. And of course we can't forget the charismatic MC Keith Marshall, or the beautiful accompaniment by Louis Perry on piano.

In short, ‘A Night of Musical Theatre’ is a show that should have something for everyone.

So if you're a big fan of musical theatre looking for a fix, or a Nelsonian looking for a fun night out to end the week, the Red Door Theatre is the place to be. There are only two more performances left on Friday 21 November (tonight) and Saturday 22 November, so get in quick -  you won't regret it!

And who knows? Perhaps you'll catch the theatre bug too and find yourself on stage for the next ‘Night of Musical Theatre’. I'll probably meet you there.