Date:
20 December 2012
Venue:
Arts Centre, Washington
Type of Production:
Concert
Producer / Director:
Ann Chadwick
Musical Director:
Colin Galley
Review Author:
Gordon Richardson
Entitled “A Christmas Cracker” I expected this to be a festive affair, and it certainly was the case with many well-known songs that the audience could sing along with, or tap their feet too. The first thing noticeable as the curtain opened, apart from the many very ‘loud’ Christmas jumpers on display, was that all the generations were involved, from junior school children up to, dare I say, adults not in the first flush of youth. Surely though, that is the spirit of Christmas and that ‘warmth’ came through in their enthusiasm and vocals.
With over two dozen Christmas favourites as well as Carols at the end of the concert, there was a danger of having festive overload but this was not the case, and indeed, for this self-confessed ‘Scrooge’, I found myself singing along, and remembering Christmas concerts of previous years I have taken part in, and the joy that was gained and imparted at this time of the year.
As mentioned earlier, it was pleasing to note the number of younger people at the concert. Many of the soloists and duets were performed by youngsters James Forster, Nick Thompson, Nathan Routledge and Bethan Waller. The really young people also had their opportunity in songs such as “Frosty the Snowman” and “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”, and a humorous performance of “All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth” by Caitlin Bannister (complete with ‘lisp’).
Ensuring the youngsters didn’t get all the fun, older soloists such as Anne Taylor and Ron Monaghan regaled us with Classics such as “Santa Baby” and “When a Child is Born”. A special mention must also go to Barbara Simpson who flawlessly sang “O Holy Night” – one of my personal favourite Christmas pieces.
Girls provided movement in 1950’s style skirts dancing along to “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” alongside some of the younger men.
The set was well dressed in a sparkly festive manner, and although it did look a little ‘cluttered’ when the full group performed, this was a minor point. So, did this ‘Scrooge’ enjoy this festive offering from Fatfield? – yes he did. Well done to all concerned.