Roleystone Theatre 2016 Gala Concert

Roleystone Theatre 2016 Gala Concert
Roleystone Theatre, WA. 13 Aug, 2016

Roleystone’s Annual Gala has become a tradition, with the concert each year having a particular musical theme. This year the show featured ‘Hits from London’s West End’, with the second act devoted to Andrew Lloyd Webber.

As well as highlighting some of their best talent, the Gala Concerts are open to all members, and offer an opportunity for less experienced performers to stretch heir wings. The night is also very much a social occasion, with a generous supper provided.

Opening with an enthusiastic ‘Lambeth Walk’ from Me and My Girl, the highlights from the first half included Bree Hartley’s lovely ‘My House’ from Matilda, with very cute assistance from Kenzie Ramsell; Corinne Hands returned to the stage after a long absence with a glorious rendition of ‘Oom-pah-pah’ from Oliver!, ably supported by the company; Madeleine Shaw used lovely story telling with a beautiful rendition of ‘Meadowlark’ from The Baker’s Wife.  Duets included a strong Bree Hartley and Allison Harrison with ‘I Know Him So Well’ from Chess and Nicole George and Hayley Parker-Close with ‘I Still Believe’ from Miss Saigon. Empale Bialis sang the title song from Mamma Mia! assisted by her sisters Phillipa and Jaime, in a well-timed change of pace, before the act closed with ‘The Time Warp’ lead by Paul Treasure.

Act Two opened with a selection from Jesus Christ Superstar featuring ‘Hosanna’ from the ensemble, followed by a vibrant and clever ‘Herod’s Song’ performed by Paul Treasure and a heartfelt ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’ from Madeleine Shaw. Other high points were Jaime Bialis’ ‘Unexpected Song’ from Song and Dance and Joshua Litting’s moving portrayal of The Phantom singing Music of the Night.

Congratulations to all of the hard-working and energetic cast which also featured Kathryn Ramsell, Rach Hunter and Shelley Whiteaker. Most of the cast performed multiple numbers in a variety of styles.

Daniel Ramsell did an excellent job with lights and Elizabeth Vance battled a recalcitrant sound system and for the most part, won.

This is a lovely concept and a model that other groups would do well to follow. I look forward to Movie Musicals themed Gala next year.

Kimberley Shaw

Subscribe to our E-Newsletter, buy our latest print edition or find a Performing Arts book at Book Nook.