The Phoenix Theatre has been a hub for acting, dancing and of course singing since it first opened with its play, Private Lies, in 1930. Now 88 years later, it still provides a bright stage for performers of all kinds to unleash their talent to the world.

The theatre has managed to add musical expression to people’s lives through Gotta Sing!, which was born at the phoenix, and believes that anyone and everyone can sing. These hopeful singers spent only three days preparing for their musical performance and had the privilege of working with an award winning musical director, Greg Arrowsmith. This emotional journey took people from a singing diva in the shower, to performing on stage in front of friends and family.

So on Sunday night, after a very unexpected invitation, I found myself in the theatre’s little cocoon of creativity, with dim lighting and hushed voices, eagerly awaiting the lyrical tones of Gotta Sing! to fill the air

For many of them, it was their first time on stage and despite their fear, despite their nervousness, they all performed with a certain determination in their eyes.

We all listened to the jolly tunes of an older gentlemen, showing off his swagger as he worked the stage, with cheers and smiles passing over the riveted faces of the audience. A woman sang a stunning song from the musical, Dear Evan Hansen, that captivated everyone in the room with her heartfelt melody. Trust me, there were tears.

One of the artists, Eugene Gilkes, who has been a member of the Phoenix Theatre for fifteen years, delivered a passionate and expressive musical rendition of This is the Moment, from Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, that left an impressionable stamp on the audience.

“It was a last minute decision to join as I wanted to relieve the stresses of everyday life,” Mr. Gilkes said. “The course was an extremely emotional journey that was scary, yet beautiful”

Not only did Gotta Sing! and the Phoenix Theatre give people a chance to show their musicality, but it creates newfound friendships and strong bonds amongst a diverse group of people who came from all different walks of life.

Not everyone was word perfect, not everyone was note perfect, but it was a truly perfect evening in a theatre that is regarded as an oasis in the West End.