Oxted Musical Theatre Company brilliantly performed a wide variety of musical favourites at The Barn Theatre in Oxted last week in their show ‘The Magic of the Musicals!’ From 23rd to 26th March, audiences were entertained with modern hit songs including ‘Don’t Lose Your Head’ from ‘Six the Musical’ as well as classics like ‘Consider Yourself’ from ‘Oliver!’ and ‘Lullaby of Broadway’ from ‘42nd Street’.

 

The passionate and supportive community of the cast shone through right from the opening number, ‘At the End of the Day’ from ‘Les Misérables’. Here, the chorus began singing triumphantly in unison whilst shifting around the circle in a tight cluster under a bright white spotlight. This was a successful contrast to the powerlessness of the character of Fantine who sang softly, alone and distant. Therefore, the characters and story told through the song was easily readable through the precise acting and staging, as well as the beautiful vocals providing a heartfelt connection to Fantine (performed by Vicki Stanbury).

 

There was a great deal of comedy throughout the show, with jokes from the friendly host, Ian Caldecourt, but also in the creative interpretation of some of the songs. For example, in ‘How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria’ from the well-loved musical ‘The Sound of Music’, the company added in lively disco tracks for the nuns to dance to like ‘YMCA’ and ‘Gangnam Style’ which surprised the audience. In ‘Big Spender’ the women, dressed up to look elderly, were fawning over a man and did hilariously dramatic dancing before retracting to show achiness - this again was an unexpected comedic moment.

 

The Kerry Payne Academy of Dance communicated meaning across wonderfully in their two pieces. In ‘Opening Up’ from ‘Waitress’, their light feet and fast, energetic moves were polished and exciting for the audience. Their performance of ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’ from ‘Les Misérables’ was far more moving and reflective, with delicate and flowing movements showing great focus.

 

The combined work of the Director (David Phipps-Davis), the Musical Director (Philippa Lucas) and the Choreographer (Wendy Sheader) was very successful in this show. Emma Doyle, an audience member, said, ‘I thought the singing and choreography was excellent. I also loved the humorous twists in the musical numbers. A real treat.’ Exploring a wide variety of musical songs, there was something for everyone. However, more importantly, the company managed to show their love and passion for performance through the strength of the humour and the support of the ensemble.