Review by Tom Roberts
The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
Walsall Operatic Society delivered a dazzling evening of popular music classics to packed houses at The Hub at St Mary’s last week.
From full choral arrangements to standout solos and everything in between, this was a beautifully curated show featuring a selection of well-known pop standards, all given a fresh interpretation to suit the many voices on stage.
Among the highlights were pitch-perfect renditions of Earth, Wind & Fire’s Fantasy, Lou Reed’s Perfect Day, Heather Small’s Proud and the The O’Jays floor-filler Love Train.
There were plenty of more tender moments too. Solo performances of Etta James’ At Last and Adele’s Rolling in the Deep brought shivers down the spine.
As well as the quality of the vocals, what truly shone through was the positive energy radiating from the stage. Smiles and infectious dancing were in evidence throughout the show, encouraging the audience to join in, and many did exactly that.
Credit must also go to Hub technician Lewis Cocker. The sound he regularly creates at the venue is outstanding, and with new moving lights recently installed, performances there are now a visual feast as well as an aural one.
This talented society will return to Lichfield in September at Lichfield Garrick Theatre with their production of Made in Dagenham. On the evidence of this show, it’s certainly one not to miss.
