Manchester Musical Youth 10th Anniversary Concert – RNCM

Manchester Musical Youth – the brainchild of Kimberly and Dave Holden – celebrated its ten year anniversary tonight at The Royal Northern College of Music.   I am lucky to have reviewed at least half of the MMY productions since 2015 and I never cease to be amazed by the sheer level of professionalism and talent which shines out of every single MMY performer.

Tonight was a show of two halves:  the first bringing us “timeless musical classics” and the second, highlights from the past five years.   I would have loved to have seen highlights from the past ten years as one of my fondest MMY memories is “Hot Mikado” which absolutely blew me away and secured a special MMY shaped space in my reviewing heart.

It goes without saying that every single number which we were treated to this evening was performed with passion, dedication and, most importantly, joy.   It is absolutely crystal clear how much everyone loves what they’re doing, and their joy is infectious.    The soloists have incredible focus, and the ensemble numbers are just wonderful to watch – I have always felt the MMY strength lies in these as there is such a lovely sense of community and shared enjoyment.

We were treated to 27 performances tonight, with some MMY alumni revisiting and sharing in the celebration.   I saw some familiar, talented faces and it is testament to the nurturing, family spirit of MMY that they wanted to be part of it.

My personal highlights from tonight were “42nd Street” – I’m a sucker for a tap shoe and the choreography (courtesy of Sarah Binns who did all tonight’s choreography) was wonderful and uplifting.   This was an iconic number, and it had all the thrill and pazazz of the West End, despite being relatively stripped back as there was no set, just the stage and the performers – which was all that was needed.

“Little Girls” (from Annie Jnr) was entertaining and funny with Eden Hamilton taking the role of Miss Hannigan and completely and utterly making it her own.   Such sass and attitude and wow, that strong voice!   She completely commanded everyone’s attention.

“The Black Hills of Dakota” (from Calamity Jane”) was a real treat to experience.   I had to keep reminding myself that this is youth theatre.     The overall spectacle was one of a professional, experienced company.   They presented the song with an ease which comes from confidence but not over-confidence.   Very enjoyable.    The next ensemble number, “Bamboleo” (from Zorro) was another outstanding highlight from this evening.   Lauren Bayley was the soloist, and she absolutely owned that stage with her self-assured, cheeky performance.  The choreography and dancing were spectacular and so entertaining, I didn’t want it to end.

Well, where do I start with “Lady in the Long Black Dress” (from Sister Act Jr).   Five very cheeky chappies (Charlie Lockett, Aidan Paddison, Harry Connor, Jasper Holden and Dominic Smith) had us in the palm of their hands right from the start with their sultry moves and seductive charm and the comedy produced by them through their movements and facial expressions was absolutely brilliant.   They are five very talented young men who know exactly how to work an audience.   And they did!

“Hygge” (from Frozen Jr) was new to me, but I absolutely LOVED it.   The comedy and humour, particularly from Freddie Cummins (who I couldn’t take my eyes off because he absolutely sold it) was, again, of a level you would expect from a professional, adult theatre company.   The supporting ensemble were amazing and the whole piece was a joy to watch.

Tonight’s compere was Jordan Pendleton, also part of the MMY family.   He did a great job telling us about MMY’s achievements over the years, which have been many.

I would like to congratulate all of those involved with MMY, from Kimberly and Dave Holden, right down to the youngest performer, for ten showstopping (no pun intended) years.   MMY is something very special and the obvious love that everyone has for it, together with the associated feeling of community and family that it engenders, is what keeps their spectacular productions coming.    Here’s to the next ten!

Reviewer: Nicky Lambert

Reviewed: 10th November 2024

North West End UK Rating: