Manchester Musical Youth (MMY) marked its 11th anniversary in spectacular fashion with a celebratory concert at Manchester College, showcasing the incredible breadth of talent that has become synonymous with this outstanding theatre group. With over 100 students taking part, from apprentices to main stage performers – this was more than just a concert; it was a heartfelt celebration of eleven years of nurturing young talent and transforming passion into performance.
Headed by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Kimberly Holden (Musical Director) and Dave Holden (Director), MMY once again proved why it is renowned for producing some of Manchester’s finest young performers, many of whom have gone on to excel on professional stages and screens.
The evening featured 23 musical numbers spanning a wide range of beloved shows, all performed with energy, professionalism, and sheer joy.
The show opened with ‘Magic to Do’ from Pippin, setting the bar high for the evening with a vibrant, ensemble-driven performance full of flair and confidence.
The first solo came from Cleo Avanessian, who delivered ‘The Life I Never Led’ (Sister Act Jr.) with poise and emotion, showcasing her impressive vocal control. Teigan Withey and Aidan Paddison followed with a lively, well-characterised rendition of ‘Right Hand Man’ from Something Rotten, a clear audience favourite.
Amelia Leicester offered a beautifully heartfelt version of ‘She Used to Be Mine’ from Waitress, filled with vulnerability and strength. Phoebe Blakeman sang ‘Maybe This Time’ from Cabaret exquisitely, delivering the classic number with poise and rich emotion. One of the standout performances of the night was Harry Connor’s stunning rendition of ‘Why God Why’ from Miss Saigon. Known more for his comic roles, Harry displayed a new level of maturity and vocal excellence, delivering a deeply moving performance, while still showing his comedic flair later in ‘The Ladies Lounge’.
Throughout the evening, students shared stories about MMY’s history and its remarkable alumni, adding warmth and context to the celebration. Company numbers sparkled with tight harmonies and dynamic choreography, reflecting MMY’s hallmark of professionalism.
A charming highlight came from the trio Amelia Fairhurst, Isla Cregeen, and Elsie Ingram, whose ‘I Know It’s Today’ (Shrek Jr.) was sweetly sung and perfectly balanced. Lucy Pond brought the house down with ‘Taylor the Latte Boy’, combining spot-on comic timing with crystal clear vocals, while Sophie Trueman delivered a moving ‘So Big, So Small’ (Dear Evan Hansen) that visibly touched the audience.
The act closed with Jasper Holden, Kimberly and Dave’s own son performing ‘The Old Red Hills of Home’ from Parade. His assured, mature vocals and emotional depth made for a memorable and fitting end to Act One.
The second half maintained the high standard, featuring numbers from Chicago, The Sound of Music, West Side Story, Tick, Tick… Boom! and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Harmonies remained rich and precise, and the choreography both polished and expressive which showcased the full company’s unity and skill.
Solo highlights included Alice Cross’s soaring ‘Being Alive’ and Addi Strayer’s beautifully controlled ‘Nothing’ (A Chorus Line). The final solo of the evening, ‘For Better for Worse’ from The Great Gatsby, was exquisitely performed by Francesca Ballard, closing the individual performances on a high.
The concert radiated warmth, pride, and community spirit. Family, friends, and former MMY students filled the audience, and the atmosphere was one of genuine celebration. Every performer gave their all, embodying MMY’s ethos of encouragement, teamwork, and excellence.
Kimberly and Dave Holden’s leadership continues to be a winning formula, bringing out the best in every student, fostering confidence, and nurturing the stars of tomorrow.
As the final notes rang out and the audience rose in applause, it was clear that Manchester Musical Youth remains not just a company, but a family – one where young performers thrive, friendships flourish, and dreams take flight.
It was a privilege to witness such a joyful and inspiring evening. With so much talent on display, the future of Manchester theatre is undoubtedly in safe hands. As always, I left the theatre with a full heart and a deep sense of pride by proxy for the familiar faces I’ve watched flourish over the years, seeing their growth and confidence on stage is a true testament to MMY’s nurturing spirit. It was also wonderful to see so many new students stepping into the spotlight for the first time, each brimming with potential and passion. I’m already looking forward to the upcoming productions and can’t wait to see how these emerging talents continue to shine in the years ahead.
Reviewer: Katie Leicester
Reviewed: 1st November 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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