Singing with Friends – Rainhill Village Hall

A simple title yet, as director Paul Robinson says in his notes, full of meaning. This was so much more than a show: it was the history of a company that goes back over seventy years; it was the meaning of family that the company has come to embrace; it was the tale of putting on many a production; but most importantly it was the journey and story of many individuals whose combined whole is so much more than these words can do justice.

A Broadway musical medley from the entire ensemble with live band accompaniment consisting of Paul Taft (guitar), Kevin Bates (bass) and Amy Gray (drums) led by musical director and maestro on the piano, Wayne Oakes, got the evening off with a bang, with Charlotte Orme injecting some real energy into Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

Bet Davies’ pronounced Sunflower hinted at where it had begun for everyone, whilst Ruth Gibb and Barbara Marsh’s good humour entertained us with Show People.

Claire Jones reminded us of how good an all-round performer she is, leading the ensemble with Dream On, before unleashing her talents on Macavity, to be followed by the lovely voice of Claire Heaton singing Gimme Gimme.

Marjorie Davies and Maureen Kinsey combined in a moving rendition of Send in the Clowns, to an accompanying video of their younger selves, which morphed into a remembrance of shows and performers past, before Sarah Johnson’s timely and touching No-one But You remembered the recent loss of members, Paul Davies and Audrey Bradshaw.

With A Dear Evan Hansen medley from the ensemble closing Act 1, a Disney Friendship medley got us all warmed up for Act 2 before Dawn-Louise Wright, combining with Heaton, Michelle Williams (a welcome return), and Liam Fitzgerald, delighted us with Hear My Song.

The answer could only be a resounding yes to Pip Bradshaw’s composed, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, whilst Sam Troke, another welcome returnee, energetically proclaimed Run Freedom Run.

Julie Robinson’s bluesy I Know Where I’ve Been was sung with real depth before the harmonious duet of Flight from Williams and Wright, led us into an ensemble performance of Sunday.

A resurgent Johnson got us ready for Dancing in the Street before Fitzgerald led with a richly sung version of We Belong, from which the ensemble re-emerged to close out the evening with Sing.

Bryan Dargie’s choreography ensured a visual treat on stage accompanied each number whilst his video skills were put to great use in the accompanying montages that were sympathetic to the story and supported the unfolding action in this unashamedly honest production that tugs at every heartstring, plays off every emotion, and is uplifting throughout.

Paul Robinson had a dream to give audiences an insight into what goes on and this joyful production was that and so much more. There is a rich seam of talent running through this company, evidenced by those supporting front and back of house rather than on stage, with a special mention for long-serving member Marion Hitchen who watched alongside me tonight.

Rainhill MTC are always on the lookout for new members front of house, back of house, and on stage, so if you’re interested in joining this musical family and making some memories then why not get in touch with them at RainhillMTC@hotmail.com

If you’re quick off the mark, you could be in time for their next production, The Addams Family, which will be performed 21st – 24th June. Further details www.rainhillmusicaltheatrecompany.co.uk  

Singing with Friends performs at Rainhill Village Hall for one more night on Saturday 21st January 2023 at 7.30pm.

Reviewer: Mark Davoren

Reviewed: 20th January 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★