Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre chalked up yet another outstanding production at the Garrick this week.
This company never fails to entertain – often astounding audiences with the near-professional quality of portrayals by its young performers.
Phantom of the Opera (Youth Group Production) was no exception – if fact I’d say this show more than enhanced the company’s reputation of bringing us top notch entertainment.
The standing ovation at the end of the evening proved everyone in the audience on Wednesday evening appreciated the work everyone had put in to bring this spectacular show to the stage.
Director Richard Poynton, Musical Director Oliver Rowe and Choreographer Jemma Tiso worked with the cast over several months and their efforts were certainly rewarded.
Chris Buckle as The Phantom proved what a brilliant actor and singer he is. He managed to portray the horror and the sadness of the tragic figure in equal measure – an extremely powerful performance.
Lucy Charnock as Christine proved what a wonderful actress she is taking on a role which required her being on stage for a huge part of the show.
Alex O’Reilly as Raoul was making his first appearance with LGYT – hopefully it won’t be his last. Yet another fine performance.
I loved Abigail Tong’s Carlotta – what an incredible voice!
Light-hearted comedy was provided in spades by new theatre owners Firmin and Andre, beautifully played by William Stevenson and Gus Wade – great casting.
Other principal roles were played by Ashley Laight, Ava Taroni, Jess Brown, Jack Pritchard, Luke Bryan, Jack Robinson, Nathan De Giorgi and Louis McCoy.
Back stage, Matthew Garfield’s team demonstrated their sheer professionalism. Stephen Rainsford’s lighting was again just brilliant (pardon the pun!).
The cast and crew are supported by a huge number of people who take on many roles to help produce outstanding shows for musical theatre lovers in the region.
Although the youth theatre members, of necessity, change over the years, this company’s basic structure is so well built that LYGT can only go from strength to strength.
I believe Phantom is pretty well a sell-out, but there may be the odd ticket left, so well worth checking with the box office on 01543 412121 or on-line at www.lichfieldgarrick.com to see if you can get one.
