Accelerate Graduation Show, Duchess Theatre Review
Review written by Natasha.
Sometimes opportunities fall into your lap when you least expect them. This evening I had planned to be in another theatre, reviewing another show entirely. Instead, I had the privilege of watching the Accelerate class of 2024 perform and graduate (from their course at Midlands Musical Theatre training ground Kristian Thomas Company.) Luck was a lady tonight for me, it seems - an amazing concentration of talent is visible in this cohort, and they delivered a captivating, confident showcase.
Quite literally kicking off Act One with ‘God I Hope I Get’ It from A Chorus Line, these young people operated as a cohesive company from the outset as they segued seamlessly from number to number, maintaining an amazing energy throughout. Continuing the concept of auditioning pieces for an upcoming musical, the audience experienced a whirlwind journey through a varied and versatile musical repertoire of solos, duets, trios and whole company performances. Songs from classic musicals including A Chorus Line, The Drowsy Chaperone and Hairspray were interspersed with numbers from newer and lesser-performed shows. (What a treat to hear Meagan Hadfield sing ‘You’ve Got Possibilities’ from Annie composer Charles Strouse’s 1966 ‘flop’, and Lucy Shuttleworth’s superb rendition of ‘Alto’s Lament’.) Brilliant dance breaks and comedy continued to characterise the rest of Act One, which culminated with a powerhouse performance of ‘Raise Your Voice’ from Sister Act helmed by a captivating and charismatic Libby Taylor in fine voice.
Act Two proved a little more pensive, with monologues and carefully placed solos jostling amongst accomplished ensemble set pieces including the outstanding opener ‘There’s No Business Like Show Business’ and ‘Another Op’nin, Another Show’. Will Matthews’ wonderful comedic chops were put to one side for a while, enabling him to excel in the more serious and dramatic ‘This Is the Moment’ from Jekyll & Hyde. The ups and downs of working in show business were presented through acting, song and dance. The finale of ‘One’ from A Chorus Line was breathtaking, with the close-knit full company pulling off a phenomenal closing performance.
Additional personal highlights for me included Hannah Pettit and Francesca Foster’s vocal proficiency as they duetted ‘Let Me Be Your Star’; Nadia Potter’s triple-threat versatility; Isabelle Bambrick’s compelling singing and acting skills; Hazel Lawrence’s vocal range; and Louis Barnes-Cupit’s performance as the unhinged director. But this was a showcase where everybody had a chance to shine. Every single cast member was imbued with a remarkable energy, confidence and stage presence. They looked so at home on the stage, exuding charisma and owning their exceptional talents. The rapturous applause and standing ovation from the audience was so well-deserved.
Sometimes opportunities fall into your lap when you least expect them. If opportunities come their way for these stars of the future, however, it won’t be by accident. Since September they have grafted, honed their craft and completed an insane number of Drama School auditions. I look forward to following their careers.
To find out further information about Kristian Thomas Company and Accelerate, head over to their website.
