Outstanding shows by Nelson Youth Theatre

REVIEW: Nelson Youth Theatre’s production of Chicago was a well polished preference, the actors were like seasoned professionals.

From the start we were drawn in by the exceptional costumes. Thought to the slick and flirtatious choreography by the exceptionally talented Joelle Noar.

The opening act All that Jazz set the tone for what was one of the best Performances I’ve seen from Nelson Youth Theatre.

The two lead girls were incredible Emily Furniss (as Velma) and Thea Speake (as Roxie) these two girls powerful voices were an absolute delight to lessen to. Their acting and dialogue was flawless.

Set in the roaring twenties, the sweet but not so innocent Roxy (Thea) murders her lover. While in jail she meets streetwise nightclub singer Velma (Emily) the “celebrity criminals” vie for the attention of shyster lawyer Billy (Jole Sangster) as well as the media spotlight.

Jole’s first song (All I Care About is Love) was super effective and he fully drew us in with his strong voice. Although a few wayward lines though the show but he managed to keep the show on track.

Coco-Plum Morrissey-Smith was outstanding as “Matron” Coco’s deep range and strong voice blew me away she looked super glamorous and totally owned the stage

One scene that brought a smile to my face was “Me and My Baby” when the boys all came out in a change of costume, Absolutely hilarious

The whole cast stepped up for this show I didn’t see one person not giving it their all on stage. I felt like this is one of the best shows I’ve seen Nelson Youth Theatre do with a standard as high as any professional theatre.

Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat

As I sat at the Theatre Royal with an excited audience waiting to see Nelson Youth Theatre’s production of Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, I could feel I was about to see something special fun and a colourful show. I wasn’t disappointed!

Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat is a modern classic biblical story that has it all from family jealousy though to Joseph being betrayed doing jail time.

Then he interprets the bakers and Butler to the Kings dreams (played by Reuben Hart and Tane Williams) then the Pharaohs dreams which turns his life of sorrow and Incarceration into privilege and power. But Joseph forgives his brothers who betrayed him that come begging not knowing who he’d become.

Right from the start when the Junior Chorus come on with their Beautiful harmony backing up the narrators. Two of which were outstanding “Lilliana Adamczyk and Lily Williams” watch for these two girls in further lead roles I’m sure !

The costumes were simply outstanding. I loved all the gold Egyptian costumes the time that must have gone into costumes from the team definitely paid off the impressive costumes were a highlight of the show.

In the song “Joseph’s Coat” (Elias Gonzales) who plays Joseph has the audience wowed with the colour and vibrancy of his performance and costume.

As for show-stopping songs, I have to mention the performance of Moana Williams as the Pharaoh. He totally rocked the show with his energy which boosted the show just when it needed it ! I thoroughly enjoyed his performance.

The other song that was a total highlight was “Go Go Go Joseph” This song was so colourful I loved the wigs and disco ball they had me bopping in my seat.

If there’s ever a way to gauge the quality of show it’s how it’s received by the audience and wow in the finale there was a feeling there’s a party going on with wolf whistling and hooting, people were clapping along to the songs just having the best time.

Season runs till July 15, 2pm every day at the Theatre Royal. Suitable for little ones through to all ages just prepare yourself to have fun!