CHRISTMAS MASQUERADE

WEYMOUTH OPERATIC SOCIETY

Hope Church, Weymouth

GETTING into the Christmas mood is something that Weymouth Operatic Society members are very good at doing and their annual musical treat always lives up to expectations with its eclectic mix of carols, pop songs and old favourites.

The evening got off to a lively start with some beautifully performed solo classical melodies before the choral group of around 40 singers quickly got into party mood as they paid an affectionate tribute to the Motown stars of the 60s and 70s with hit numbers like I’ll Be There and Do You Love Me.

The superb festive atmosphere of the church was the ideal setting for the concert as the well dressed singers treated the audience to popular classics such as White Christmas, Santa Baby and Merry Christmas Everyone, all performed with panache and style. Directed and choreographed by Shakira Brading whose solo rendering of O Holy Night was beautifully moving, the concert gave individual members of the group a chance to shine with a variety of solo numbers and some lovely comedy routines as well.

With occasional pre-recorded orchestral accompaniment, the talented Emily Clarke provided the main piano accompaniment for the singers in a cheerful production that was nicely presented throughout the entire evening, culminating in the much missed former chairman Geoff King’s gift wrap paper fun presentation for the whole audience to enjoy.

There is a final performance of the concert tonight at 7.30pm. Tickets are available on the door.

The Society’s next production will be the acclaimed musical Guys and Dolls which will take place at Weymouth Pavilion from May 30 to June 2 next year, a date definitely not to be missed.

MARION COX