I Dreamed a Dream (Redditch)

I Dreamed A Dream was a one-off charity concert in aid of MACS (The Micro and Anophthalmic Children’s Society) at Redditch Palace Theatre. Sophie Grogan and Brett Elesmore, the producers of the show who also performed, gave us a musical theatre revue which featured both local and professional singers.

The audience were treated to a fabulous selection of both classic and new songs from West End and Broadway performed by a phenomenally talented group of young, fresh artists. From the ever popular Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables and Jesus Christ Superstar to lesser known productions such as Edges, A New Brain and Songs For A New World; there was something for everyone. As a supporter of new writing, these were a particular joy to watch.

With such concerts, it is a common assumption that they may be of a slightly amateur nature but there was nothing amateur about Sunday evening. Stand out performers for me were Abbie Chambers who gave a wonderfully heartfelt rendition of ‘Out Here On My Own’ from Fame; currently a student, she has a very bright future ahead of her. Sophie Thompson had many opportunities to impress and that she did, particularly during ‘In Short’ from Edges and ‘Heart And Music’ from A New Brain which also featured Grogan, Elesmore and Daniel Summers. This quartet was the number of the evening in my opinion. Elesmore oozes charisma and talent and very much reminded me of Oliver Tompsett. His performances of ‘Gethsemane’ and ‘Bring Him Home’ were unbelievable.

The performers worked incredibly well together in the ensemble numbers as well. The harmonies were spot on and Daniel Summers (also the Musical Director) can be very proud of his achievements with the fifteen strong company.

Congratulations to all involved and hopefully lots of money was raised for charity.

– Jenny Antill