TAKE five choirs, four conductors, two narrators and an orchestra with a rhythm section and you have a fantastic, energy-packed concert!
"Alice (Through The Century)", with words by Lewis Carroll and music by Julian Breeze, continued the celebration of Taunton Music Drama & Dance Festival’s own centenary.
Written for young performers, Julian’s memorable melodies and catchy rhythms appealed to all.
‘Alice’ wasn't at all ‘childish’, and covered a range of styles and musical genres in a dozen songs with linking narrative.
Stand-out numbers were Pepper Polyphony (with actions!), JabberWock ‘n’ Roll, the musically complex White Knights and the Check It Out rap – great fun.
At the Taunton performance, children from Bishop Henderson, Creech St Michael, Parkfield, Ruishton and Holy Trinity primary schools took part.
Alert, active and enjoying every minute they made a good strong sound, with clear words (mostly).
Not holding books or music, they sang straight out to the audience and performed choreographed actions, as well as a few spontaneous funky moves.
Credit must also go to the orchestra, negotiating jazz, music hall, rock, jive, rap and several other styles.
Extra rhythm and percussion instruments – played by Alice herself and friends – added punch and zing when required, and the whole thing was most ably conducted by Julian Breeze and three assistants.
Congratulations all round!
SUE GOODMAN
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