The Medina Community Choir, a distinguished award-winning group, is excited to present their new musical production, Behind the Curtain.
The performance will be held from 9th to 13th August at the esteemed Jenny Kerry Performing Arts Centre at Ryde School. This show promises to not only entertain, but also to benefit two charities.
Peripatetic troupe of singers
The narrative of Behind the Curtain is primarily focused on the life both onstage and off, revolving around a peripatetic troupe of singers, named Chorusline.
These performers journey across the country, diligently rehearsing and performing as an essential backing choir whenever needed.
Broadway’s finest brought to Ryde
A truly captivating aspect of this musical is its choice of songs. Behind the Curtain boasts a setlist featuring smash hits from iconic Broadway shows including Matilda, Rent, Miss Saigon, Les Miserables, Evita, Jekyll and Hyde and Everybody’s Talking about Jamie.
Medina Community Choir’s director, Hannah Brear, has taken on the responsibilities of both writing and directing this musical masterpiece. The cast features promising young talent from the Island, including Tom Thorne, Ella Brear, Ellie Warne and Tilly Grimshaw, all expertly backed by the choir.
A symphony of talent
Ensuring a rich and harmonious performance, The Orchestra of the Gods, will be accompanying the cast. The ensemble is led by James Longford on piano and includes notable talents such as Jon Thorne on bass, JC and Kathy Grimshaw on guitar and violin respectively and Rufus Reader on percussion.
Encapsulating the anticipation and high hopes for this musical endeavour, Hannah said,
“We’re hoping to deliver a breathtaking show for our audiences and for our 85-strong cast.”
A performance with purpose
Not only will Behind the Curtain entertain, but it also carries a profound message and mission.
The performance is described as a blend of comedy, tragedy, and inspiration, and will actively contribute towards two charities – The Wight Brainy Bunch, which provides emotional support and financial assistance to island families affected by brain tumours, and BEAT, the UK’s Eating Disorder Charity.
Brear: An unforgettable experience
Hannah explains,
“Medina Community Choir is for all ages and I wanted to give our talented young people an unforgettable experience that they’ll be able to treasure forever, before they go their separate ways now that GCSEs and A levels are over and the next exciting chapter of their life begins.”
More than 100 members
The Medina Community Choir was founded by Hannah in 2006 and has since grown to include more than 100 members.
The choir is known for its popular Isle of Wight concerts and has showcased its talent in prestigious venues such as New York’s Carnegie Hall and Le Mans Cathedral.
It has also accompanied well-known performers including Fat Boy Slim and acclaimed tenor Russell Watson.
Tickets and more information
For those interested in attending Behind the Curtain, tickets are £10 each or a family ticket for £36 available from the box office.
Performances will run from Wednesday, 9th to Saturday, 12th August at 7.30pm, with a Sunday matinée on 13th August at 3pm.
All ticket information and further details about the choir can be found on its Website.
