Hunchback is a powerful story told with a fantastic musical score, it’s a classic, and a hit Disney musical.
Belfast Operatic have taken on a huge show, and they have filled the stage with an abundance of talent and a massive set.
With some amazing vocals, notably from Conor Anderson as Quasimodo, Boyd Rodger’s as Claude Frollo, Naomi Smyth as Esmeralda, Corey Magee as Clopin Trouillefou and David McCrossan as Captain Phoebus, they certainly brought some magic to the show and left us in awe of their talent.
Credit also to the wardrobe department, the musicians, the ensemble and choir; all very impressive!
And a massive shout out to the gargoyles and Esmeralda who communicated with the hearing impaired Quasimodo by signing as they talked and sang. For this lifelong hearing aid wearing reviewer who has never learnt to sign, I found it incredibly moving and inspiring.
As the night progressed you could almost see the first night nerves lift and by the second half everyone was in top form and killing it on stage. I left a tad emotional and very impressed with everyone involved in this amateur drama production.
I’m very confident that as the week progresses and with a few production tweaks (lighting and sound) they could sharpen this fantastic show up even more.
If you can, get out and support local theatre groups and the enormous talent they possess. Great theatre doesn’t need to come in the form of West End touring productions and musicals, it’s about a night out experiencing the joy of a story told on a stage in an environment surrounded by other people all experiencing live theatre. It’s about supporting the arts and people’s dreams and helping them live their best lives up there on stage. The world would be a lesser place without the arts!
The Hunchback of Notre Dame, by Belfast Operatic Company. Grand Opera House Belfast until 11th March.
1 comment
Well said. Brilliant show.Abundance of talent.