What’s so refreshing about Songs Unsung’s productions is
their focus on unique and unusual musical theatre repertoire. No longer must we endure endless Lloyd Webber
melodramatics, shouted jukebox numbers or mangled Sondheim lyrics – instead we
are treated to something new and different.
It’s this approach that ensured the company’s one-night-only show ‘Divas
Unsung’ at the Leicester Square Theatre was an unexpected delight.
The song choices were taken from a wide spectrum of shows
spanning decades of musical theatre: from ‘Twang!!’, to ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’,
‘Carrie: The Musical’ and more recent efforts like ‘Catch Me If You Can’ and ‘Betty
Blue Eyes’. Many of the shows are widely
considered to be flops (‘Carrie’ especially), but that doesn’t prevent some
hidden gems being uncovered for this cabaret style show. The songs were varied, allowing not only for
some technical singing but characterisation and storytelling within the limited
setting. The audience may not have been
familiar with each number, but they could easily feel the sweeping emotion
emanating from the ‘divas’.
The six ‘divas’ boast some impressive theatrical credits and
sang with enough powerful belting to push Celine Dione clear off the Titanic,
despite the odd screeched top note. An
early highlight was Ambra Casserotti and Kirby Lunn’s rendition of Ready To Be Loved from ‘Edges’,
featuring some huge notes and intricate vocal runs. It was also a rare example of ensemble
singing, more of which would have certainly added to the variety of the
show. That said, what diva ever sings with
others (although the back-up from the MTA choir in certain numbers was a
welcome addition)? Ashleigh Gray’s
vocals were superb throughout the evening, with excellent control and diction. The real standout performance, however, came
from Rebecca Trehearn. Her rich tone was
sumptuous, her rendition of Come To Your
Senses from ‘tick, tick…BOOM!’ heavy with emotion that left the audience
shaken.
‘Divas Unsung’ was not just another musical theatre cabaret
show, but a show filled with under-appreciated talent – both the singers and
the composers. Look out for more shows
from Songs Unsung in the future, not only for a thoroughly entertaining evening
but some cracking audition songs for aspiring performers.
4/5