Edinburgh University Footlights’ Showchoir have created a wonderfully uplifting show that is certain to send you home singing and dancing with a huge grin on your face. A Step In Time really is a special performance.
The opening, title song, ‘A Step In Time’, whilst not stellar, sets us up for the rest of the show with palpable energy. However, it was when the first of the medleys began that the performance really took off. The medleys are the show’s greatest strength. The way in which the songs are interwoven to create a musical spectacular is extremely impressive and credit must go to the creative team for this. The first medley, one based on the songs of The Beatles, begins with a phenomenally choreographed version of ‘Come Together’, where acapella singing is combined with tap dance demonstrating this group’s true versatility. This brilliant opening is merely indicative of what is to come.
The skilled nature of the Showchoir and their production are illustrated further in the range of performances that are given throughout the night. Towards the end of the first half we get a fantastically tongue-in-cheek versions of ‘Ballroom Blitz’, spearheaded by Eduardo Fahey and Elliot Gruzin, and ‘Uptown Girl’ before a heart-breaking rendition of ‘Hallelujah’, the beauty of the singing here matched only by the beauty of the ballet performed in tandem.
The opening of the second half was punctuated by three incredible individual performances from Charlotte Jones, Megan Crampsey and Annabel Reid, as the cast continued to show off their vast array of talents. This was a show full of joy and the finale illustrated everything that was so wonderful. The rapid transition between songs was impeccably done and the uplifting nature of this final piece cannot have failed to send each member of the audience home with a smile on their face.
It is a magnificent performance from the Showchoir and despite a few fluffed notes, which can only be expected in a performance of such energy. This was a show that will not be forgotten quickly, although I must warn you that you may also never forget seeing Ruairidh Nichols in a worryingly tight sequinned tunic.
A Step in Time
The Magnusson Centre
Run ended
Photo courtesy of EU Footlights Showchoir