REVIEW: EBOS Back To The 5 6 7 8
ARETRO musical production razzle dazzles audiences with powerhouse vocals, high-energy and a fierce take on the Cell Block Tango.
The East Berkshire Operatic Society (EBOS), presented its show, Back To The 5 6 7 8, at South Hill Park’s Wilde Theatre last week.
The community theatre company, based at Pinewood Theatre, Wokingham, whisked audiences back to the 80s with some popular hits.
And individuals were treated to songs from musicals, including Chicago, 42nd Street, Annie, The Book of Mormon and more.
EBOS performers began with a toe-tapping ensemble track from 42nd Street, Auditioning Number.
Demonstrating their impressive tap skills, the cast started off with a strong stage presence.
All the ensemble numbers featured slick harmonies and the choreography was well put together.
Credit goes to Austin and Sian Marshall, who represented an over-competitive couple in their rendition of Anything You Can
Do, originally from Annie Get Your Gun.
And a special mention goes to Emily Burton, whose lead vocals in Chicago’s All That Jazz took the song to another level.
Her confidence shone throughout the whole production, especially in her duet with Laura Thain, who also demonstrated a strong set of vocals.
Although the show was put together as a blend of songs due to the pandemic, it would have been refreshing to have the numbers following a bit more of a storyline.
Just a few lines of dialogue between each number would have created a more logical structure to the production.
That being said, the choice of songs had audience members singing along as they were leaving the theatre.
Overall, EBOS performers showcased their talent through fun, eye-catching costumes and lots of charisma.
The group has yet to announce its next productions, but we will look forward to them.