Director and Conductor: Aled Phillips
Musical theatre aficionados will be more than acutely familiar with John Owen Jones. With theatre credits including Les Miserables and The Phantom of the Opera to name but two. Here, performing with the Welsh Men’s Choir, Johns’ Boys present an eclectic array of hits from theatre and beyond. The choir, who have been seen on our screens on Britain’s Got Talent, are crystal clear in delivery. They sing with gusto and their harmonies are tight. Although their delivery is virtuoso one would have perhaps appreciated a small band or orchestra to accompany them. The backing tracks used lost a level of authenticity and this was particularly noticeable in the more traditional and classical material they sang.
The choir blended beautifully and John Owen Jones is a powerhouse – the show just felt, at times, a little flat. There was plenty of heart but not enough soul – noticeable too in the dialogue sections were members of the choir narrate aloud from ring binders as if reading it for the first time.
Overall, John Owen Jones and the Welsh Men’s Choir delivered a solid performance, though it didn’t quite live up to the expectations one had. Their powerful vocals remain impressive, with some standout moments where their rich tones really shone through. The choir added depth and a traditional Welsh charm to the event. While the evening had flashes of brilliance, the overall energy could have been more dynamic. A pleasant experience, but not as memorable as perhaps one had anticipated.
Reviewed on 14th September 2024. Currently touring.
The Reviews Hub Score
Charming
