Showcase Productions Wednesday Evening
Reviewer Johnny Tait
Opening the evening’s session with backing from a live band including two backing vocalists was Stacy Green with her Cher tribute act CHERished. Visually and vocally the act was spot on. ‘Bang Bang’ was superb choice for an opening number, before going into the better known ‘Shoop Shoop Song’ finishing with ‘Turn Back Time’ The perfect choice for a Cher tribute, can be booked solo or with the band.
Steve Williamson opened with a classic soul number ‘All My Love’ before completely changing the mood with a beautiful version of ‘Unchained Melody’ then showing his versatility he finished with Michael Jackson’s ‘Rock With You’
Bringing variety to the show came ventriloquist Julie Norfolk known as Jules accompanied by a three foot bear. The bear really looked good and the humour from the bear was original and refreshing, as it was getting sizeable Laughs. I feel that Jules has the potential to become a busy act.
T.T Mitch performed his tribute to a take that member with his Ultimate Barlow act. He didn’t look like Gary Barlow but he sounded like him as he put on a credible performance. As well as a tribute act Mitch goes out as himself and finished with a rendition of ‘Bring Him Home’ from Les Mis.
Just Jessie tribute act featuring Karen Tomlinson looks just like the person she is there to portray. Despite the fact that Jessie J music does not appeal to me I find Karen enjoyable to watch. Due to a problem with her backing tracks she had to finish her spot without backing. The perfect Jessie J tribute.
Comedy juggler Jon Udry begun by making a balloon dog behind his back whilst balancing a ball on his head. Who said “Juggling is boring?” Whoever it was has never seen Urdy. His juggling was skilful whilst his humour was new and refreshing. A perfect act for a family audience. I predict a full date sheet.
Three piece vocal act Definitive Divas looked stunning in their full length glitter dresses. Their medley of Motown numbers was well performed and very enjoyable to listen to, perfect for creating a party atmosphere. I loved their rendition of Whitney Houston’s ‘Run to you’ they finished a highly entertaining spot with a shortened version of ‘Sisters’
Tribute to the Stylistics Sing Baby Sing looked exactly right, they were well turned out with matching suits and shirts. Their choreography was simple but effective and vocally they were right on the button. I could sit and watch them all night. If you’re looking for a Stylistics tribute act look no further.
George Michael lookalike/sound-alike Andrew Browning looked the part as he opened with ‘Faith’ before moving onto the1986 number one hit ballad ‘Turn a Different Corner’ A first class performance from a polished performer.
Providing us with something completely different came UV Beatz consisting of four drummers wearing illuminous clothing with their faces covered with white facemasks. The act was well presented and highly polished. Their spokesman said that they could do a maximum of 40 minutes.
Samantha Lomas was a real eye catcher with her Paloma Faith tribute act. Every detail was paid to her appearance from the bottom of her shoes to the top of her head. I have seen this young attractive, talented vocalist on a few occasions and have always been impressed with her professionalism.
Kelly Louise performed some well-known party numbers with her Rewind To The 80s and 90s show.
Shirley Bassey tribute act Barni Scott took to the stage wearing a gold glittery full length dress and opened with the title track from the Bond film ‘Goldfinger’ Her performance was first class and highly enjoyable to watch. At one point she left the stage and came back just a few seconds later wearing a completely different costume, (I have known a woman to get changed that quick) and finished her spot with a superb rendition of the old classic ‘My Life’
Five piece party & function band consisting of drums, keyboard, lead and bass guitar with a female vocalists fronting them Bright Eyes looked spectacular in their colourful costumes that did not seem to match. They were musically competent and versatile enough to appeal to the majority of audiences. If you are looking for a fully self contained function band, I would recommend Bright Eyes.
Three piece band Trilogy brought a superb showcase to a close. I found their fast paced act enjoyable but feel it would be limited to younger audience. I mean I would not recommend them for a more mature audience. But ideal for a holiday park family audience.
Tim Savage from TED talent said his favourite acts were Jon Urdy, Jules and UV Beatz
Gary Casey from BG entertainments said his favourite acts were Jules and Bright Eyes.
