BIRKENHEAD Operatic Society Trust (BOST) were so glad to be back on stage - it showed in every wide smile ... individually and collectively.
This packed-out seasonal production showcased festive stage and screen musicals and was just the tinsel-coated tonic we need in these difficult times.
The aim, said president Meryl Langford, was to 'lift the spirits.'
Well, along with the special guests - LIPA's 4 - 19 Academy students - the entire ensemble achieved that wish with flying Christmas colours - performing 30 songs in a two-act show.
Directed by Gareth Casey Morris with musical director Tricia Gaskell it had something for everyone.
BOST musical director Tricia Gaskell
Sixteen songs in Act 1 took us from Broadway to the smash hit movie franchise Frozen. A few Muppet Christmas Carol favourites were followed by hits from the musical Elf.
Act 2 continued the festive feel good factor with 14 more standards including Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas from Meet Me in St Louis.
A finale aided by dancing snowflakes projected onto the famous ceiling provided a truly atmospheric White Christmas.
It would not be fair to mention any individuals - as this was a team showcase and one that simply glowed with dedication and warmth.
The LIPA pupils however deserve special praise for their contributions notably We're Walking in the Air from the Raymond Briggs' masterpiece The Snowman.
BOST's director Gareth Casey Morris
It was indeed a celebratory way to end the BOST year and a curtain- raiser for some future highlights.
The Sounds of Liverpool on May 8 - at the same prestigious venue - will showcase songs from The Beatles to Real Thing to Blood Brothers and Cilla The Musical.
Claire Sweeney - who was in the audience and is a BOST patron - will be guest presenter for that event.
And looking ahead to Christmas 2022, BOST wil present Shrek at the Empire from December 1 to 3.
Finally, there was a touching note in the BOST programe saying 'farewell to a dear friend of the company - the inspirational Aldham E. Robarts who died in September this year.
The former BOST President (picture, below) was a much loved and respected local hero.
He founded the Wirral Globe and in his life was described as a 'charismatic' legend who motivated so many people from all walks of life.
The Spirit of Christmas lives on through Aldham and his beloved BOST.
Globe Verdict - Five stars
A super selection box of songs
@BOSTmusicals
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