Ex Cathedra

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

by Andy Richardson

Theatre is on song

In its short life, Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn has already proved itself adept at attracting big names and blockbusters.

The Nutcracker, Cabaret and Peter Pan are among the box office smashes that locals can look forward to over coming weeks and months.

Just as importantly, however, has been the Theatre’s ability to attract artists of great cultural merit. The Birmingham-based choir and early music ensemble, Ex Cathedra, bore testament to that last night with a performance of no little beauty.

While not every seat in the house was full, those who made the effort witnessed a breathtaking display of sheer musical magic. The massed voices of the near-50-strong choir were dizzyingly beautiful.

Their intriguing programme, called American Dream, ran the gamut through the classical repertoire to modern day favourites, calling at most points in between.

Soprano, baritone, bass and more voices besides interwove, creating a swirl of sound that filled the cavernous theatre. It was like being washed away on a musical tide that ebbed and flowed under the skillful leadership of artistic director Jeffrey Skidmore.

Ex Cathedra are the finest choir of their kind in the  UK and last night’s performance was the stuff of dreams. While Theatre Severn has established itself as a purveyor of box office hits, it’s good to see it values high culture as much as commercial success.