Talented Viv Kelly dancers dazzle at One Night Only, Theatre Severn

The annual One Night Only showcase at the Theatre Severn starred the talented members of The Viv Kelly School of Dance and Theatre last night.

This year it was the school's 80th show and the packed audience was treated to an eclectic mix including ballet, street dance, tap dance and numbers from musicals.

The night kicked-off with a stunning duet dance as part of a 30's medley piece.

The two graceful dancers were then joined by tap dancers and the ballet group.

Members of the audience gave a huge ovation when dancer Phyllis Jones, who is in her 80s, took to the stage to tap alongside her fellow dancers.

There were also gasps of delight when ballet dancers entered in costumes which were lit up with twinkling fairy lights sewn into their tutus.

The Street dancing crew brought attitude and energy to the stage with an exciting and fast-paced choreography and complex hand gesture motifs.

The singing soloists had great presence, strong voices and passion that captivated the audience.

The night culminated with a rock band which played Michael Jackson's tune Beat It and Madonna's Living on A Prayer for performers to sing and dance along to.

And the audience was left spellbound by the efforts of the amateur dramatics group with some saving they have seen future stars of the West End.

Bill Gunn, from Shrewsbury, said: "It was lovely to see a group of all ages putting their heart and soul into something they obviously enjoy. There are some future West End stars here."

Denise Williamson, 58, from Shrewsbury, came to see her 28-year-old daughter Kerry perform ballet.

She said: "I thought the show was absolutely brilliant. My daughter has only been doing it for six months and was absolutely fantastic. I am proud of her."

And 39-year-old Pippa Gimbert, also from the town, said: "It was brilliant, we loved it. We came to see Paula Davies who was doing street dance.

"The whole show was brilliant."

Throughout the show all the performers thoroughly enjoyed themselves and their passion and smiles translated into a warm and welcoming audience.

A stunning night was had by all and everyone received well deserved ovations as the curtain fell.

Viv Kelly, who runs the group with her daughter Lindsay, said: "We are delighted about the way the show has gone.

"The people backstage were all enjoying it.

"In the show we had nearly 100 performers from Shropshire. It is our 80th show which is a massive thing for us.

"We started in Worthen Village Hall in 1984 so it is amazing to get this far."

It is hard to disagree. A brilliant night.

Chrissy Symmons