REVIEW: Fusion, performed by Dereham Operatic Society Youth Theatre Company (DOSYTCo).

Last Saturday I got to spend my evening being entertained by the wonderful DOSYTCo at their summer concert, Fusion.

The idea behind the title was to perform a 'fusion' of different musical styles from the past 60 years, including songs from pop, rock and musical theatre.

The group of seven to 19-year-olds never fail to amaze me with their extraordinary passion and talent. After such an incredible performance of The Wizard of Oz in April you can't help but wonder whether they can remain at that level but they proved themselves yet again.

Fusion saw the struggle of a small band that decide to go their separate ways and follows the stories and relationships of the members on their journeys. There were several memorable moments - unfortunately I can only name a few. One of the first numbers, Run Around Sue, performed by Alfie Mazzei, Harrison Matwij, Louis Miller and the other senior boys was filled with energy. It got the show rolling and the boys portrayed the feeling of the 1960s very well!

Another number that really impressed me was Cell Block Tango from Chicago that was performed by the senior dancers. It was quite a complicated song with dialogue, acting, dancing and singing but despite this the girls did an amazing job. It was one of my favourite parts of the show. An absolute stand out for me was Thomas Wilson Gotobed's performance of Electricity – he really could be the next Billy Elliot! He has great confidence at such a young age, a wonderful voice and incredible dance moves. Charlotte Bunting's rendition of Purple Rain was simply magical, as well as Emily Baker's outstanding performance of Adele's When We Were Young. Dec Matwij is a comical genius and always guarantees to have the audience in stitches with his performances.

And of course the company numbers, especially the finale, was epic. Never Let Anyone Steal Your Rock and Roll got everyone up on their feet, clapping and enjoying themselves. A standing ovation well deserved DOSYTCo! Your passion and hard work pays off time and time again.

HEIDI JACKSON