Contempo took the audience to the movies with their latest production - “Reel Music” - which went on board the past weekend at the St. Bridget’s Convent auditorium. With choral directress Sheranga Perera at the helm, and backed by Milan John, Shehan Wijemanna and Shalintha Rodrigo on piano, bass and drums respectively, the show was resplendent with strong solos, toe tapping numbers, good choreography and plenty of overall entertainment.
Slow numbers set the tone for the first half of the show, with songs like “Say a Little Prayer”, nevertheless, the performances of the choristers sparkled as much as their evening gowns. Despite a somewhat tedious first half, the choir returned with a bang, and a dress change in the second half armed with hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin'” from Rock of Ages and “Just The Way You Are” from Pitch Perfect. The vibe undoubtedly resonated with the choristers who seemed to let loose and have fun.
Among the many numbers that stole the night was “Walking On Sunshine” - a marriage of good singing and great energy - had the audience tapping their toes and gleefully singing along. The choral arrangements throughout the night were impressive, while certain performances seemed lacklustre - owing, for the most part, to a few occasionally mediocre voices. Without a doubt, the girls sounded better together than they did individually, producing top-notch backing vocals.
The evening's stars however were soloists Dilini Perera and Sheranga Perera who both stole the show with outstanding performances. Dilini’s performance of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz was beautifully ethereal.
And while it was an amazing performance and received a resounding applause, it was Sheranga’s goosebump-inducing, confident and powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s The Bodyguard number “I Will Always Love You” that was truly worthy of a mic drop.
The audience weighed in on “Reel Music”:
Mohan Perera
The numbers are pretty good, and the Whitney Houston piece was excellent. I also enjoyed ‘Say A Little Prayer For You’.
Christopher
It was quite good.
Nuran, Nishantha and Subaharan
It was really nice. We didn't think they would be this advanced.
Chris and Josh
The soloists were really good. Some of the songs were brilliant and some were alright.
Shereen
It was exceptional.
Chetiyanga
It was really good. They could have come out a bit more powerful. But overall it was good.
Shiromi
It was fantastic. They have done it nicely.
Christine
It’s been great.
Amasha and Maleesha
It was amazing. Loved the soloists - they were perfect. We think they’re inspirational since we’re in the school choir and we want to join Contempo one day.
Reviewed by Rihaab Mowlana
Photographs by Pradeep Dilrukshana
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