Review: Lee Mead, Oakengates Theatre, Telford
Ten years ago Lee Mead shot into the limelight after winning the BBC contest Any Dream Will Do.
He went on to receive rave reviews appearing in the hit musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Fast-forward a few years and he has carved out a successful musical and acting career – and is now taking to the stage in a number of intimate gigs to perform songs from his fourth album, Some Enchanted Evening.
His latest performance at Oakengates Theatre gave the audience the chance to take a journey back to the time of musical theatre shows of the 1940s and 1950s.
From the start, Mead's cheeky personality and charisma shone through as he chatted to the audience in between songs.
He shared stories about how he first auditioned for Any Dream Will Do and also a story about his first love at school – and kissing her in the bushes. The audience loved every second and laughed along.
The highlight of the show for me was a performance of John Legend's All Of Me.
It showed that he could sing any genre of music with ease because the song was not a big production number but simply Mead singing with the backing of his very talented young pianist. Every note was perfect. The most popular performance with the audience was the songs from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – Close Ever Door To Me and Any Dream Will Do. Showing off some of his newly learned dance moves from his time performing in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Mead danced across the stage during Singin' In The Rain.
Another string added to his bow from his time in Chitty Chitty was a performance of Hushabye Mountain, which again was faultless.
Supporting Mead throughout the concert was his brilliant four-piece band.
Their enthusiasm and energy rubbed off on the star and it showed as the audience revealed their appreciation by giving him a standing ovation at the end.
It was an 'enchanted' evening, which passed by in a flash.
By Amy Downward
