On a perfect summer evening, the theatre group set off by coach to the stunning Kilworth House Outdoor Theatre, nestled within a picturesque glade surrounded by mature trees. This enchanting setting, with the gentle evening breeze rustling the leaves and the warmth of the afternoon sun lingering, provided the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable performance of the timeless musical 42nd Street. As the evening cooled, a few among us wrapped up in cosy blankets, but nothing could dim the excitement in the air.

42nd Street is the ultimate backstage musical - a glittering tale of ambition, determination, and the magic of the theatre. The story follows Peggy Sawyer, a young and talented chorus girl from small-town America who arrives in New York with big dreams. When the leading lady is injured, Peggy steps in at the last minute, soaring from chorus girl to star. It’s a heartwarming celebration of resilience, talent, and the sheer joy of performance.

From the moment the curtain (or rather, the treetop canopy) metaphorically rose, the audience was dazzled. The stage burst to life with an explosion of colour, sequins and, most memorably, the rhythmic thunder of tap shoes. The choreography was nothing short of spectacular. The precision and energy of the tap numbers had toes tapping and spirits soaring across the audience. The iconic title number “42nd Street” was delivered with such dazzling flair it brought goosebumps and thunderous applause.

The cast was superb, delivering flawless vocals, boundless energy, and a clear passion for the show. Every performer shone, and the sense of camaraderie was infectious. The glitz, glamour, and old-school Broadway charm were brought to life in every scene, with slick costume changes and artistic set pieces that seemed even more magical beneath the open sky.

All 26 members of our theatre group agreed, it was a fabulous evening from start to finish. The combination of a first-class production, the charming outdoor theatre nestled amongst the trees, and the perfect weather made for an utterly memorable experience and enthusiasm for future theatre events.