One Voice, A Musical Variety Show, Farnworth Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, Albert Halls, Bolton. THESE enthusiastic music lovers have put some welcome money in the coffers with this impressive musical variety spectacular.

The show, which ran on Saturday and Sunday, was a box-office winner, with both nights almost completely sold out.

And how richly its participants deserved the generous applause they received from the audience.

But it has to be said technically this show was not without its problems. The chorus singers were consistently drowned by the music as a result, mainly, of inadequate microphones on stage.

Ironically, it was the solo singers who had the greater impact, because they were able to get close to the mics and be heard through the PA.

The first half of the programme was more conserverative with solos by Sharron Knott (Movies in My MindZfromZMiss Saigon), and Sandra Blyth who did music fromZShowboat.

Nora and Don Howcroft did a selection of music by Barry Manilow, which proved very popular with the audience and special guest Graham Edgington gave his own tribute to the music associated with Elaine Paige.

The second section was perhaps a little more cabaret, but seemed the mood of the audience, although the operatic input of Janice and Ian Lewis was real touch of class, their performance including the superbZAll I Ask of You,ZfromZPhantom of the Opera.

Local councillor and raconteur provided some welcome lighter moments with his Lancashire dialect inspired humour, but the highlight for me was Allen Christey's note perfect soloZLove Changes EverythingZfromZAspects of Love.ZHe has wonderful control and sensitivity in his voice.

One of the most impressive aspects of this show is that it highlighted the limitless age range of performers who brought it all together, from the mature singers in the Jubilation ensemble, to the bright young things in The Cast. NICK JACKSON

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