Review of The Big Night Out Opening Cabaret on 12th July 2008

Last Saturday a new and exciting cabaret venture opened at the Marston Farm Hotel. The Big Night Out was staged in the fabulous marquee at the hotel which was bedecked in wonderful white and burgundy swags and drapes befitting a show that was a delight to the capacity audience. After a beautifully prepared and presented four course dinner the show began…

Compered by Tina McBain and top DJ and accomplished magician, Scott Anderson, the show was full of glitz and glamour; opening with a stunning dance performance from 13 year old rising dance star Chelsie Fitzharris who won the recent under 14’s section of the Search For A Star competition at the Assembly Rooms in Tamworth. Chelsie also opened the second half of the show with an equally amazing performance. The organisers of the Big Night Out at Marston Farm are looking forward to Chelsie’s performances at other events planned for the future.

Top midlands song and dance man, Glen Chevannes was undoubtedly the star of the night, and was, during the evening accompanied by the ever delightful Victoria Gordon. These two have performed together many times, not only in cabaret settings, but also in the annual pantomime which is staged at the Assembly Rooms in Tamworth. Glen’s fabulous singing and enormous repertoire made the evening so special, he always gives everyone something to remember. Victoria has the most wonderful voice and as well as her duets with Glen, gave superb renditions of some wonderful classic songs from the shows as well as more contemporary material.

The Evenings glamour was added to in true cabaret style by a number of dances by Kelly and Sue from Phoenix Dance Studio. These girls certainly made the audience sit up and take notice with some amazing dance sets and beautiful costumes. The can-can was one of the many highlights from Kelly and Sue.

Organiser Ian Gibbons said ‘The hotel was fantastic, the meal was superb - nothing was too much trouble for the management and staff. The show, as we expected was tremendous; all of the artists performed to such a high standard, and altogether it complimented the wonderful setting of Marston Farm Hotel and the marquee where the cabaret took place. We are really looking forward to future productions and know that this is the place to be for such events.’

Marston Farm Hotel General Manager Tony Grubb said ‘It’s always a little nerve wracking when you embark on a new venture, making sure everyone is happy. And from the comments we have received since the cabaret, we know we have everything was just right, from the first steps into the venue, to the last encore, the audience loved it all and we are looking forward to the next show which is scheduled for 12th September when the Big Night Out will be a 70’s extravaganza entitled The Magic of Elton John - featuring not only our new resident dancer, Chelsie Fitzharris, top magician and Scott Anderson but also headlining the show will be one of the best Elton John Tributes on the circuit today and a great 70’s disco to end the evening and get everyone up and dancing.

Tickets for the 70’s Extravaganza show include a fabulous four course mean, are priced at £25.00 and are available from Marston Farm Hotel, Dog Lane, Bodymoor Heath, Tamworth. Telephone: 01827 872133

Review by Milton Keen 12.7.08