More Than Just a Melody: Inside Bravo! Broadway and Beyond

Friday, May 15, 2026

More Than Just a Melody: Inside Bravo! Broadway and Beyond

Esk Community Choir with Rebecca Cassidy and John Wood

There would be few who were present at the Somerset Civic Centre in Esk on the afternoon of 3^rd May who would disagree that Bravo! Broadway and Beyond delivered an afternoon of delightful talent and theatrical charm, bringing together the exceptional artistry of Opera Queensland’s soprano, Rebecca Cassidy, her masterful accompanist John Woods, together with the spirited voices of the Esk Community Choir. From the moment guests entered, many of whom beaming in bling, perfectly compatible with the Broadway theme, it was clear this would be no ordinary performance. The room itself set the tone – beautifully styled with blue-themed tables that created an atmosphere of elegance, inviting audience members to settle in for an afternoon of storytelling through music.

Evey Weller

Two- thirty arrived…The lights dimmed, a hush fell over the audience, and for a moment the world outside disappeared. The piano strikes up; a voice breaks through. It’s Evey with a vibrant invitation to Let Yourself Go. In that instant, the stage became a place where reality loosened its grip, and a colourful choir took over. This was this day, the heartbeat of Broadway, where every note, every movement, and every story asked the audience to step into the spectacle that is Broadway and Beyond.

Our own Denis’s thoughtfully chosen backdrops, transported the audience from one scene to the next; the colourful costumes added depth and meaning to each song; David Finn’s command of audio and lighting; all these elements which worked seamlessly together giving expression and life to the variety of Broadway numbers performed.

Rebecca Cassidy’s presence was, as expected, captivating. Her soprano voice soared effortlessly, weaving both strength and delicacy into every note. While Rebecca’s radiant soprano voice lent a polished brilliance to the occasion, it was the warmth of her spirit and her gentle embrace of the choir’s kinship that truly made the day shine.

Clearly guided by the passion and brilliance of Musical Director and accompanist, Alexis, the choir also shone with their joy of singing. Alexis’s ability to unify voices and her vision continues to be the backbone of the choir’s successes, every performance reflective of the careful preparation and a shared love of music that resonated with the audience on this day.

Aydan Forsyth - C'est Moi

Aydan Forsyth’s striking transformation into the Camelot character, Lancelot, fully immersing himself with theatrical flair and confidence was among the standout performances.

To everyone’s ‘wait…what!?’ moments before Jenny Carey’s debut solo performance, one of those recalcitrant Vonn Trapp terrors ‘doe, ray, me’-d herself across the stage. However, despite this distraction, Jenny took to the stage with courage and grace as she led the Choir into the singing of Edelweiss marking an exciting milestone for Jenny and a hint of more to come.

Jenny Carey

Ever eloquent, Sean Choat guided the afternoon with poise and charm, keeping the programme flowing smoothly, complemented at interval by a delightful afternoon tea thoughtfully delivered to tables by our always poised and ready volunteers, Michaela, Pat, and Felice, along with Di and Maree our Catering Queens and choir kitchen crew who so capably crafted this afternoon tea.

Bravo! Broadway and Beyond was more than just a concert. It was a celebration of a supportive community, of creativity and the joy of performing on stage, every detail contributing to an unforgettable afternoon. More than this, it was a testament to what can be achieved when passion, talent, patience, love and guidance come together in harmony.

By: Sue Walker