Top astrologer and TV personality Russell Grant predicted his latest stage production would be a big hit – and he was right.
The audience were dancing in the aisles at the three performances of Bliss at Theatr Harlech over the weekend.
And at the end the cast were given a well-deserved standing ovation.
The show was put together in just 10 days after Russell enlisted talented local youngsters who were taking part in a Performing Arts Summer School organised by Coleg Harlech.
Russell produced and directed the show – and also played the role of Uncle Phyliss with characteristic gusto.
A number of Coleg Harlech staff were also instrumental in making the show happen.
Bliss was written by Ed Penny, who doubled up as stage manager and the music was provided by a live house band under the baton of musical director Wyn Pearson who has just returned from a series of international engagements.
Choreographer Eirian Roberts has worked internationally and on West End productions and she brought her wide experience to Bliss.
Meanwhile, the backstage workers were all volunteers from the local area.
Coleg Harlech spokeswoman Carys Wigglesworth said: “It really was a fabulous show set in Liverpool on the cusp of the 1960s/1970s.
“The Bliss family have been swept along by the Beatles, Merseybeat, Tamla Motown and when we join them Beatlemania is about to give way to Abbamania. A big fat musical revolution is taking place in Britain.
“It was a brilliant songfest with echoes of the famous Cavern Club and the audience loved every second. For the Bliss family and everybody in the auditorium it was pure bliss!”
Coleg Harlech Principal Trefor Owen was delighted that Bliss had been such a huge success.
He said: “Bliss was very much part of our project of reviving live theatre in Harlech. The performance went a long way towards showing that we can contribute and support our community through vibrant and varied performances.
“We believe Bliss gave an opportunity to contribute to the wider community while developing the performing arts within the college itself. Our vision is for Coleg Harlech to be a centre of excellence for the performing arts in the future.
“All of those who took part received a certificate to say they were involved in our accredited Performing Arts Summer School.
“We even transformed the café into a themed space for the event which was very well received.
“Bliss was an excellent production and the commitment of everyone connected with the show, in particular college staff, was fantastic
“We are very grateful to Russell and his team for the time and effort he put in to ensure that Bliss lived up to its name in every single way.
“I would also like to say a big thank you to the members of staff at Coleg Harlech who played such an important role.
“The cast and backstage crew were all absolutely magnificent and they richly deserved the standing ovation they received at the end.”
