The lights go down and we are swept along instantly with the slick choreography and effusive energy of the young cast performing the classic Frank Sinatra signature tune New York, New York.

This was merged with Just Arrived, which was sung beautifully by Abbie Stenhouse, a shining talent within the group.

A night of musical theatre is usually guaranteed to lift your spirits and this show-stopping extravaganza combining the best bits from a selection of musicals did not disappoint.

Performed by Fierce Theatre, part of the MGA Academy of Performing Arts, this was a fast-paced roller-coaster ride which moved efficiently between numbers and kept the audience wanting more.

One particular highlight would have to be On Broadway where the harmonies glided effortlessly and I found myself compelled to toe-tap my way through it.

Adding to the wealth of talented dancers and singers already filling the stage, there was a special guest appearance from former X Factor finalist Nikita who belted out One Night Only in true diva style.

This was closely followed by a somewhat contrasting rendition of The Colour Purple from the mellifluous Rebecca Clarke, accompanied by a gifted dance soloist clad in a wisp of pure white which, coupled together, was captivating and perfectly evoked a sense of innocence and purity.

The Wicked Medley was visually stunning with a fantastic array of lurid green costumes, however it was apparent that some performers needed to work on their stage presence and appeared to amble on as opposed to taking the stage more confidently, but this is all part of the learning process and can easily be remedied.

Suffice to say, the Wicked dance routines were superbly executed with some roof-raising harmonies. Altogether a great piece of ensemble work.
A well directed piece of musical comedy is always a treat and Make Em Laugh was just that.

Tommy Mullins performed a cheeky-chappy song and dance solo, easily winning the hearts of the audience.

An engaging performer , he has great charisma but could have benefited from more power vocally.

Of course, no evening of song and dance would be complete without the kids from Fame and with great delight (as I must admit to being a fan of the 80s TV series).

I watched this come vividly to life in the second act in the shape of I Can Do Anything Better Than You Can.

This was a fantastic trip back in time with moody, soulful vocals and a great selection of leg-warmers.

Meticulously choreographed and directed, this show was brimming with talented, conscientious young performers who only had three hours' rehearsal time once a week over two terms with incredible results.

I left the theatre thinking if this is the standard on such minimal rehearsal time, these youngsters have a great future ahead of them.

Fierce Theatre Company is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with and I for one won't be surprised to hear the names of these youngsters again.