XLCR stars on show

The stars came out for Excelsior High School recently, thrilling the audience that packed the assembly hall of the University of the West Indies, with a cultural treat that lasted for nearly three hours.

The concert, dubbed 'From Bach to Bob and Beyond', delivered in full measure an eclectic mix of the classics, golden oldies and current hits. Patrons cheered wildly as more than a dozen performers, all past students of Excelsior, delighted them with musical excellence and brilliant lyrics. From Dr Carol Ball to Jon Williams, Conroy Cooper and Godfrey Taylor, the Excelsorians demonstrated mastery of their craft. The programme was so crisp and tightly managed, it left patrons craving more from the cast of skilled performers.

Comedian par excellence Owen 'Blacka' Ellis set the tone for the evening's presentation by interjecting his brand of humour in between acts. Carole Reid and Harold Davis melted the hearts of many with their rendition of The Prayer while Dennis Malcolm had patrons rocking in their seats to his performance. The beat went on with more talent including former weatherman Evan Thompson, Pam Hall, Jasmin Holness and Dawn Fuller-Phillips.

Erica Allen shared some of Easton Lee's writings, with her mellow voice lifting the rafters, while Joan Andrea Hutchinson demonstrated why she has earned the title Jamaica's lady of comedy. President of the Alumni Association Winsome Halliman thanked the performers for giving unstintingly of their time and talent, and hinted that this could become an annual affair.

Proceeds of the concert will go towards the rehabilitation of the school's science laboratories.