2007 started at the back end of January and we recall a show for charity at the 'Midland Hotel' in Manchester sharing the stage with Jane MacDonald.

 

Oliver Gray, comedy Kate's son, had joined us on monitors in the summer of 2006 and as he runs his own studio it was an easy baptism for him.

 

In April 2007 we made a trip to Denmark, one of our most favourite places and had a gap in the tour which was filled by a short break in Hamburg, Germany. Iain became hospitalised there and Ollie dep'd on guitar.

 

Iain wasn't fit for another month so Ollie continued. We could see Ollie was a more than competent musician. Iain rejoined us a month later. We sailed on with the new show and then just before the Christmas show began, Katy informed us she'd auditioned for a tribute talent show which was to be shown on BBC TV in January 08.

 

Hasty arrangements had to be made to replace her and auditions were held. We met Jodie Lawson and liked her immediately. She was to start the first show back in 2008. I believe change is a good thing and so it proved in this case. We'd enjoyed working with Katy and she wanted to go in a different direction. Jodie was an instant 'hit' and worked hard given that she had to learn a show not designed with her in mind. Andy Hodge was released during the spring: It was a natural consequence given that he would be touring with Katy later in the year.

Ollie was offered the position as bass guitarist and we invited Nikki Hechavarria, who had just finished in Disney's 'Lion King', to join us. It was great to have a 'three girl look' back and give the show another dimension. The new show took shape and was so well received. Fans enjoyed the 'freshen-up' and so did we. Another less eventful trip to Denmark followed the Bournemouth season and before we knew it the Christmas show was upon us. It was a terrific show and a great ending to the year.

 

Coming into 2009 was less stressful. We had a settled company and Matt Thomas had taken his place on monitors.

Rehearsals were again at the Portishead Football Club and with everyone on board we were able to put together the new show fairly easily. Almost without exception the 2009/10 show was hailed as the best yet which is pretty amazing considering it was the 24th in a row.

So here we are at the beginning of 2010 which will see the 25th anniversary edition coming out in August. Some favourite pieces will be aired again and it's odd to realise we are a nostalgia show with its own nostalgia!

 

It's a tough time in the theatre trade, like many others right now, but we will see it through and with the incredible support of our loyal fans move into the silver anniversary edition with confidence.

 

P.S. We collected nearly £12,000 for the 'Help for Heroes' charity in December and £2,500 for the 'British Heart Foundation' with the sales of "We wish we could see Nigel every day," a DVD single. (Go to youtube and type in 'Nigel Portishead') official DVD - it's fun!!!