Not a seat in the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, was left unsold as Neyland Ladies Choir celebrated the 35th anniversary of their formation.

Invited to join them in that celebration, 'A Night At The Musicals', were a number of familiar close friends, namely Pembroke and District Male Voice Choir, Sarah Benbow, Seimon Morris, the Sacsoffonics and Rick Lawrence, classical pianist and former deputy conductor.

Compére for the evening was the inimitable Brian Jobson, always skirting the edges of comedy, though never quite crossing the boundary.

As usual, the ladies were beautifully turned out in their show outfits. We suspect, too, a sharp increase in takings by local hairdressers for that day!

What also can be noted about Neyland Ladies is their all action expertise, programme variety, discipline, and ready open smiles when on stage. Led by Lynne Kelleher and accomplished accompanist Peter Griffiths, they are an entertainment force.

As mentioned, musicals was the theme, so the first lively item from Neyland was entirely appropriate, 'Another Op'nin,' Another Show' (Kiss Me Kate), and from that start their performance from a wide variety of shows just got better and better, Barbara Thomas featuring as soloist in an item from 'Phantom'.

The Sacsoffonics followed Neyland on stage and these lads from Ysgol Preseli have made a significant name for themselves locally with their incredible musical talent.

Not afraid to tackle any type of music, close harmony and the occasional comedic item, all grist to their mill. Musicianship of the highest order is apparent in all they do whilst still entertaining their marvelling listeners.

Sarah Benbow is so well know locally as to need no introduction whatever. One knows the quality she always delivers and this night was no exception. Items from 'Les Miserables' and 'Sister Act' were just up the audience's street and they made that obvious with enthusiastic applause.

Seimon Morris, minus his famous red suede sneakers, was accompanist. No loss of his incredible piano skills was discernible though as a result!

P&DMVC, celebrating their own 60 years milestone during 2012, were delighted to be present supporting the ladies. So many times have each sung in each other's concerts that a certain mutual admiration is entirely natural, is it not? Their contributions under Mrs. Chris Lloyd, accompanist Jenny Griffiths, from 'Les Mis', 'Jekyll and Hyde', among others, fully deserved the applause received.

A comic moment for the audience over lowering the main curtain delayed the interval for just a minute or two!

Neyland Ladies appeared for the second half twinkling and sparkling like stars in the night sky, sporting best be-jewelled formal frocks, tops and silver bowlers. And can they shimmy? You bet! Highlights from 'Chicago' showed them at their all-action best. A tribute to Peter Griffiths from 'Show Boat' followed by 'I'm Gonna Wash That Man...' completed their opening stint.

Simon Hancock, choir president, paid tribute to all those contributing to the evening towards Cystic Fibrosis. Due praise went to main sponsors Dragon LNG, the Port Authority and Debbie John (Neyland Athletic).

Rick Lawrence came to stage and played classical piano interpretations to a theme of 'Lambeth Walk'! Witty, amazing, clever, it was all those things demonstrating mastery of his instrument. Rick is certainly missed in this part of Pembs.

Sarah returned with two powerful numbers from 'Chess' and 'Phantom', Seimon in terrific form, before the ladies returned to complete the concert with several items from a wide number of shows, 'Mama Mia' and 'Sound of Music', among others, with Jan Rodriguez featuring as soloist with 'Thank you for the Music'.

No doubt at all that this was a marvellous and enjoyable concert to celebrate the ladies' achievements across 35 years and long may that continue. They are a well-travelled choir and have made significant impressions in many countries. As Simon Hancock put it, they are peerless ambassadors for the county. All of Pembs can say Amen to that. Choir highlights on their website are certainly worth reading.

Finally, the ladies invited all taking part to join them in 'You'll Never Walk Alone', a very fitting end to the night. The Manchester club kindly hosted a social gathering to complete the evening.

A.S.