A celebration of musical theatre, dedicated to WOW co-founder and late President, Janet Stockley
WOW returned to Weymouth Pavilion with The WOW Show, a vibrant celebration of musical theatre that showcased the talent, energy and shared spirit at the heart of the organisation. We were thrilled to receive glowing reviews for the production, which took audiences on a “dazzling musical journey” through seven iconic musicals, featuring everything from high-energy choreography to “goosebump-inducing harmonies”.
Performed by a cast of 37 young people aged 11 to 18, the show highlighted the versatility of the company with numbers from Fame, Annie, Mean Girls, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Come From Away, Wicked and Mamma Mia.
The Dorset Echo described The WOW Show as a “must-see” at Weymouth Pavilion, noting that “each number is performed with enthusiasm, confidence and a real sense of joy, showcasing the extraordinary depth of talent within the company”.
In her NODA report, reviewer Sylvia Coates noted that the group put its “heart and soul” into a thoughtfully constructed programme demonstrating “enormous energy, precision and teamwork”. Particular credit was given to Show Creator, Director and Choreographer Martine Burt and Musical Director Jessamy Bowditch for “excellent, exciting and disciplined choreography, strong, lively singing and a powerful sense of shared purpose”.
The dedication to Janet Stockley was woven throughout the production, reflecting her values and her lasting influence on WOW. Both reviews recognised how the show celebrated not only musical theatre, but the sense of community, opportunity and shared purpose that Janet helped to establish — and which continues to define WOW today.
One of the most memorable moments came on Saturday night during You Raise Me Up, when former WOW members joined the performance by singing from the aisles. This powerful moment brought together past and present members, surrounding the Pavilion with voices and capturing the enduring WOW family and the impact the organisation continues to have on young people long after they leave the stage.
🔗 Read the full Dorset Echo review
🔗 Read the NODA show report
📄 View the show programme (PDF)
🎬 Watch: You Raise Me Up (Saturday Night 360 video by Stephen Mullins)