ON Friday I went to The Plaza Theatre, a delightful little venue in Romsey. I had tried earlier in the week to obtain a ticket for the show that evening but the box office was closed. So I turned up on the evening of the show fully expecting to obtain a ticket, no matter where I would be sitting.

The show, entitled “A Night with Elvis”, I would have imagined would have sold well, but also I expected one or two vacant seats. However, it was a total sell out I was informed!

But my luck was still in as they said that I would be able to stand at the back of the theatre. So I didn’t need to be told twice and I paid up and in I went!

I was amazed to see a brass band which had been assembled on stage and then realised that they were a large part of the evening’s proceedings.

They were the Hampshire Music Service and Romsey Area Youth Jazz Orchestra. They kicked off with In the Mood followed by jazz standards by Charlie Parker and several other jazz greats. Their set lasted for about 40 minutes and we were then awarded a 20-minute break.

Upon return, the audience were probably surprised to see the orchestra regathering and I was beginning to wonder where “Elvis” was! But we didn’t have long to wait and on he strode, resplendent in a jumpsuit. And, to my amazement, the orchestra remained on stage and backed him throughout!

“Elvis”, alias Craig Jefferson, was truly fantastic and the orchestra of young jazz musicians also performed tremendously well.

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the show and I sincerely hope it can be repeated in the future! Full marks to everyone concerned for a brilliant evening!

MR D WHEELER, Calmore.