Rae Cocking Celebration Concert - reviewed in poetry

Remembering Rae by Linh

Few can have an emotional and lasting impact like Rae Cocking,
whom even in her passing, can send crowds flocking
to see a concert that celebrates a life of humour, passion and musical verse;
a tribute filled with talent and sophistication from voices so diverse.

The concert has a dual purpose; it's more than a celebration,
but also to fund a scholarship in appreciation
of Rae's tireless and dedicated work in music and teaching
to assist young and new performers with their careers in singing.

The concert began with Rae's beautiful voice at its best,
moving some to tears, and leaving others impressed.
Rae's former students, colleagues and friends performed like never before;
for a special lady they admired, respected and adored.

Every performance was a highlight and every singer was outstanding
in diverse numbers from opera to musical theatre and even some dancing.
Sally-Anne Russell was dramatic in voice with Cruda sorte by Rossini
even revealing her natural affinity for comedy.

A bevy of beautites thrilled the audience with an energetic and enthralling rendition of West Side Story's America,
featuring Carolyn Ferrie, Cherie Boogaart,Michelle Nightingale,Trish Spence and Michelle Grootenboer
in mellifluous harmonies and a rhythmic dance with swirls and whirls
as the lovely and impressionable Spanish girls.

The talented troupe returns with Lyn Harris in the dramatic character-driven Cellblock Tango,
a wonderful ensemble number from the musical 'Chicago'.
Keith Hempton sang Old Man River with warmth and rich resonance,
while Ben Rasheed captivated with Stars delivering vocal brilliance.

The finale featured the entire ensemble including the accompanists,
in an emotional and fitting song of French revolutionists.
Do You Hear The People Sing? reminds us of Rae's hopes in seeing and hearing more people take up music and singing,
for she was always supportive and encouraging through her teaching and mentoring.

As the concert began with Rae, it also ended with her vocal magnificance.
In the quiet hall, her glorious voice permeated the silence,
filling it with happy memories of a remarkable woman sorely missed,
whose generous soul and spirit will be forever in our midst.