WHEN you walk into the main arena of the Harlow Leisurezone you could be walking into the O2. The huge stage has an even large XL adorning the back of the stage. This is big time!

XL could be Extra Large but it is in fact marking forty glorious years for Makin Steps.

From the opening bars of Believer to the final strains of Sky Full of Stars, you understand why Makin’ Steps have thrived for four decades.

You understand why, week in and week out, pupils flock to their base at the Potter Street Community Centre.

For just over two hours, we were treated to a dazzling, West End standard show.

This reporter couldn’t take notes fast enough as number followed number followed number.

Each and every number was perfectly performed. The amount of work that must have gone into the choreography, the costume, the design, the practice. Makin’ Steps Scott Simpson told us they started rehearsing in June. Practice really did make perfect.

At this point, we would like to pay tribute to the backing singers and band. They were more than that. They were such a vital and integral part of the show. Some singers, we had seen perform solo (Mary Cameron) but they were all class. Emily Webster tore the house down with Nutbush whilst Pennie Walmsley was such a class act.

We think we counted sixty-six actual numbers. Each left an indelible memory. For a few some of the alumni returned and they were fantastic.

But the stars were those present day members who danced, acted and sang their hearts out.

The energy of Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough; the little ones tap dancing to Let’s Dance; the passion in the singing and the on-point movement.

We counted 22 number in the first forty minutes.

The younger ones were given their moment in a charming and nicely directed Matilda. If nothing else, the amount of work putting on something like School Song

It was the b of the bang time for the second act with a hugely impressive Misdemeanour. Followed by another nineteen numbers from a carnival Come to Brazil to a superbly sung Thank You For The Music.

It was in the final flourish (called Icons Part B) that the dancers really really shone. Boy did they excel, from Better Have My Money to Easy on Me.

Could we make a special mention to Let Me Entertain You sung by Brett Shiels and the Makin’ Steps Alumni dancers, This was dedicated to the late Michelle Crook. May she rest in peace.

A Sky Full of Stars was a fitting finale.

To see founder Margaret Wright come on at the end was also fitting. Then again she also did the raffle!

Well done to Scott and the team for putting this on. We know they are perfectionists, so as we write (Friday morning) they are probably discussing what could be better.

We wish we had time to mention every performer. musician and singer.

We urge you to go and see this.

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Makin’ Steps are making preparations for 40th anniversary show