Hugh Maynard: Something Inside So Strong at the Hippodrome

Hugh Maynard is known to audiences for his extensive experience in musical theatre. He played various roles in some of the most successful West End shows, including The Lion King and Jesus Christ Superstar. He is currently starring in Miss Saigon at Prince Edward Theatre, where he charms audiences with what is considered one of his best performances to date. After so many successes in musical theatre, releasing a solo album was the next logical step for Maynard.

An intimate concert showcasing songs from his debut album was held at the London Hippodrome in front of an enthusiastic crowd this week. Something Inside So Strong marks the beginning of Hugh Maynard’s solo career and it covers a broad-ranging repertoire that navigates smoothly from soul to rock and comprises, naturally, a good dose of musical theatre pieces. Maynard confidently presents renditions of popular hits from artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Seal, among others, always adding his own personal touch to their classic songs.

The pieces selected for the album are clearly ones that Maynard genuinely enjoys and feels connected to, because he delivers each one with real transport and feeling, making the best use of his dynamic voice. This taster of his talent reveals his aptitude for drawing in the crowd as a solo artist; it proves that he can create a captivating atmosphere and get the audience clapping and singing along, or listening intently to his slower pieces.

Supported by fellow West End co-stars Kwang-Ho Hong and Rachelle Ann Go, whose soulful performances rouse the audience further, Maynard offers an evening charged with emotion and high energy. There is no questioning Hugh’s vocal abilities, which, combined with his magnetic presence on stage, foretells that he will be giving many more successful solo performances in future.

Mersa Auda

Something Inside So Strong was a one-off event at London Hippodrome on 25^th March 2015.