I’M running out of superlatives to use about CODYS, Warrington’s premier youth musical theatre group.

They’ve just finished dazzling sell-out audiences at The Brindley theatre in Runcorn with The Phantom of the Opera.

It is the third production of theirs I’ve reviewed in the past 12 months, following Les Miserables and Whistle Down The Wind.

Director and producer Nick Cupit and CODYS chairman Gemma Thorniley have high expectations of these youngsters, aged 11 to 18. And the young performers always deliver.

There was a new, talented musical director in charge this time - step forward Matt Pallant. And the services of choreographer Claire Bundy were put to great use in this most ambitious of shows.

On stage it was great to see some of the talent that has been emerging in recent years.

The incredibly challenging role of the Phantom was in the safe hands of Nick Gartland. I’ve marked Nick out for stardom before, and I feel further convinced of this having watched the 17-year-old Priestley College student give a performance way beyond his years. It is no coincidence that he recently won the Rotary GB and Ireland Musician of the Year award.

Phoebe Williams has proved herself an amazing performer too. In Christine she found the role that could have been written for her.

The purity of her voice and stage presence put me in mind of Sarah Brightman, who was the first to deliver the role on stage.

Garion Frith, whose last show with CODYS this was, was brilliant as usual, thanks to his mesmeric stage presence in the role of Raoul.

Holly Gabathuler’s powerful voice and acting skill always impresses, and she did so again as Carlotta.

Special mention should also go to Haydn Cawley and Greg Fryer who have emerged as a very funny comedy double act as the opera owners Andre and Firmin.

Add to this a great supporting cast and chorus, wonderfully effective staging and it all added up to a perfect night’s entertainment.

Next up for CODYS?

Cats at the Brindley next spring. Book your tickets early.

JEREMY CRADDOCK