WELL into the first half of their 2012 performance, the University Singers delare, We Can Sing!

Although it was the refrain to one of the pieces, it really is an affirmation of the inherent talent which lies at the heart of this choir. Yes, the University Singers can sing.

This year, in tribute to Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of Independence, the Singers have drawn on the work of Jamaican composers.

This is both informative and refreshing as it highlights the breadth and depth of Jamaican compositions ranging from the classics, to popular Jamaican music by deejays Vybz Kartel and Popcaan.

But perhaps the most enthralling part of this year’s repertoire is 1865. The opera, based on the Morant Bay Rebellion in St Thomas which was composed by the choir’s conductor Franklin Haliburton.

In bringing this to the stage, Haliburton has again showed the wealth of stories that exist here in Jamaica, which can be used as the backdrop for artistic endeavours.

While watching 1865, with its great music and robust voices, one cannot help but draw paralells with the longrunning Broadway and West End musical Les Miserables, both of which surround the revolt of the peasantry.

Kester Bailey’s portrayal of Bogle was indeed engaging, but it was Sean Moncrieffe as Custos Rotolorum and Danielle Nelson as his wife, who took top nods. They both convincingly blended the music and the acting to seamlessly potray their character.

The theatrical ending added that sense of surprise which was critical in making a well known story interesting — a smart move on the part of Halliburton.

The opera aside, the choir stuck to their usual formula which worked for the most part.

If there was a lull in the presentation it was the Revival Bands segment which seemed to lack the spirit, perhaps due to the rigid choreography. This was everything that a revival presentation isn’t.

The University Singers close their concert season for 2012 this weekend, and again they can step into the spotlight for a job well done.