Exiciting Motown special comes to Venue Cymru

Jul 22 2010 by Rayyan Parry, North Wales Weekly News

SINGER, dancer and producer Patrick Alan has shared the stage with some of the greats in the music industry.

From Whitney Houston and Lionel Richie to the Black Eyed Peas, the multi-talented Mr Alan has collaborated with them all.

But he is best know for his work with Michael Jackson. He was a dancer in the legendary Moonwalker film, and he has fond memories.

“That was probably the most exciting time of my life,” says Patrick, who originally comes from LA but is now settled in London.

“Michael was a perfectionist. He was there for all the routines. We would do it over and over. He had a rapport with his dancers. It was incredible.”

When the King of Pop died last year, Patrick was in shock.

“I still find it hard to believe. He was such an inspiration to me and so many others,” he said.

“As someone who worked so closely with him and having been able to be exposed to his energy and perfection first hand, it truly changed me into a better performer and artist.

“You can't help but soak up his way of executing moves, his infectious performance power and his take on a new persona when you go on stage, and in other areas of your own life.”

One can’t forget that Patrick was one quarter of the legendary soul group The Drifters, singing alongside one of the original members, the late Johnny Moore.

“Working with Johnny and being mentored by such a large vocalist was amazing. I learnt so much,” says Patrick.

“Even up to when he passed away he sounded like a young man. When you come from his school, you think correctly!”

Now Patrick brings his latest show – Signed, Sealed and Delivered – A Motown Revue – to Venue Cymru on July 31.

The show, named after the famous 1970s hit by Stevie Wonder, takes audiences through a history of Motown classics.

Supported by an eight-piece band, Patrick and a line-up of vocalists reel off hits from Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye to the Temptations and the Jackson 5.

“Everybody seems to have a soft spot for Motown,” says Patrick. “It must be the most highly rotated things on the planet.

“I enjoy performing Stevie Wonder, he’s one of my biggest influences vocally.

“My favourite song to watch is the Ain’t No Mountain High Enough duet, the song is so moving. It stands the test of time.

“For our first show we had Amy Winehouse join us on stage. People hadn’t seen her for months and months.”

Patrick is joined on stage by a line-up of vocalists including Winehouse’s own backing singers and ex-drifter Peter Lamaar.

Expect to hear some of your favourite Motown records and don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes.

Signed Sealed and Delivered – A Motown Revue, July 31, Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Tickets £17-£19. Call 01492 872000.