A Welsh singing group, who made headlines for a video on social media during lockdown, have made it through to the next stage of Britain's Got Talent. Following their performance, BGT judge David Walliams simply said: "There's something about the Welsh."
The group, Welsh of the West End, comprises of musical theatre performers including Sophie Evans and Steffan Hughes. The performers sang From Now On from The Greatest Showman on the episode broadcast on Saturday, May 21.
Welsh of the West End told the judges that they signed up for the TV show as they wanted to "make Wales proud". A video of them singing You Will Be Found went viral at the start of the pandemic. Speaking on stage, the group told the judges that it was the first time that they'd ever met in person, despite singing with each other in their videos.
Lead singer Steffan said, upon choosing to sing From Now On, that the group all resonate with the lyrics of the song, as theatres were forced to close their doors in lockdown. The creative industry is one that has yet to recover fully from the impact of the pandemic.
Read more: Britain's Got Talent: Where are the former stars of the ITV series now?
Following their performance, the judges and audience leapt to their feet in applause. From backstage, Dec said: "How good was that?"
When it came to the judges' comments, they were also highly complimentary. Simon Cowell simply said: "Exceptional" and looked lost for words at how strong the performance was. Amanda Holden commented that: "Every single one [of the group] was pitch perfect."
David Walliams was quick to praise "the Welsh" in general and told the group: "There's something about the Welsh isn't there? The Welsh are always such incredible singers." Alesha Dixon kicked things off with a "yes" and the other three judges followed, sending them through to the next round.
However, the judges weren't the only ones left impressed, with viewers taking to social media to praise the group's performance. "Wow wow wow," said one on Twitter. "This was amazing!". Another added: "Amazing, gave me goose bumps - Golden Buzzer in our house!!! Brilliant," while a third wrote: "Fantastic voices, all of them very talented".
Viewers from Wales said they were "so proud" of the group's efforts. "It’s great to see everyone else’s reaction to these talented singers and take on songs," said one on Twitter. "So proud that they are flying the flag for Wales. Gwych!"
Another wrote: "Evidence Welsh people can do more than sing! That burst it out the park. Utterly incredible, volume to the max," while a third added: "You were FABULOUS! I had tears streaming g down my cheeks! Despite being half Welsh I can’t sing but I am in awe of your talented choir! Every one of you are amazing."
Britain's Got Talent is on ITV on Saturdays at 8pm and available to watch on ITV Hub
