Having previously performed shows that focused on Madonna and Annie Lennox during the Adelaide Fringe, Michael Griffiths brings a retrospective of Cole Porter, both the music and the man, to the Cabaret Festival. Accompanying himself on piano, Griffiths presents a pleasantly understated characterisation, with his vocalisation, mannerisms and carriage creating a believable portrayal. The simplicity of the staging allows the music and the story to remain the focus of the performance.
There are no great surprises in the song selection, with a running sheet including many of Porter’s most famous pieces, such as ‘Anything Goes’, ‘It’s De-lovely’, ‘Let’s Misbehave’ and ‘Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye’. Those that are included are well suited for the anecdotes being told and vary nicely between upbeat numbers, and the more sentimental of Porter’s compositions.
Griffiths’ singing voice has a beautiful clarity to it, though the accompanying power of it was not exhibited until the closing number ‘Night & Day’. Amusing tweaks are made to some of the lyrics, usually referencing the Festival or something else local. It’s a somewhat clichéd device, but it always goes down well with audiences and they lapped it up on this occasion.
Between songs, we are given glimpses into Porter’s life, focusing on the extravagant parties he hosted, his relationships with his wife Linda and various male lovers, and how some of his songs came to be written. These interludes are constructed, by writer Anna Goldsworthy, so as to feel not just reflective, but spontaneous and conspiratorial. They provide just the right amount of backstory and pathos, without feeling weighed down in the information being provided, so that the show flows well.
This is another strong offering from Griffiths and a lovely way to enjoy Porter’s amusing and delightful music.
Kryztoff rating: 4K
Recent Comments