Posts tagged Cabaret Fringe Festival
RAW: Dry Martinis & Cigarettes of Doom – Prom – 4th June
Jun 7th
The concept of “vaudeville noir” is delightfully promising; take the wonderfully varied and entertaining performance styles of vaudeville and add a dash of mystery and intrigue to create the ultimate cabaret experience. Unfortunately The Dry Martinis and the Cigarettes of Doom did not live up to this potential.
The show consisted of multiple short scenes of an assortment of art-forms; from the usual song and dance, to slapstick interludes, lamentable magic tricks and a somewhat more enjoyable fire-twirling routine. The stage set-up was simple, appropriate and functional, with backdrop banners differentiating scenes effectively. Two major flaws of the show were the slow pace and the stilted transition from one act to another.
The two lead “characters” primarily interacted through tango and, though technically accurate, the lack of emotion and engagement of the performers was disappointing. In contrast, the dance routines performed by ‘The Doomettes’ were undoubtedly the highlights of the show, particularly the cheeky number Senora which lifted the energy in the room and got the audience clapping along. Unfortunately, this momentum was then lost due to the imposition of an unnecessary interval.
Though there appeared to be some effort made to include an overarching plot-line to tie the various aspects of the show together, this was not clear and became even more confused and unfathomable as the performance went on. Overall, the production felt disjointed and, while there were some commendable features, it did not work as a complete package.
Kryztoff Rating 2.5K
RAW: Bygone Error – Whitmore Hotel – Also 18th & 25th June
Jun 7th
Bygone Error are promoted as “purveyors of fine entertainment” and this is a very apt summary. In the function room of the newly refurbished Whitmore Hotel, this father and son team (Paul and Christian Reynolds) take their audience on a whimsical and wholesome journey through the world of the Victorian Music Halls, complete with sing-a-longs and double entendres to spare.
This engaging duo interspersed songs of the era (you’ll be shocked by how many you recognise) with a dash of history – including interesting anecdotes about the composers of said songs and information about the environment they were first performed in – as well as various jokes; some hilarious, some satisfyingly groan-worthy. The music was spot on; both men have pleasing voices that blend well together and lend themselves admirably to the style, while the simple accompaniment was appropriate and well executed.
Despite the drawbacks of low numbers at the late night session and the fact that it was their second show of the evening, the performers kept up an impressive level of energy and engaged the audience throughout. This is a unique, locally produced show, which is highly entertaining, creates joy and will leave you with a smile on your face.
Kryztoff Rating 4.5K