Gotta Swing 2018

A ‘Gotta Swing’ concert has become a staple in recent seasons at PADOS and this presentation, in the society’s centenary year, they really pulled out the stops to make an impression!

First of all, a huge accolade must be offered to the set and stage crew for presenting a beautiful design which excelled the era and radiated elegance turning an overall strong presentation into a classy one.

The sound balancing took its time to settle in the first half with some microphones being too quiet for the tracks but, being opening night and with no signs of any sound issues in the second half, I have no reason to suspect these issues would’ve reoccurred again throughout the run.  

The catalogue of swing and jazz numbers to pick when drafting a playlist for a show of this theme is extensive, especially with the trend of ‘postmodern jukebox’ offering a wider scope to reimagine songs from other genres to present them in this celebrated style. One problem with doing these shows annually - which has no doubt been discussed amongst the creatives - is the concern of repeating numbers across the concerts (however tempting it may or may not be). To my knowledge, there doesn’t seem to be any sign of repeating songs across these revue shows, however, I don’t think anyone would feel short changed should it be decided to do so. There are certain anthems people would expect when attending a show which celebrates this genre and it could be said that the main bulk of the songs presented within this particular production were more obscure choices than were probably done at the first ‘Gotta Swing’. At least 50% of the songs that were performed this time were certainly new to me which I have no problem with whatsoever, though, when paying homage to an era one may expect to recognise the majority of the programme. Saying that, those who’re hardcore swingers may well have found this a refreshing change to hear songs from the more forgotten catalogues of the big band era. Although I may appear to be on the fence with this topic this audience were certainly in favour of what was being offered to them so you’re evidently ticking the right boxes!

We were indeed, as per, treated to some fine vocals from this 12 strong ensemble who donned an appealing array of costumes which added an extra notch to the overall level of presentation. Also an efficient act was handled by the lighting designer who kept the show looking slick and stylish creating the appropriate mood. Heading the creatives was Simon (ultimate showman) Fletcher who has a natural charm and rapport with an audience, especially so in this nature of set up. It’s evident that the great crooners, big band and rat pack era has been a huge influence to Simon, he can hold an audience exactly where he wants them while his delight for this genre radiates.

Choreography was handled by Helen Marland to create the idealistic flair which took into account the intimate space without any of the sequences appearing too squished or too lavish for the limited performance area.

This was a well finished and excellently presented revue and homage to a much adored musical style.   

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