Once Upon a Cabaret

Once Upon a Cabaret by North Stars Theatre Company took us on a very eclectic journey through some well known and some unknown musical numbers. The stage was very simple with black curtains , lighting was used at times to add effect and definition to the song being sung. Sound by Lily Axworthy was good with no gremlins, there were a couple of instances when the performer had obviously caught the button so please be aware and be careful.  Musical Director Darcey McCoy had obviously had a good look at people`s strengths and definitely played to them – a perfect example of this was “ Once More I Can See” from Wonderland sung beautifully by Marie Howarth and assisted by Charlie ( Marie`s beautiful guide dog), there was an audible  “ aww” from the audience  followed by rapturous applause. The concert opened with “ Magic To Do” from Pippin, having performed this number myself in the past I am very aware of just how difficult it is so well done guys for performing it. Oliver Williams sang “If I Can`t Love Her” from Beauty and The Beast and I will admit he surprised me, I would even go so far as to say he shocked me – he started with a little bit of nerves but very soon settled into the song, he faced the audience and he challenged us , he was intense, he was endearing, he was proud , he gave us light and shade , he gave us diaphragmatic breathing, he completely became the character and backed it up with some superbly strong vocals. I waited barely breathing for the key change and then it came in, strong with attack and clear  diction, I had a tear in my eye . Megan Foster performed “ Our Lady Of The Underground” from Hadestown , she was saucy and sassy, she genuinely looked like she was enjoying the performance. Aurelia Firth treated us to “ I Know Things Now” from Into The Woods, it was a pleasant vocal  performance but I am being picky in saying don`t just sing the words you need to feel them ,  “I Know Things Now “ depends heavily on delivery and pace and a  full physical facial and body performance . Ian Wood performed “ This Is The Moment” from Jekyll and Hyde , I would love to have seen  some more light and shade in this vocal performance, without it- it loses the attack that this song requires .Don`t get me wrong, it was a good performance – I am being picky. Evie McCoy sang “With You” from Ghost, her vocal  timing was  spot on , she gave a beautiful, controlled performance and really told the story, I loved the rawness that she allowed to flow through, she believed what she was singing. Linzi McCoy gave a perfect performance of “Diva`s Lament” from Spamalot, her diction was clear, her comedy timing spot on , she looked like she was enjoying herself. Darcey McCoy performed in a couple of numbers, it was lovely to see her really perform and enjoy her performance , she has a strong stage presence and she certainly can sing and engage the audience.

Thank you for inviting me, I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

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