Presented by Jenny Wynter
Reviewed Saturday 25th February 2012
A Keyboard, couch and hatstand fill the little stage at the Light Hotel’s High Rollers Room. Pianist Matthew Carey provides the introduction as Jenny Wynter enters in a bohemian cabaret confection of black lace, silver stars and red tulle.
With the question asked, “Are you where you expected your life to be?” Wynter launches into her first number which summarises what the next hour will cover; that life is an unexpected variety show. Using original compositions, pop songs, and props, monologue, and physical imagery, Wynter shares her own story to illustrate this premise.
Her openness and honesty with her stories draws the audience in. Whilst it is unlikely people will have been in exactly the same situations, they can find some way to relate and they understand that everyone makes choices and the consequences may be good or bad, and what seemed bad, might end up good.
The use of props allows introduction of other characters to bring in new music, add detail to the overall story, and a little deviation from the personal stories, to allow Wynter to utilise her impromptu comic skills.
Wynter’s use of a head set ensures that she is not juggling a microphone, can use the full stage and can continue talking to the audience when she needs to turn her back to them and thereby maintain the pace of the show. It also means that Wynter is not worrying about where the microphone stand has been left, which formed part of her training at the recent Australian Cabaret Summer School. The one time Wynter has to leave the stage, Carey takes control, encouraging the audience to maintain the energy.
As this is a life story, there are highs and lows. The low moments are done beautifully, and yes, I’m sure I saw one or two of the audience reaching for a tissue. Wynter’s own reaction to the piece is moving in itself but she continues on, ensuring that the piece does not become self-indulgent.
If you enjoy personal stories with high energy and the odd song, then you must add this to your Adelaide Fringe line-up.
Reviewed by Jade Kops, special guest Fringe Critic, Glam Adelaide
Adelaide Fringe – An Unexpected Variety Show
Jenny Wynter – An Unexpected Variety Show
Venue: High Rollers Room,The Light Hotel,141 Currie St, Adelaide
Season: 7pm, Thur 1 – Sun 4 Mar, Tues 6 Mar, Thur 8 Mar, Sat 10 – Sun 11 Mar, Tues 13 Mar, Thur 15 Mar, Sat 17 Mar 2012
Tickets: 6, 13 Mar Cheap Tuesday $10, All other sessions Adults $20, Concession $15, Fringe Benefits $15.
Duration: 60min
Bookings: Fringetix 1300-FRINGE (1300 374 643), their outlets, or online
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