Promethean, 116 Grote Street
Reviewed Saturday March 6th 2010 (See Fringe guide for dates, times, etc.)
Presented by Berlin Cabaret.
http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au or 1300 FRINGE (374 643)
Bookings: Fringetix & Venuetix outlets
Once in a while, on special occasions like the Fringe and the Cabaret Fringe, the cast of Berlin Cabaret get together to revive the show that ran every week for around three years at the much loved and missed Weimar Room. Sadly, two of the original group were unavailable. Stephen Sheehan, who played the role of Klaus, has his own show running in the Fringe and so Craig Behenna, as Gerhardt acted as master of ceremonies in his stead. Dan Gawler, who played Lola, was off singing with her band.
Fiona Talbot-Leigh recreated her role as Lux, Hew Parham was back as Rudi and Catherine Campbell once again became Greta. Bruce Hancock was back on piano but this time with Bill Polain on drums and Jonathan Hunt on clarinet and saxophones in place of his regular trio of Laurie Kennedy on drums and John Aue on bass. Those personnel changes, however, did not diminish wither the quality or the fun of the evening.
Those who have seen the show in the past would remember with fondness some of the songs, but there was some new material as well. Hancock, one the of the finest jazz pianists around, and his superb trio opened the show with the tune Sweet Georgia Brown, Gerhardt appeared and introduced Lux, Greta and Rudi and for the next couple of hours, with a short intermission for both audience and cast to replenish empty glasses, it was non-stop entertainment.
Lux still has a distinct preference for American songs, but needs a little lubricant for the vocal chords before she huts her stride. Greta is as disinterested as always, and the two ladies continue their slightly abrasive relationship. Poor Rudi is as just generally confused about everything, as usual, and Gerhardt tries desperately to maintain control of this motley crew while contributing a song or two of his own.
This is, in site of the portrayal of a chaotic Kabarett filled with an unlikely mix of characters, a very polished and professional production, with a group of superb singer/actor/comedians who are enthusiastic about what they do and throw themselves wholeheartedly into their performances. The comedy kept the audience laughing uproariously all night and huge rounds applause followed every great song. This show is one of a kind and, if you miss out because it is sold out this time, make sure you book early the next time it is advertised. Wunderbar!
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