An evening of harmonies and mirthful medleys with Libby O’Donovan and Michelle Nicolle
Presented by: Adelaide Cabaret Festival
Reviewed: 16 June, 2023
Veteran performers Libby O’Donovan and Michelle Nicolle exude charisma as they take the stage on Friday night. They open More Than a Melody with a swinging medley of songs by The Andrews Sisters. From Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” to Chattanooga Choo Choo, the throwback songs are received with enthusiasm by the bustling crowd. O’Donovan explains the show is inspired by one of her favourite pastimes: “getting together with friends and singing in harmony.”
To create a harmony O’Donovan and Nicolle require more voices and are joined by their esteemed friends Lauren Henderson and Catherine Mackenroth. All four women wear flattering variations of the same (dazzling) black sequin blazer. The quartet is accompanied by Mark Ferguson on piano and Bonnie Aué on double bass.
Their second song pays homage to the history of vocal harmony in western music. This includes verses from medieval tunes, some sung in their original French, German, and Latin. Also featured are famous choruses from composers Beethoven and Orff. Despite their self deprecating jokes, the quartet perform this unique medley expertly.
There is a sense of joy and tongue in cheek humour in many of their songs and medleys. For example the reimagined My Heart Will Go On and Flowers. O’Donovan and Nicolle take turns performing the lead, while the others sing doo-wop harmony in the background. Many Rivers to Cross, Edelweiss, and the jazz classic Autumn Leaves are performed beautifully.
While vocal harmonies definitely lean towards niche, More Than a Melody benefits from a broad range of songs and the talent amassed onstage proves irresistible. O’Donovan and Nicolle have created a rare and joyful performance.
Reviewed By Nicola Woolford
Photo credit: Claudio Raschella
Venue: Space Theatre
Season: Ended
Duration: 70 minutes
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