Presented by Caught & Spark Productions
Reviewed 10th March 2020
Adelaide’s own Deborah Brennan has built a reputation for developing musically driven shows that go straight to the heart. Having previously presented A Case of You: The Music of Joni Mitchell, and The Hummingbird Effect, she has developed a new show for this year’s Fringe.
The Parting Glass looks at loss and grief, through the story of Deborah’s own struggles. Opening with the beautiful Van Morrison number Into the Mystic, she proceeds to tell the story of her trip to an obscure Irish island in search of a lost love. The story goes on to reveal layers of grief from much earlier in her life.
Whilst unfolding her soul, she delivers songs about parting and loss, including James Taylor’s Fire and Rain, Sinead O’Connor’s Dense Water, Deeper Down and Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You by Colin Hay.
The final number of the night, the eponymous Irish traditional song The Parting Glass, was delivered along with a shot of Whiskey for each audience member, with which to join in. A beautiful touch.
Once again Brennan was superbly supported by Max Garcia-Underwood on guitar, Tim Wilsdon on bass and acoustic guitar, and Chris Neale on percussion.
Brennan is a natural story-teller, weaving a narrative that is without artifice or self-pity, yet is movingly authentic. She is also a fine singer and musician, knowing exactly how to deliver a song.
A top-notch show, in a delightful, quirky venue. This is Fringe at its best.
Reviewed by Tracey Korsten
Twitter: @TraceyKorsten
Rating out of 5: 4.5 An exquisite evening of story-telling through words and song.
Venue: Gosse Bar: Sporting Car Club of SA
Season: 11th March-14th March
Duration: 60 minutes
Tickets: $35
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/deborah-brennan-the-parting-glass-af2020
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