Presented by Cherie Boogaart
Reviewed Sunday 3rd June 2012
Two years ago mezzo-soprano, Cherie Boogaart, sang the lead role in Argentinean composer, Astor Pantaleón Piazzolla's, tango based opera, that he composed in 1968, Maria de Buenos Aires, to both critical and audience acclaim. A joint production by State Opera of SA and Leigh Warren and Dancers, the production received an Adelaide Critics Circle Award. The opera is filled with passion and the central character is a true femme fatale. This cabaret performance was inspired by her love of Spanish music and the experience of playing that character.
Boogaart, in a brightly coloured and sequined skirt with full petticoats that immediately established the atmosphere, was accompanied by pianist, Jamie Cock, who did an exceptional job with some very difficult piano parts, as well as joining in with her comic introductions and patter that linked the musical portions of the performance. She also introduced some good physical comedy into the production along the way, and humorously revisited her induction into the intricacies of the Tango.
The music was a collection of 20th Century Spanish songs, from both Spain and Argentina. Piazzolla's (1921-1992) music, of course, features in this performance, along with songs by Manuel de Falla (1876-1946), Xavier Montsalvatge (1912-2002), and others. This, of course, brings us to the main part of the performance, the singing, and this is where Boogaart really excels.
Not only does she vary her beautiful and remarkably flexible voice to suit the individual style and emotional direction of each song, but her facial expressions, body language and projected persona change too. She becomes a host of different women in many different situations. Her smile could be wry, seductive, cheeky, or motherly, while her eyes sparkled with fun, flashed with desire, or glowed darkly in fury. Every song was a performance in itself in this superb display of the meaning of ‘a thorough interpretation’. It was a master class for singers, and a magical hour for all in attendance.
Reviewed by Barry Lenny, Arts Editor, Glam Adelaide.
Venue: Promethean, 116 Grote Street, Adelaide
Season: Ended
Duration: 60min
