Presented by Saldechin
Reviewed Saturday 10th March 2012
Jake and Elwood Blues are alive and well, unlike award-winning guest comedian Michael Workman whose opening comedy act deserves as much mention as the laughs he failed to produce. The Saldechin Tearoom however, is a superb year-round city venue and this home-grown tribute to The Blues Brothers couldn’t be finer once the main act began.
The Rhythm and Blues Revue started with a light 3-course set menu, featuring a mouth-watering roasted vegetable tartlet with goats curd, followed by either Sirloin Steak or Atlantic Salmon for the main; both presented as divinely as they tasted. A creamy chocolate mousse topped off the meal, leaving one more than satiated but not too satisfied to dance. The proficient waiting staff served and cleared quickly, with minimal disruption to the show.
A guest comedian opens each evening’s entertainment, and despite Workman’s previous success, his comedy routine failed to engage the majority of older patrons on this particular night. His routines hit the occasional bulls-eye but hearty laughs were sparse.
In contrast to the disappointing opening, Barry Burgan’s outstanding Blues Brothers Rhythm and Blues Revue quickly got people on their feet. The 8-piece band were stellar, headlined by big-voiced Danny Gillard as Jake Blues and Jimmy Meagan as Elwood Blues. The duo covered a number of songs from the 1980s cult movie, including Gimme Some Lovin’, Everybody Needs Somebody to Love, Rawhide, Minnie the Moocher, Jailhouse Rock and Shake Your Tail Feather. Aretha Franklin numbers were sung but the talented ‘Sophie’, namely RESPECT and Think.
With only one show remaining this coming weekend, the Blues Brothers Revue is an ideal party end the Fringe with before Saldechin’s regular Friday night lounge and jazz returns.
Reviewed by Rod Lewis, Performing Arts Critic, Glam Adelaide.
Adelaide Fringe – Blues Brothers Rhythm & Blues Review
Venue: Saldechin. 21 King William St, Adelaide
Season: 15 March
Duration: 3 hours
Tickets: $99 (includes 3 course meal)
Bookings: Fringetix 1300-FRINGE (1300-374643), Fringe outlets or online
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