BARRY IS BACK!!

Best “Taste of Thomson” I have seen. (Review by Rosalie Howard)

A Taste of Thomson IV at the Heritage Theatre is infinitely the best Taste of Thomson I have seen! Barry Thomson has, over the years, developed such an infectious, warm and comfortable stage presence - this super-talented musician eats, sleeps and drinks music! It was a fantastic show and one I urge you to see.

The curtain opened to a magnificent, yet simple set - artistically created and enhanced by excellent lighting effects. Compliments, too, for a good sound balance.

Barry welcomed “fans” (the audience) to his 'Lounge' and from that moment, the heat was on –essentially all 'rock' genre music, loud, rhythmic, musically brilliant and skilfully arranged. From his first number Does Anybody Want To, the stage came alive and rocked for two hours. He is inexhaustible! Supported by maestro Dawn Selby (musical director), who played a multitude of keyboards including a large Hammond organ; there’s Jason Andrew on bass and Mali Sewell on drums. I have always admired Mali as a superb drummer but given the opportunity here to thoroughly 'let his hair down', he moves from musician to performer in a flash!

The numbers Barry selected are very much "Out of the Box" renditions of many well-known artists including Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, (Telegraph Road), Jimmy Hendrix (Fire), John Mayer and others whom I didn’t know. Barry is original and creative and never emulates anyone - he has his own magical and personal style which is what makes his shows totally 'out there'. The show includes a few of Barry's own compositions which was refreshing - Take It In My Stride being one, with positive and uplifting lyrics yet rendered with great enervating energy!

Dawn had the opportunity of sending-up a couple of vigorous songs such as the Purple Harem stuff which captivated the audience! She has a powerful and most appealing and pitch-perfect voice - what a pleasure to our senses!

Barry works with a selection of guitars and his performance of "Jimmy Hendrix" took the theatre by storm in the oft-seen 'showman' Hendrix style. He is quite the actor, is Barry! He also took off Rex Tarr as Rex would have sung a 'skiet' on current affairs in South Africa which had a typical 'township' feel with rhythmically, hilariously funny lyrics, taking the mickey out of those who are currently making news headlines!

A highlight of the show was guest artist, young guitarist Jason Bottomley who is a matric student at Westville Boys High. This youngster has never had the opportunity of playing on stage in front of a large audience and to quote Barry, after the show " I can't teach him anything any longer" - this boy just has it - what a talent and he will go a long, long way in the music industry and I bet will hit the big stages overseas in no time”. Well done, Jason - your performance was most impressive and had us open-mouthed in awe!

Dining at the Heritage is always a delight as their menu changes from day to day, with the exception of their world famous Lamb Shanks! I think if chef ever took this item off the menu, there would be a riot! The options were varied and included Line Fish, Portuguese Chicken, and starters of Beetroot and Feta salad, a Turkey concoction which looked extremely appetising and a seafood dish. And from the dessert menu, the Bread and Butter pud was the most delicious my taste-buds have ever experienced!

Parents take your teenagers. Teenagers, take your gran. Take all your friends - everyone will enjoy this rollicking, magical performance!! Book now to ensure you get a seat!!

A Taste of Thomson IV celebrates the Heritage Theatre’s fifth birthday and runs until May 2 from Tuesday to Saturday at 19h00 (Sunday 12h30). Tickets R190 include a two-course meal (R165 Tuesday dinner and Sunday lunch). Bookings directly at the theatre on 031 765 4197 or visit www.heritagetheatre.co.za - Rosalie Howard