(Danny Goodman as Michael Jackson)Unified balance, harmony, focus and relentless sense of attack makes for a great theatrical presentation. (Review by John Harley)
Icons of the 80'scurrently running at The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway is an explosive musical event which reflects the top musical icons of that era. This raw edge production revisits those pop icons who made a permanent mark on musical history. Seldom have I experienced a theatrical presentation with such a sense of balance, harmony, unity, cohesion, focus and relentless sense of attack!
This was a production without compromise - creating a sense of excitement, completeness and wellbeing. The overall concept was as close to perfection as one can ever hope to get. All elements created a work of artistic expression that was tight and dense. Each moment was fully accounted for, without a single lapse of energy or intent.
The transitions from one group of icons to the next were handled smoothly and creatively. These were enhanced by a narrator who placed each group into its historic context, keeping the audience fully informed, yet at the same time creating a marvellous sense of drama, tension and anticipation! The pace and momentum just seemed to keep building to an almost unbearable sense of climax!
The detail and precision of the production was exceptional - this show could hold its own in any global musical arena. As the pace and tempo built, one could hardly breathe at times and the cast had the audience eating out of their hands! True ensemble work at its best this is a musical journey of some magnitude, thanks to music director Raymond Verster, as well as an overall theatrical spectacle!
Every member of this highly talented group of performers was totally committed, completely energized and creating a marvellous sense of authenticity to the icons they portray.
The star cast includes Jonothan Didlick, Danny Goodman , Ray Oberholzer and Yvette Barnard with Chrystal Worship on vocals, Liam Hyland on guitar and vocals, Rainer Jadischke on keyboards and vocals, Nico Badenhorst on drums and Jo Dazely on sax, keyboards and vocals. Danny Goodman's portrayal of Michael Jackson was an absolute "thrill"!
The choreography by Petro Liebenberg as well as the staging, costumes and lighting all blended perfectly. Director Duck Chowles must be highly commended for creating such a splendid theatrical experience.
Icons of the 80's represents a decade of music that reflects icons such as Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Bonnie Tyler and Queen, to name a few. These were no ordinary performers and all made their mark in rock history with music, image and fashion. Do not miss this production! Relive the 80's with the icons that will bring back memories of songs that created the best days of our lives!
Icons of the 80's runs at The Barnyard, Gateway, until August 19. Tickets R135 pp (R100 on Tuesdays and R90 on Sunday matinees). Bookings or further information from the theatre on 031 566 3045. - John Harley
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