(Danièle Pascal. Pic
by Nicky Coetzee)
Pascal Sings Brel is an absolute cracker of a show. (Review
by Keith Millar)
It has all the
right ingredients.
Firstly, there are
the emotive and dramatic songs of Belgium singer/ songwriter Jacques Brel. Then
there is profound voice of the talented and charismatic chanteuse Danièle
Pascal. Finally, there is the surprise element, a superb performance by
accompanist Pieter van Helslandt who not only plays the piano beautifully, but
also delivers much of the narrative of Brel’s life with great sensitivity and
performs a fair share of the songs with a moody, poignant voice.
The result? Another
winner for Umbilo’s unpretentious Rhumbelow Theatre. Between them, Pascal and
van Helslandt light up the cosy stage and transform the venue into a classic
Parisian Café.
Jacques Brel
produced an extraordinary body of work. In the Francophone world he has left an
enduring influence on music and culture. His music also influenced many artists
such as David Bowie, Lenard Cohen and Rod McKeun, while famous singers such as Frank
Sinatra, Ray Charles and Nina Simone have recorded English translations of his
songs.
His music also
encompasses many different moods from tenderness and sorrow to anger and joy. Pascal
and van Helslandt capture these moods perfectly as they sing their own
interpretations of the Brel’s work. Singing in French, English and Flemish,
they perform most of his best known and loved songs, including I Loved, Fanette, Marieke, Amsterdam, Brussels, The Middle Class,
Ne Me Quitte Pas (If You Go Away), Carousel and Le Moribond
(Seasons In The Sun).
Pascal is a consummate
professional who pours all her experience and skill into every performance. She
is at her very best while singing in French and performs Brel’s work with respect,
sensitivity and haunting emotion. Her duos with van Helslandt during the show are
achingly beautiful. And more than one tear was shed among the audience.
Van Helslandt is a gifted
accompanist, but it is his singing which comes as a pleasant surprise. He has a
fine voice and gives a very strong performance. I think he deserves better
billing for his role in the production.
Both performers
share the narrative of Brel’s life story which is used to link the songs
together. This material is well prepared and delivered, and certainly gives
insight into the life and times of this musical genius.
Pascal Sings Brel is devised and directed by Danièle Pascal and
musical arrangements and direction is by Pieter van Helslandt.
Performances of Pascal Sings Brel will take place at the
Rhumbelow Theatre Durban (Cunningham Road, Umbilo) from November 7 to 9. Shows
on Friday and Saturday are at 20h00 while on Sunday there are performances at
14h00 and 18h30.
The venue opens 90
minutes before show for picnic dinner or lunch. Braai fires will be provided. There
is a cash bar available (no alcohol may be brought onto the premises). Limited
secure parking is available.
Tickets R120. Booking
is essential and may be done via Computicket or by contacting Roland on 082 499
8636 or email roland@stansell.za.net.
Webpage www.rhumbelow.za.net - Keith Millar
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