(Lisa Bobbert)
An enchanting performance.by
a consummate artist in well-researched, well-constructed and most entertaining
production. (Review by Keith Millar)
A Nightingale Sang …… A Tribute To Vera Lynn certainly brings a change of pace to
the Durban’s Rhumbelow Theatre. After a series of up-tempo foot-stomping
hand-clapping tribute shows, the entertainment changes to a sophisticated and
elegant cabaret style presentation.
If ever there was a
performer who could be called iconic it must be Dame Vera Lynn. This enormously
popular singer, whose warm and gracious voice had such an enormous impact on
the British nation in its darkest hour, turns 100 hundred years old in March
this year.
Dame Vera Lynn, widely
known as the “Forces Sweetheart” was an English singer, songwriter and actress.
Her musical recordings and performances were enormously popular during the Second World War. She toured widely entertaining the troops.
At the age of 92 she
became the oldest living artist to top the UK Albums Chart with her compilation
album, We’ll Meet Again. It even out sold the Beatles.
The sub-title to this
show, A Tribute to Vera Lynn, is slightly miss-leading. It not only pays
tribute to the songstress but also celebrates the indomitable spirit of the
British people during the Second World War, a time when Vera Lynn was at her
most influential and popular.
The highlight of the
production for me was to see the sublime Lisa Bobbert once again mesmerise her
audience with her performance. Playing Vera Lynn, she displayed passion and
emotion which brought the character to life. It was an enchanting performance.by
a consummate artist.
She was ably supported by
Anthony Stonier who used his strong baritone to good effect in singing not only
a few of Lynn’s songs but also a few other hit numbers of the era. However, he perhaps
needs to brush up a bit on his script because at times he seemed to be a little
at sea while delivering the biographical links.
On the piano, and
providing vocals, was the accomplished and debonair Evan Roberts. While his
prowess on the piano is well known, this is the first time I have heard him
sing, and I enjoyed his unusual voice very much.
Included in the show were
most of Dame Vera Lynn’s most popular songs such as We’ll Meet Again, The
White Cliffs of Dover, We’ll Gather Lilacs, There’ll Always be an England and,
of course, A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square.
The music is linked with
interesting biographical and documentary information, delivered by the
performers. There is also use made of audio clips such as Chamberlain’s
declaration of war against Germany and excerpts from Churchill’s speeches.
A Nightingale Sang is a well-researched, well-constructed and most entertaining
production. Overall the standard of performances is very good by a trio of
experienced artists. This is one for anyone who enjoys a classy cabaret show
and, of course, for those who enjoy the music of the fabulous living legend,
Dame Vera Lynn. The finale to the show is not to be missed,
There will be two
performances today, March 19, at 14h00 and 18h30and also two on Tuesday March
21 at 14h00 and 18h30.
Tickets R150 (R130 pensioners).
Contact Roland for large group booking discounts for 20 or more. Braais will be
available should you wish to cook some meat. A bar is also available (no
alcohol may be brought on to the premises) and there is limited secure parking
available.
Booking is essential
through Computicket or contact Roland on 0824998636 or email, roland@stansell.za.net or events.durbantheatre.com – Keith Millar
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