(Pic by Val Bottomley)
If you are a fan of musical tribute shows, and who isn’t, then Durban’s Rhumbelow Theatre is the place to go. On offer is a regular dose of memorable productions which honour some of the greatest entertainers of our times.
And this weekend they are featuring another goodie, as veteran guitarist and singer Ross Tapson and Friends pay homage to the legendary David Bowie in a show titled Starman.
David Bowie was an English singer-songwriter who is regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His music and stagecraft had a significant impact on popular music.
During his lifetime he sold over 100 million records worldwide and after his death, he was named by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the greatest rock stars ever.
Now, I must confess to not knowing much about David Bowie’s music. Probably something to do with the amazing choice of great rock music available at the time.
But now, after this show, I must confess to being a convert. Not only did I know a lot more of his songs than I thought I did but I really enjoyed the variety and substance of his music.
This, of course, is largely down to the excellent performance by Ross Tapson and Friends. Tapson is not the only veteran on stage. His friends included some of Durban’s top musicians. Grant Halliday is on drums, Neil Ford on bass and David Langley on keyboards. And of course, the cherry on the top is the versatile Marian Loudon sharing the vocals with Tapson.
They form quite a formidable group, and while the style of the show is rather laid- back and unpretentious they do justice to Bowie’s music and perform with skill and aplomb.
The first half of the show included songs such as Space Oddity, Moonage Daydream, Ziggy Stardust, Rock and Roll Suicide, Jean Genie, Changes and Starman.
In the second half they included Lets Dance, All The Young Dudes, China Girl, Oh You Pretty Things, Ashes To Ashes, Life On Mars, and Under Pressure.
Starman: A Tribute To The Music of David Bowie is a rocking and entertaining show, if at times a little rough around the edges. This was the first time the band has performed this show on stage, so they are sure to tighten up the loose ends.
That been said it is an apt tribute to an iconic artist. It will be enjoyed not only by David Bowie fans, but by all lovers of good rock music.
There will be two more performances of this show at the Rhumbelow Theatre in Cunningham Road, Umbilo. Tonight (Saturday November 27) at 19h00 and tomorrow (Sunday November 28) at 14h00.
Tickets R180. Bookings on email: roland@stansell.co.za or Computicket
Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A full bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Limited secure parking available
For more information contact Roland on 0824998636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/ - Keith Millar
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