(Above: Colin Peddie, Andy Turrell, Barry Thompson, Samantha Landers, Mali Sewell (almost hidden) & Dawn Selby. Pic by Bev Millar)
I am sure that music of some sort has been composed about every emotion experienced by mankind. But possibly the biggest output is about the emotions that go along with the breakup of relationships. Seems as if heartbreak brings out the creative side of those who make music.
And that is the subject of The Reals' latest show, Love Will Tear Us Apart, which is currently on at Durban’s Rhumbelow Theatre.
At first thought, one may think that this could be a bit dreary and certainly not the usual Reals Rock music faire – and possibly tissues should be provided at the door.
But there is certainly a huge and entertaining repertoire of music available based on this topic and one may regard this show as a bit of a “best of” compilation.
As usual The Reals, comprising Barry Thompson on lead guitar and vocals, Dawn Selby, music director for the show and on keyboards, Mali Sewell on drums and Andy Turrell on bass provide a performance out of the top drawer.
And the inclusion on this occasion of gorgeous songbird Samantha Landers and the animated guitarist and vocalist Colin Peddie do not detract from this performance one iota.
In fact, it is Peddie who devised this show, and he performs with obvious pride in his creation.
As for Samantha Landers – we don’t see enough of this charming singer. She was on top form last night and gave a compelling performance.
The break-up subject of this show was presented a little tongue in cheek, and this was made patent by a bunch of hilarious AV presentations used in the production.
Music heard in the show includes Marvin Gaye’s, I heard It Through the Grape Vine, A-Ha’s I’ve Been Losing You, Beyonce’s All I Could Do Is Cry, Carole King’s It’s Too Late, The Beatles Yesterday (a special moment with Barry Thompson on acoustic guitar), Willie Nelson’s You are Always on My Mind, and Fleetwood Mac’s Go Your Own Way.
Things perk up a bit in the second half with songs such as Lady Antebellum’s Need You Now, Phil Collins’ Against All Odds (with Mali Sewell on vocals), Gotye’s Somebody That I Used to Know and Kelly Clarkson’s Stronger and Since You’ve Been Gone.
Not a bad playlist, I am sure you will agree. Certainly no need for tears. Just great music played with skill and style.
Excellent moody lighting for the show is provided by Barry Meehan and Gabbi Landers (Samantha’s little sister) while Andre Norden’s sound was up to his usual high standard. The AV inserts were handled by Fiona Clarke.
Love Will Tear Us Apart can be seen at the Rhumbelow Theatre from July 1 to 3 and again from July 8 to 10, 2022, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 19h00 and Sundays at 14h00. (Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)
Tickets R180 a ticket. Booking is essential on email: roland@stansell.co.za or through Computicket.
Bring food picnic baskets or buy at the venue. A bar is available (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises). There is limited secure parking available.
For more information phone 082 499 8636 or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/
Rhumbelow Theatre is situated at 42 Cunningham Road off Bartle Road, in Umbilo, Durban. – Keith Millar
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