031 FESTIVAL: ETHEL: REVIEW

 

(Right: Lisa Bobbert. Pic supplied)

In this classic cabaret Lisa Bobbert brings the essence of Ethel to the stage with aplomb – in both her portrayal of the very large character that was Ethel and in her big voice, perfect for belting the hit songs for which she became famous. (Review by Shannon Kenny)

Ethel - The voice that defined Broadway - 031 Festival 2025 – Seabrookes Theatre DHS

•           Co-written and performed by multi-award-winning Lisa Bobbert

•           Co-written and directed by Darren King

 

The Ethel Merman story is brought to life by Lisa Bobbert on the Seabrookes stage, prior to its appearance at the forthcoming National Art Festival.

Ethel Merman, born Ethel Agnes Zimmerman, was Broadway’s first real star. Uniquely talented, inimitable, brassy and as inexorable as a mortal could be, Ethel lit up the stage with her loud, powerful voice and iconic performances in shows from her big break in Girl Crazy in 1930 to Hello Dolly in 1970.

And what better performer than Lisa Bobbert, who channels this star so believably – imbuing her role with energy, skill and talent.

The story of Ethel’s life and career from stenographer-who-moonlights-as-nightclub singer to Broadway star is charted through anecdotes and consummately performed musical hits. Lisa brings Ethel’s energy and strength to this tribute - “The Exorcist with sequins and jazz hands” – as she flits deftly between raconteur Lisa and Broadway star Ethel Merman.

Lisa’s handling of the triumph and tragedy in big, bold, brassy Ethel’s life is superb. There is a particularly touching moment in the recollection of the loss of a loved one. 

The audience was rapt throughout and cheering for Ethel as she recounted the barbs directed at her - and her witty ripostes.

Ethel Merman was known to be hilariously funny – and Lisa’s comic nous and timing are the perfect tools for her skilful delivery of some deliciously juicy lines. She produces a fabulously withering response to former husband Ernest Borgnine’s attempt at demeaning her.

 

Memorable lines abound.

Lisa/Ethel recounting Irving Berlin: “You give her a good song and she will make it sound great. And you better write her a good lyric because, when she sings a word, the guy up in the last row of the second balcony is going to hear every syllable of it.”

Ethel on Broadway: “Broadway has been very good to me. But then, I’ve been very good to Broadway.”

Standout moments for me included Lisa/Ethel’s rendition of Sam and Delilah from Girl Crazy and her portrayal of Mama Rose from the musical, Gypsy.

With a career and repertoire as remarkable and illustrious as Ethel’s, one can only imagine it was quite a task compiling the songs and stories for the show. Kudos to Darren and Lisa.

Darren King’s direction has allowed for Lisa Bobbert to shine. This is no “sit on a barstool for 50 minutes” performance. Lisa fills the stage in numbers like the raunchy Sam and Delilah, the unforgettable There’s No Business Like Show Business and Hello Dolly amongst others.

In this classic cabaret Lisa Bobbert brings the essence of Ethel to the stage with aplomb – in both her portrayal of the very large character that was Ethel and in her big voice, perfect for belting the hit songs for which she became famous.

Bobbert and King have pulled off a fitting tribute to arguably the biggest star of 20th century musical theatre. To have had George Gershwin, Porter, Irving Berlin and others write for you!

031 Festival audiences should count themselves privileged to be at the genesis of a show that will see many more performances.

National Arts Festival 2025, this one’s a goodie! - Shannon Kenny

NB: “Ethel“ will have performances back in Durban from October 3 to 5 at Northlands Supper Club and from October 10 to 12 at Rhumbelow Theatre.