(Zanne Stabelberg)
Ms Stapelberg’s
operatic foundation was never far from the surface and Steven Stead’s direction
of a programme and performance that was heartfelt and generous must be noted
for its sensitivity to the performer and the many stories woven into a complex
musical tapestry. (Review by Shannon Kenny)
Soprano Zanne Stabelberg,
pianist Albie van Schalkwyk and director Steven Stead brought to the Playhouse stage
a programme of music that was thoughtful and reflective in its storytelling;
skilfully and sensitively performed.
Zanne’s introduction, in both English and Afrikaans was personable and warm, inviting the audience to share in the journey our storyteller would be leading us on.
Our storyteller, the chanteuse; the lyrics and music were
kept front and centre in the minimal and elegant staging. Lighting states
complemented each song and their essence.
While the songs tell mostly stories from a woman’s perspective, the themes of love, sacrifice, hope, desire and humour are universal and clearly spoke to the very appreciative audience.
The opening As if we’d Never Said Goodbye followed by Sondheim’s The Glamorous Life set the tone for the programme. Along with the contemplative and reflective, there was the wry and ironic, the strident and the funny.
The hopeful A change in me was perfectly bookended by the poignant hymn to a younger self, She used to be mine and I’ll Be Here that speaks so beautifully to the beauty of love in all its forms and manifestations through first love and loss and starting over.
The dramatic Sooner or Later from Kiss of the Spiderwoman was a particular crowdpleaser, with L’enfant being quite impressed with the threads of white light that hinted at the spiderweb.
The joy of finding a unique love was beautifully delivered in Always Better from The Bridges of Madison County.
The particularly juicy, joyous, comic flourish in the form of Kristin Chenowith’s Tesori/Scanlan-penned The girl in 14G was the perfect finale.
Albie van Schalkwyk’s dream accompaniment, perfect timing and consummate musicianship cannot go without mention. What a gift.
Ms Stapelberg’s operatic foundation was never far from the surface and Steven Stead’s direction of a programme and performance that was heartfelt and generous must be noted for its sensitivity to the performer and the many stories woven into a complex musical tapestry.
The audience came and Ms Stapelberg delivered, to rapturous applause. – Shannon Kenny
Posts
