The popular and well reviewed series Downstairs at the Maj moved to the State Theatre Centre has become a fixture of the arts and culture program in Perth for years.
The room is delightful and has a clubby vibe. So it was with some trepidation I attended the change of venue. However efforts had been made to transform the fairly basic space with small tables and chairs and subtle lighting.
The show revolved around Kramer’s love affair with the piano which he was introduced to at an early age by his “gran”. He opened with a short version of Piano Man with cleverly written new lyrics. Then he moved to I Feel the Earth Move Under My Feet which featured a clever piano arrangement. Kramer is a better pianist than singer. The numbers where he adopted a softer, lower register the most successful.
Walk On By was another highlight. Kramer moved to another instrument, a small electronic keyboard for a couple of numbers but the grand piano is his first love. He plays and composes wonderfully well. There was a lovely version of a Ben Folds composition The Luckiest. Also You’ve Got a Friend in Me was excellent.
Kramer is a lively performer and has two further shows in town – tonight and Saturday evening.
Event details
His Majesty's Theatre presents
Don’t Make Me Play Piano Man
Steve Kramer
Venue: State Theatre Centre of WA Perth
Dates: 24 – 26 November 2022
Bookings: 08 2650900 | www.artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au
Related Articles
Dirty Birds | Black Swan State Theatre Company 
The Nutcracker | West Australian Ballet 
