Perth Reviews

Four of Perth’s premier vocalists proposed a toast to the most influential composer and lyricist of our generation. Directed by Simone Craddock this was a loving tribute to the Master.

Ali Bodycoat, Simone Craddock, Eimer Foley and Brendan Hanson were superbly accompanied by Joshua Haines on piano, in a very interesting program of songs, some of which were unfamiliar to me, coming as they did from Sondheim shows I had not seen. (I didn’t know there were any!)

The ensemble opened with Bit by Bit, a clever, quick number with tricky lyrics perfectly executed. Elocution was a strong point in the evening’s entertainment. Clear and precise was the trade mark  delivery of difficult words and phrases.

The sequin-clad Foley and Craddock were joined by a familiar face in Ali Bodycoat in luscious bronze satin and the handsomely attired and beautifully voiced Hanson.

After a four part harmony in the number Putting it Together there was a short verbal interlude in which the influence of Oscar Hammerstein was noted in the work of Sondheim.

Bodycoat took the lead in a lively version of Everything’s Coming up Roses which was followed by an extended, demanding version of Ordinary Mothers. This number was interwoven with the poignant Glamorous Life  featuring Eimer Foley.

Again I must mention the outstanding piano accompaniment by Hanson who also twinkled along with Craddock in a slippery version of I Never Do Anything Twice.

Plaudits to the ensemble work on Being Alive, and the classic Here’s to the Ladies Who Lunch delivered in impeccable style by Ali Bodycoat. I think she was enjoying herself. It showed!

A lovely four part harmony Sunday ended the performance. Again very good chorus work underpinned, constantly by excellent piano work from Haines.

This is the second outing of Craddock’s Celebrating Sondheim show. It’s not inconceivable it may have another showing.

Sondheim aficionados keep watch!

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