Review: 30 Something at The Space Theatre for Cabaret Festival

Opening night of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival always has an air about it, and tonight the excitement was palpable, as the crowd descended to the Space Theatre, entering the era of New Year’s Eve 1939.

My favourite Queen of Cabaret, Catherine Alcorn and the maestro of mischief, Phil Scott, come together to take us back to Bohemia Kings Cross, 1939 and countdown the dramatic era that is 30 Something.

She’s been wowing and working Hollywood, while he’s been playing Queanbeyan, but together they reunite for an immersive party to the speak-easy days, through the lens of modern re-imagined bangers such as ‘Gangster’s Paradise’, ‘Step Back in Time’ and ‘Born This Way’ dipped with 30’s classics by Fats Waller and Bing Crosby.

Not only is Ms Alcorn a gorgeous human, she is also an absolute powerhouse vocalist, consummate professional and cabaret stalwart.

A subtle glance, a side eye and a whole of sass, this woman has the audience eating out of the palm of her hand…and that is before she has even sung a single, raunchy note.

Coupled with the musical genius that is Phil Scott, this comedic duo is brilliant from start to finish.

His incredible arrangements, including the Phil Collins classic ‘In the Air Tonight’ showcase Alcorn in all her exceptional glory – all vocals, all cabaret, all in.

Backed by the fabulous band of Thomas ‘Slims’ Waller on drums, Oscar Peterson on double bass and Robbie Chenoweth on trumpet, the night was a fun, frivolous  romp, full of seduction and storytelling.

On for a limited run this Cabaret season, I truly hope this dynamic duo bring this one back to play in town!

4.5 stars

Lia Loves.