Presented by Wramped Up
Reviewed 27th February 2017
There are particular events in a performer’s life that influence them and shape them, ultimately reminding them why they dedicate so much of their time and effort to their craft. For this reviewer, Ali McGregor In Decadence was one of them.
Ali McGregor was born to entertain. With hilarious, mostly unscripted patter, her relaxed demeanour left the audience completely comfortable in her presence. However, it was McGregor’s vocals that set this show apart from others of its variety. Her vocals were simply sublime, demonstrating outstanding technique for the shows entirety. Her classical background was evident, as she sang through her extensive vocal range with exceptional control.
Decadence was a ten-year celebration for McGregor, who sang a number of her favourite songs to an enraptured audience. Commencing with an expressive rendition of Nina Simone’s ‘Feeling Good’, she demonstrated her musical ability by performing her stipped-back take on many 80’s and 90’s classics, including: INXS’s ‘Never Tear Us Apart’; a mashup of Arthur Hamilton’s torch-song ‘Cry Me A River’ and Justin Timberlakes song of the same name; a mashup of popular The Prodigy songs ‘Poison’ and ‘Firestarter’, and even a medley of female hip-hop songs (yes… hip-hop!) such as Missy Elliot’s ‘Get Ur Freak On’ and Salt N Peppa’s ‘Push It’. Audience favourites, however, were a colourful jazz-inspired rendition of Britney Spears’ ‘Oops I Did It Again’ and, self-accompanied by an omnichord, a cover of ACDC’s ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’, in an effort to take back the song from Celine Dion and Anastacia, whose cover deemed it the ‘worst cover song of all time’.
McGregor was accompanied on stage by an impeccable three-piece band, lead by Musical Director Sam Keevers on piano. Special mention must be made to the double-bassist, whose skill was remarkable, especially during his solos.
The Magic Mirror Spiegeltent, fit with resident circus-show Blanc De Blanc’s spectacularly alluring set, was the perfect location for this extraordinary piece of cabaret. The lighting design was vibrant, but did not detract from the performance, and the sound design was perfect.
Ali McGregor In Decadence was faultless. It is a shame that this show was one-night-only and more people will not get to experience her magic.
Reviewed by Ben Francis
Rating out of 5: 5
One Night Only – Season ended
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