Review: Spiegel’esque
Image: Photo: Paramount Studios
Take the spectacle of circus, the camp of cabaret, and the variety of vaudeville, squeeze them all onto a tight stage in a small circular tent, toss in an elfin MC with a bad German accent and you have Spiegel’esque. It’s a frenetic, wild, gorgeous, astounding feast for eyes, ears and other sensitive parts.
The original Dutch built Spiegel Zelt (97 years old and still sizzling) has set up camp in Leichhardt’s Italian Forum, providing an intimate and authentic setting for the vintage styled show. Flamboyant live wire Wayne Scott Kermond (“Vayne”) is the multi-talented host, spouting enough bad one-liners to fill the canopy like a hot-air balloon. He has a brilliant rapport with the audience and is a perfect foil for the mixed glamour and thrill of the acts.
There are definitely no weak spots, but there are some standouts. Angelique Brown and Chris Talbot perform on a pole, suspended ring and tissu (two suspended lengths of fabric) and are jaw-dropping. Sultry singer Kate Wilson enthrals and captivates in three languages. A fabulous tap routine by Alexander Kermond and Dylon Mahoney is reminiscent of the golden Hollywood musicals. Feathers, shimmying sequins and some striptease from Peta Anderson, Sammy Jo and Ebony Wright. And coyly tucked in a corner but playing along with all the gags is pianist Andrew Freeborn.
The lighting and production are dazzling with some very effective use being made of a backdrop screen (in particular, for a running “plane” gag). This is a highly polished, thoroughly entertaining show in a unique, atmospheric venue.
Don’t be “meaning to go”. Go! (RB)
Until Jan 22, varied performance times. Spiegel Zelt, Italian Forum, 23 Norton St, Leichhardt. From $49.90. Tickets & info: spiegelzelt.co
BY RITA BRATOVICH
