(l-r) Sophie Dunn - violin, piano; Fran Evans - double bass; Paul Dornau - accordian, guitar, vocals; Renato Va Circa - drums, percussion, vocalsAt the Spiegeltent we entered the world of Fellini, the circus, the burlesque, Paris cabaret and eastern European gypsies all in a one-hour show by Croque Monsieur, a band of six fabulous Melbourne musicians. It was not long before we were up and dancing at the edge of the Spiegeltent to the compulsive rhythms and ever-changing dynamics of this high-energy outfit.
The band walked on stage in costumes reminiscent of Sergeant Pepper, gold braid and buttons abounding. Violinist Erkki Veltheim and drummer Renato Va Circa soon had to shed their military jackets to maintain their huge output of energy. In a repertoire that ranges from klezmer to film music to jazz, these virtuoso performers excelled in every genre. The musical associations they evoke shift constantly and deliciously.
Croque Monsieur makes each style its own, blending genres to form a crossover that defies definition. Explaining the origin of each number became a standing joke between the band and the audience. Those people who come specifically to hear gypsy music or klezmer or any particular style may be disappointed. For those willing to give up any expectation, the rewards are great.
Paul Dornau (accordion, vocals and piano) was another shining light in this all-star band. Acting as ringmaster and bandleader, he kept up the momentum of the music and an entertaining patter between numbers, becoming more and more relaxed as the audience’s response became more and more enthusiastic. His humour was the glue that held the show together.
The other members of the six-year-old band are Rohan Grant (double bass), James Wilkinson (trombone) and Ania Reynolds (Clarinet). The balance of instruments is perfect, with the clarinet adding a wonderful authenticity to the sound of Fellini film themes composed by the film director’s collaborator Nino Rota. These tunes were the highlights of a brilliant program.
Croque Monsieur has all that is best about Melbourne. It is fun, eclectic and original, made up of highly skilled and creative people, transcends boundaries and makes you dance.
Melbourne International Arts Festival presents
Croque Monsieur
Venue: The Famous Spiegeltent | The Arts Centre
When: Mon 22 Oct at 9.30pm
Tues 23 & Wed 24 Oct at 7pm
Duration: 1 hour, no interval
Tickets: Full $30 / Groups (8+) $27 / Conc $22.50
Bookings: Ticketmaster 1300 136 166 | www.melbournefestival.com.au