I must confess I had seen this show, or an extended version of it, some years ago, but it was so slick and clever I couldn’t wait to introduce it to a friend.
The atmosphere at The Ellington was festive and effervescent. The artists were familiar to Ellington regulars and the audience was delightedly vocal to be part of a special night of fun and glamour.
Libby Hammer and Ali Bodycoat were ravishing in 60’s retro gowns. They were complimented by Rob Pring in a mustard safari suit! The band – Nick Abbey on bass, Chris Foster, piano, Michael Perkins drums, Mat Fagin guitar and Rick Power on trumpet – were superb. Their timing and complementary interplay was faultless.
The audience was up for a good time and it showed in their enthusiastic response to each and every song. Fondly familiar songs followed a plethora of favorite Bacharach tunes, tempered with a few rarely heard numbers such as Saturday Sunshine.
Helpful (tongue-in-cheek) placards held up by the singers introduced each and every stage of the storybook romance, breakup and reuniting of the couple in question. (Girl is Totes Devastated! and Boy Spreads Himself Around!)
All the artists were having a wow of an evening and reveling in each other’s mastery of voice and instrumental skill.
A deliciously funny and marvelously performed evening of song. No better tribute to Bacharach could be found.
Event details
The Ellington Jazz Club
Bringing Back Bacharach
Venue: The Ellington Jazz Club | 191 Beaufort St, Perth WA
Dates: 17 – 19 March 2023
Tickets: $35 – $25
Bookings: www.ellingtonjazz.com.au
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