I first heard Florence Foster Jenkins one morning on the radio. I was stunned. I couldn’t believe that anyone could sing so badly, have the nerve to be recorded and that a reputable radio station would play it. All was explained when the announcer reminded us that it was April Fool’s Day.
Barber shops, like ladies’ hairdressers, are traditionally seen as repositories of confidential and often controversial opinions. History, race, colour, bigotry, politics and sex – nothing is taboo in this sanctuary.
While equality may have been achieved according to law in many places, there are still individuals, twisted by hate, who take issue with the freedom to love whoever you choose.
Each summer, Western Australia’s finest dancers perform against a backdrop of stars and gum trees at Floreat’s magnificent quarry amphitheatre – a celebration of the raw beauty and energy of human movement.
I always think of Jeff Green as an eminently likeable bloke. I have seen him before several times and he’s always a reliable bet for a good laugh. He has an easy relaxed manner. A sort of everyman approach.
Don’t be put off by the brashness of Joe Dipietro’s title. This is a beautifully written piece with some wonderful insights into not only gay life but the nature of relationships more generally.
As we entered the theatre the stage was set with a small alter and there were candles grouped on either side. A cowled figure knelt before the alter. Then the figure stood revealing himself to be the purple faced one.