
Syncopation is a sweet show. The title promises something a little offbeat, but in the end turns out to be quite a traditional romance, a fun show set in pre-war New York.

Playing at the Street Theatre this week is Monkey Baa's latest incarnation of one of Australia's best-named plays, The Bugalugs Bum Thief. No, it's not quite Shakespeare, but it's closer than one might assume.

Ruth Rogers-Wright takes Nina Simone's brilliant songs, stories and charisma and brings them down to earth and up-close.


All in all it was a great night of traditional stand up perfectly pitched to an appreciative crowd.

When playing close to its emotional core, it is heartfelt and touching, with insights that have a ring of authenticity. However, Coleman hasn't been able to let go of rom com trappings, which don't mesh well.