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Nearly Naked
Presented by: Devanasen Productions
Reviewer: Peter Phillips
Date Reviewed: 20th July 2007
Devanesen Productions have been a mainstay in concert productions on
the amateur scene for a few years now, and have been largely
responsible for bringing a host of little-known musicals to the
attention of many theatre-goers, myself included. The music from
shows such as Parade, Songs for a New World, A New Brain, The Last
Five Years, Merrily We Roll Along, The Wild Party and Bare, to name
a few; and performers such as Laura Fitzpatrick, Jessica Enes and
Emma Langridge have all been showcased in one form or other by
Sunayan and his company. So, it was with great interest that I
approached Nearly Naked, a stripped back concert featuring many
Devanesen regulars.
With the threat of being the true star of the show, compere Shar
Murs handled the whole evening beautifully. She’s a wonderful
performer, running the gamut from truly intelligent comedy to real
self-effacing slapstick. Shar is never afraid of looking really
silly, yet approaches her role with true class and wit. Always a
delight on and off stage.
From what I can ascertain, the songs performed were a mixture of
party pieces put together quickly for this fund-raiser and as such
some were more successful than others. At this point I should pay
tribute to the marvel that is Adrian Portell. An exceptional
accompanist, as visitors to the Opium Den Sunday night will attest
to.
The most successful for me was certainly the very beautiful Sophie
Thomas. Sophie sang a song from We Will Rock You that showcased her
amazing voice and allowed her to truly command the space, holding
her audience in the palm of her hand. It was the highlight of the
evening for me.
Gina Mets, Adam Lovell and Mayani Rawicki performed a trio from Aida
by Elton John. I feel Gina’s voice, while rich and warm, is one that
will truly improve with age. Adam has a wonderful pop voice and
sensibility. But Mayani held us spellbound. Showing the power of
keeping still while delivering a song, Mayani has a true presence
and extremely expressive face and delivered a lovely performance
that many of the audience commented on.
Resplendent in a hot pink sunray-pleated caftan and sunglasses, and
accompanied by suitably hunky toy-boy (Andrew Pennycuick), the
brilliant Barbara Hughes sang ‘the Boy From……’ from The Mad Show by
Sondheim. Obviously inspired by a recent meeting with the maestro
himself, Barbara showed why she is one of the best character
performers around today. A wonderful interpretation.
Possessing a powerhouse voice, Amelia Rope could sing the phone book
and impress. Her duet from The Wild Party, partnered by David
Bleier, was masterful and while I question her choice of first song
‘Unlimited’ from Wicked as being too contextual to be truly
appreciated by a public not familiar with the show, no-one can
question her amazing ability and interpretation.
Another highlight for me was a surprising song from a show called
Cops sung by Gerard Lane. It’s an hysterical song about a man who is
leaving his girlfriend for another, basically because she is a
‘skanky whore’!!! Gerard gave a fabulous performance and is
obviously a man who relishes the opportunity to play comedy and just
appear downright silly.
Some songs really missed their orchestral origins, such as a trio of
numbers from Parade performed by Andrew Pennycuick and Emily Devlin.
Despite the beauty of these songs and wonderful performances, the
true drama was missing, and it was an odd choice to finish the
evening on. The evening also sadly lacked a company number, due to a
lack of time, I understand.
Other highlights for me included David Bleier doing a number from
Thoroughly Modern Millie, Ben Fuller and Jane Nethercote’s
collection from Avenue Q and Karl McNamara, well, doing anything!
Congratulations to Sunny and all at Devanesen Productions for a
wonderful evening. Looking forward to your next productions.
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