Musical Direction by Ed Zander
Review by Jack Quinn
Sitting in Pleasance’s Queen Dome, aptly the fringe home of a queen of the West End, the audience titters excitedly for Janie Dee’s Beautiful World Cabaret, which promises to be an afternoon of song, dance, and a response to the ongoing climate crisis.
And what a classy afternoon it is. Gifted with wonderful support from her excellent musicians, Sarah Harrison (violin) and Igor Outkine (accordion), who open the show, Janie Dee enters in a glittering red dress, subtly aligning with Stephen Sondheim’s iconic red dress birthday concert. Bare-faced and brilliant, Janie Dee embraces her “holiday look” in a refusal to purchase makeup with plastic containers in a small act of rebellion in the face of the global threat of climate disaster. Small acts can significantly impact, as Dee reminds us of one of many inspiring Sondheim quotes – “the God is in the detail”.
Filled with anecdotes concerning the pressing nature of the mammoth threat of climate change, Dee shares with us the inspiring story of Boyan Slat, founder of The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit organization that aims to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040. Inspired by Slat and the activism of her children, Dee shares with us the duty of this show – the mighty power of small rebellion that can create ripples, soon becoming crashing waves that will inspire hope for the future of a greener planet.
Accompanied by Ed Zanders (keys) and joined by Sofia Priolo (choreographer) and Josephina Ortiz Lewis (vocalist), Dee achieves a truly inspiring cabaret of Shakespearean monologues and songs, including hits from Follies, Sunday in the Park with George, and rounding it all off with a rousing rendition of A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square which promises to not leave a dry eye in the house. You will be deeply moved by Janie Dee’s performance as she guides you through beautiful melodies responding to her feelings towards the climate crisis, expressing her full vocal talent, as well as her impeccable craft as an actor and storyteller. This is a show that will leave you inspired and hopeful for the future of our planet.
Review by Jack Quinn (contact@corrblimey.uk)
This gander likes to keep a lower profile than the rest of the flock. No less determined, this particular gander might just be someone who wishes to keep their feathers out of the business…!
