Channelling the atmosphere of a rowdy speakeasy from a bygone era, Scotch and Soda promised a "cocktail of daring circus acts, theatrical twists, gypsy-soaked sound and party vibes".
That was delivered and so much more. Wednesday's packed house was mesmerised for the duration as it witnessed a multi-disciplined, genre-defying, cacophony of circus and vaudeville.
Set, lighting, production, direction, music and players inter-related in well-balanced measure; a credit to Company 2's Chelsea McGuffin — the production's co-creator (with David Carberry), with whom we spoke a few weeks ago.
The Crusty Suitcase Band cranked, wheezed, slapped and partied, commanding a variety of instruments all-but non-stop throughout the jazz-infused performance. The at-times deliberately discordant, uplifting, sashaying brass and strings swelled to the fore and dissipated as required as musicians moved in unison with the performers, effortlessly holding stage on call.
But biggest accolades must fall to Company 2's vibrant, pacy, awe-inspiring, acrobatic combinations. No harnesses and no net. Onlookers being mesmerised to the point of forgetting to clap and heart-in-mouth moments were commonplace, but not allowed to linger as no sooner was the effect created, the next had commenced (no self-indulgent, audience-milking here). The engaging, well-drilled troupe delivered rolling, novel interpretations of feats of strength, trapeze and balance.
Each acrobat deserves mention, but none more so than Mozes — for both acrobatic prowess and comedic delivery — yes the bespoke role is delivered to him on a plate (he is co-creator), but his cameos were excellent and delivered with aplomb. Scripted wardrobe malfunctions and moments of madness all added colour and dimension to the eclectic offering.
The ensuing standing ovation was a foregone conclusion halfway through the evening's fare. A fitting end to an entertaining transportation to another time and place. Five out five bravos.
Be quick! Scotch and Soda must finish this Saturday 27th September before heading out on an eight-week international tour. Details: Judith Wright Centre.
