Loud-mouthed and golden-voiced, brash and vulnerable, larger than life and yet somehow feeling like your new best friend, ‘Rumour Has It’ starring Adele (as portrayed by Naomi Price) was a mesmerising mix of contradictions and for the entirety of the show, it was almost impossible to look away.
And like staring into the sun, the brightness of Naomi’s talent is blinding and she easily and effortlessly commanded the audience: chiding them when they stepped out of line (heckler in the audience 0: Adele 1) and offering such hilarious and salacious banter, it was easy to confuse the act as comedy rather than cabaret.
But Price is not new to this role, having already toured the show four times in Brisbane, and performed it to sold out crowds all over Australia and the hours and hours spent being Adele are apparent as confidence oozes out of her.
She starts with the some of the iconic singer’s big hits, hooking the crowd both with the recognisable tunes and her impeccably-performed vocals. The stage is dimly-lit, she’s flanked by her band and three backup singers (one who is her partner Luke Kennedy), and a delightfully mismatched collection of lamp shades hang from the ceiling.
The ambience is spot on, the staging suited to the singer and the intimacy of the set-up allows for Price to roam unrestrained about the space. This is to both the delight and horror of the audience as she is liable to pick anyone out at random and question them about any manner of topic, as long as it allows her a playful dig and to swing a sarcastic retort. All in done in good humour and tongue-in-cheek glee though and for those watching, it is uproariously funny.
From ‘Rolling In The Deep’ to ‘Daydreamer’ to ‘Skyfall’, the scope of songs ranges from Adele’s earliest to her most current, all woven together with an informative narrative about her life. There were quiet reflections about childhood experiences, explanations about lyrics and anecdotes matched to songs. All combine to paint the picture of who Adele really is – the woman behind the performer – and Price has embodied her with heart, gumption and soulful sincerity.
Even if you know nothing about Adele, this show is emotionally punchy, hilarious and sounds spectacular. It will sweep you along on a journey, taking you from unexpected sadness to joyful celebration to wistful nostalgia, and all in what feels like the blink of an eye. Don’t miss this. It will make you glad to be alive.
