Changes

This presentation was conceived as a theatrical tribute to the music of David Bowie. The musical excellence of the band, Robot Child, anchored the more than 2 hour long performance. The characteristic soaring, insistent riffs were very competently delivered.  Two singers, Kendall-Jane Rundle and Jeff Wortman sang the majority of the songs. David Bowie’s voice was distinctive with a 3.5 octave range. Singing his songs presents a challenge. The combination of Jeff and Kendall-Jane’s voices made sure Bowie’s entire range was comfortably covered and Jeff worked hard to bring passion and some of Bowie’s intensity to each song.

Even the most demanding fan would have been satisfied with the selection of songs. All of the favourites were included as well as some not so well known early ones. I noted Starman, Fame, Fashion, China Girl, Heroes, Rebel Rebel and Jean Genie - there were a very satisfying number of others.

Throughout his career David Bowie used a variety of characters and costumes to create his distinctive presence. The company did not attempt to bring these elements into their performance. Instead they used expressive movement to identify and explore some of the themes of his work.  There were stand out performances by Jacqui Essing and Benjamin Samuel. The company used shop display mannequins and symbolic gestures but the physical work was not focussed or strong enough to contribute to the music. 

The lighting design made a substantial contribution to creating mood and visual interest. Sound had occasional feedback and the balance of the sound was tilted towards the band with the distortion from the amplification of the voices making some of the lyrics difficult to understand.

But, despite all, it was a glory of music.  

Ruth Richter