Rockwiz Salutes the Rock Musical
Rockwiz has become an Australian institution, since premiering at ‘The Espy’, Melbourne in 2005. This rock trivia cabaret powerhouse is written and co-hosted by comedian/actor Brian Nankervis and Adelaide Cabaret Festival’s artistic director, Julia Zemiro.
A packed Thebarton Theatre was held captive by the hilarious cast, gifted band and special musical guests. Nankervis warmed the crowd up with his exuberant personality and staged a mini-quiz before the official opening to choose two lucky audience members to join the cast on stage.
A talented 4-piece band was all that was needed to whip the already rowdy crowd into a frenzy. Opening the show was the marvellous and very pregnant vocalist, Stella Angelico, singing “Age of Aquarius” and “Let the Sunshine” from the rock-opera Hair.
Team captains were Adelaide Cabaret’s very own piano man, Trevor Jones and former AFL legend Bob Murphy. Lucky audience members, Steve, an Adelaide DJ and 16-year-old musical theatre lover Grace took their place on the panels and teams were rounded off with a cross-section of Australian musical talent.
A wonderful combination of musical trivia, hilarious one-liners and show-stopping performances showcased why this format has stood the test of time.
Versatile performer, Tex Perkins lent his gravelly tones to “Heaven on their Minds” from the rock musical, Jesus Christ Superstar and later sang “Science Fiction/Double Feature” from The Rocky Horror Show.
Adelaide’s own Dave Gleeson sang crowd favourite “Pinball Wizard” from Tommy and Whitesnake’s “Here I go Again” from the stage musical Rock of Ages.
Zemiro kept this fast-paced eclectic evening rolling along with her quick wit. She introduced Kate Cebrano to sing her famous rendition of “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”, from Jesus Christ Superstar and the audience erupted.
For nearly two hours I was entertained. Energy overflowed from the stage, as I sang along to songs from my youth. The chemistry that has developed over the years between hosts and musicians was obvious as this well-oiled machine powered along until its fulfilling climax.
The entire cast assembled on stage to perform Elton John’s 70s classic “Tiny Dancer”. I stood with the rest of the crowd to join in. I simply did not want the evening to end.
Kerry Cooper
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