Sweet Dreams: Songs by Annie Lennox

A warm piano, a single spotlight, an inspired pianist and a brilliant singer. Sweet dreams are made of this combination when it comes to an Annie Lennox tribute show. No bells and whistles are necessary; just Lennox’s beautiful lyrics set to memorable melodies in an intimate venue. Sweet Dreams: Songs by Annie Lennox at The Hayes Theatre ticks all these boxes.

It doesn’t matter that Michael Griffiths is clearly a he not a she – and he makes no pretences either – but rather that writer and director Dean Bryant is clever enough to let Annie Lennox’s music speak for itself. It also helps that Griffiths’ voice is versatile and stunning – and, even more of a treat, that he is a virtuoso pianist.

Sweet Dreams documents Lennox’s life particularly her relationship with partner and other half of Eurythmics David Stewart. Bryant peppers the story with nuggets of wisdom from Lennox’s father to signpost her progress through life’s natural rollercoaster. Intermittent self-composed songs by Bryant and Griffiths that end up on the cutting room floor add comedy to the show and break up Lennox’s ballads.

The benefit of accompanying himself pays off for Griffiths because he gets the most out of both Lennox’s lyrics and her music with clever arrangements. Playing piano is second nature to Griffiths and there is never a moment you wish he would take centre stage because of the magic he creates at the piano.

Bryant’s quirky writing takes a few moments to settle into but the alternative voice pays off as clichés are avoided and the energy of the show never lulls.

Maryann Wright