Michael Griffiths: Greatest Hits

This collection of classic hits curated by Griffiths expands his repertoire and shows that his style is well suited beyond the usual artists he is renowned for. Cole Porter music features in this show which is otherwise focused on some great favourites from the 80s.

His inclusion of numbers by A-ha, Eurythmics and the Violent Femmes is a wonderful way to revisit this era. This show also further establishes Griffith as a seasoned professional. There is a warmth and candour as he chats to the audience and his rich history and experience as a cabaret artist gradually unfolds. This is one of the many ways in which he makes direct contact with his audience, frequently bouncing off their reactions. This gives the performance a very unique quality as Griffiths seems to be catering to the vibe in the wonderfully intimate venue.

Accompanied by Craig Strain on electric bass and Steve Leske on drums, the live three-piece band has an impressive orchestral effect. The music fills the space with majesty making singing, clapping and foot tapping along the songs an irresistible impulse. Griffiths even engages his audience as backing vocals and teaches them a thing or two about compositions. 

Griffiths’ strengths undoubtedly lie in his renditions of Madonna and Kylie and he delights his audience with some familiar tunes. However, when he tackles other superstars such as Peter Allen, he demonstrates not only his versatility but also the depth of his talent.

One of the highlights of the show was his rendition of Ben E. King’s Stand By Me. Griffiths abandons the instruments and relies solely on the clicking of his fingers and his strong vocal ability (and some choral support from the audience). The power of his voice and the strength of his rhythm and shine through. Griffiths clearly likes to lose himself in his music and he willingly indulges the audiences with some great encores. This is a show with guaranteed fun and a feel-good factor.

Patricia Di Risio