Michael Griffiths – Cole: Delightful, Delicious And De-lovely – Adelaide Fringe Review

The Garden Of Unearthly Delights – Le Cascadeur, Tue 16 Mar Adelaide’s own Michael Griffiths is an award-winning, highly talented and delightful, world-class performer. Embracing the character of the flamboyant, gifted composer, Cole Porter, Griffiths enchants us with his charm, warmth and wonderful musical prowess. His voice is as clear and strong as the crystal decanter that is his only prop, as he lovingly pours out Porter’s ageless songs. Accompanying himself skilfully on electric piano, he interweaves the songs with a personable and relaxed narrative, beautifully written by Anna Goldsworthy (Piano Lessons). This gives us intriguing insight into the complexities of Porter’s opulent and indulgent world and takes us into some of the physical and emotional settings that inspired many of his great songs. Although famously homosexual, Porter was married to Linda for 34 years, and their romance and lifestyle were the inspiration for many of his songs. The consideration and respect that endured between them, is a remarkable backdrop to the often poignant tales of Porter’s life and other loves. The show is richly packed with Cole Porter favourites to remind us how prolific this extraordinary composer was. With Anything Goes, De-lovely, I Love Paris, Begin The Beguine, Let’s Fall In Love, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Night and Day, Let’s Misbehave, Miss Otis Regrets and more, every Cole Porter fan will be smilingly satiated. Griffiths gave us an extra treat with localised Adelaide lyrics for one verse of You’re The Top. Thank you, Michael. It was like an evening at home in Cole’s private parlour, though the seats were not quite so good. The opportunity to stand up and stretch our bench-sore-bums was hugely appreciated by the audience and kept us with you ‘til the end of your totally entertaining show. Michael Griffiths, as Cole, is delightful, delicious and de-lovely. Don’t miss it! Nikki Fort Michael Griffiths – Cole continues at The Garden Of Unearthly Delights – Le Cascadeur from 7.15pm until Sun 13 Mar. Book at FringeTIX on 1300 621 255 and adelaidefringe.com.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.