Porter & Piaf: Michael Griffiths and Michaela Burger & Greg Wain present ‘Cole’ and ‘Exposing Edith’ at Dunstan Playhouse – Review

 Dunstan Playhouse, Sat 10 Dec. Adelaide’s own Michael Griffiths and Michaela Burger were both nominated this year for a Helpmann Award for Best Cabaret Performer, with Griffiths winning the category for his show Cole, written by Anna Goldsworthy, celebrating the life of American composer and songwriter Cole Porter. Michaela Burger along with guitarist Greg Wain continues touring their tribute to iconic French singer Edith Piaf, Exposing Edith, with critical praise in Australia and the UK. For an early Christmas present, Adelaide audiences have been treated to a double bill of award winning cabaret. Embracing the intricate movement of Cole Porter from the beginning, Michael Griffiths slowly staggers onto the stage towards the piano supported by his walking stick, which was one of the vital aids to support Porter following his horse riding accident permanently damaging both of his legs in 1937. Prior to the accident, Porter wrote music and lyrics for Broadway musicals Paris, Fifty Million Frenchmen, Gay Divorce, Nymph Errant and Anything Goes and then in 1948 made a prominent comeback with his Tony Award winning, Kiss Me, Kate. Porter’s life of wealthy extravagance, life in New York and Paris, marriage to Linda Lee Thomas and same-sex relationships, were all revealed by Griffiths in between some of Porter’s greatest stand-along songs. As a brilliant pianist and powerful singer Griffiths shines in all his songs with Night And Day, You’re The Top, I Love Paris In The Springtime and Anything Goes memorable highlights. Following her stand-out performance in the new musical Rumpelstiltskin with State Theatre Company, Michaela Burger follows on from Griffiths after interval with her outstanding show Exposing Edith. Michaela is a joy to watch any time she sings with her powerful vocals and the way she connects with her lyrics. Exposing Edith is skilfully written and presented with precision, with fantastic support provided by Greg Wain on guitar and occasional vocals. Michaela explores her own connection with Edith Piaf, from her discovery of her music when 17 years old on exchange in France, to her similarities with Piaf in height and upbringing. The show moves seamlessly between telling the story of Piaf, to a portrayal of her and singing Piaf’s famous songs with passion. Piaf’s first hit, Mon Lègionairre was one of the many highlights, together with her signature song La Vie En Rose. If an audience member did not already have goose bumps, her rendition of Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien would have guaranteed this. A fantastic opportunity to see our talented Adelaide cabaret stars paying tribute to the famous singers and songwriters of the past. Bobby Goudie Porter & Piaf continues at Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre, from 3pm until Sun 11 Dec. Book at BASS on 131 246 and bass.net.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets.