World Rock Arena: Classic Hits And Chuckles From The ’60s & ’70s ~ Adelaide Fringe 2025 Review

[MUSIC/Rock ~SA] The Alley - Sun 23 Feb The Fringe program instructs us to arrive early at The Alley to sample some food and drinks then enjoy the show in cabaret style. So we do that, and find a very welcoming staff and friendly atmosphere. It appears that this show has been at The Fringe for ten years, always sells out quickly, and many of the people we speak to have been a number of times. The show is presented in two halves – the first featuring classic songs from the '60s and the second covers the '70s. The age demographic of tonight’s audience suggests that no-one is hearing these songs for the first time. Although nostalgia is a large factor in why this show works it’s not the only one. A large screen behind the band displays footage from the era – key world events, clips from the original performers of each song, and snippets from popular TV shows of the time. A well thought out history lesson. Between songs some of the funnier TV ads from the '60s are played – think Mr Sheen. These are hugely entertaining whether you are seeing them for the first time or remember them from the day. But the critical point of the show is that director Brian Gilbertson has assembled a crack 10pce band to deliver impressive versions of some of some standout songs from the era. There are more guitars on stage than people, two keyboard players, a 3-piece horn section, drums and bass, and even bagpipes show up when the show concludes with some AC/DC. Brian Gilbertson takes on most of the vocals himself, but lead or harmony vocals are also shared with Carly Adams and Nic Hutton. In the first half a selection of '60s gems are performed. All of the artists chosen are to be expected but some of the song selections are not so obvious. The Beatles’ Got To Get You Into My Life gives the band a good workout while the Rolling Stones are represented by She’s A Rainbow from their brief psychedelic era. A delicious version of The Mamas & The Papas’ California Dreaming is a highlight. Australia is represented by The Easybeats’ Friday On My Mind. It’s easy to quibble about artists or songs left out, but it’s already a long show and every song performed has earned its place. The '70s often brought songs with extended instrumental workouts but the band are up to the task. After some songs from Hair to set the scene we get Wings’ Live And Let Die, Led Zeppelin’s Stairway To Heaven and Pink Floyd’s Money. These songs and the ones that followed revealed a band of players at the top of their game. The way this show has been put together ensures that it will remain a real crowd pleaser! 4.5 stars Adrian Miller World Rock Arena continues at The Alley at 7.30 until Sun 9 Mar. However, the entire season is SOLD OUT. #ADLFringe #ClotheslineMag