Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs

With a Tony and an Olivier Award in the cabinet, Alan Cumming has scaled the heights of musical and theatrical achievement, but there is so much more to him than his stage and screen credits. Alan Cumming is a master storyteller, with a fascinating story to tell. The Scottish-American balances vulnerability with vulgarity; audiences should be prepared for equal parts laughter and tears when Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs.

The musical journey, while an eclectic array of tunes, all have a strong connection with Alan in some way. The emotional investment into each number is astounding (and no doubt exhausting!) From the opening (a stirring rendition of Annie Lennox’s Why), to wrapping up with ‘If Love Were All’, Alan controlled the stage.

We romped through the obligatory cabaret mash-ups; the hilarious Adele/Lady Gaga/Katy Perry ‘Someone Like the Edge of Firework’ and the sound-a-like Sondheim song ‘No One Is Alive While I’m Around’. We held our breath through the beautiful ‘And So It Goes’ and ‘Mother Glasgow’ – thank you for the cheat sheet! And we were on the edge of our seats through Rufus Wainright’s ‘Dinner at Eight’ – a hauntingly beautiful memorial of family life, brimming with raw emotion.

Naturally, a condom commercial jingle and a Robbie Burns style letter to Donald Trump were necessary to lighten the mood. Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs is riddled with hilarious showbiz anecdotes that are delivered with panache, and his cheeky giggle is delightfully mischievous.

The talented Lance Horne, musical director and pianist extraordinaire, was accompanied onstage by cello and drums. This ensemble created a lovely, soulful expression, however they lacked depth in the more boisterous numbers. In a sold out venue like Her Majesty’s Theatre, a more full sound would have heightened the musical experience, but this minor detractor was easily overcome by Cumming’s showmanship and emotional investment.

Unfortunately for South Australian audiences, Alan was in Adelaide for just two shows. Thankfully, those who attended the sold out Her Majesty’s Theatre were treated to something special. Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs is now travelling to Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne so, interstate friends, get on that!