The arrangements are catchy, the performance energetic and endearing, and the entire show feels positive and hopeful. Tim has a lot to feel positive about with two films awaiting release and a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for Best Cabaret and he seemed to relish all his stage time.
Tim DraxlCivic Hotel Cabaret Dining Room, 388 Pitt Street Sydney
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
There are some psychiatrists who are trying to have ‘extreme bitterness’ included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, presumably so it can be medicated. The medical community need look no further for an antidote to this malady than Tim Draxl’s cabaret Still Under the Influence. The arrangements are catchy and the performance energetic and endearing and the entire show feels positive and hopeful. Tim has a lot to feel positive about with two films awaiting release and a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for Best Cabaret and he seemed to relish all his stage time. There were some stand out standards like Summertime and some beautiful more obscure songs from the likes of Rosie Thomas. I have no beef with Tim Draxl or the show he has put together. It is a wonderful thing to sit in the beautiful Cabaret Dining Room and sip a nice local red while watching this seasoned performer. The only issue I may have is with our interpretation of the form of cabaret in this country. The songs were beautiful and the linking monologues about places and people peaked much interest and this is my point – I wanted to know more. Tim’s story of his Grandmother was emotional and poignant and at other times he hinted at things he had learned about love and life but this is where the information stopped. I am not advocating cabaret as confessional but rather that the show is seen as a whole, that the linking monologues are detailed and well structured and not merely a two sentence introduction to a song. This would create a full theatrical experience and separate the genre of cabaret from just a great night of music. Tim has the talent and presence to be a true triple threat performer and has proved his chops in the world of acting – so it would be nice to be taken on a fully theatrical ride. I recommend all see this show because it is a great night out and the more this form of theatre is supported the more it will continue to grow and the more I am able to go out, sit in a charming venue and sip red wine while watching a great show.
Bookings: www.moshtix.com.au or 1300 GET TIX (438 849)
Until 23 January, 2010