If there was an award for the most under-recognised and under-appreciated cabaret talent in Australia, Geraldine Quinn would have to top my nominations. For a decade, she’s been writing and performing slick musical comedy shows that always leave their audiences satisfied, and MDMA: Modern Day Maiden Aunt is another fine example of the genre.
In this show Quinn turns her talents to producing songs about the issues and attitudes that become a part of your daily life when you’re female and reach a certain age (be it 25 or 45) without having completed the expected coupling and spawning scenario. The lyrics are biting and hilarious, the tunes hint to great songs of the 70s and 80s while still being original, the banter between songs is honest and funny and, above all, Quinn’s voice is enthralling. Able to belt out an anthem but also inject emotion and purity into more delicate arrangements, she never hits a bad note. She is a remarkable performer, in the true sense of the word.
While the humour at fighting against society’s expectations at every turn is a major part of the show, this is balanced by the genuine love that Quinn has for, and amusement she gets from, her 19 nieces and nephews. This shouldn’t be seen as a show for a specific demographic, it’s got much wider appeal. There was not a disappointed face to be seen following the performance, but rather an overwhelming and mutual feeling that this is one of the hit shows to see at this year’s festival.
Kryztoff Rating: 5K
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