Perth Reviews

There was magic in the air last evening at a new performing space deep in the bowels of His Majesty's Theatre.

The occasion was the launch of a new Fringe Festival Show, Adore Händel's Little Black Book, a one-man show by talented actor and singer, Luke Bell.

The show was a whimsical drag concoction which transported the audience to the 17th century. Beautifully clad in a courtly ensemble of satin and lace, exquisitely made up and sporting a fabulous, towering wig, Adore beguiled the audience with anecdotes from his little black book.

The major prop was a large velum book mounted on a stand through which he paged idly as a reference to multiple liaisons dangeruese with many partners. There was also a telephone, a constant link to Peter, an ex paramour.

The modest crowd responded to these anecdotes with laughter, verve and alacrity. The small theatre space added to the intimate ambiance. Interestingly the audience was largely female, a surprise to me as I expected a preponderance of gay males.

Mention must be made of Adore's singing voice. It was superb. He is a classically trained barritone and the songs he chose to include were familiars such as I've Got A Little List, the Gilbert and Sullivan classic but with the lyrics cleverly reworded. There was Jolene (unabridged) which prompted an audience sing along and the delightful Masochism Tango.

This is an outstanding performance in an excellent Fringe programme.