Review – Absolutely AUCSome II
Absolutely AUCSome II is this year’s Fringe offering by the Adelaide University Choral Society, held cabaret style at Christ Church North Adelaide. This well harmonized group display their exceptional vocal range and skill under the auspices of their conductor, Timothy Marks, whose arrangements are interesting and varied. With such evident skill and after sold out shows last year it is not surprising that once again the show’s two performances are sold out.
Absolutely AUCSome is definitely a novelty in that it is an event most of the younger demographic would pass by without consideration; however, the audience boasted a wide selection of ages. This is probably because the organisers have worked incredibly hard to make it as appealing as possible. Beyond the eclectic repertoire, which included Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” and Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, the conductor also provided funny anecdotes and interesting facts about the song or its original artist. This commentary was generally highly amusing and served to break up the flow of the night. The audience was also encouraged to participate: not directly, but by the sheer enthusiasm displayed by the majority of the performers. As the night was working towards its crescendo the untapped energy of the audience began to become uncontainable, so much so that even the sixty-year-olds rocked out to the last song, Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky”.
The Adelaide University Choral Society is exceedingly well supported by a four piece rock band, whose musical ability is evident even to those with a limited knowledge of music. In particular Peter Johns on piano and Max Garacia-Underwood on acoustic and electric guitar both shone throughout the evening – especially during the rendition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. Overall the success of the band enhanced that of the choir rather than stealing the limelight, as is often the case with good-looking bands.
As intergenerational event go, Absolutely AUCSome II was well worth the ticket price and far exceeded expectations.
