Divas: Live at Le Monde Review
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre & Tonic
Since their debut at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe, Big Band Does Productions’ have brought new life to the Edinburgh theatre scene by showcasing incredible local talent in a series of cabaret-style shows. This spring, the Divas are back in a series of charity concerts to support Maggie’s cancer centre, opening with this weekend's Divas: Live at Le Monde.
Live At Le Monde showcased the vocal prowess of our five divas- Dannielle Logan, Sarah Innes, Jennifer Kinnear, Colum Findlay and Rachel White. Throughout the two-hour production, we were treated to a glorious setlist spanning numerous decades and genres-from pop to country to musical theatre. Something I really enjoyed about this show was the fact that each performer was given so many opportunities to perform- solos, duets and group numbers. The setlist had been carefully constructed to ensure that everybody could show off their talents with genres and styles that were perfectly tailored to them. Though each solo performance was beautiful in its own way, my personal stand outs were Dannielle Logan’s stunning performance of “Me and the Sky” from Broadway’s Come From Away; Colum’s beautifully intimate rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”; Jennifer Kinnear’s empowering “Before He Cheats”, Sarah Innes’ stunning version of “My Man”; and finally, Rachel White’s delightful rendition of Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” which had the whole audience with their torches in the air.
Though every solo was incredible in its own way, the soaring harmonies and camaraderie between our divas shone through in the group numbers. The Adele medley was a true vocal showcase, and the cast truly exuded joy during the act one finale- Dolly Parton’s “Better Get to Livin’”. The whole setlist was truly wonderful to witness. The musical direction and arrangement by Maddie Baron and Jonnie Grant was tasteful and classy; and Scott Coltman’s direction tied the show together perfectly.
When I reviewed Divas at the Fringe last August, I noted that the one small change I would make would be to have some more conversation throughout the night. Something I really enjoyed about Live at Le Monde was how there were several points throughout the night in which our host, Colum Findlay, told the audience about Maggie’s- their history, and the work they do today. I know that many people in the audience have personally benefitted from the services Maggie’s provide (myself included); but for anybody who has not, it is important to drive home just how crucial it is to support the work that the Maggie’s team does.
Le Monde is truly a perfect venue for this show. The glamorous backdrop oozes sophistication, but the show still feels personal and intimate. It’s so exciting to see Divas having a life beyond the Edinburgh Fringe, and their charity partnership with Maggie’s is something I hope continues for a long time beyond this spring concert series. If you’re seeking a sophisticated and glamorous night of talented performers and iconic songs, Divas is the show to see.
Divas will be performing Mic’d Up For Maggie’s on April 7th and Miscast for Maggie’s on May 24th and 25th.
★★★★★
