Reviewed by: Weekend Notes
Review by Fatema Sitabkhan | 10 March 2023

It is no surprise that Gospo Collective has returned to the Adelaide Fringe festival this season, given their reputation of being one of the top-tier quality performances and impressive vocals that unfold on stage.

Kicking off the show, we have Charmaine Jones who leads the five-piece band, 60 choir group, and nine lead vocalists on stage, as audiences are treated to a nostalgic run of hits by the timeless talent of the late Whitney Houston. Throughout the 60-minute performance, audiences go through a wave of upbeat and poignant song choices, which are enhanced by the synchronised choreography, dazzling costume changes, and brilliant lights that illuminate the stage to create a memorable spectacle for everyone in the open-air performance space.

There is not a single break in between songs, as the performers power on and cycle through the best of Whitney and maintain a strong tune and composure, resulting in the audience being left in a state of awe. This is so much more than a show, it is an experience that will make you feel the raw and vulnerable aspects of Whitney's career and personal life and bring you closer to her divine presence that lives on through her music, and that the crew from Gospo Collective has eloquently captured with their authentic twist on it.

You will not be able to help yourselves, as you clap to, get up and dance, and sing along with the greatest hits that are performed on stage, which include I Wanna Dance with Somebody, The Greatest Love of All, and How Will I Know. While Charmaine leads the performance, the other vocalists and performers have an equal moment to shine, as they bring down the house with an impeccable vocal range that needs to be heard to be believed. Prepare to experience periods of goosebumps, shivers down your spine, and even a tearful moment (or two) of joy, as the performance leaves you feeling a sense of spiritual awakening and rejuvenated energy.