Anime ‘n’ Chill – a Piano Concert ★★★★

Russian born Australia based classically trained pianist Natalya Aynsley of “Natalya Plays Piano” is back at the Adelaide Fringe Festival this year with a delightful offering for anime fans and piano lovers alike! 

As you enter Nexus Arts at the Lion Arts Centre, there is all but a piano on stage and a few anime figurines placed on the piano. It is an intimate performance of Natalya’s stories and experiences all to the soundtrack of anime music. 

It is clear that Natalya is a true anime fan, and this is something that she has enjoyed throughout her life. Prior to each song she gives the audience some insight into why she choose it to be included in her set list and what the anime it is from is about. 

We experience music from some of the more well-known anime such as Sailor Moon (Natalya’s favourite anime!), Pokemon, Spited Away and Naruto. We also get to experience music from some lesser known anime, making it a show for true fans. 

While you may not know all the songs, you can still marvel in the musicianship and story-telling of Natalya. Her storytelling, honesty and ability to connect with her audience make for a moving show. 

We learn throughout the course of the show that Natalya recently lost one of her cats who also stars in many of her YouTube videos, as well as her partner Brad who passed away in January in a motorcycle accident. She dedicates her final song to him – ‘The Name of Life’ from Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, reducing most of the audience to tears in a moving performance.

If you an avid anime fan you won’t want to miss this concert. Settle in for some piano ‘n’ chill with Natalya, and enjoy the journey she will take you on.