Michael Griffith – Greatest Hits – The Queens – The Chamber
Review Saturday 20/02/2021

Looking like the wrapper of an unopened chocolate bar, Michael introduced himself off stage and appeared in a well-tailored silver jacket.
The enthusiastic audience were treated to an hour of why Griffith is one of our cabaret shining lights. Skillful on the piano with his groovy bass player (she swayed and danced all night while playing) and the backbone drummer, Michael led us through some, but not all of his (covers) greatest hits.

There were so many hits and sadly so little time. In the show which marks 10 years since his launch into the world of cabaret in Adelaide, Michael found time for Madonna, Spandau Ballet, Aha, Culture Club and many more.

The audience were trained throughout the show and finally got it right in the acapella version of “Stand By Me” where they became the bass line to Griffith’s melody.
The mid tones of his voice are like velvet and this reviewer would like to have heard just one ballad but understood the need for him to keep the energy levels high.

With nearly a full house of about 200 over 50’s in one of Adelaide’s oldest theatres, “The Queens”, he played the Pied Piper of Cabaret with honed skills that have taken him all of his self declared 46 years to perfect.

He led the audience through decades of his favourite tunes including Kylie’s version of the Carole King/Gerry Goffin penned “Locomotion”.
The encore and highlight for this reviewer was the 1976 Peter Allen/Carole Bayer Sager – Don’t Cry Out Loud. It reminded one of Griffiths vocal prowess and his ability to interpret lyrics from the heart.

Remembering to thank his Mum and Dad, Michael’s class and manner endeared himself to the crowd even more if that was possible.

When I unwrap my chocolate bar at home, I will think of the texture, sound and tasteful performance from Michael Griffith, and I will be satisfied like the audience that my senses have been truly entertained.

Griffith is a modern-day version of a real cabaret star. He could be on Broadway, but he is ours and we will keep him thank you very much.
This was the second of only 3 shows in the season. The last one is tonight at 4.45 p.m. at the Queens Theatre. Grab a ticket before he jumps on a plane to the next show.

Book at https://adelaidefringe.com.au/.../michael-griffiths...

A very, very entertaining and fast paced one hour show with Michael Griffiths, Cabaret Master.
***** 5 stars
     
Reviewer – Stephen Foenander for Adelaide Review Team (ART)
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