Having missed out the night before because of the rain, I settle in at home with the live link to Black Box Theatre as Gene Phoa took the stage in his debut Fringe show. Set in a cabaret format, Gene tells his story from some years ago when he travelled as an exchange student to Denmark. His personal story is one of unrequited love, recounting awkward moments of self-discovery as, in retrospect, he faces up to truths of what brought him into a series of frustrating events for him as a young exchange student, learning that just because you want to kiss a girl, she doesn't owe you anything. 
 
The strength of this show is Gene's music, which is capable of standing alone to tell the stories. This guy has a strong future ahead as a music writer, with gentle chord structures and melodies that help his lyrics shine. 
 
Gene was joined on stage by local singer, Courtney Hooper for a couple of duets, playing the role of Winter, although most of the story-telling where Winter was present  involved Gene taking on Winter's voice himself, including her German accent, as he recounted his experiences. 
 
For a younger audience there are plenty of relatable moments of angst, but for anyone else coming along on the journey, it's the music that will win you over. 

Have a listen to my chat with Gene on That Entertainment Podcast in the lead-up to his Adelaide Fringe Festival debut.