It’s a bold move to come to Adelaide and talk about doing away with tradition, particularly in classical music, but Karen Hall does just that in a show full of comedy, musicality and poignancy. As every musician knows, the half hour before show-time is for yapping and scoffing dinner; Hall invites her audience into this sacred slot. She lists her extensive accolades and allows us to get comfortable. She then slowly uncovers the delusions that accompany the dedication it takes to hone one’s ability as a classical musician, and boy, is it a bumpy ride.

Hall’s ability as a cellist is never in question: she performs a beautiful rendition of Bach’s Suite No. 1, stopping between movements to add to the story. Her cello tone is subtle and playful (in complete contrast to the lunacy that follows). There are a few moments where the show lacks flow, jumping from crowd work to performance, which makes understanding the emotion of the narrative difficult. However, the vulnerability that Hall displays about her craft, and a story that’s rarely divulged, is admirable.