Any paw-parent knows that dogs are the best. If we could just tell them how awesome they are so they could understand. Carla Anita Mattiazzo is aiming to do just that in her new cabaret show, where dogs are better than humans and she’s going to make sure she sings about it.

Mattiazzo is an experienced performer hailing from Adelaide, but having travelled the world. Her Italian heritage is a core part of her personality (as seen by previous cabaret outings) and adds to the humour she infuses in her act. But it is her love of her doggos that is the heart of this particular piece. Whether it’s Missy, or Charlie, or Alfie, or Max, or April, each of these dogs have made an impact on Mattiazzo’s life – but she won’t limit herself to just these loved ones, any dog will be adored.

This musical trip through the life of dogs includes variations on songs to include ideas of walks, tapping toes on tiles and the love that runs deep between a dog, its siblings (if they’re lucky) and their owner. The AV presentation accompanying Mattiazzo’s banter is full of cute puppy faces and tugs at the heart strings throughout. The shout-out to adoption agencies and the benefits of rescuing a dog is a nice touch.

Mattizzo has a great voice for cabaret, singing a range of pop hits with ease, a great soundtrack to accompany a wine in the spectacular atmosphere of the Plant 4 Bowden venue. These musical moments are well supported by her Dazzling Dogs band, led by Ciara Ferguson (MD/Keys), Michael Hutchison (Drums) and Spiro Kolovos (Double Bass). Each muso also goes beyond their instrument, whether providing backup vocals for Ferguson, or puppeteering skills in Hutchison and Kolovos.

The script is a little stilted and disjointed and could use some finesse to increase the pace and humour, but Mattiazzo is endearing in her connection with the crowd. A children’s puppet story sets a tone that jars the audience when it moves into the darker moments of the show. Anyone who has lost their doggo friend can’t help but be dragged through that trauma again through the eyes of Mattizzo’s own experiences… perhaps bring the tissues and treat it as a cathartic moment? Some additional dramaturgy with director Vince Fusco would help smooth these transitions for a more holistic presentation.

This cabaret is mostly fun and entertaining for audiences of all ages. A good pre-show palate cleanser for a night out at the Fringe.