MUSIC

Presented by Catherine Summers 

Rectangle Room 

Review by Peri Watson

Get whisked away to the roaring ‘20s and into the grandeur of Gatsby’s mansion through the magic of classic jazz, courtesy of Cathrine Summers and her four-piece band.

The European Cotton Club’s jazz numbers range from Beyoncé to Cole Porter, and combine the majesty of 1920’s jazz with the edge of modern tracks. Catherine Summers – British-born Australian citizen – sings not only with dulcet tones, but in Italian, Spanish and French. Her band, consisting of a drummer, double bassist, pianist and a saxophonist/clarinetist accompany Summers beautifully and project the nostalgia and golden-age of century-old Parisian jazz.

With incredible vocal range, tender sense of comedy and comforting stage presence, it is as if the audience has known her for years. Summers provides two hours of engaging jazz sets. Whether you’re into bebop or Adele, this show is sure to get those toes tapping and your desire to visit France flaring up.

One of Summers’ major influences is Cole Porter, who once said, “I wanted every kind of love that was available, but I could never find them in the same person.” Yet in the beautiful and talented Cotton Club singer, all these forms of love seem to coalesce.

European Cotton Club – A Great Gatsby Experience! is showing on the next two Saturdays of the Fringe Festival, on the 13th and 20th of February in Midlandia. For more information and booking, visit www.fringeworld.com.au