Producer: Courteney Mayall
Host: Nick Wilkinson
Pianist: Nick Braae
Venue: The Meteor, 31 October 2020
The People You Know showcase is a variation on an initiative seen in both Christchurch and Dunedin. Local singers get together and perform a song of their choice from a specific theme. With the inaugural People You Know performance occurring on Halloween, the theme was an obvious choice and the event was named Spooky Songs.
Revered and established performer and director Nick Wilkinson was the host for the evening and did not have to work hard to warm up a receptive and convivial crowd. Dr Nick Braae accompanied all the vocalists magnificently on the piano, easily shifting between the differing musical styles.
There was a mix of well-known and much-loved local performers along with newcomers. Helen Drysdale-Dunn’s rendition of Poor Unfortunate Souls from The Little Mermaid was a highlight as was Alex Pelham-Waerea’s Defying Gravity and Benny Marama's hilarious Sugar Daddy. Wilkinson put the younger vocalists at ease and maintained amusing banter with those he has worked with over the years.
Spooky Songs was much like attending an open mic night, but without the cringe factor. Every vocalist’s performance was met with rapturous applause. The crowd also appreciated the opportunity to mingle with the performers at the close.
The most credit goes to producer Courteney Mayall who brought the concept to Hamilton. Mayall should be thrilled with the turnout and reception from the audience. She has filled a gap in the market, that of light-hearted entertainment in a short format.
The next showcase is in November and has a comedy theme. Keep an eye on the People You Know Facebook page for details.
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