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Canberra Today 17°/20° | Friday, March 29, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Swing band hits the spot

[box]MUSIC
“In the Mood”
String of Pearls Orchestra, Canberra Theatre, September 29.
Reviewed by Ian McLean [/box]

WITH a mispitch, brass untunefulness and a sloppy military-like band entrance, I feared this show might prove to be over-hyped.

Thankfully, my fears were unfounded. Unashamedly nostalgic, this slick, tightly rehearsed and entertaining American production was just the job for a jam-packed theatre keen to relive the days of the big bands. The audience loved it!

A first half devoted to the ‘40s then a heart-tugging tribute to the music of World War II and how it drew the American people together.

Australia was not forgotten with a stirring “Waltzing Matilda” interwoven with the “Star Spangled Banner” and an invitation for service veterans to stand and be acknowledged.

It wasn’t the String of Pearls Orchestra that dominated the show, but rather the marvellous, six-piece In the Mood Singers and Dancers who crooned wonderfully, moved gracefully, captured tight harmonies and generally charmed the socks off everyone.

Singer/compere Mark Brignone was a perfect host, while the swing dancers were mesmerising as they glided through complicated routines.

After the slightly dodgy start, the crisp, well-balanced band replicated the sound of the era just about perfectly and the solos, particularly those of trombonist and drummer, received deserved prolonged applause.

Initial misgivings disappeared quickly and I really enjoyed this highly professional and cleverly presented show.

A touch of jealously, though; why can’t Canberra’s fine professional and community big bands and the outstanding Jumptown swing dancers draw such crowds?

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Thank you,

Ian Meikle, editor

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