(seen at the afternoon performance on 20th March 2022)
Sometimes, on a Sunday afternoon, you just want to relax in the company of friends. Maria Friedman’s show fits that bill perfectly.
Friedman has the knack of bringing people together. Not only does she introduce us to her beloved Hamlisch, Legrand and Sondheim as if they are still in the room, she has also the knack of performing with rather than to her audience.
A three-piece band of pianist, double bass and drums, a few chairs and a weekly rotation of aspiring performers in her “Royal Academy Of Music Choir” augment herself, her son and three other singers to share songs and stories from Friedman’s remarkable career.
The lady herself thrills with “Sunday In The Park With George” (the first time the monkey has heard her sing it since it attended the Lyttelton Theatre press night more years ago than it wants to think about). “Losing My Mind” is heart-felt, “Being Alive” a counterpoint celebration.
No solo show, the entertainment makes use of everybody involved. With Matthew White the comedy of “A Little Priest” plays out – the monkey on the front row considered a butler, make of that what you will. As a choral, “The Windmills of Your Mind” arranged by Theo Jamieson is another unusual highlight. Even double bass player Paul Moylan gets in on the act with Ian McLarnon on "Buddy's Blues."
Thrillingly, the choir sing “I Hope I Get It” – the thought they will have most of their professional lives, and there are a good few who will. Friedman follows that “A Chorus Line” classic with a personalised “Nothing” to which these trainees may also relate.
Also newcomers, son Alfie Friedman and Indonesian Desmonda Cathabel play well together in “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” both given other opportunities to shine as the show continues. Friedman is a young Dexter Fletcher with comic timing. Cathabel, once trained, should be seen for “Christine” as soon as possible.
The song choices change daily, so every show is fresh, and many will want to see it several times. Kicking off her shoes to reveal laddered holed tights demonstrates just how laid back Friedman wants us all to be – the final singalong “Merrily We Roll Along” summing up how audiences should feel after a couple of hours in this splendid company.
Extended by popular demand until 17th April 2022 at the Menier Chocolate Factory, don’t miss it.
4 stars.