Almost Home

Even before the show starts, you know you’re in safe hands when two things happen; a well-priced beer appears on the table before you, and Bev Kennedy walks across the stage and sits at the piano.

To kick off Mardi Gras, Almost Homeis a cabaret celebrating the life of gay icon Judy Garland as told from the perspective of her last husband Micky Deans. The one-man show is performed and written by Daniel Downing. Judy fans and new-to-Judy’s alike can get a lot out of the journey Daniel has crafted. Downing seems to have tackled Garland’s rich story - her career and love-life- with a great sense of pace and insight.

His writing prowess aside, Daniel Downing is, first and foremost, a singer. There is no doubt his voice can delight his audience. Having researched Downing before stepping into Foundry 616, I am acutely aware of this talent. It was therefore a vague disappointment that the cabaret failed to showcase Downing’s strength and range, because this is in fact a voice worth listening for. Perhaps accommodating for the dinner with a show environment, it felt as though there was a general ‘wash’of Garland’s songs; a very pleasant experience but lacking in variation. Of course, some moments stuck out: Downing’s tender rendition of “Smile”is touching and worthy of goose-bumps.

Downing’s portrayal of the character of Mickey Deans, albeit a little camp, was captivating and well designed. Having Garland’s story told through these eyes allowed fans a more intimate account. Downing’s effort in researching Garland’s life is apparent, and I believe most in the audience would have found themselves surprised by little-known aspects of her existence.

The show is only enjoying a three-night long run so you may have missed the opportunity to see Downing in this context and as this intriguing character. All that needs to be said, then, is that Daniel Downing is a talent to look out for in the future. While Almost Homedidn’t quite hit the mark, it was a good taste for what Downing is capable.

Sally Alrich-Smythe