Dangerous Game

Dangerous Game is an espionage and spy themed cabaret for Ace’s Cabaret and Fringe World, featuring vocalist Catherine Clarnette and eight fabulous musicians.

James Bond would feel very at home Downstairs at the Maj, which has a lovely touch of Bond-like sophistication with its cabaret setting. Catherine Clarnette looks every bit the Bond-girl in her copper-pink sparked evening gown - in front of the beautifully attired band.

The song line-up includes expected favourites including From Russia with Love and SkyFall as well as obscure spy-themed numbers from lesser known spy films and songs written for but not included in Bond movies. A highlight is Catherine’s own song Dangerous Game, which lends its name to the show. Catherine Clarnette has a lovely voice and leads the show well - although I’d love to know more about her and see her personality shine. Some of the most endearing moments were her unscripted throwaway responses - would love to have seen more of that.

Clarnette is also responsible for the musical arrangement. These numbers were almost all originally written for full orchestras, but sound great with this nine-piece ensemble.

Instrumentally very strong, Dangerous Game features the talents of Tristan Wills on keys, guitarist Jackson Venables, bassist Joe Southwell, Drummer Jasper Emmitt Miller, trumpeter Matthew McGlynn, cellist Sophie Parkinson-Stewart and violinists Jasmin Parkinson-Stewart and Christina Maughan. The sound is full and strong.

Dangerous Game is a great way to start an evening. Enjoy your Martini (shaken not stirred) and some very moving music in a lovely atmosphere.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Stu Mckay

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