The Peter Allen Show

The Peter Allen Show at Pip Theatre’s Toucan Club Cabaret & Live Arts Festival is a dazzling celebration of one of Australia’s most beloved entertainers. Performed by Brisbane locals Simon Chamberlain, Maureen Bowra, and Rebel Bliss, the show features a cabaret style mix of Allen’s iconic hits and lesser-known gems, interspersed with engaging banter – some scripted and some off the cuff. Packed with sequins, maracas, and flamboyant flair, it’s a nostalgic journey through Allen’s music, without resorting to strict biography or caricature.

The set design is effective, with digital projections perfectly setting the era and theme for each song. The choreography is a highlight of the show, while the excellent costumes transport us back to the glitzy, over-the-top fashions of the ‘70s and ‘80s. The dancing is well executed by the talented team, but also superbly funny in its level of retro camp. Chamberlain, Bowra, and Bliss appear to be thoroughly enjoying stepping back in time to when jazz hands and pas de bourrée were considered the height of cool, further enhancing our enjoyment.

Simon Chamberlain leads the show with undeniable charisma, a lovely singing voice, and an outstanding connection with the audience. As the star of the performance, he commands the stage, yet graciously shares the spotlight, allowing his co-stars to shine. Rebel Bliss brings great rhythm, a funky dance style, and a sultry singing voice to the mix, with a flair for comedy and an engaging presence that makes her a standout team player. Maureen Bowra is equally fun and energetic, with a sunny stage presence. Bowra nails the retro aesthetic with her look and dancing. Her exquisite singing voice is especially striking in I Honestly Love You, where she sounds uncannily like Olivia Newton-John.

The few technical hiccups during the show are handled very well by the cast and crew, putting the audience at ease and reinforcing the sense that we are in safe, confident hands. The performers’ affable and humble presence on stage makes for a relaxed and inviting experience, free of pretension or ego.

The Peter Allen Show is a fun, uplifting celebration of a national treasure, leaving its audience both charmed and invigorated. True Peter Allen fans will appreciate the thoughtful song selection, which favours some of his lesser-known tracks, leaving a few iconic hits for the finale. The performers’ joy throughout the night is infectious, and the audience can’t help but join in singing and dancing by the show’s close. It’s a testament to the enduring magic of Peter Allen’s music, performed with heart and flair by a talented local cast.

Kitty Goodall