Reviews

At the completion of last night’s program, Xavier de Maistre quipped at how incongruous it was playing “Winter” in Summer as a reference to Brisbane’s currently sticky heat. But the piece, which comes from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons”, was one of the highlights of Vivaldi’s Venice, a concert of baroque music by Venetian composers with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and guest artist French harp poster-boy Xavier de Maistre.

One thing I learned about this fast-paced, 60-minute, highly interactive show is not to put your hand up and answer questions. Such is the nature of late night comedy on the topic of relationships, mating and the depressing facts of divorce. Whatever you do, do not offer advice on the secrets of a long relationship, or you become part of this zany show.

When you are saluting a band as well-known as Pink Floyd, you are setting yourself up for some harsh criticism from ardent fans, but for the most part this line-up does a fabulous job bringing to life a back catalogue of hits.

With over 1200 acts performing at this year’s Fringe it can be difficult to narrow down choices. Performing arts company Motley and Mac make it easier, by presenting Fringe Variety. It is a fantastic way of experiencing several genres in the one tent. Artists are not named below as they change from show to show.

On the night I attended it was pouring with rain, but this did not stop the crowds or dampen the enthusiasm of this show’s audience.