After having been a witness to ‘Not Another Indie Cabaret‘, a festival goer will no doubt come away impressed with the different ways the title of the show could be interpreted. In one way, there are many shows that already fit into a niche style of performance, and in another sense there are those that do not want to. Here is a show that illuminates that conundrum, and explores it with pure delight.

There is a real sense of parody, but also celebration, of the of what could potentially be portrayed as the style and expectation of an ‘indie’ performance, especially in essence of the Melbourne Fringe Festival. This is a remarkable facet of the show, in that by adhering and playing to this theme in such creative ways (and the wonderful inclusion of colourful props and a wide array of musical instruments), the performance ends up successfully balancing variety, comedy, and insights. Ultimately ‘Not Another Indie Cabaret’ delivers a hit that is engaging, instantly receptive, and certainly entertaining.

This summary does not, however, fully signify the talented powerhouse that is the creator behind this clever piece. Jessemae St James has a smooth and enticing command with her performance style, and then knocks it out of the park with such a tremendous voice. Her vocal talent is exemplified by her ease of use with a loop box, creating musical soundscapes that are both beautiful to listen to, and entertainingly accurate to the theme, that they land brilliantly with a comical flair. Even the most ‘traditional’ and straight-laced theatre goer would have trouble disagreeing that a particular vocal arrangement three-quarters of the way through the show requires a voice and a creative ear that is professionally honed.

There is certainly not another show that is comparable to this creative foray, so make sure you get a chance during the short run to interpret its title for yourself, and conclude, undoubtedly, that it is certainly something wonderfully different.

– Corey
Corey M. Glamuzina is a Melbourne-based actor, writer, improvisor and comedian with an avid involvement in the art of theatre and film.

‘Not Another Indie Cabaret’ runs 20-25 September, 8.30pm (50mins) at The Butterfly Club, Downstairs.
The venue is not accessible.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of Jessemae St James.
Image credit: Melbourne Fringe.