A solid cabaret format performance from Amity Dry and Jamie Burgess who were both clad in army camouflage. Amity, leggy in a short Safari suit with detachable webbing detail paired with wicked black boots. Jamie looked buff and beautiful in his singlet sitting at the keyboard. He was a sensitive and soulful player who emanated personal warmth.
Amity was pretty and predominantly strong and somewhat imposing but at times also presented as powerless. The military theme of conflict and combat was applied to a domestic relationship with an implied power imbalance.
Songs were originals by Amity with one written by Jamie. Their message was one of non violence against women. The song parodying the desperate Tinder dating scene was spot on with its satirical attack.
There was a lot of soliloquy and song packed into one hour. Overall, the performance was effective in getting across the anti violence and empowerment message. My one criticism would be that the show would benefit from some variation in the delivery of the songs. Tonal texture and contrast would bring more balance.
Fortified
Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm
Performance: Friday 22 November 2019 – 9.30pm
Season continues to 24 November 2019
Information and Bookings: www.brisbanepowerhouse.org
Image: Amity Dry with Jamie Burgess (keyboard) in Fortified (supplied)
Review: Michele-Rose Boylan