A saucy, grand-Belle, tribute show to the great but lesser-known early Bette Midler (c1971) in the beautiful Famous Spiegeltent. Beyond the iconic singer-actor, and comedian, Martin’s opening night, launches an unsuspecting audience into her gracious, but raunchy, rendition of Midler’s early work.
Loud, lively and full of fun, the audience is taken on a biographical journey through the music that started Midler’s career and the story of the New York City Bathhouse with men in towels… “just don’t tell her mum!” On for the next 3 nights as part of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, give Martin a whirl – a true cabaret performer!
This adult show for 16+ is a feel-good celebration of female voice, courage and virtuosity, that shines with humour and not taking herself too seriously. Martin is a true lover of Midler’s song and story, taking the audience on a ride of lesser-known facts of Midler’s early career, connection to the then unknown Barry Manilow, and her early performances and inspiration.
Martin is a serious performer, with a refined stage presence and powerful, moving vocal precision. Martin sold out her 2018 Adelaide Cabaret show Janis: Undead. Her vocal talent continues to echo great divas of the music and stage scene, convincing audiences of her one-women command of a Broadway award-nominated stage show.
Martin’s ability to bring together a rich, mellow, and cantankerous cabaret feel shows on the audience’s smiling faces (in masks). Martin’s rendition of Do you Wanna Dance shows that she is a queen of crescendo; a ‘ballsy broad’ with a wicked vocal command.
Concentrating on Midler’s first 2 albums, The Divine Miss M (1972) and Bette Midler (1973), Martin’s lively performance is supported by her talented men in towels, the illustriously smooth Henry Koperski on piano and the not-to-be-missed eye-candy Lance and Mario (who double as a hilarious changing screen!) are a must see. This is a treat listening to old favourites with new ears and a whole lot of classy fun!
Amber Martin in Bathhouse Bette
The Famous Spiegeltent – Adelaide Festival Centre, King William Street, Adelaide
Performance: Friday 11 June 2021 – 8.15pm
Season continues to 13 June 2021
Bookings: www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au
Following its season in Adelaide, you can catch Amber Martin in Bathhouse Bette at Claire’s Kitchen, Sydney (23 & 24 June); The Naughty Noodle, Ettalong (26 June); and The Tivoli, Brisbane (6 July) with special guest John Cameron Mitchell.
Image: Amber Martin in Bathhouse Bette – photo by John Huntington
Review: Angela Velliaris – courtesy of All About Entertainment – Adelaide Cabaret Festival Reviews