Raw Comedy

In the show: Raw Comedy 2012

Saturday 3 March 2012

Tickets

All tickets $20 on the door

Doors open 8pm

Deborah Conway

In the show: Half Man Half Woman

Saturday 24 March 2012

Featuring Willy Zygier on stringed instruments and vocals, Shannon Birchall (John Butler Trio) on double bass and Ben Hendry on drums.

It’s 2012 & Conway & Zygier continue to explore the breadth of sound that can be extracted from acoustic instruments and vocals. The sound is endlessly inventive within the bounds of real. The songs are about the stuff that makes 50 somethings furious, miserable, wistful, amused, curious and even occasionally happy. The albums keep coming; expect another one sooner than later. In the meantime catch them performing songs from the last and the one before and quite a few before that too, alongside some previews of yet to be released work.

A review:

Right from the beginning this talented musical duo, performing together with drummer and double bass player, generate a powerful energy that both leaves the audience breathless and gives them the space to enjoy song-by-song their new album, Half Man Half Woman. This latest disc is a collection of twelve songs that speak about life, love and the human condition with touching honesty and a good dose of humour.

Conway’s formidable voice takes centre stage; throughout the show it is fascinating to see the dynamic between her and Zygier. Zygier has a peaceful presence while Conway is more extroverted. The four musicians show their skill and accomplishment, effortlessly shifting from high energy numbers such as Take Pity on the Beast to beautiful melodic pieces such as Lying Next To You.

Another stand out point that contributes to the theatre of the whole experience is the vast array of instruments on stage. Zygier and Conway between them play several different acoustic guitars, a steel guitar, a ukulele and a mandolin. The music is exceptional but what makes the night even more special is Conway’s comic ability as a storyteller and her band members’ reactions to each account. All of these elements make for a fabulous night.

The CD Half Man Half Woman is Conway and Zygier’s first release in six years and has twelve new tracks. As if these amazing songs were not enough, the CD comes with the special gift of a colourful pop-up orchid. A little bit funny, perhaps slightly quirky but definitely beautiful, much like Conway herself

Tickets

$38 over the bar

$40 over the phone: 02 6247 7753