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PRIDE LONDON 2010

Thu 18 Feb, 2010
By Robert Ingham

From the moment you look at the simple set, where the wings are visible and a single purple sheet drapes the back wall, you are drawn into a smoky bar waiting for the singer to arrive,

Queen Trumps Jack - Megan Mullally & Supreme Music Program

Megan Mullally & Supreme Music Program has descended onto the Vaudeville Theatre, the first time the lady from Will & Grace and her posse have performed outside of the United States. With a mixture of alternative jazz, rhythm n blues and swing, this songstress proves that she has more talents than meets the eye. Not only does she command the stage, she also has an infectious, almost child-like presence that forces you to take note.

From the moment you look at the simple set, where the wings are visible and a single purple sheet drapes the back wall, you are drawn into a smoky bar waiting for the singer to arrive, gin in one hand, ready to hear her belt out a husky bluesy number.

Then Megan arrives, launching into a rendition of Lazy River, her sweet voice evoking exactly what you are expecting. Minus the drink.

As the first act unfolds the performance energy increases, culminating in a show-stopping finale. It is fair to say that Megan seems unsteady at the start, as if unsure of the task ahead and finishes two numbers before connecting with the audience. It’s almost as if she is jamming with her band and then realises the audience are there. However, when she connects she does so with warm and very funny anecdotes where you can’t help being swept away by wispy vocals and mesmerising songs. “Wind and Rain” particularly pulls you in with amazing harmonising and it is this song when Megan settles into the evening. From there on in, you are in the hands of a group of accomplished, cheeky and highly passionate musicians, taking you on a journey through heartache, angst, comedy and loss.

Of course, it is not without faults. Sometimes you expect more from a song, like “Wondrous Song” which, after the flawless “Wind and Rain”, feels a little sharp and occasionally Megan’s voice gets lost when she hits the low notes. But only occasionally.

Definitely worth a look in, especially as this only runs until 21st February. However if you are expecting camp then be prepared. This is an evening so far removed from Karen Walker, which works perfectly as it shows you there are more strings to her bow. Filled with outstanding numbers ranging from Sondheim to Nina Simone to the Rolling Stones, the encores alone are completely unexpected and brought the audience to their feet.

My favourite? “I Was Meant For The Stage”. Megan states the song is meant as ironic and tongue in cheek but was sung with such gusto and fervour that if she hadn’t said anything it would have been thought of as heartfelt.

Enjoy an evening full of charm, wit and music which resonates on every level. Absolutely Superb!

Megan Mullally and Supreme Music Program is on until the 21st February at Vaudeville Theatre, 404 The Strand, London, WC2R 0NH.

Check Pinkwire's "Whats on" page for more details.

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