Bouffe! – Redblonde Productions

Don’t let the informality fool you, Stephen Plaice’s brilliant tale of the louche world of the Théâtre des Bouffe in 2nd Empire Paris enjoys the highest standards of performance and musicality. Top quality singers Lila Palmer (soprano), Jon Grave (tenor), Red Gray (soprano) and Marcia Bellamy (mezzo) relate the jolly yet poignant tale of a first-class courtesan, Hortense Schneider. Their delightful selection of songs by Offenbach, Donizetti and Martini are supported in grand style by Julian Broughton (piano) and Ellie Blackshaw (violin) who also provide expert cabaret beforehand. Sophisticated, charming and fun, a Parisian confection that’s not to be missed!

Church of the Annunciation, Washington Street, 2 June 2016

Rating: