Black Is The Color Of My Voice

Apphia Campbell both wrote and starred in this brilliant one-woman show, playing and singing Nina Simone in a breathlessly moving, funny and human manner. Aside from having a superb, soulful voice (surely a prerequisite when emulating one of music’s most memorable), Campbell exuded real charisma and charm too, commanding the stage staggeringly well. She also nailed the more emotional moments, such as recounting her experiences with an abusive husband, gripping the audience while avoiding any cloying hint of melodrama. The performance elicited a standing ovation from the sold-out crowd, but just misses out on five stars here due to a slightly underwhelming finale. Campbell might have a classic in the making however, with a little narrative polishing.

The Old Market, 28 May 2015

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