Scottish jazz singer Pam Lawson is joined by pianist Tom Finlay and double-bassist Ed Kelly for a musical celebration of the infamous partnership that was Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
Inspired by the Astaire and Rogers musicals, the setlist begins where they did, with 'Flying Down to Rio', before proceeding to pick out musical favourites chronologically from throughout their glittering Hollywood career. In between these crowd-pleasing numbers are little titbits of the history of Fred and Ginger.
Lawson's love for the songs is obvious and she is an endearing and driving force throughout. The audience enjoyed listening to her soft, lilting Scottish tones as she spoke of her passion for the pair, and were easily carried along by her pleasant, jazzy voice. Finlay's piano playing is admirably light-fingered and jazzy, calling to mind piano bars in old black and white movies, while Kelly's bass adds a cool, relaxed feel to the proceedings.
'Night and Day' was a particular highlight, with the trio succeeding in creating an intimate jazz club feel in the basement of the Apex International Hotel. Lawson is clearly well-versed in the art of stage presence, looking utterly comfortable throughout. She makes eye contact with all members of the audience, drawing them into the glittering sonic world she is recreating.
There are, naturally, a few tap dancing moments, although Lawson herself admits that she is no dancer. Despite her self-deprecating protests, those four months of dance classes have evidently paid off and the interludes make a nice addition to the show.
In this performance there were occasional word slips and sadly a few intonation issues, but for the most part the trio were impeccable and light-hearted. This show is highly recommended for all who know and love the films from which the songs derive, but younger audiences who have not been touched by the artistry of Astaire or Ginger's glittery garb might find their minds wandering.
