Scotland’s first and foremost LGBT choir returned to the Fringe with a selection of a cappella music which stirred the soul.
In an inspired opening number of Dolly Parton’s '9 to 5', the forty strong choir showcased their excellent four and five piece harmonies. They continued the opening section with 'One Voice', 'Moon River' and 'I'm Yours'. Musical Director Karen Dietz has moulded the strength of the vocalists in such a way it reverberated around the cavernous expanses of the Greyfriars Kirk.
The choir proceeded with a trilogy of Scottish songs, 'O’Gin I were Where Gadie Rins', 'Both Sides of the Tweed' and 'Many Waters'. These songs provided a soulful and emotional sound to balance a programme which sought to showcase love in a world where its often frowned upon.
The choir were joined by their patron Jackie Kay, who delivered a performance of some of her published poetry works alongside poems written especially for the occasion. Some were amusing, 'Maw Broon’s Vagina', for example. However, it is when she read poems written from the heart that there was hushed silence; the audience absorbing the work of someone who can transfer raw human emotion into words that sparkle. What did pull the show down is the feeling that Kay had been given just a bit too much time to fill. One can have too much of good thing.
The choir returned to the stage to bring the show to a close with a traditional New Zealand song 'Pokarekare Ana'. Given that this country has just granted equal marriage rights to LGBT people, it was a timely message.
Following a curtain call, the Choir sent a compassionate message to those LGBT brothers and sisters under the yolk of a devastating new law which will persecute many men and women on the basis of who they love and feel love from. They sent the audience home with the message burned deep, performing 'I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to be Free'. This was a potent message from a beautifully talented choir. It is a shame they performed in the Fringe on a one night only basis, but the sold out audience gave a standing ovation for their efforts.
