The 27 Club is possibly the only club in the world as exclusive to join as it is undesirable. Referring to the idea that there is something significant in the sheer number of musicians who have died at the tender age of 27, the club is an eerie reminder of the toll the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle can take on promising young lives.
It is this idea that The 27 Club, playing at Assembly Spiegeltent Teatro throughout August, draws on. The musical details the lives and myths surrounding those young musicians who have died at 27, beginning with blues legend Robert Johnson and ending rather topically with the tragic death of Amy Winehouse. Set at the crossroads where Johnson supposedly entered into a Faustian pact with the devil and subsequently gave birth to rock ‘n’ roll, we are taken on a raucous journey through musical history which encapsulates several different styles with deftness and a fluidity that is a joy to behold.
The mournful wail of the blues runs through the very veins of the production, and is the style to which the musicians on stage most frequently revert in order to weave their tale. Despite this, there is nothing mournful about the performance. The 27 Club is sheer, unadulterated entertainment. All involved are extremely talented, and while the tone is largely tongue-in-cheek throughout (keep an eye out for the particularly humorous Keith Richards impression) it is clear the performers have nothing but admiration and respect for those they are mimicking.
Every member of the cast seems to be having a ball, each trying out different accents and singing styles as the on-stage years roll by. Our guide throughout this whirlwind tour is particularly impressive, his hammy American accent and showman strut the perfect accompaniment to the theatrical, rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere; while the covers of Janis Joplin and Amy Winehouse are full of energy and knowing swagger.
The 27 Club is actually a popular theme at this festival, with three productions drawing on the popular myth for inspiration. This particular production, at least, comes highly recommended. That being said, if your 27th birthday is fast approaching you may want to go easy on the post-show drinks.
