LAVENDER LIFE (Ultra V Theatre Company): 2019 Fringe review

“I’ll live a lush life in some small dive…” from song “Lush Life”, lyrics by Billy Strayhorn

LavenderLifePatrons trickle into the Lavender Lounge to the sounds of Speakeasy era jazz, mellow lighting and Caberet style seating. Small intimate tables topped with feathery floral arrangements clutter the floor, glasses tink and conversations flows quietly through the underground hideaway. It is a relaxing atmosphere, and a special place where LGBTQ+ community can feel secure, while the politics of the 1930s remains outside. Adrianne McNulty’s (Olivia Perrin) bittersweet memories flood the room as lights come up and drinks go down. Her love, Rose Ellen Wilson (Emma Orr) returns through recall and they dance as Adrianne croons “Let’s Face the Music and Dance” in a mellifluous voice as time travels backwards… Old chums resurface. Big Al (Delequa), who runs the speakeasy, wows with belting vocals, Kit Andrews (Eibhleann Clyne) and Tiffany Jewel (Lauren Ackermann) strut their singing stuff on stage as does St. Syre (Thor Speeler) in “Love for Sale”. Rose Ellen and her husband, who followed her to the lounge, get their solos too, and more. 

Directed by Molly Jo and music director Kylie Westerbeck, musicians and cast create a relaxing, authentic prohibition period atmosphere accompanied by a variety soothing, moving live music featuring the talents of Andrew Monath on piano and Mike Pizzle on bass. BYOB not prohibited! 

[Ethical Society Building, Rittenhouse Square] September 5, 6, 18-20, 2019,  fringearts.com/event/lavender-life

 

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