Let’s Misbehave (Salisbury)

The Salberg Theatre is such a wonderful environment to enjoy this intimate journey through the musical life of Cole Porter. The Review showcases over 35 songs from Porter’s enormous repertoire, inspirationally performed by three polished and highly accomplished professionals.

Each number is a mini show in itself as the trio act, sing and dance their way through the sensationally satirical lyrics that Porter is so well known for. One experiences a huge range of emotions throughout this masterpiece of theatre. ‘Night and Day’ has you swaying in a summer breeze and then tapping your feet to the hot jazz beat. One minute chuckling to the wordy wit of ‘The Physician’ and ‘Let’s Do It’ the next feeling a gnawing pain at the intense poignancy of ‘Love for Sale’ and ‘Miss Otis Regrets’. The four medleys interspersed in the programme bring alive the showman side of Cole Porter and are ingeniously performed. Harmonies are heavenly whether in two or three part. The voices melt into each other and become one glorious sound.

Glyn Kerslake the Musical Director is a master of the keyboard ensuring that each nuance of light and shade is played to perfection. His velvet brown voice teases the senses transporting you back to days of melancholy, wine and roses. Ian McLarnon has a beautiful depth to his voice which touches the soul. His duets with the charmingly multi-talented Liza Pulman have you totally believing their unique chemistry. Liza oozes elegance and flair as she glides through hauntingly yearning songs to fun, frolicking patter numbers displaying her wide breadth of talent.

The cleverly written narrative inherently links the songs seamlessly and is yet another triumph for David Benedict. The beautiful yet simplistic lighting effects designed by Peter Hunter drench the set atmospherically, ensuring the mood is set to envelop its audience.

This truly ‘De-loverly’ production is a wonderful alternative for the festive season and one not to be missed.