Review by Michelle Fisher
“I am what I am” is more than just a song celebrating positive self-identity, it has become a mantra for the Queer community, and tonight it was the opening of Lindsay Prodea’s cabaret ‘A Friend of Dorothy - Anthems of Pride.’
Emerging from the back of the audience in a fully sequinned jackets, Prodea’s charisma shines bright instantly. With a radiant smile and a warm and inviting personality, one feels quickly that they know Prodea and consequently feel invested in not only the success of the show, but in the power of the history he is sharing.
The show cleverly interweaves stories and moments of historical significance for the Queer community, with music from across the decades and genres that are, by Prodea’s definition, Queer Anthems. A song may be deemed a Queer Anthem because of its creator and their activism, because of the way the community is represented through the lyrics, because of the power one feels when they listen to it, or because it is a big, out, loud, shout about one’s identity. Within these parameters, Prodea has curated an extensive and impressive list of Anthems for the show and certainly does not shy away from the challenge of the show being a ‘big sing.’
The songs are largely upbeat and representative of both protest and pride - befitting for the experiences of the Queer community, and expertly linked in the script with moments of history.
Backed by a beautiful four piece band and taking over the entire downstairs area of Plant 4 Bowden, to say that Prodea had the audience in the palm of his hand would honestly be an understatement. The crowd of hundreds were captivated and I really respected the fact that this show was clearly written to not only excite, but inform, including enough niche details that even the most avid Queer historian in the room may still have something to learn. Importantly, the show was written to be equally for LGBTQIA+ audiences as it is for the wider community of Allies - there is something for everyone that likes pop, upbeat music and great storytelling.
The band are fantastic and I liked the moments where they clearly were in on the jokes and backed Prodea not only with their instruments but with their comedy, props and facial expressions. You could tell that the musicians were all having a great time on stage with this music, and with songs from artists like Elton, Judy, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Freddy, Dolly, Diana and more, you can absolutely understand why.
This show honours trailblazers that helped foster a more equal and inclusive society and in today’s crazy world, spending 70 minutes remembering the immense contribution that these people made felt necessary, cathartic and just outright enjoyable.
With the crowd up on their feet (totally unprompted I may add…they seemed to just really want to dance!), as you think the show is about to wind down, Prodea proves he has more in the tank still and embarks on a musical medley as his finale that stretches nearly 10 minutes!! Can I add, bar maybe 4 quick sips of water throughout the show, Prodea does not stop for a minute - it is go go go and I was impressed with the energiser bunny level energy he had throughout!
Prodea is a talented performer - the best singer you’ve ever heard, no - but it just doesn’t matter because what he has which outweighs this in spades is STAGE PRESENCE. There are plenty of amazing singers that could not do what he does because it is his charisma and obvious passion for sharing this history that makes him so endearing and makes you want to just love the show.
One of my highlights of the fringe, no doubt the show will make a return next year with a completely local team at the helm and when it does, I definitely recommend you get a ticket before it sells out!
