Review by Tatum Stafford
Dubbed a “fabulous Friday night of romance and nostalgia”, Ali Bodycoat’s residency at the reimagined and glorious Embassy Ballroom this Perth Festival was a sight to behold, and a performance I am very glad I got to catch this season.
From the outset, the Perth Town Hall looks incredibly lush with its interior makeover to resemble the Embassy in all its glory. The space is decked out in cabaret tables, drapery, soft lighting and gorgeously-dressed attendees. It’s clear the show has provided a romantic Valentine’s night out.
The well-stocked bar and plentiful menu with food by Gather Foods add to the experience, and as we took our seats, a lively bassist and piano duo introduced the night with rousing tunes. The 16-piece band soon took to the stage and kicked the night off with some fantastically brassy and swinging numbers, before our hostess for the evening Ali Bodycoat sauntered onstage in a stunning dress with vocals to match.
Ever the talented hostess, Ali’s voice soars over the intricate big band accompaniment, and we were treated to a lengthy setlist that danced from classics like Frank Sinatra’s “L-O-V-E” to swinging Cole Porter tunes. It didn’t take long for the first few couples to hit the dancefloor, and once they did, many followed suit and there were plenty of laughs and smiles to be had across the entire ballroom.
The atmosphere of the entire event was classy, lively, romantic and highly entertaining. The Embassy, it was announced, will be an annual highlight of the festival program for the next four years, and if this double-night event that is already sold out is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat as the big band concerts continue.
If tickets are available next season, wear your finest and head along for a lively night of entertainment from some of Perth’s best musos – you won’t regret it for a second. Just don’t forget comfortable shoes as dancing (or at least, toe-tapping) is guaranteed.
