Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Tuesday 14 March 2024, Adelaide Fringe, Gluttony, South Australia.
Oh, sweet nostalgia, you’ve done it again! This time, weaving your magic through Chloe Castledine’s 2024 Adelaide Fringe project, ’80’s Ladies’. If you haven’t stumbled upon this gem yet (It appeared at Fool’s Paradise in 2023 AF), allow me to take you on a little journey back in time, where the music wasn’t just heard; it was felt, and fashion was as vibrant as the personalities of the era.
The Concept
’80’s Ladies’ is a delightful, fun and very coliurful throwback, a project that pays homage to the era of bold colors, bigger hair, and the unforgettable music that still has us tapping our feet. Chloe Castledine, known for her versatile musical talents, has masterfully curated a collection of songs, and costumes, and wigs, and dance moves that not only remind us of the good old days but also showcases her incredible ability to breathe new life into classics with a show that does not leave her come up for air until the final bow.
The Music
The selection of songs in ’80’s Ladies’ is like flipping through the best yearbook ever. Each track is a hit that will have you saying, “Oh, I remember this one!” But it’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about appreciation. Chloe and her team have meticulously arranged these songs, ensuring they pay respect to the originals while adding a fresh twist that’s unmistakably Chloe. Kylie’s ‘Locomotion, Madonna’s ‘Material Girl’, Cyndi’s ‘Girls Just Want To Have Fun’ are of course there, as too are the ‘Holding Out For A Hero’, ‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)’ and ‘Eternal Flame’. It goes on with banger, after classic, after banger, after…
The Performance
When it comes to delivering these iconic tunes, Chloe doesn’t just perform; she transports you and projects her voice through the venue. Her stage presence is captivating, blending perfectly with the theme of each song. Whether she’s channeling the queen of pop or the divas of rock, Chloe embodies the spirit of the 80’s, making every performance a memorable experience. To be honest my only negative was the audio levels did not seem quite on point the performance I saw as sometimes the vocals were drowned out (NOT the talents fault).
The dancers were terrific, they danced, bounced, jumped and shimmied there way around with GREAT BIG beaming smile and tremendous energy. Infectious moves and grooves that catapulted us back (if the music hadn’t already).
On the performance I saw even radio personality Ali Carle had a cameo spot for Toni Basil’s ‘Hey Mickey’, she sung (very terribly OR was it the bad audio again haha) and busted out her MOST daggy and awkward ‘bedroom-rehearsed’ dance moves. She didn’t take herself seriously and that made her fun and engaging (and let’s be honest… I wanted to be her for those 4 minutes. Chloe… Where’s MY invite haha)
The Impact
’80’s Ladies’ does more than just entertain; it connects. It’s a bridge between generations, inviting everyone to the dance floor. Chloe Castledine’s project is a testament to the enduring appeal of 80’s music and its ability to bring people together. It’s a reminder of the power of music to evoke emotion, memories, and even a sense of belonging. The ages varied in the audience, from young kids to the golden oldies, it goes to show there probably is not a age bracket that does not have this music resonating with. And everybody shook their bodies to the beats.
Conclusion
In a world where everything old is new again, ’80’s Ladies’ stands out as a heartfelt and talented tribute to an unforgettable era. Chloe Castledine has not only showcased her vast talents but also her deep appreciation for the music and culture of the 80s. Whether you’re an 80s kid or just an 80s enthusiast, this show is a must-see experience. It’s an invitation to celebrate, reminisce, and maybe even bust out a few dance moves you thought you’d forgotten. So, lace up your dancing shoes, tease up your hair, and let ’80’s Ladies’ take you on a journey back to the decade that made us all feel like stars.
AND speaking of ‘Stars’… FIVE deserved flashy and fluorescent STARS from me *****
For show information, dates and tickets, click here! 🙂
