# REVIEW: Simply Brill -The Teens Who Stole 60’s Rock n Roll **Review** — On Your Markus **Performance date:** Saturday 17 February 2024 **Published:** 22 February 2024 **Author:** Markus Hamence **Source:** https://onyourmarkus.au/reviews/review-simply-brill-the-teens-who-stole-60s-rock-n-roll/ --- Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Saturday 17 February 2024, Gluttony, Adelaide Fringe ![Five performers in red and black suits perform on stage under purple lighting with a circular backdrop projection.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6679/user_crop_SimplyBrill_Press_1200x600_-1.jpg) ‘Simply Brill’ at the Adelaide Fringe in Gluttony is a captivating homage to the teenage songwriters who left an indelible mark on 60s rock ‘n’ roll. This show brings together Adelaide’s own award-winning performers Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger, and Michael Griffiths (also on keys and leading the dynamic band, not even sure how he does it all) in a vibrant celebration of the Brill Building’s legacy, the epicenter of 60s music innovation in New York City. Known for generating hits like ‘You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling’, ‘River Deep Mountain High’, ‘Splish Splash’, and ‘Oh Carol’, the show promises a delightful journey through some of the most popular songs of the 20th century. Audiences are treated to not just a musical extravaganza but also a narrative that weaves together the stories of iconic songwriters like Neil Sedaka, Bobby Darin, Carole King, Cynthia Weil, and Ellie Greenwich. These talented teenagers gave voice to a generation, crafting timeless tunes that continue to resonate. The show’s blend of history, humor, and heart, paired with sublime vocals, great choreography and a live band, ensures an engaging experience for all. ‘Simply Brill’ is more than a musical tribute; it’s a dynamic exploration of a pivotal era in music history​​​​, AND, let me tell you… You’ll know more songs that you. would’ve imaging despite your age demographic. With the well-known and very classic songs and beats with infectious lyrics, to the compelling and highly engaging story-telling, the trio accompanied by band weaved magic on the ample sized stage in a show that could easily stretch out to a few hours due to the volume of content that was created in the famous building. The fact that it was an hour show made it tight and punchy however. The band are accomplished and very tight while showing great respect and knowledge of this period in music. A very cleverly produced show indeed. ![Markus Hamence, Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger & Michael Griffiths](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6680/IMG_5126.jpg) *Left to right: Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger, Markus Hamence & Michael Griifiths* For those who have a deep affection for the music of the 60s or just appreciate the art of songwriting, ‘Simply Brill’ is a must-see. Its accolades, including a ‘Best Cabaret’ win at the Adelaide Fringe Weekly Award 2023, attest to its quality and appeal. The show’s creators aim to connect with audiences through a shared love for music and storytelling, making it a fitting choice for anyone looking to dive into the rich tapestry of 60s rock ‘n’ roll​​. To tempt you… ‘We Gotta Get Outta This Place’, ‘The Locomotion’ (Pre-Kylie), ‘Leader Of The Pack’, ‘You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman’ and so many more, foot tapping, head bopping, sing-a-long mega hits. I 100% put the blame on Michael, Michaela & Amelia for the reason why the songs were on repeat in my head for the next two days. In fact, I am so well-versed with the songs now that I could offer to be a stand-in if anyone of the threesome takes ill, haha! I just had vision of them doing a new show for 2025 – Simply S.A.W (Stock, Aitken & Waterman), I Should Be So Lucky, You Think You’re A Man, You Spin Me ‘Round’, Nothing Can Divide Us, Venus, – all the 80’s mega hits, maybe I’ll talk to them. In summary, ‘Simply Brill’ is celebrated for its exceptional musical storytelling, engaging narrative, and the remarkable talents of its performers, making it a standout show at the Adelaide Fringe. Get onto it this 2024 season. **[For tickets, show information and dates, click here! 🙂](https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/simply-brill-the-teens-who-stole-60-s-rock-n-roll-af2024)** ![Five performers in 1960s-style clothing play instruments under colourful stage lighting on a tent stage.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6681/IMG_4991.jpeg) ![Five musicians perform on stage under vibrant red and blue spotlights during a 1960s rock and roll tribute show.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6682/IMG_4992.jpeg) ![Five performers in 1960s-style outfits play instruments on a theatre stage lit by red and blue spotlights, with a projected screen backdrop.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6683/IMG_4993.jpeg) ![Two performers in matching burgundy dresses sing centre stage under warm spotlights during a 1960s rock and roll tribute production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6684/IMG_4994.jpeg) ![Five performers in 1960s-style outfits dance and sing on a stage bathed in purple spotlights during a rock and roll production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6685/IMG_4997.jpeg) ![Performer in a red dress sits on a white chair under purple stage lighting, microphone in hand, during a 1960s rock and roll theatre production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6686/IMG_5002.jpeg) ![Two young performers in patterned dresses on a blue-lit stage with band members and equipment behind them.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6687/IMG_5008.jpeg) ![Three performers on stage under purple and red spotlights during a 1960s rock and roll theatre production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6688/IMG_5009.jpeg) ![Two singers in sequined dresses perform centre stage whilst a keyboardist plays under red stage lighting.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6689/IMG_5010.jpeg) ![Singer in gold sequined dress performing at microphone under red stage lights with band members behind.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6690/IMG_5013.jpeg) ![Two performers in shimmering gold outfits dance under purple stage lights on a circular platform surrounded by seated audience members.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6691/IMG_5016.jpeg) ![Young performers in vintage-style costumes perform under dramatic purple and red stage lighting in a tent venue.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6692/IMG_5017.jpeg) ![Young performers in 1960s-style outfits energetically dance on a stage bathed in green and blue stage lighting.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6693/IMG_5018.jpeg) ![Performer in a patterned shirt sits in a white armchair under purple stage lighting during a theatrical production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6694/IMG_5020.jpeg) ![Young performers on stage with guitars under blue and pink spotlights during a 1960s rock and roll tribute production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6695/IMG_5021.jpeg) ![Three performers on stage in 1960s-style costumes under blue and pink spotlights during a rock and roll theatre production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6696/IMG_5024.jpeg) ![Three performers in 1960s attire share a microphone on stage under purple spotlights during a rock and roll production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6697/IMG_5025.jpeg) ![Young performers in 1960s-style outfits centre stage under coloured spotlights during a rock and roll theatre production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6698/IMG_5027.jpeg) ![Four performers in 1960s-style clothing on a stage lit by coloured spotlights during a rock and roll theatre production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6699/IMG_5028.jpeg) ![Young performers on stage under blue lighting during a 1960s rock and roll tribute production.](https://media.onyourmarkus.au/originals/6700/IMG_5030.jpeg)