Sunday, March 29, 2015

Womadelaide 2015: it's not over til it's blogged!

It's nearly April, very nearly Easter and time for the National Folk Festival - but first, a bit of time to remember Womadelaide 2015, early March, and the tenth time I have been to this wonderful festival.
So, a few pictures from Friday night:
The photo shows Margaret Leng Tan kneeling at her toy piano and brandishing two children's toys (perhaps hammers or rattles), one with a smiley face on it.
Margaret Leng Tan is described as avant garde. The toy pianos were interesting enough, but I admit I didn't get very engaged in the show until the final five minutes or so, when she performed (with an amusing introduction) a super-short take on Wagner's Ring cycle.

Distant shot of Margaret Leng Tan on stage, kneeling with her back facing the audience, wearing a novelty horned helmet to play her short version of Wagner's Ring cycle.


The members of Fanfare Ciocarlia, most playing brass instruments, bathed in bright colourful stage light.

Fanfare Ciocarlia is a high-energy Romanian gypsy group. The blurb said though they tour the world regularly, they remain in high demand for weddings in their home town.  Definitely would make for a fun wedding party.

A closer shot of some of the members of Fanfare Ciocarlia while playing.

And finally, Mr Rufus Wainwright. One of those artists I have always intended to give some time to (Martha also) but it hadn't happened yet. I wasn't going to miss this opportunity for a live introduction, and I am so glad!

Rufus Wainwright singing and playing guitar

When he spoke, he was a little hyper, on edge, at first maybe a bit focused on the idea of 'world music' (and reading between the lines, questioning did he fit as part of that scene?) Then as soon as he stopped speaking and started playing and singing, he was so assured and confident. Such an interesting transformation to observe. Obviously a very experienced and assured performer.

I thoroughly enjoyed the show, which included his sister Lucy Wainwright Roche for a few songs (including Hallelujah). Not being familiar with his voice (I know, I know!) I was reminded early on of another Canadian singer, Ron Sexsmith; but also caught a bit of the Elton John thing as well.

Rufus Wainwright playing guitar and singing

1 comment:

Donna Lee said...

Rufus is not what I would think of when I hear the words "world music" but then, it all depends on your perspective, doesn't it? He is as much a part of the World as anyone else.

I enjoy his voice and halleluiah is so haunting.