Fringe opening night a hit with sequins, sparkles and success

Highlight gigs for Fringe opening night did not disappoint with a triple dose of hard hitting talent in the Alcoa Big Top providing what was described by an audience member as a ‘top quality entertainment’. First up Jaime Jackett shared her beautifully delivered repertoire of music. Some of which came from her debut solo album. The artist accompanied by one other musician transported the audience to another place sharing her music and some of her personal inspiration. She revealed her catalogue of songs were inspired through her recovery from brain cancer and challenging herself to write 45 songs in the month of May. The themes ranged from soul bearing to uplifting messages like having faith in yourself and giving back in life while taking only what you need. Her outstanding voice was also accompanied by creating different percussion sounds and her voice on a recording loop. The music resonated through the venue keeping everyone’s eyes glued to the stage and entranced in the musician’s powerful but gentle aura. A talented artist displayed an undeniable vocal talent too rich and polished to be rock and roll and to edgy and unique to be likened to any mainstream pop or typical alternative sound. Almost a genre of its own and different to anything else one would normally hear with so much appeal that deserves to reach as many people as possible. Next up was Queer Piano Bar, a different level of fabulous and mind-blowing talent. With a keyboard in tow and an array of colour, sparkle, and larger than life personality - the Queer Piano Bar was spectacular. Featuring well-known performers such as Donna Kebab, the delivery of songs and audience engagement were second to none. The performers were a credit to the human race sharing their awesomeness and diversity with no reservations. To finish the night was the After Hours Cabaret where the quirkiness, diversity and a bit of the risque was turned up a notch for the audience with some colourful, vibrant and humorous antics. Although Fringe entertainment is rightly described as ‘world class’ I would say its even better because it is mind expanding and adds life to the universe and our existence.