Words Yulia Podrul

Extravaganza, charismatic, chic and velvet, a one-of-a-kind cabaret musical that has finally landed at Auckland’s Q Theatre.

I have been waiting for something extreme but funky, classy but funny. Velvet is a very impressive cabaret show directed and produced by the incredible Joe Giuseppe Accaria, who also featured throughout the show up in the DJ booth.

That’s what I love, no hiding behind the scenes, but instead showing off his impressive skills of drumming, singing and performing. Indeed, Joe has many talents, and that’s why he began his partnership with multi-award winning singer David Campbell that has its roots back in 2002 and has continued through to 2012 where he was performing at David Campbell’s Broadway & Beyond Tour. Joe’s biography is vast and remarkable. Music is his life – or his life is music.

Joe is the one to remember after Velvet’s debut in Auckland on 21 September 2017. Velvet completed its first sell out season at the Adelaide Fringe Festival taking out the BANKSA award for Pick of the Fringe and the Advertiser Best of the Fringe 2015. Velvet continues with seasons at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Brisbane Festival and Sydney Opera House. I have to say Auckland is very lucky to have Velvet on stage.

I could see everything from above, in fact since I don’t always get to watch shows from upper levels, I was very intrigued this time. I clearly could see how well performers engaged with the audience. Everybody felt loved and entertained.

Hula Boy brought wow factor. Number of rounds of applause for extraordinaire Craig Reid, who effortlessly hula-hooped his way into our hearts. Legendary Diva Marcia Hines, was not to be outdone, and showcased her incredible vocals which sparked up the whole arena.

Velvet is different to your normal cabaret. Sure enough, you shall expect to see some half naked torso, and that’s about it. I promise, you will be externally challenged and changed, and will not be able to stop yourself from dancing once the show is over. Keep that after-party going!