Livvy & Pete: The Songs of Olivia Newton-John and Peter Allen | De Parel | til February 12th | ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 

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A couple of years ago my sister and i attended the Fringe Festival for the first time, we were Fringe virgins so were unsure of what to see but there was one particular show that caught our attention so we popped our proverbial Fringe cherries at a cabaret show dedicated to the songs of Madonna. The songster behind the mic was a deliciously handsome man named Michael Griffiths. Unfortunately it would be some time before we came back so it seemed extremely appropriate the first show we attended together would be another Michael Griffiths spectacular and we were not disappointed.

From start to finish this fantastic show dedicated to the fabulous Peter Allen and the incredible Olivia Newton John was a joy. Rated ‘C’ for camp it certainly delivered and took you back to when aerobics gear was fabulous and maracas ruled the stage. Familiar songs were intermingled with stories and pop quizzes with audience participation a must. Both stars of the show, Griffiths and his partner in song and dance Amelia Ryan, were dedicated to bringing you the very best from these two icons of stage and screen. Costume changes were a must for Ryan and they did not spoil the flow of the show, if anything they enhanced the feeling. Griffiths, a man of many talents, guided you from upbeat songs like Rio to tender ballads in the form of I Honestly Love You.

Of course Grease and Xanadu made their appearances, and this is where the audience got to show of their musical prowess, singing along to the songs of Grease. Complete with Pink Ladies and T-Bird jackets this certainly brought back fantastic memories of singing into your hairbrush while the movie played (or was that just me). Conversation between the two stars flowed in between sets very easily, knowing one another can help that process and Ryan looked incredible in the outfits and performing Xanadu in a pair of roller skates really proved her abilities as a multitasker (she needs to be my new best friend).

Griffiths, like a fine wine has gotten better with age (or maybe that’s just me) and both performers were outside after the end of the show to meet and greet and sign CD’s. If you are after a show that is both joyous and tender come along and have a sing-a-long as this show will not disappoint.

Livvy and Pete will be at the De Parel Spiegeltent until Monday February 12th. Tickets and more information available from fringeworld.com.au