The State Theatre Courtyard is a stunning setting at this time of year for the variety of shows it hosts, none more so than jazz singer Etta D’Elia’s show From Naples… With Love!
With a ticket to this show, not only do we get a Neapolitan musical education, but we also get a cultural one too. Prior to the show, a cheese-making demonstration and tasting take place by La Delizia Latticini. The alfresco setting leans well into helping us imagine we’re in Naples, with everyone well catered for by the bar, which is open throughout the show.
Etta makes a fun and vivacious entrance through the audience to get to the stage, with Mr Accordion Man playing alongside. As she joins the band on stage, all adorned in white fedoras, she tells us that tonight we’re going to hear music that will sound familiar. Although you may think you don’t know Neapolitan music, you’re wrong; much of it has spread throughout the world and is easily recognisable.
Her band consists of an impressive and multi-talented group of musicians, including the one-man brass section who plays more instruments than I could count, from the clarinet to the flute, trombone, trumpet, saxophone, and more! Two backing singers also join Etta, bringing some classic choreography well-suited to each song.
Etta is incredibly engaging both while she’s singing and in her interludes, where she contextualises the songs she’s about to perform, quizzes the audience on their knowledge, and gives us new tidbits of information to take away about Naples. For example, did you know it’s home to the margherita pizza? (Fittingly, I consumed one before the show.)
The audience responded with an array of emotions to her set. Early on, a couple got up and started swing dancing, which was a joy to watch. Many people sang along to the songs they knew, and others dabbed tears away as songs connected to certain memories played.
My favourite number of the evening featured a special guest who played a setar, a Persian instrument. Etta explained the influence of Middle Eastern music in Neapolitan music and, while singing, demonstrated the Arabic scales. The fusion of styles was incredible to hear and left me wanting more! Perhaps this could be next year’s Fringe offering? I also enjoyed hearing Etta slip in some operatic moments into the songs, showing off more of her incredible vocal skills.
If you’re looking for a Fringe show that is a crowd-pleaser, Etta and her show From Naples… With Love! is the show for you!
From Naples… With Love! is on at The Courtyard at State Theatre Centre of WA from Jan 31-Feb 2.