Chansons de Jacques Brel | Adelaide Fringe 2022 review

John Waters becomes Jacques Brel in this brilliant show celebrating the famous Belgian’s French songs.

Stewart D’Arrietta and John Waters in Chansons de Jacques Brel

Chansons de Jacques Brel

Cabaret

Rating: *****

The Garage International at Adelaide Town Hall

Until February 27

John Waters doesn’t just sing the French songs of Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel, he inhabits them – as Brel.

And don’t worry if you understand very little French, or none at all.

Waters – in character as Brel – introduces the story of each song in English, using evocative translations of the lyrics.

Because of this, and his expressive vocal delivery and gestures, you know exactly what he is singing about.

More than once, “grey Flemish” is used as a description when translating Brel’s lyrics; but this show is anything but – it is full of colour and life.

Each song – from the opening number, Le Chanson de Jacky, (Jackie) to the finale, Quand On N’a Que l’Amour, (When Love Is All You Have) – is performed as a captivating vignette in the cabaret setting.

It must also be noted, Waters is brilliantly accompanied by Stewart D’Arrietta on piano and keyboard, accordionist Michael Kluger and bass player Tony Mitchell.

After the final applause, French speakers, in the next row, were heard to say “tres magnifique”.

It is an outstanding show — in anyone’s language.