At Last: The Etta James Story, presented by Brisbane Powerhouse, and performed by the talented Vika Bull, is a show not to be missed. Not only is it a musical hit, but there are aspects of storytelling involved done either by Bull herself or a musician. This ultimately helps push the narrative forward as the audience comes to learn about different facets of Etta James’ story. Not only do we experience the highs and lows, clearly portrayed, of James’ career, but we understand her personality and get to enjoy the songs that go with it.
There was a variety of songs played, and they all went in chronological order. Throughout the performance the audience learned the struggle that James experienced, and who she came across along the way of her musical journey. There were difficult moments in James’ life where she experienced life on the streets and drug abuse, however, there were also moments of fame and times where her talent was found and nurtured by those that she encountered.
Songs that were performed included Something’s Got a Hold On Me, Fool That I am, Strange Things Happening Every Day, Roll With Me Henry, Pushover, I’d Rather Go Blind, At Last, A Sunday Kind of Love, I Just Want to Make Love to You, Lovesick Blues, Spoonful, Take It to the Limit and Sugar On the Floor. Personal favourites included I Just Want to Make Love to You, Strange Things Happening Every Day, and the classic At Last.
It was a lively, kicking performance and no doubt the crowd was going wild by the end of it. With a very talented selection of musicians playing the songs, the band kept up the momentum the whole way through and so did Bull. The beautiful aspect of portraying a life of a legend such as Etta James is how much enjoyment Vika Bull had in portraying her. From her movements and grooves as she was singing to the way she sung the songs and narrated her story throughout, it was clear that Bull was meant to portray this musical icon. Vika Bull’s portrayal of Etta James goes to show that James will forever live on through her music.
27 June - 30 June
Brisbane Powerhouse
Review by Joanna Letic