The music and man that defined a generation relive onstage through this tribute act paying homage to the life and work of a true icon. Guillermo Nazara shares his thoughts on this production soon to go on tour across the country, to let us know if, in this pompous show, the bubble burst.
Yes, yes, yes. I know the title is not a George Michael song. So what?! Oh, wait… wrong singer again… Anyway, you can catch my drift about what I experienced last week, when Marty McFly and the Pinheads left their London home to make room for some other kind of 80s icon – perhaps just as popular, but certainly much more meaningful. As Pride month takes its final stretch towards London’s highly anticipated weekend, remembering through song and dance the path of somebody whose steps inspired the journey of so many, is truly beyond poetic.
Fastlove plays no tricks. Nor does it put on any disguises. It is what it is: a feast of tunes to commemorate the artist both company and audience idolize. It makes that statement from the very beginning – simply and plainly. Yet, there’s nothing simple or plain about the show, which is actually spot-on. Not really an impersonation (a concept they’ve made quite clearly they want to depart from), the show however is able to bring back a few images – while, at the same time, giving its own signature through a cast that delivers the concert with impeccable standards.
Great singers and musicians and even better performers take on a daunting task that’s however presented as effortless – giving soul and sentiment to a repertoire that’s both able to move and make you move for an entire evening, an maybe afterwards too. Featuring some compelling video designs and beautifully implemented lighting, the only flaw stems from a lack of storytelling structure, which would have created a better emotional journey if the songs would have been arranged in a different order.
But there’s no doubt that this is no setback (let alone obstacle) to enjoy a production that’s been carried out with more than talent, care and, above all, love for what they’re putting on. The sort of love that inundates the atmosphere and travels into the hearts of even the most distant viewers. Because that’s what this show is all about. Nobody’s trying to replace or fill the shoes of a pop legend – those were custom-made, after all. Yet, they can surely let them shine. There’s just one George Michael and there will always be only one. But this will help his memory (and spirit) rise even higher.
Fastlove will be on tour across the UK from 8 July to 9 September. Tickets and venues are available on the following link.