Mychelle Colleary was a big deal on the jazz circuit of NYC about ten years ago, with regular gigs and invitations and guest appearances. That all changed one clear sky day when a big blue truck ran into her little car, and she suffered a traumatic brain injury.
Years later and still suffering the after effects of the ‘blue blur’ Colleary has at least chalk one milestone off her bucket list, appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe.
This may not be award-winning or groundbreaking, but it is a sweet show, which paints a simple timeline of Colleary’s career to the present day, the traumas she has suffered and the songs that made life worth living. Funny, self-deprecating and deeply personal with music by Sondheim, Strayhorn and others but sprinkled with original songs by Colleary herself. Emotional, Smart, Sassy, and entertaining. And FREE!
A lazy afternoon option in a quieter backwater away from the crowds to enjoy some cool jazz numbers, including an excellent rendition of Colleary’s anthemic number, Whatever Lola Wants. Expect to be dropping some paper into the bucket at the conclusion. Oh, and the bar upstairs is well worth a visit before or after to wonder at the opulence of a bygone age.
Till 25th August 2024 (not every day – check dates), https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#q=%22Ambitious%20Underachiever%22
Note: 18+,
Reviewer: Greg Holstead
Reviewed: 3rd August 2024
North West End UK Rating:
Running time – 55mins