The quite pleasurable Jan van de Stool (the character from the mind of theatre performer Queenie van de Sandt) is a woman who really enjoys he singing, dancing and therapy. It sure was a therapy mesh, but an awesome one. Jan questioning why her ‘workshop’ was supposed to be included in a comedy fest.
But either way, van de Stool’s Woy Woy Scout Hall is here in Trades Hall, and it’s a lovely place to be in, really. Jan is supported by Helen, her cheeky accompanist and other students throughout the show as well. They punctuate the performance with beautiful little pieces of work, but not before some insults, really. The way this theatrical lesson is performed is kind of blunt, but at the same really honest and brutal.
The way this forms the show allows for a unique viewing because Jan is quite frightening but all flies away when her voice gets into action, which makes for a nice mirroring of stage persona. At times I didn’t like how things had to be brought down to insult level, but it fully turned around with her songs that are full of heart and power.
In many ways Jan Van De Stool shouldn’t be classified comedy, but an amazing talent that rises above into all kinds of forms: cabaret, visual arts and theatre. It’s a wonder why she didn’t go further in her quest to be Australia’s Best Talent
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Jan van de Stool performs at Trades Hall until 17 April in I Get the Music in You, as part of the 2016 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. For more information head here.
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