by contributor Wendy Gordon
Photo credit: Courtesy of National Theatre
Helloooooooo, Possums! As the show tune states, “There is Nothing Like a Dame.” And nothing could be more apropos than that statement. This past Tuesday, Australia’s incomparable Dame Edna debuted her Glorious Goodbye -The Farewell Tour at The National Theatre.
Dame Edna
Amazing that at 81 years of age, Dame Edna Everage’s alter ego, Barry Humphries, can sustain a one man…um…woman…show with a sharp improvisational wit and complete tactlessness that those who are familiar with and love Dame Edna know so well. He has been performing this character since 1955—and after 60 years it’s still as fresh as ever.
For over two hours, the bedazzled cat-eye glassed, lavender haired, Gladiola toting, bejeweled dressed Dame Edna, along with her cast of chorus liners sang, danced and spun yarns about her imaginary family, her fabulous life of glamour and international intrigue, and of course, the most favorite topic, audience members. Note: If you are squeamish or a little shy, seats in the front rows are probably not for you.
From the “paupers” in the nosebleed section (who Dame Edna has dubbed “Les Miserables,” or “Mizzies,” my new favorite term) to the random audience members (the well-to-do “subscribers) in the front rows with whom she had conversations about everything from their dress to their home décor, much to the delight if not uproarious laughter from the rest of the spectators, the production was an evening of spectacular hilarity. Among the highlight of this evening was her matchmaking of two audience members, who she ‘married’ presiding as officiate, including a speaker-enhanced phone call to the ‘groom’s’ (very surprised, but very good natured) father in Nebraska. Of course the fact that the ‘groom’ was gay and about 30-something, and the ‘bride’ was a about 60-something divorcee, enhanced the scene and repartee to the utmost.
This was an evening of complete escapism and total entertainment, and one that most likely will not be available ever again. Although Dame Edna makes reference to her “next farewell tour,” chances are this may be the final. Run, do not walk, to The National Theatre for this one. You’ll laugh ‘til you cry. The show will only be running through April 26th. Tickets here.
