Remembering great artistes can sometimes be a tricky balance as too much reverence can easily turn into pastiche. It’s better to imagine how a great singer would have handled new material and old standards which is why Lioness is such an effective tribute to Amy Winehouse. Dolly Parton, however, is fully in charge of her own legacy. She has made sure that any new material that her stage impersonators in London are currently singing has been written by her – personally. There are some great things do in London right now.
The musicians are skilful, yet loose as they mix in some judicious soul standards with Amy’s hits. The lead singer nails the famous Winehouse alto and probably interacts with her audience a bit more than the late North London diva would have, so fans are in for a rare treat.
The excellence of Margot is revealed in the fact that it easily combines modern refinements like a sleek wine cellar with an adherence to what makes Italian food so timeless. Scallops are juicy and seared to perfection while the salami and fennel dish reveals endless depths of flavour. Eating at Margot should be never be rushed. Do it with knowledgeable friends who covet peerless cooking as much they value your company.
Amongst the explosive percussion workouts, however, there are delicate movements where shimmering cymbals and ghostly gongs are used to great effect. Apart from displaying a monk-like intensity, the drummers are not averse to a little showbiz swagger as they slide, feint and even drop kick their way round the giant drums in order to add variety and fun to their memorable show.
The three women mutually support one another in their struggles and when their misogynistic boss steps over the line, they plan retribution. The subsequent kidnap and chase scenes are played to great comic effect and the songs are shot through with Parton’s trademark brand of bubbly optimism, homespun wisdom and female empowerment.
