Life is a cabaret

USQ Music Lecturer Russell Bauer

Actors, singers and musicians from the University’s School of Creative Arts are busily rehearsing for the upcoming season of The Threepenny Opera.

The 1920’s German cabaret-inspired production presents its cast with a great challenge and audience with a sharp and sexy story and sizzling cabaret music.

USQ Lecturer in Music, Russell Bauer plays a dual-role in the production; as both Musical Director and trombonist in the 7-piece jazz ensemble.

'Trombone is actually my forth instrument, following piano, tuba and trumpet,' says Russell.

'But I’m really enjoying the opportunity to revisit one of my favourite instruments and the rare chance to play such historically significant and remarkable music.

'Threepenny Opera serves up a slice of German cabaret with particular historical relevance.

'It has an amazing interwoven and very intelligent plot, stunning music and original characters – some of the greatest in musical theatre history.'

Composed in 1928, Kurt Weill’s musical score was revolutionary, and being a contemporary of Schoenberg and Stravinsky, Weill doesn't hold back in his exploration of tone-colour and innovative harmonies.

Despite the rhythmic demands and the intricate structures, it remains readily accessible and appealing for audiences, and almost 100 years later, is enjoying a world-wide revival.

Together with playwright, Bertolt Brecht, Weill took John Gay’s well-know 18th century favourite, The Beggar’s Opera and created a masterpiece of musical theatre.

Weill replaced many of the traditional styles from The Beggar’s Opera with jazzy foxtrots, tangos and his own ingeniously original style.

'He was greatly influenced by his counterparts of the time, but unlike them, he was one of the few composers who didn’t change time signatures.

'His music focused on harmonies and rhythms – with a revolutionary use of chords, borrowing from both jazz and classical.

'Audiences will enjoy how cleverly songs are put together – and how they leave you wanting more.

'Threepenny Opera is also a great challenge for our musicians.'

The 7-piece musical ensemble complete with piano, trombone, trumpets, saxophones and guitar will create the feel and sound of 1920s Berlin dance bands and cabaret.

'Most of our ensemble are also members of the Ergon Energy USQ Big Band, regularly playing the jazz music of the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

'But for many, this is their first encounter with early jazz - the era of the Charleston, two-step and foxtrot.'

As Musical Director of the production, Russell has also been working with the cast on rhythms and pitch while recently appointed USQ Lecturer in Singing, Melissa Forbes has been working on their technique.

'It’s a difficult work – very disciplined – and USQ’s mix of music and theatre students is doing a commendable job adopting and mastering the style.'

The Threepenny Opera will be performed at 7.30pm in the USQ Arts Theatre on Friday 21, Saturday 22, Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August, with matinees at 11am on Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 August and 2pm on Sundays 23 and 30 August.

Tickets are $25 adult, $20 concession, $15 student and can be purchased through the USQ Artsworx Box Office on 07 4631 1111.

Media Contact: Michelle Fox, USQ Artsworx, +61 7 4631 1114 or 0439 911 623