Icon is a word often thrown around, but there are a few genuine superstars to whom the mantle completely applies, and Dusty Springfield is absolutely on that list. Adored by generations of fans, her music is still used in countless films and adverts, with many of the songs now part of the soundscape of British culture.
It is fitting therefore for a West End leading lady, some would say legend in her own right, to play tribute to the impressive back catalogue and legacy of a fellow performer. This is not a tribute show, however, but rather a celebration of Dusty’s music and a showcase of Murray’s talent. She brings the spirit of Dusty to proceedings through conversational interludes and stunning costumes, but never veers towards impersonation.
The expansive stage is filled with the sumptuous Novello Orchestra, conducted by David Mahoney, which adds an extra layer of magic to the evening not only through their talent but genuine engagement with the evening. An orchestra looking very much like they were having as much fun immersing themselves in the melodies as the audience.
Murray is backed by Adenikè Zen, Marsha Morrison and Patrick Smyth, who not only add sweet depth to the sound but also provide some gentle ‘armography’ befitting the time period. With distinctive voices of their own, it was also a pleasure to see them have their own solo moments which, while designed to cover costume changes, enhanced the overall experience, including a very well received arrangement of "Sunny".
And yes, the setlist is a beautifully balanced succession of hits, opening powerfully with "You Don’t Own Me" and "How Can I Be Sure". With songs generally sung in pairs, the evening had a relaxed pace, and Murray’s stories in-between brought to life both the context and rough timeline of the music. Act one left the audience wanting more, with an emotional rendition of "You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me" bleeding into "I Close My Eyes and Count to Ten". Following a lively entr’acte, act two then followed the same format including the enduring hit "The Windmills of Your Mind" and of course concluding with "Son of a Preacher Man". Special mention to the accordion player for creating an authentic feel for many of the songs, but in particular "If You Go Away".
Special concerts often have special guests, and in this respect Murray more than delivered, introducing Madeline Bell to the stage for a duet and solo. The 82-year-old soul singer, friend and backing singer for Dusty wowed the audience with "Wishin’ and Hopin’" followed by "Goin' Back", plus some lovely personal anecdotes that were lapped up.
And as for Mazz Murray herself? The star of this show is magnetic and created an evening to remember. A vocal powerhouse, yes, but she also struck up a wonderful repartee with the audience, completely at ease and completely honouring the original material.