Leather Lungs: Higher Love - Adelaide Fringe Review

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Fri 24 Feb 2023 - Sun 05 Mar 2023

I've said it before ( here and here ) and I'll say it again: Leather Lungs is the voice of our generation.

If you have not had the opportunity to be graced by the effervescent presence of Jay Chasland aka Leather Lungs, then you have exactly one week to rectify this ASAP, because the vocal cords on this beautiful human demand all the support and celebration! Staying true to the stage name, Leather Lungs draws commandment to the name with the ability to hit four octaves and incorporate the art of song, dance, drag, comedy, and cabaret to brilliantly illustrate his story of surviving and thriving after a long-term domestic violence relationship. It's not all glittery eyes and shiny costumes and that is exactly what makes the show unapologetically raw, real, and rambunctious - all in one hell of a rollercoaster of an hour.

It may have been a few years since Leather Lungs visited us, however, their sharp wit and quick thinking to engage the audience has not been blemished in any form. They know how to round up the entire room and give them the attention they deserve, as they narrate stories about leaving a challenging situation, dealing with family complications, being supported by loved ones in finding themselves, and (re)navigating the world of finding love again. Each song and performance bears great personal significance, which Leather Lungs eloquently explains prior to the song. What follows can be a mix of sultry and soulful jazz numbers or bopping renditions of anthems that are exuberant in themes of self-love and self-empowerment in the most trying of times. Think of the greats such as ABBA, Elvis Presley, and Whitney, and even children's favourites such as "Old McDonald Had A Farm" (trust me, you need to experience this once-in-a-lifetime cover).

When you sit in the audience of a Leather Lungs show, you will quickly realise that despite the show's topics of discussion being downright heartbreaking, there is a sense of newfound hope and belonging that shines through the performance. Do not be surprised if there are certain songs that hit you right in the feels (I can safely say that the encore song left me tearing up, but with joy!). This show is about celebrating survival and endurance through some of the most challenging aspects of life (and a heavy focus on trauma). Nonetheless, Leather Lungs wants us not to pity them, but instead, be part of their journey as they are reborn and bloom into new beginnings.

There is so much personality, energy, sass, camp, and resilience brimming through each narrative and song that you will feel yourself building the strength to break down any barriers that are currently stopping you from hitting your own potential. Prepare to experience a mix of cringe and crude with poignant and uplifting - it's a whole spectrum of emotions that you will go through in just under an hour and it's going to feel fabulous AF.

Leather Lungs: Higher Love will be performing at The Lark in Gluttony as part of the Adelaide Fringe season till March 5th 2023. Tix can be purchased here .

**Date attended: 24/02/2023
Overall review: & #9733 ;& #9733 ;& #9733 ;& #9733 ;& #9733 ;**

*Tema was invited as a guest.

#adelaide_city
#cabaret
#comedy
#greater_adelaide
#shows
#february
!date 24/02/2023 -- 05/03/2023
%wnadelaide