Madonna Tribute Act at Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Review of Evelyne Brink in Almost Like a Virgin
Aug 25, 2009
Evelyne Brink's show Almost Like A Virgin begins as a Madonna tribute but then takes the audience on an exploration of something more profound. As the scarlet lipstick is wiped off and the pointy boobs covered up with an old cardie, Brink questions the cult of celebrity, the psychological implications of wearing 'masks' and touches upon racism, politics and socio-economics. The effect is quietly uplifting and inspiring.
Madonna's Greatest Hits
Madonna fans will not be disappointed as hits such as Holiday, Music and Substitute For Love are belted out, note-perfect, albeit with some comedic changes.
At certain angles, especially around the mouth, Ms Brink is mesmerising in her likeness to Madonna, and her physique suggests she may too have a gym habit.
The artist however, reveals this is not the case when asked if she spends 13 hours a day working out in the same way as her Madgesty. 'I spend around an hour a day in the gym,' she says, 'and I do eat well, but am not as strict as Madonna.'
Madonna Tribute Act
This show is a departure from the purely Madonna tribute act which has earned her a steady living as well as television and press interest over the years.
Through the course of the show, the Madonna paraphernalia is gradually put away, and Evelyne Brink emerges, telling her own story of struggle and poverty in New York and performing her own songs, which are clever, and funny and sweet.
A German Jew, she talks about her tragic family history and in particular the influence of her remarkable grandfather, who did hugely significant work as a diplomat, and it is apparent that this show is as much a tribute to him as it is to any pop star.
'I am going out on a limb with this,' says Ms Brink, who has clearly reached a turning point in her own life and realised she has much to offer as a performer in her own right. 'Here in Edinburgh is the first time I have performed this show - and it feels wonderful.'
Evelyne Brink
It is certainly enjoyable for the audience, who perhaps leave with a little more to think about than they bargained for.
Evelyne Brink is fascinating, talented and although her strength of character is obvious, she has a certain fragility too. These are indeed the very traits which make Madonna herself so compelling.
In this show, magic happens as it becomes evident that the real similarities between superstar and tribute artist are inner - and ultimately have little to do with the studied make-up and detailed attention to wardrobe.
The irony is that when Madonna slips into the wings, and Evelyne Brink takes centre stage, the resemblance aquires a sort of spiritual power and in that moment, becomes most meaningful.
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