With his upcoming MICF show, Michael Griffiths has taken a slew of Madonna’s greatest hits and deep cuts, and filtered them through the lens of cabaret. After winning numerous awards for his acclaimed performances, Griffiths is ready to take on the music of Madonna. There will be no accent, costumes or wigs – just a flawing musical journey through her tough and tender songs.
“She lost her mother at a young age, so there is a real sense of sincere, melancholy sadness in her work,” says Griffiths on the pop star’s upbringing. “Fans try and protect her because of this brokenness. “Most people probably forget or reject this part of her life, because her larger than life personality has eclipsed any human elements.”
The personality and the story are striking in themselves, but Griffiths’ show firmly “celebrates good, cleverly crafted songs and [insists] that collaboration is key to create something lasting.”
What may come as surprising to some, Madonna is known for playing a crucial role in the composition of her own music. “Sometimes we forget that she writes her own songs and was a big part of that collaboration process,” reflects Griffiths. “These songs are direct reflections of her life.” Thus, the philosophy of the show has been properly laid out. In Vogue directly links Madonna’s life moments with the songs to emphasize both her story, her writing, and her songs.
While Griffiths is admittedly a fan himself, the show ultimately aims to appeal to a wider audience. “While its full of references that fans get, you don’t need to know the details because the songs are ubiquitous,” he says. “Actually, people who aren’t fans learn the most. There’s a wonderful nostalgia about the songs.”
While it does have its more pensive moments, Griffiths knows that when it comes down to it, In Vogue is at its core, fun. It is a Madonna-inspired show after all. He even pulls out her infamous coffee-table book, Sex,for “a tongue and cheek giggle with the audience”.
Even though Griffiths would never entertain the idea of inviting the Queen of Pop to his show for fear she would hate him forever, he has had some pretty big hitters attend In Vogue in the past. “The writer of Jersey Boys, Rick Elice, saw me perform the show in the mother-ship of New York,” he says proudly. With glowing reviews the world over, it’s easy to see why.
By Julie Carli
Venue: Yarraville Club
Date: Friday April 15
Time: 8.30pm
Tickets: $30
