Gypsy Kings and Queens

Fanfare Ciocărlia

Part of the Sydney Festival was a rollicking evening of fast and furious gypsy music. Rather like a Variety Gala from the Balkans. With lively horns and soulful flamenco sounds, costumed dancers, shimmying and Esme Redzepova looking most diva like in a pink chiffon outfit. Her voice was pretty amazing as well.

The performance was followed by a busking session from stage to small State Theatre foyer, where the band played on to the delight of the audience and money - preferably of the $50 persuasion was secured by the gypsy brandishing the hat.

Joanne Kee
www.placesandspaces.com.au