Side by Side: What Opera Stars Get Up to After Hours

2

min read

Perth Underground speaks with the talent of Side-by-Side to discuss their show, their history, and their inspiration

If you have been to an Opera show, you know what to expect - but what happens after the singers leave the stage? Daniella Sicari, a fringe festival regular, is joined by Eimear Foley, bringing to life Stephen Sondhiem’s work. The performance is Classical meets Cabaret and can be caught at Perth Fringe Festival this January. We had the pleasure of speaking with these talented sopranos.

Side-By-Side at Perth Fringe Festival: What to Expect

The performers cleverly use the art form of song to explore various female characters. Eimear explained the vision of the show by saying:

“This show tells the stories of the modern female experience through the songs of Sondhiem”.

Some familiar songs to be expected are Ladies Who Lunch, which explains the fun loving nature of ladies in their early 20s. This is followed by songs such as Send in the Clowns and No one is Alone.

On the decision to use Sondhiem as the soundtrack, Daniella says:

“We want to tell the stories of these Sondheim characters. Plucking each song and exploring their experience. Sondheim is very good at capturing a relatable and honest moment and putting that in a song”

Side-by-Side succeeds in their aim, exposing Perth audiences to lesser known Sondhiem songs whilst exploring the theme of life decisions and their subsequent consequences.]

Perth Locals Returned: Daniella Sicari and Eimar Foley

Daniella and Eimear are no strangers to the stage. Having graduated WAAPA, performed in multiple shows and companies in New York and UK, we can thank the global pandemic for bringing these rising stars back home!

Speaking with Eimear about returning home to where it all began, Eimear says

“We are so lucky to be able to create and perform in Perth”

When asked if they had any advice to give current students, they had this to say:

“Aim high and work hard to educate yourself. - and be nice to your orchestra! They make your show”

These ladies are sure to impress with their talented skills of musical theatre. So get your ticket, grab a drink, head downstairs at His Majesty’s Theatre and settle in for a night of songs, laughter and cabaret!