How did you first discover your passion for performing French cabaret?
I’ve always been inspired by the music of Édith Piaf since I was quite young, but back in 2002 my grandfather asked me to sing a French song for him at an important family event.
It was such a poignant moment that the memory has always stuck with me. As a natural progression, I lived in French-speaking Switzerland for two years, became fluent in French and once I could understand the lyrics of the songs they took on a new meaning and I became even more passionate.
Were there any specific influences behind your new release, Ben Noir?
A culmination of life events [including] having appeared in the Moulin Rouge film, and my Swiss husband Stephane, who is the reason why I learned French in the first place! But musically I’m taken by the likes of Piaf, Brel, Trenet and others as well as the musical influences from my background. I also spent some time performing in Paris. It’s such an enigmatic city and I feel that this experience is imbued in the album.
What makes cabaret audiences respond well during a show?
I think the honesty of real experiences, and our genuine family connections (a couple of members being in the band). And a few surprise antics always help! What we offer is something that is a little unique but is underpinned by the familiarity of great songs.
You recently performed at the Montreal Burlesque Festival. What did you learn from the experience?
That I have to perform! The feedback was so positive that it reminded me of why I do what I do.
Who else is involved in your new show, A French Cabaret?
We have some fabulous musicians: Inge Courtenay-Haentjes (violin), Paolo Campanari (accordion), Jane Andino (piano), Paul Laszlo (double bass), Cameron Reid (drums/percussion), Rosie McDonald and Anna Crotti on backing vocals and Ann Palumbo (guitar and musical director, producer and arranger), as well as some dancers thanks to Wendy Brown Productions.
A French Cabaret happensSunday November 6 atDjango Bar, Camelot Lounge.
