The Kransky Sisters have set out on a national Christmas tour from their hometown in Esk, Queensland, to share their memories of Christmases past.
Before the sisters arrive, the audience is treated to an intriguing slide show of their adventures to date, featuring the big Koala and the big potato amongst other charming places.
Eve, Mourne and half sister Dawn begin with a version of “Joy to the World” that has never been attempted or heard before. With a combination of instruments including tuba, guitar, electric piano and a saw, their sound can only be described as “interesting”.
Every song comes with a story of their childhood, memories of selling portraits to mourners at the cemetery to raise money for Christmas presents, a favorite mango tree, lost loves are all tied to a song that may or may not be accurate in its rendition.
The deadpan delivery and naivety gives the trio their special charm, and the poorly disguised disdain for the hapless half sister Dawn keeps the audience in stitches for the whole show. Could there be a creepier version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” except by these sisters?
Of course there is audience participation; when Mourne shines her torch out to pick out people you can feel the apprehension in the room. A detailed account of the sister’s foray into AirBnB gives a vivid impression of what would have eventuated had one taken them up on their offer of a room for the night.
Towards the end of proceedings, two audience members are invited up to sing along with the sisters and it is hilarious watching two middle aged men clearly so far out of their comfort zones. They were jolly good sports about it all and were handsomely rewarded for their efforts before returning to the comfort of their loved ones.
One’s favorite songs could be ruined forever. If you’re a fan of “Gangham Style”, Gotye or Enya, then it might be wise not to come along to this show. If you want a return to simpler times when children learned their place and obeyed their parents, then this might be just the tonic you need to help you through the stress of Christmas.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
The reviewer attended the performance at the Adelaide Festival Centre on 15th December. The show is touring Australia through 23rd December. For dates and more details head to thekranskysisters.com/touring
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