EDINBURGH 2014 - BWW Reviews: DIVALLUSION, Assembly Checkpoint, August 2 2014

Is day two of the festival too soon to declare something "the best show on the Fringe"? Perhaps, but if anything surpasses Divallusion for me I will be very surprised. Youtube sensation Christina Bianco and cabaret star Velma Celli have joined forces to bring you the most entertaining hour of comedy cabaret you'll see in Edinburgh this year.

From the moment Velma Celli steps into the room she has everybody's full attention. Opening with a powerful version of Rolling In The Deep and soon joined onstage by Christina Bianco they both have a huge stage presence. I won't completely spoil the setlist as it is the surprise factor that makes this show so good. I think my personal favourite impersonation by Bianco is her uncanny take on Julie Andrews: she captures her perfectly. Without giving too much away: the song choices are amazing; there are costumes that have to be seen to be believed and Divallusion contains the highest high kicks that I have ever witnessed.

The genuine friendship between these two is obvious. With improvised song selections and heartfelt banter the pair make a very special double act. Both divas have incredible voices and they really go for it. Christina Bianco seems to hit the high notes with ease. The finale is spectacular and earned the duo a full house standing ovation.

My only disappointment was that the show had to end after an hour. I would have happily sat there for another hour. I suppose I'll just have to go back and see it again.

Divallusion runs at Assembly Checkpoint at 19.25 until August 21st and then The Velma Celli show follows with a three-night run from the 22nd at the same time.

Photo: Darren Bell

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