Writer: Alexis Sakellaris
Alexis Sakellaris began this year touring the U.S. with talented comedian Matt Rogers, promoting Have You Heard of Christmas?, a hilarious holiday comedy album. Perhaps Sakellaris picked up a few pointers along the way because their debut show, A Stan Is Born, feels far from novice. Capitalising on the pop-culture phenomenon that is ‘stanning’, Sakellaris is taking over the world – ‘or every pub theatre in London’ as they humorously quip – with their fabulous celebration of the divas they hold dear.
The performance space is decorated with Sakellaris’ impressive collection of merchandise from an array of musical artists. As they enter, their outfit comically brandishes a dictionary definition for the word ‘stan’. These design elements add an endearing personal touch while also setting up that Sakellaris is not playing around with the title of their show. Stanning is a lifestyle, and any unknowing audience members are about to learn this lesson from one of the best.
What ensues is a fabulously entertaining hour(ish) of musical comedy meets confessional solo show. Sakellaris takes the audience on a fast-paced journey from applauding their mother’s lullaby at 9 months old right the way through to an acknowledgment of Cynthia Erivo’s viral riff from the new Wicked movie.
Sakellaris is a brilliant musician, composing a number of brilliant melodies which are camp, catchy and re-playable (some are now available to stream on Spotify). The absolute highlight of the show, though, is their exceptional singing ability. Sakellaris’ voice is smooth as butter and so easy to listen to, yet a powerful belt lies just beneath the surface, waiting to jump out and impress. Their riffs alone are a marvel to listen to; ambitious and yet executed so cleanly.
As a performer, Sakellaris offers an energetic and likeable presence which fills the space easily, whether perched behind a keyboard or acting out quirky characters from their past. The narrative is slick, the comedy beats are well-timed, and Sakellaris is comfortable playing with their own material and can bounce off of the audience easily.
A Stan Is Born has played its final performance for 2024, yet this year was likely just the start for this lighthearted, crowd-pleasing piece. Just like the Gaynor/Garland/Streisand/Gaga (take your pick) film which inspired the titular pun – in Sakellaris, a star is born.
Reviewed on 2 December 2024
The Reviews Hub Score
Exceptional
