RACHAEL AND RHONDA: THE LONG AND THE SHORT OF IT Thebarton Theatre Until 28 Oct 2017 Review by Janice Bailey RACHAEL AND RHONDA: THE LONG AND THE SHORT OF IT Ding Productions Thebarton Theatre Until Saturday 28 October 2017 Review by Janice Bailey The idea of presenting two of Australia’s best-known leading ladies in a cabaret setting at Adelaide’s iconic Thebarton Theatre came from Jo Casson of Ding Productions. Jo also directed the show. Finding dates that fitted into the busy schedule of both these in-demand performers would not have been easy – but thank goodness it happened. The audiences who were fortunate to experience “The Long and the Short of It” were treated to a thoroughly entertaining cabaret experience, made even more enjoyable by the use of cabaret seating for the audience. The program featured the songs we expected from these talented and experienced women and the format allowed them to show their personalities. It was obvious that the two have a genuine respect and admiration for each other’s talent as well as a genuine liking for each other. As would be expected the costumes were spectacular. Mark Ferguson led a very tight band which seemed to create the impression that it was much bigger than it was. The selection of songs covered a wide range from musicals such as “Mamma Mia”, “Hot Shoe Shuffle”, “Les Miserables” and “The Sound of Music” as well as everything from Beyonce to Judy Garland. With choreography by Laura Brougham, Martine Quigley, Jaime Foord and Maddie Lochert, the professional dance cast of Joe Meldrum, Jake Walasek, Lacie Roberts, Laura Brougham, Martine Quigley, Jaime Foord and Maddi Lochert added a further dimension of stunning costumes and interest. An absolute highlight was the inclusion of some of Adelaide’s rising stars in a wonderful tap sequence which filled the stage with glittering costumes and the theatre with tapping, also allowing Burchmore and Beck to showcase yet another talent. Thebarton Theatre is a wonderful Adelaide theatre and I hope Ding Productions pursues this format with further cabaret style shows featuring artists such as Burchmore and Beck. As was obvious from the genuine appreciation of the crowd, there is definitely an audience for this concept. An excellent evening of entertainment.