Fringe Review: "The Voice Behind The Stars" is cleverly written and winningly performed
The Voice Behind The Stars tells the story of Marni Nixon, the most prolific ‘ghost singer’ in movie history and reveals the truth behind some of the world’s most loved movie musicals. It’s a beautiful, heartfelt and entertaining hour in the Gold Digger tent as solo performer Eliza Jackson inhabits the highs and lows of Marni’s life with energy and an incredible voice.
If you’re like me and had no idea what a ghost singer is, it was someone who dubbed for famous Hollywood films. Marni Nixon’s story is pretty fascinating, as she dubbed the singing voice for stars like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Natalie Wood. Nixon was prohibited from telling anyone what films she sang on and for whom. She was unacknowledged and unknown until an interview with actress Deborah Kerr uncovered her story to the world.
It’s a great premise for a show to unfold and we’re in good hands as Eliza Jackson croons, belts and whispers the songs we know and love. There’s West Side Story, My Fair Lady, The King and I and so many more, delivered charmingly and confidently.
While the story does get slightly confusing at times, and I was itching for a surprise to break up the predictable pace of the show, The Voice Behind The Stars is cleverly written and winningly performed. It would be great to see this show with a live musician and some more audience interaction, as it sometimes feels like Marni is there being a kind of stand-up comedian cross documentarian.
This is the kind of show that’s fun to see with your mum or grandma. If you’re looking for some wholesome, feel-good Fringe entertainment, The Voice Behind The Stars is perfect. You’ll be humming the songs and wanting to dance all night as you leave the venue!
