JONATHAN ROXMOUTH is an incredible pianist – and I mean that in the true sense of the word: “difficult to believe; extraordinary”. In fact, when I saw him previously I pondered whether he was even playing for real, so hard it was to conceive that anyone’s fingers could move like that, so impeccably.
I pondered this publicly on Facebook where he replied that he indeed was playing. I no doubt insulted him but that was not the intention. There are times in Key Change – My Favourite Pianists where his hands were literally a blur, and for some pieces a camera shows them on a screen behind the band, and the three combined Beethoven pieces are breathtaking. How is it even possible? A lifetime of playing likely has something to do with it, but the ability, aptitude and skill is something a person is born with.
Jonathan’s show is on at Theatre On The Bay until August 19. The box office is probably going to yell at me for this but try to book seats in the upper numbers, ie those you enter from the left door. That way you’ll be able to see the keyboard which will be hidden from view for those on the other side of the theatre. Hence the camera. You won’t lose out because the playing is filled with passion throughout, and between numbers, Jonathan explains his choices and shares their impact on his life.
Towards the end, I whispered to my friend, “he hasn’t played Billy Joel.” (Except for one line in a very clever love song medley.) Surely such an oversight would not be allowed? Wait and see. Also, don’t walk out mid-show if you don’t want the entire audience’s attention directed at you.
It’s a night of fun and entertainment at the hands of a master, and often that’s exactly what we want and need.
PHOTO CREDIT: Jaco Botha
