Tory Kendrick presents us with a sparkling self-produced comedy cabaret. Somebody to Love features original ditties along with some familiar musical tunes for some of which Tory has cleverly altered the lyrics to fit in with her theme.

The concept of the show is to consider the trials and tribulations of modern dating as comparable to the five stages of grief identified by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross in her 1960s book ‘On Death and Dying’. Quite a stretch but it works and provides a narrative theme for Tory to showcase her singing and comedic talents.

Between songs, Tory regales us with dating tales, even including a few audience experiences which we are invited to text anonymously to her during the show.

Tory is a highly impressive performer with energy to burn. Somebody to Love is her 7th different show at FRINGE WORLD in 2024! She also has a fine voice particularly when delivering amusing material where the words are as important as the sound.

Tory was supported by an excellent two-piece band comprising Jackson Harper Griggs on keyboards and Alex Barker on drums. Jackson provided a highlight of the show in a duet with Tory addressing the difficulties, from a dating viewpoint, of interpreting the metrosexual look.

Tory appeared a little tense at times, gushing and laughing nervously but perhaps that was just from having her proud Mum in the audience on this particular night.

Tory looks very much like the glamorous cabaret star on the rise with her shimmering red dress and bright personality. It actually seems a little ironic that Tory should be presenting a show centred around dating challenges. But hey, it’s a lot of fun seeing and hearing her perform and we are definitely going to hear a lot more from Tory in the coming years, whether in cabaret or musical theatre or both.