In a mostly dull musical scene in Durban, Stacey Almond's From Bach to Barbara at the Catalina is indeed a fresh breeze. She tried this new concept, which is becoming more and more popular all over the world, at the Rumbelow a few months ago and it worked, and deserved a much wider audience.

Now it’s at the Catalina with a more intimate and larger stage which allows for more decor and movement. And what a pleasure it was watching it for the second time. Although for a few opening night jitters, the show is fresh, the music is great and the talent is overwhelming.

Almond's coloratura soprano voice showed amazing flexibility in trying everything from opera to pop, not to talk about Pudifin's incredible technique and rare showmanship on the violin (and my goodness, isn't she beautiful - what a sight to behold!!) just blew me away. Daniels, a most talented pianist showed remarkable skill on the piano and on stage. A real must see if you ask me.

I enjoyed Almond's new show. I'm sure that, in spite of subjective crits, you have to judge it yourselves - not by reading opinions, but by experiencing it first hand!

Johan Reiners