Woody Sez music review: Songs that made a legend
A joyful, musically-dazzling portrait of Woody Guthrie brings the folk icon’s life, struggles and enduring protest songs vividly back to life
That time-worn phrase, ‘legends are made, not born’, could well have been written specifically for Woody Guthrie, one of folk music’s most celebrated figures and an icon of the protest movement. In Woody Sez, we chart his journey from itinerant musician, through crushing poverty and personal tragedy, to national acclaim and an enduring legacy. This production, revisiting the Fringe 20 years after its inception, reminds us that great performances can create experiences that linger.
Even those with only a passing familiarity with Guthrie’s music and story will find plenty to enjoy here, such is the sheer joy of the musicianship and vocal talent in the room. Woody is vividly brought to life by the show’s writer and fulcrum, David M Lutken, giving the part enough irascible sass to colour Guthrie’s stoic self-determination and reveal a character who is flawed but never descends into self-pity. The supporting cast (Nyssa Grant, Raquel Chavez and David Finch) fill out Woody’s story with an endless roster of companions and family members, creating snapshots from his life, like an ever-shifting photo album.
But it’s the inventive use of those songs and the thrilling, unamplified playing that set this production apart. An entire symphony of instruments is woven into each of the show’s vignettes, with the quartet of performers taking equal turns at musical virtuosity. Recurring motifs, including ‘The Ballad Of Tom Joad’ and ‘Bound For Glory’, alongside huge, energetic hoedowns topped off with Guthrie’s legendary ‘This Land Is Your Land’, hold the story together like musical glue. Woody Sez is a sweet and soaring call to arms.
Woody Sez, Underbelly Bristo Square, until 30 August, 5.30pm; picture: Roger Mastroianni.