What I liked
I loved how Eve portrayed the various styles of music, from the different players and the different areas. She does this very skillfully with one song, playing it with the various styles so that you can understand. Also, her piano playing is incredible and perfected, so you trust that you are hearing the songs exactly as they were meant to be played. She shows the evolution of the styles. She teaches about the invaluable contribution of early Black music to our American history and handles it all with respect, and might I say love and affection. I was surprised at how moved I was at the end, and I especially appreciate how Eve showed a picture of herself and her fellow friends/musicians honoring the grave of an early father of ragtime.
What I didn't like
Nothing. I’d like to see the show taken on the road and have a bigger budget, as this show so lovingly teaches about early American history and the important men who helped form it. Eve interacts with the audience in a fun and playful way, and it’s funny and excellent all the way around.
My overall impression
Syncopated Debauchery was an interesting title, and it piqued my curiosity. I am so forever grateful to have attended this show, it was absolutely fantastic! I learned so much without even trying. Eve gives an excellent, respectful and insightful view into the early creators of ragtime and jazz, portraying their personalities and struggles and achievements. I came to care for each one of these characters, and to see their very real differences in personality and approach to the music that they made. I learned about the heartbreaking swindling of their songs, and I was moved to tears, at the end, with the final curtains of their lives.
Eve brings us back into history, and we see ourselves sitting in the music halls with Scott Joplin, Jellyroll Morton and Fats Waller, and walking the streets and seeing their lives play out. Best show I’ve been to in a long time. Get this girl an agent and put this show on the road!
