Overview
Wellington-born Sheba Williams doesn't sound much like Nina Simone, but her infectious energy, larger than life persona and cheeky humour make for an incredibly entertaining spectacle. She emerges from between purple curtains on stage, resplendent in a green headdress adorned with jewels, and sporting a golden necklace almost half a foot thick.
Right off the bat the flamboyant Kiwi songstress explains that the audience is going to have to work tonight
"It's all about ya'll, not me."
Launching into a percussion heavy rendition of 'Sea Lion Woman', she gyrates on the stage before slowly slinking amidst the audience to pick a volunteer.
"Someone with orange clothes! Anyone?"
She cries, as I look down at my bright orange tee and shrink lower into my seat. Terror grips me as she approaches and stops right before me - selecting a woman in a bright orange dress and pulling her out of her seat to dance as she belts out the lyrics. Thank christ for that woman in the orange dress.
Stage lights reflect off a disco ball and diamonds of bright light dance around the room, as she returns to the stage launches into 'I'm Feeling Good'. While her voice is distinctly different than Nina's, powerful and clear rather than husky or soulful, she brings her own unique energy to the classic tune. Amidst the blaring horns and slow percussion her voice stands out and the experience is powerful.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfJRX-8SXOs
After flirting with a couple unsuspecting males in the audience, she gives out flowers to her favourites, kissing crowd members on the cheeks and wishing an elderly lady happy 22nd birthday. Upon her exit, crowd applause builds and she returns for one more high energy rendition of 'Sinner Man'.
Sheba explained her plans to immediately vacate to the hotel sauna, then finally exited the stage to raucous applause - deserving of such a passionate and entertaining show.