Chameleon

Eat your heart out Michael Winslow, Stewart Reeve steals the show! 

Melbourne’s latest ‘voice of choice’, Stewart Reeve, took his sensational one-man show, Chameleon, to the stage at Melbourne’s beloved Gasworks Arts Park for an exclusive three-night season. Not only is Reeve the creator of Chameleon, but he is also the star of the hit David Bowie rock tribute show Rebel, and is known to captivate audiences with his remarkable energy, enthusiasm and most of all, vocal prowess. 

Chameleon opens with Reeve performing an electrifying rendition of Robbie Williams’ ‘Let Me Entertain You’, and boy was this a precursor of what was to come! Immediately, the tone was set for an adrenaline-pumping show full of entertainment. Chameleon invites audiences on the remarkable journey that powerhouse vocalist Stewart Reeve took to find his own voice, his own “unique” sound. Showcasing an unbelievable vocal range, Reeve effortlessly transitions from one voice to another, spanning over decades of hit songs and celebrity voices, from Frank-N-Furter (my personal favourite) to Annie Lennox, Phil Collins and Tones and I. Reeve’ talent as a vocal chameleon is truly mesmerizing. 

But Chameleon is more than just an impressive showcase of vocal abilities. Throughout the performance, Reeve shares intimate and heartfelt moments, reflecting on the role that these sounds and voices played in his life. The audience is invited to join him on a personal journey of self-exploration, making the experience not only entertaining but also deeply meaningful and nostalgic for all. Throughout the show, Reeve’s engaging storytelling, featuring hilarious imagery, childhood memories and anecdotes creates a genuine connection with the audience and ultimately an intimate and immersive experience for all. Reeve’s passion for vocal artistry shines through as he generously shares insights into vocal techniques and expression, including leading the audience through live tutorials on breathing and pitch. Not only does this performance educate, but it also empowers us to embrace the voice as a tool of beauty, strength and wonder. Reeve’s genuine warmth and authentic connection with the audience create an intimate atmosphere, making it feel like a gathering of friends.

Chameleon is a celebration of vocal artistry. Reeve’s goal is to inspire audiences to embrace their uniqueness and be true to themselves. Closing the performance with the hit song from Men at Work, ‘Who Can It Be Now?’, was a fitting end to a memorable show.

Chameleon was performed on-stage at Gasworks Arts Park, 27–29 July 2023. 

Images: Brig Bree Photo