YMA SUMAC
THE PERUVIAN SONGBIRD
​
'...there are not enough superlatives to describe
McGregor's voice, or how listening to it makes you feel
right in the core of your being.
Completely exhilarating."
A voice for the ages. An icon, lost to history.
​
Welcome to 1950’s America. Mambo mania has reached its zenith. A mysterious Peruvian beauty is its Queen.
Yma Sumac has an incredible five octave range and a mesmerising stage presence. The time is right for her brand, and she lights up Hollywood.
​
In this captivating performance, acclaimed performer Ali McGregor brings Yma to life. A love story from one singer to another; told across generations and continents with astounding vocals and charisma. Be transported. Transformed by the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Experience life. Love. Fame. Fetishization. The forgotten. Do not miss Ali and her eight piece band as she celebrates this enchanting tale of mystery, heartbreak and extraordinary singing.
​
Winner of the Helpmann Award in 2019 for cabaret performance this show debuted at Adelaide Cabaret Festival followed by an acclaimed season at the Sydney Opera House.
​
REVIEWS
"First class, and top shelf. There’s no reason why Yma Sumac, The Peruvian Songbird should not tour all over the world. It is that good."
"Ranging from deep, earthshaking bass to dizzying, sky-scraping high notes there are not enough superlatives to describe Mc Gregor's voice, or how listening to it makes you feel right in the core of your being. Completely exhilarating."
"Five stars really do not fully import the wonder that is this show. Don’t miss it."
"This is an unforgettable show."
​
"Ali McGregor's mesmerising voice, along with her intertwining stories of Yma Sumac's life, was amazing. McGregor is a natural storyteller with a voice you have to hear, she brings Yma Sumac to life with a poignancy the audience can feel."
Weekend Notes
The show runs for 70 minutes
Creative Team
Writer Ali McGregor
Director Cameron Menzies
Dramaturg Jane Bodie
Lighting Director Paul Lim
Sound Design Russell Goldsmith
Musical Director & Piano Sam Keevers
Original Cast
Yma Sumac - Ali McGregor
Moises Vivianco & Guitar - Mikelangelo
Cholita /Percussion - Lily Paskas-Goodfellow
Double Bass - Tamara Murphy
Drums - Hugh Harvey
Alto Saxophone - Phil Noy
Trumpet - Ben Gillespie
Trombone - Eugene Ball
promo video
Filmed live from Adelaide Cabaret Festival June 2018
CHUNCHO
Filmed live from Adelaide Cabaret Festival June 2018
PROMO VIDEO
Filmed live from Adelaide Cabaret Festival June 2018
CHUNCHO
Filmed live from Adelaide Cabaret Festival June 2018