Kings Place, London
By Amy Gwinnett
Ayanna Witter-Johnson, who played at Kings Place as part of their Cello Unwrapped series, perfectly illustrated the beauty and versatility of the instrument in a show that was by turns emotional, funny and always charming. She showcased material from her two EPs and upcoming debut album, supported by an excellent backing band, two supremely capable backing singers and her cello, whom she calls Reuben.
Launching into a touching cover of The Police’s Roxanne, Witter-Johnson told us that this was the first song she and Reuben played together, or, as she has it, their ‘first date’. Her love for her instrument was touchingly clear to see in not just the way she played, but in the tenderness with which she laid him down (be in no doubt, it’s a him) on the stage when she switched instruments (she is also a proficient piano player). It was also evident in the way she danced with him. The sexing up of classical instruments is nothing new, (anyone remember Britain’s Got Talent’s Escala?), but Witter-Johnson’s sensual, rhythmic dancing, with Reuben as her dance partner was captivating. She also incorporated elements of theatre into the show, with the addition of an elaborate candelabra and a rug, she writhed elegantly on the stage with a song that was almost a soliloquy.
The atmosphere at Kings Place was relaxed and intimate. Couples abounded, (looking at you, in Row G, canoodling in front of me), with multiple dedications going out to the loved up among us from Witter-Johnson – the gorgeous Truthfully, for example, was revealed to be the favourite of a recently engaged couple in the crowd. Witter-Johnson made us all feel like we were old friends, laughing with us at her eye-popping corset that she couldn’t bend in, and patiently teaching us old Jamaican songs. This culminated in her penultimate number, Rise Up, a powerful bluesy number which took full advantage of her impressive backing band. She encouraged us to throw off the serious trappings of Kings Place and rise in our seats, to dance, and we did, like snakes to a charmer. Talented and funny, Ayanna Witter-Johnson and Reuben are a partnership for the ages. 