Bijou

You're in a cafe-bar in Paris, 1933. Richly decorated tables, flickering candle-light, a wine, a chat; the music plays...But you become aware of a new face in the crowd.

A ravaged figure in faded finery and fake pearls enters, and the evening takes an unexpected turn. 'Madame Bijou' former Queen of the Belle Epoque, unleashes a string of intimate, colourful memories. Her jewels trigger the stories, while music of Satie, Weill, Hollander, Bruant accompanies both stories and songs, allowing a glimpse into the private, sensual world of a riveting Parisienne.

Bijou is full of delightful surprises, moments of shock, and yes, hilarity.

Chrissie Shaw, award-winning theatre veteran, is joined by leading accompanist Alan Hicks as the long-suffering bar pianist.

WINNER - 2013 ACT MEAA Green Room Award
WINNER - 2013 ACT Critics Circle Award

'This is a one-woman tour de force through time...an extraordinary performance by Chrissie Shaw, a veteran of the stage for more than 30 years. She brings both despair and joy as well as great charm to this bawdy and lusty lady...Alan Hicks is a wonderful accompaniment on the piano, playing softly as the audience takes their seats and welcoming us so completely into this other world...' Heather Wallace, HERCANBERRA

'With often quite saucy, even erotic themes, Shaw as Bijou also pulled off a level of sensual exploration much more grounded and assured than I have seen in any younger performers. Stripping down to a lavish corset and pantaloons (by designer Victoria Worley), she seemingly delighted in challenging people on the widely held belief that maturity and sexuality is an oxymoron.' Deborah Hawke, THE BAREFOOT REVIEW