Sydney review - Night At The Barracks: a go-to event for Sydneysiders

By Paul Kiely

Night At The Barracks

Presented by Polestar

Barracks

North Head

Manly

Season: 9 September – 9 October 2022. Duration: 2 hours. Bookings: https://nightatthebarracks.com.au

Jessica Mauboy first came to Manly as a 16-year-old and enjoyed fish and chips at the wharf. Now, in 2022, she is the opening act for Night At The Barracks, a series of open-air evening concerts which feature the historic buildings and gardens as a backdrop.

Over the course of one month, sixteen different performers will headline the concerts. There’s a talent for every taste, examples being Something for Kate, Sydney Dance Company, The Reubens, Aussie Pops Orchestra, Bjorn Again and James Morrison. For the full line-up, see www.nightatthebarracks.com.au

If the opening night is any measure, these concerts are a go-to event for Sydneysiders. The performance of Jessica Mauboy was fabulous. Supported by Becca Hatch, the two-hour show featured no less than seventeen of her songs. Jessica commanded the huge stage and was clearly visible to the 1000-plus crowd, in her gloss red coat and black tights.

Her first song ‘Get ‘em girls’ brought rousing applause. Her single ‘Burn’ encouraged a swarm of fans to the stage front which enlivened Jessica’s enthusiasm. Her charming smile and unpretentious style were audience winners as we enjoyed a plethora of well-known tunes like ‘Glow’, ‘Sunday’ and ‘Beautiful’. As the performance finished with ‘Inescapable’, the traditional encore was conspicuous by its absence. But the crowd, varying in age from pre-teens to late-70’s, certainly got their monies worth!

Known for her rhythm and blues/pop genre songs, Jessica performed like a well-oiled machine and was ably backed up by two vocalists, two guitarists, keyboardist and a drummer.

In conjunction with Jessica Mauboys’ performance was the event itself. Set in the Parade Grounds of the Barracks, Victorian-era buildings were bathed in a low purple hue. With a starry night and full moon, the atmosphere was calming, almost spiritual. This feeling was further aided by the First Nations acknowledgement and smoking ceremony. As frustration with the inability to start a fire using sticks set in, the good-humoured brother said “we carry a lighter just in case. We’ve got to adapt; like our ancestors”.

The logistics of staging the event went well. Given the large crowd, the shuttle bus service from Manly was quick and efficient; there was a wide selection of food and drink; and, for those curious to know, the lavatory facilities were well-above par for similar outdoor events.

Organisers might consider additional lighting on venue ramps whilst patrons should go prepared if rain is forecast. Take a small pillow for added comfort.

For a most enjoyable night out with friends and family, find a performer that suits and be sure to see a ‘Night At The Barracks’. On until 9 October 2022.