David Essex – “Oh What a Circus”: A Dramatic Ode to Power and Perception
David Essex’s rendition of “Oh What a Circus” captures the theatrical essence of the 1976 musical Evita, transforming it into a haunting and reflective anthem. With lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the song vividly explores themes of adoration, skepticism, and the performative nature of leadership, all encapsulated in a gripping narrative sung from the perspective of Che, the story’s narrator and moral commentator.
The brilliance of the song lies in its juxtaposition of reverence and reproach. Written as a contrafactum to the melody of “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina”, it reimagines the grandeur of Eva Perón’s legacy as a spectacle, likened to a circus. Essex’s delivery, filled with a sardonic edge and theatrical flair, channels the conflicted emotions of admiration and disillusionment that define Che’s character. His distinctive voice lends itself perfectly to the song’s biting lyrics, which critique Eva’s rise to power while acknowledging her profound influence on Argentina’s people.
Musically, the production by Mike Batt elevates the piece into a richly textured experience. Its mid-tempo orchestration balances drama and melody, blending theatrical grandeur with contemporary elements that make it stand out beyond the confines of the stage. The song opens with somber, almost funereal tones, capturing the solemnity of Eva Perón’s funeral before building into a more robust, flamenco-infused rhythm that reflects the fervor of public mourning and the emotional complexity of her story.
Lyrically, the song is an incisive commentary on the dichotomy of Eva’s life: a symbol of hope to the downtrodden, yet seen by others as a master manipulator. The repeated refrain, “Oh what a circus, oh what a show,” underscores the theatricality of her life and death, painting a picture of a nation caught in the grip of grief and spectacle. Essex’s interpretation amplifies these nuances, his voice exuding both gravitas and a touch of cynicism that mirrors the song’s intent.
Released as a single in 1978, “Oh What a Circus” revitalized David Essex’s career at a time when his chart success had waned. Its climb to number 3 on the UK Singles Chart proved that the song resonated with audiences, not only as a piece of musical theater but also as a standalone track with universal themes of hero worship and disillusionment. Essex’s performance as Che in the original London production of Evita cemented his role as a compelling storyteller, blending charisma with introspection.
In later adaptations, the song has been interpreted by a range of artists, each bringing their unique voice to its layered composition. Yet Essex’s version remains definitive, a testament to his ability to embody the theatrical and emotional depth of the character. The enduring popularity of “Oh What a Circus” speaks to its powerful narrative, timeless melody, and the way it unravels the complexities of legacy, perception, and humanity.