fragments inspired by stage and screen
[article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, September 14, 2017.] “I finally made it to Birdland!” Melissa Manchester, who has had a career of many decades, with more than a score of albums, and performances around the world, exclaimed early into her set in the intimate jazz venue an excitement at being in the room that
[image caption: Billy Stritch and Linda Lavin. Photo: Stephen Sorokoff.] [article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, July 30, 2017.] Linda Lavin is a New York City girl who holds audiences rapt by comedic and dramatic performances on television, film, and stage. What cabaret lovers have discovered over the years is that that she brings all her
[article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, July 30, 2017.] The scene at Birdland this steamy July evening skews young—tables of college-aged pals, a large group of teens from Britain. The bubbling young crowd, perhaps here on a first visit to this venue, perhaps a first visit to the city, could perhaps have come on a
[article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, May 11, 2017.] Broadway performances past and present were evoked in the newest “Jamie deRoy & Friends” cabaret show on the intimate Birdland stage. This established, curated, and regular series of ensemble shows hosted by the personable deRoy has appeared in a range of venues around town. Sunday’s
[article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, September 17, 2016.] “Sit back, relax, Mama’s gonna read.” The lanky instantly recognizable and inviting presence of Julie Halston, described as “a cross between Joan Rivers and Hayley Mills” (and I’d add with a vocal delivery that has blended delightfully over time with that of her great friend
[article as originally published in Theater Pizzazz, September 12, 2016.] [featured image caption: [L-R] Natalie Douglas and music director Brian Nash. Image by Kevin Alvey.] Natalie Douglas, a New York cabaret stalwart originally from LA, calls New York City’s Birdland jazz haven her artistic home base. The charming Jim Caruso noted in his introduction to “Stevie
Colleen McHugh: “Prêt-à-Porter: Cole Porter’s French Connections” with Tedd Firth (piano), Aaron Weinstein (violin), Matt Munisteri (guitar), Steve Doyle (bass) and Harry Allen (tenor sax). Birdland, 315 West 44th Street July 9, 2012 at 7pm event web site Reviewed by Martha Wade Steketee My world has been in a bit of a whirl the past few
Schmoolie & Minnooli (Sam Harris and Liza Minnelli) Birdland, 315 West 44th Street Two night engagement — November 20 at 6pm and November 21 at 7pm event web site Reviewed by Martha Wade Steketee November 20, 2011 “We’ve been through thick and thin.” (Sam) “We’ve *been* thick and thin.” (Liza) Social networking got me to
