Cabaret Review by: Sandi Durell
Fans and friends of the Marvelous One eagerly await April 10th yearly. Why? It’s her birthday and that means it’s a BIG party, this year marking her 96th year. We all find that beyond words, as this impeccably dressed woman, looking glamourous in black sequin pantsuit, takes the stage and our hearts – – the room over-flowing with excitement.
Favorite “Golden Rainbow” (music/lyrics Walter Marks) opens the evening with an appropriate “Old Friends” (from Merrily We Roll Along, music/lyrics Stephen Sondheim) not far behind. Ms. Maye transitions into someone half her age as she shares Marilyn-esque truth and sensibility. Yes, she’s got us!
Backed by her favorite trio featuring music director on piano Tedd Firth, Tom Hubbard on bass and Mark McLean on drums, it doesn’t get any better than this.
An evening of swing, jazz waltzes, Latin beats, quiet reflective ballads invade the evening’s songs that cover the gamut of who she is, elevating storytelling to a higher level. From the Mame Medley (Jerry Herman) to My Fair Lady Medley and lovingly sung Hello, Dolly! Medley (Ribbons Down My Back, Before the Parade Passes By…) as she reminisces her starring role in that production, she covers Broadway’s Cabaret, On A Clear Day and so much more.
Stories abound . . . we’ve heard them before but they’re fresh and new and we love listening. As the famous line says . . . she could read the telephone book and the audience would be mesmerized!
The pairing of “By Myself” (Music/lyrics Arthur Schwartz & Howard Dietz) and “Being Alive” (from Company, music/lyrics Stephen Sondheim) was delivered with all the power and emotion deserved.
A night to laugh, make merry, shed a tear and find emotions flying . . . yes, that’s Marilyn Maye. Here’s to us and here’s to you Marilyn Maye – HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Fortunately, she has an extended lengthy run celebrating her birthday that gives you the chance not to miss this legend. April 11, 12, 14, 16 thru 20 @ 7 pm, May 2, 5, 6 @ 7 pm www.54Below.org. Watch for a more in depth review coming soon via Ron Fassler.
Photos: Maryann Lopinto (except as noted)
