Let’s Raise a Glass . . .to the Metropolitan Room
Bernie Furshpan closes the gate
By Sandi Durell
A mixture of sadness, joy and great spirit prevailed at the last evening at the Metropolitan Room at 34 West 22 Street on September 30, 2017. Managing partner Bernie Furshpan and lovely wife Joanne, along with partner Peter Leavy bid farewell to the more than 6 ½ years since they took over the space from the Gotham Club. It’s been a mainstay in the cabaret community, welcoming performers from around the globe and receiving cheers and high marks from staff, performers and critics alike. It’s a family who know how to treat one another and the public, who have enjoyed many nights of top notch entertainment; the atmosphere of camaraderie always evident.
As one door closes, another opens. Look for a bigger space in 2018 that will house two cabaret rooms, a restaurant and a piano bar in the neighborhood nearby.
The last two acts of the evening included the amazing jazz songwriter-musician-singer Aziza Miller (musical director to Natalie Cole) and her band and backup vocalists at 7 pm, followed by the ever-popular duo Lee Squared – David Maiocco and Chuck Sweeney as Liberace and Miss Peggy Lee at 9:30 pm who brought a lot of laughs and talent as the last act to play the room.
You will be missed! But we all look forward to 2018 and a new Metropolitan Room.
Thank you Bernie, Joanne, Peter and a great staff for the exceptional years you’ve provided in the entertainment industry.
Photos: JK Clarke (or as indicated by Maryann Lopinto)
Video: Sandi Durell
