HARTGRAVE POST

LEE HARTGRAVE REVIEWS

Dec. 4, 2009

Cotton Patch Gospel – “Delirious fun!”
Jubilee – “Grade ‘A’ Tomfoolery!”
Patty Duke to Star in REAF Special


COTTON PATCH GOSPEL -

This rousing musical is still one of the most produced musicals in the USA because Harry Chapin’s score grabs you by the seat of your pants and won’t let go.

The musical paraphrases the New Testament. It takes place in modern Georgia -- and the story is based on Jesus and the New Testament. It’s thrilling to hear the Blue Grass musicians along with the fresh, young new talents on the stage.

How does the Gospel translate to the 21st Century? Quite well. It brings up many questions during the musical. The one that really resonates is – would people recognize Jesus if he showed up in Georgia. Not likely.

The S—t kickin’ music starts with a fantastic “Somethin’s Brewin’ in Gainesville. “Then there is great harmony in “I Did It”. The song “Jubilation” brings up memories of hair – but without the Broadway glitz. There are promises that if you follow the gospel you’ll get “A Gold AmexCard”.

Harrod in this play is the Governor of Georgia. It’s such a camp – but so-so true.  Absolutely loved “Dangerous Man”. Think Sweeney Todd.

These electronic evangelists of the airwaves will keep your toes a tapping. Well, gee gosh – you might even be tempted to go up on the stage and get saved.  This is one of my favorite lines: A preacher questions why Jesus is preaching and drawing such big crowds. He complains: “Why would he do it for nothing?” And, of course, that nails the Churches to the cross and their constant asking for ‘small change!” What the heck – biz is biz. You just can’t compete with the Free Jesus out in front of your Church.

What you’ll see and hear at the Custom Made Theatre production is an evening of talent that matches Broadway performances. It’s Chair Rockin' Baby. And as one sings: “If you’ve got a problem – you must flush it out!” Yes you do, and yes they did.

Oh, and get this: Pontius Pilate (Preacher) is complaining that Jesus is operating without a permit to run a fast-food-joint. He says in his imperial way ‘”He’s serving 5,000 people a day, without a permit.” He’s such a nice guy. But, kind-a-dumb, wouldn’t you say?

EXTRAS: THE STORYTELLER – EDWARD HIGHTOWER IS A DYNAMO. HE HAS SPIRIT THAT ABSOLUTELY SOARS. ALL HAIL A NEW ECECTRIFING STAR.

THE AMAZING COTTON PATCH TRIO STARS KATIE KIMBALL, ERICA RICHARDSON AND RONA SIDIQUI. “WONDERFUL FLAT-OUT SINGING!”

THE COTTON PICKERS: PAMELA BRANDON – BASS. JOHN CROIZAT/DAVID FINCH – FIDDLE/MANDOLIN. JEFF (UNCLE JAKE) KAPLAN -- BANJO/GUITAR.   AND MATT LAUER, ALSO ON GUITAR. THEY BRING OUT THE TIMELESS MUSIC (Bluegrass) WITH EVERY NUANCE AND EVERY CRAZY NOTE WITH PRECISION NOT OFTEN HEARD. “THE PICKERS ARE SPELLBINDING!”

DIRECTOR: MARILYN LANGBEHN HAS GIVEN US AN INVENTIVE FRESH NEW TAKE ON THE MUSICAL.

M USICAL DIRECTOR RONA SIDDIQUI WORKED MAGIC. THE SET/SCENIC DESIGN BY LEWIS CAMPBELL IS CRISP AND POWERFUL. THE LIGHTING DESIGNER KEDAR LAWRENCE HAS KEPT THE MOOD GOING WITH FASCINATING AND EVOCATIVE PLAYS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW.

“The show is a triumph!”

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating) – trademarked-


JUBILEE  -- AN EXQUISITE PRODUCTION! 

The 42nd Moon production of Jubilee is really something to celebrate. The impeccable ensemble lands every laugh with perfect timing. Dyan McBride (Eva Standing) is truly one of the most fun performances that I have seen in a long time. She match’s brittleness with heart and showy gestures of faux affection.

Back in time: Cole Porter and Moss Hart took a long luxury cruise to tour the world. They wrote this musical during the cruise. They used inside jokes about their famous friends; there is Johnny Weissmuller, Elsa Maxwell, Ginger Rogers, playwrights, a King, Queen, Princess and the Prince.

 The Princess is wooed by playwright/composer/actor Eric Dare. A hostile uprising forces the Royal family to abandon the palace. They romped around with commoners, and loved the freedoms of being on their own.

The musical opened on Broadway at the Imperial Theatre and ran for 169 performances. Here are some of the great/clever songs: “The Kling-Kling Bird on the Divi-Divi Tree”, “My Most intimate Friend”, “A Picture of Me Without You”, “Begin The Beguine”, “Just One Of Those Things”, and “Everybodee Who’s Anybodee.”

This is a warm, funny and tender musical. It’s a very special evening.  A perfect mix of Royalty, humor and commoners make the Cole Porter musical wildly enjoyable!

C.J. Blankenship (Mowgli) is the icing on the cake. He reveals almost all to the audience (sexy outfit) – and his voice is strong, vibrant. He makes a strong, assertive and sexy statement.

Megan Cavanagh (The Queen) – couldn’t be more stately. I was almost convinced that it was Queen Elizabeth. Benjamin Pither is always a delight. He plays Prince Rudolph, among several other characters. In fact he changed clothes so often that he must have been naked back stage most of the time as he slipped into one character after another in seconds. Zack Thomas Wilde (Eric Dare) was born to play the snob Playwright. Andrew Willlis-Woodward (Prince James) reminds of Ashton Kutcher in looks. He has that cinematic charm. It’s hard to not focus on him. But, then he is a Prince.

EXTRA: So many great actors and so little time. Everyone in the cast is so brilliant – here is the rest of the cast of thousands:
Peter Budinger, Derek Travis Collard (Prime Minister), Alison Ewing, Sarah Kathleen Farrell, Michael Patrick Gaffney (King), Juliet Heller (Princess Diana), Alexis Papedo, Celeste Russi and Justin Torres and Giana De Geiso (Lady Zendl, and others)  “REMARKABLE TALENTS!”

The spectacular Direction is by Greg MacKelllan. Dave Dobrusky, Musical Director is always the genius at the piano. And brilliant Choreographer Tom Segal is mind-blowingly fantastic.  The Costumes by Louise Jamilowicz are just fabulous. Every scene looks like it jumped right off the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. Visually stunning!

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!!  (highest rating) –trademarked-

WHERE: 42ND MOON THEATRE at THE EUREKA THEATRE.  FOLLOW 42ND MOON ON TWITTER.

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook section and produced a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))

REAF PRESENTS A SPECIAL AT THE J’LaCHIC THEATRE 39

The one Night Event stars the terrific and fun Patty Duke is a star from the successful and wonderful “Wicked” at the Orpheum. Also you will love Lucie Arnaz, Broadway star and singer. Ron Abel will accompany Arnaz.

Then there is the American idol Star RJ Helton – he will make your socks roll up and down. Connie Champagne & Leanne Borghesi – Cabaret Stars will certain keep you guessing. You never know what they are up to. But whatever it is – is bound too be fun.

Another ‘Wicked’ star, Teal Wicks will also perform. And the wonderful Motown Singers Top Shelf. will bring down the walls. Well, not literally, I might be sitting next to one of them. But they will keep your toes tapping.

All the entertainers will ring in the Holidays with upbeat, high-energy music, dance and comedy. The One Night Only Cabaret raises funds to provide to direct them to services that help people with HIV/AIDS. To date, REAF has distributed over $2.25 million.

INFO: FOR TIX: 425-273-2620. Or online: http://www.helpisontheway/ 

Ask about the Dessert party with the cast following the show.

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JOHNNY MERCER TRIBUTE AT RRAZZ ROOM - GREAT!

By Lee Hartgrave
November 24,2009

TOO MARVELOUS FOR WORDS STARRING LINDA PURL AND LEE LEESACK

They come in from the back of the Rrazz Room – stunning the audience with Mercer’s “My Favorite Hour.” It was like I was listening to a 50,000-Watt Radio Station in the 50’s. What a great Duet. Mercer’s words and music touched (and still does) countless people with Mercer’s sensitivity, playfulness and warmth.

Purl simply shines and shimmers. Can anyone really look that sincere? I think so – there were no phony notes up on that stage. Her “Skylark” was pure icing on the cake. The cake of course would be to Johnny Mercer who was born on this month. Mercer was and will remain one of the greatest musical geniuses in the world.

Leesack kept us spellbound with the amusing and funzie song “The Watcha-Ma-Call-it” and another hilarious song “Pineapple Pete” -- where Leesack introduced us to “The Fluke”. It’s a strange instrument that you strum. It was awesome. I loved it – and so did the audience.

During the evening – the duo kept us enchanted with over 30 songs. Some were done as a medley. If you want to mellow out over some of the greatest music in the world – well then you better trot down to the Rrazz Room to see Purl and Leesack.

And like one of Mercer’s songs -- “Goody, Goody” it says all you need to know about the show. It's comfy -- you want to just cuddle up by a fireplace.

Where? THE RRAZZ ROOM AT THE NIKKO HOTEL IN THE MAIN LOBBY. http://www.therrazzroom.com/

MONITOR Lee Hartgrave:

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SHE STOOPS TO COMEDY

BEND OVER – YOU’RE NEXT! -- FOR LAUGHS THAT IS!

This play is a whirlwind of observations of Theater, Theater folk and links to comedies of the past like “As You Like it.” This is an exhausting play. Not for the audience – they were thrilled – but for the actors.

It takes a really experienced bunch of actors to tackle this intricate play. And in this case – we are lucky, cause you could hardly wish for a better cast.

Here a little peek at the story. Alexandra Page (Liam Vincent – “Triumphant!”) is a Lesbian actress. Her career has careened and she is looking for a way to bring herself back into the spotlight. She decides to dress as a man and audition for the role of ‘Orlando’. Page also just broke up with her live-in girlfriend who he discovers is auditioning for the same play that he his. Did he plan this? You’ll find out.

This high-voltage play is more than challenging. The actress (Amy Resnick –Scintillating!”) plays two roles – one a Lighting Designer and the Other a vain, pretentious actress, who seems to be so fragile that she might faint at any moment. Her big scene is when she is on the edge of the bed, moving from one side of the bed to the other and changing her persona. One talking head is very ‘Butch’ – the other is the glamorous Diva who reminds of Vivian Leigh in “Streetcar Named Desire.” Or Norma Desmond in “Sunset Boulevard.”

As Alexandria says: “The world’s a f%*king Drag Show.” Here’s another Alexandria spark: “Talk about chewing the scenery. I’ve seen her use a curtain rod for a toothpick!” Theater people are so kind to each other.

At least to their face. Alexandria gets ready to audition for the role of “Orlando” by pasting hairs on her/his arms. He quips “They once belonged to Laurence Olivier.” This is an intellectual Roller Coaster ride that is thought-provoking. There will be times that you will get lost. As the dialogue switches from auditioning, to real conversation, the lines between actors and characters blur. Are they on the stage or off the stage? What’s real and who’s gay or who is not? Stay tuned. You will figure it all out as you BEND over with laughter. It’s nutty delirious fun! This is Theatre at its most vibrant!

Also fantastic and unforgettable are Sally Clawson, Cole Alexander Smith, Carly Cioffi and Scott Capurro (who does an amazing Monologue) it’s better than a stimulus package!

EXTRA: Another Great set from the Talented Mr. English. Kurt Landisman works those lights like a Grand Piano and the Costumes by Valera Coble were drag-a-lecious!

And of course, without the incendiary directing by Mark Rucker this play would not be as compelling and faultless as it is.

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating!) –trademarked-

AT THE SF PLAYHOUSE

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TEACHERS GONE WILD IN NEW PLAY

Pictured: The Cast of "First Day of School" Photo: Zabrina Tipton

September 30,2009

by Lee Hartgrave

South Pacific, the musical now playing at the Golden Gate Theatre is a "spellbinder." Swaying palm trees and Ocean views make you wanna sing along with the cast -- 'Bali Hai'. Handsome shirtless sailors will gladly take you there. And you won't forget the breathtaking beauty and the mesmerizing singing! This updated rendition is a "Rapturous Surprise!

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (HIGHEST RATING) -
TRADEMARKED- IN THE NEW PLAY 'FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL' YOU WILL BEND YOU OVER WITH LAUGHTER. What fun this 'First Day of School' is. It's the ultimate romantic farce. Here's the story. Two teachers that are married to each other -- have a casual conversation in the hallway. They are kind of bored with the daily routine. The wife sez "We could have sex with other people" -- and that statement clicks with her husband. He asks one of the Teachers if she would like to have sex with him. His wife does that same with a male teacher. Later in the play -- the entire experiment ends up turning into a Teacher Orgy. Everyone on the faculty gets into the act. Billy Arnonson, the playwright has written an engaging, enticing, first rate comedy. The smart direction is by Chris Smith. You're gonna find it "Irresistible!"

AT THE SAN FRANCISCO PLAYHOUSE (Just off Union Square). RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating) - trademarked- (((Lee Hartgrave has contributed to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook and has produced a long-running ARTS SEGMENT ON PBS KQED))) For Late Breaking news: www.twitter.com/famereporter

BRUCE VILANCH AND SHARON MC NIGHT

LEE HARTGRAVE - FAME REPORTER

THIS TOWN IS ALL ABOUT WICKED!

Vilanch starts off the show with McNight, as they sing their version of “Defying Gravity” from the hit Musical “Wicked”, that is now in a long run at the Orpheum Theatre. This version has added lyrics by Mr. Vilanch. And wouldn’t he make a great Witch? While the show is funny and many times absolutely knee slapping – there are times when it kind of drags along. The pace is uneven. It seemed to be hastily put together. While McNight was talking and singing there was an annoying buzzing sound in the background. McNight walks over to the window and said it’s a concrete drill. In a huff – she sez: “I’ll go out there and kick somebody’s nuts!”

McNight also sang a terrific Rufus Wainwright song called “Vibrate”. It’s about a cell phone that is on Vibrate. You can imagine where that goes. She also gets ‘very bold’ wit April Winchell “My Vagina.” Here are some of the lyrics. “It’s an object to behold, my friends”. And here is another shocking lyric: “A place where a lady pees.” Only McNight, could get away with the backroom humor. Vilanch counters the song “Vagina” by saying – “I would love to see them make a movie about that. I can see the marketing now. “Vagina Monologue opens wide this weekend!”

To show what writer, actor, movie star and all around entertainer Vilanch can do – he also sings. And he did a damn good job with “The Things You do” by Ray Jessel. It was very Cole Porter sounding.

Vilanch gives a lot of insight to what goes on during the Oscars backstage. And he talks about Stars that he is pals with. One is Cher. And about her he sez: “When they opened King Tuts Tomb – there was a note addressed to Cher.” Here is an audience favorite from Vilanch’s mouth. “Lets talk about Gay Weddings. It is considered in good taste to fling the bouquet of flowers in a rivals face!”

In the audience was Donna Sachet. Vilanch turns to her and sez: “Oh Hi – the light IS kind!” Vilanch is refreshingly smart and clever. He rolls those one-liners out at a fast pace. He definitely is high-voltage talent. The Bruce and Sharon show will continue at the Rrazz Room thru May 17.

WHEN YOU GO: May 13 – 16, 8Pm. Sunday May 17, 7pm.
WHERE: The Rrazz Room, Hotel Nikko Mason and O’Farrell. www.therrazzroom.com

TWITTER LEE HARTGRAVE FOR LATE BREAKING NEWS

MORE REVIEWS: www.beyondchron.org

DEAD MAN'S CELL PHONE. QUIRKY, COMIC DRAMA

(To the right: The Cast of "Dead Man's. Photo: Zabrina Tipton)



By Lee Hartgrave May 11, 2009
(The gun is fake)

DEAD MAN’S CELL PHONE HE’S DEAD YA KNOW! This is NOT a story about Sprint Cell Phone Customer service. Even though you do get a lot of dead silence from their network. No, this is not a case of ‘dropped’ calls. This is a story of a man who is having a bowl of soup in a diner. He dies, sitting up in the chair. His Cell Phone rings over and over again. It stops and starts to ring again.

Across the room is a woman who is reading a book as she finishes her bowl of Lobster Bisque. The women gets annoyed. She’s thinking – why doesn’t the guy answer his phone. Soon the woman had enough. She walks over to the man and asks him why he doesn’t answer his phone. No response – so she shakes him a bit – only to find that he is dead. A dead man can 't answer a cell phone. So what does the women do? She answers it for him – and takes over his life as if she were a part of it. Now this is the kind of a customer that the Cell Phone providers just love. Finally – there is a way to have someone answer a Dead Person’s phone. Have someone else keep the account open and answer the phone for him or her. I can see the marketing now. It will be listed under “Certain restrictions will apply”. It will say: “Even if you die – you must have someone answer your cell phone for you. To not do this you will be charged an hourly fee based on how many words are spoken.” Gordon (The Cell phone owner) is dead. He is not coming back to answer his annoying phone – but don’t worry – Jean the woman who took his phone will carry on. She pretends to be his employee. She answers questions about Gordon -- not even realizing that what she says may have complications.

She is lonely, and this Cell phone has given her a new meaning to her miserable life. Someone is calling her on her new cell phone. In fact this is the only Cell phone she has ever had. The phone keeps ringing and Jean bluffs her way through the conversations. She doesn’t even know what the Dead man’s business is. And Jean won’t know until later in the play that the person that she claims she works for deals in a business that is against all international laws, not to mention that it is not ethical.

The phone moves on with Jean. Gordon’s mother calls, and Jean convinces her that she talked to Gordon just before he died, and that he thought that his mother was a wonderful person. Of course, she made that up. Gordon is dead – and he couldn’t talk to anyone. The mother is a High Falutin’ bitch who crushes little knats like Jean just for the fun of it. Especially if she finds out that Jean is making every thing up, except for the fact that Gordon (her son) is dead. That she didn’t make up.

This play is a lot more than just the cell phone. It’s about eating red meat, which is discussed at length at the Dinner that Gordon’s mom has prepared for Jean who is a vegetarian. It’s about love. Jean has a three-way with Gordon’s Cell phone and Gordon’s brother, who is alive. This is a really and truly wacky play, with some wonderful one-liners. Everyone that is psychotic should see this play – it may bring them back to reality. It helped me.

Susi Damilano, the director has given the play a rich texture that compels. It’s no-holds-barred fun. She brought out amazing and remarkable chemistry between the characters. That takes a good director.

Jackson Davis (Dwight) is Gordon’s brother. He falls for Jean who has a fatal attraction to a Dead Man’s Cell Phone. Davis is Great! Bill English plays the Dead Guy – but he gets a reprieve in the 2nd act and talks it up. Outstanding as usual! Rachel Klyce (Hermia) plays the wife of the Dead Guy. She plays it cool, but riveting! Forentina Mocanu plays Carlotta and shines brightly! Joan Mankin (Gordon’s Mother). She’s been around – and you can’t pull anything over her eyes, no matter how disconnected things look – this tough broad gazes right through you. Mankin is absolutely brilliant in this play! Put her in Fatal attraction and she’ll scare you to death. But, please turn off the cell phone.

Amy Resnick plays the little wren Jean. She’s perfect in this role. Just ditzy enough to keep us interesting – and wacky enough to make us wonder whether we should order a strait jacket for her. Just don’t give her a steak knife at the dinner table. But, as you observe her and her creepiness, she makes you laugh hard. I’d say Resnick is a comedic genius!

THIS IS A MUST SEE! RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating) –trademarked-

HOT FLASHES!

SHIRLEY JONES, ACTRESS/MOVIE STAR MAY APPEAR IN A PLAYBOY SHOOT -- ACCORDING TO REPORTS. HER HUBBY SEZ: "WHY NOT, SHE STILL LOOKS GOOD! WELL, DOESN'T THAT GIVE A WHOLE NEW MEANING TO "OKLAHOMA?" JONES IS 75.

Jan Wahl has been let go from Channel 4 in the City. However, she will still be heard on KCBS and will do some freelance appearances on Channel 4.

Chad Jones has been furloughed from The Sacramento Bee. He is now freelancing. It’s the economy, of course.

Two of San Francisco Theatres will go dark. Nederlander has not renewed the leases of The Post Street Theatre and The Marines Memorial Theatre. It was a good idea to bring smaller shows to town, but it never really got off the ground. Lets hope that other venues will rent the spaces from time-to-time.

The Opera has cut back on Executive salaries to help keep within their budget. Sing, Sing a song.

AND THAT’S TODAY’S PROVOCATIVE AND THRILLING ‘HOT FLASHES’!

Twitter Lee Hartgrave or just google him to see what else he's up to.
Check out more reviews at www.beyondchron.org

BEN VEREEN EXHILARATING - LEAPS OFF THE STAGE

(Pictured on right: Ben Vereen. Courtesy Photo)



By Lee Hartgrave
May 6, 2009




BEN VEREEN - A TALENT FOR ALL SEASONS

The minute Vereen walks onto the stage you know that you are looking at a star. He has the sway and confidence of a star. His outfit – a red tie and a red scarf over a black long jacket sets the tone. Dazzling is the word.

Vereen captures us immediately with (Corner of the Sky) from Pippin, the musical:

Everything has its season
Everything has its time
Show me a reason and I’ll soon show you a rhyme
Cats fit on the windowsill
Children fit in the snow
Why do I feel I don’t fit in anywhere I go?

The song fits Vereen perfectly, as it should. He starred in the musical ‘Pippin’ on Broadway. And you know what – you kind of feel that Vereen might have at one time ‘feel like he didn’t fit in anywhere’ – but he sure does now. What a powerful performer. What a lucky audience -- to have him sing to us. It was an amazing evening of song and dance. How he managed to dance around on a small stage was another wonder that should be in Ripley’s Believe it or Not.

In a tribute to Sammy Davis Junior (he does not imitate, but suggests Sammy) Vereen soars with “Once In A Lifetime.” I have never, ever heard such a fantastic version of this song. This was my ‘Once in a lifetime’ moment. It was totally different, unusual and stirring. As a matter of fact THE arrangements were particularly interesting. His piano player tantalizes with his musical talents. He didn’t even need sheet music. He was not just good – HE WAS GREAT! This guy knows how to turn piano keys into color crayons. Everything was a rainbow. It was an extraordinary keyboard show.

In a Sinatra Medley, Vereen talks about “The Chairman of the Board” as Sinatra was known. Vereen gives credit to “The Chairman” who opened some doors for him when he was just starting out in show biz. “He said yes, where others said no!” – Vereen told us.

Another show- stopper was Vereen’s completely ‘new take’ on the Pajama Game song “Hey There”. It has been recorded and sung by everyone but a chipmunk – but this time it was new. Vereen took this song and turned it upside down. He added a Samba beat to it – and it took off flying around the room. And, it may still be flying around the room – saying to everyone that passes by “Hey There!”

The hands could not stop clapping as Vereen, who was in “Hair” at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco – sang “The Dawning of the Age of Aquarius.” The excitement was too much to the audience. I found out that they were not glued to their seats, when they jumped up and did some bumps and grinds along with their frantic clapping of the hands. It was like a religious experience. I think that the Broadway producers of the “New” Hair on Broadway – should come and see Vereen’s version, and put him in the show.

Vereen when talking about his early days when he was trying to make it: “I have lived long enough to “Be Colored”, I have lived long enough to be Negro”, and I have lived long enough to be Black”, and I have lived long enough to be African American.” And I would like to add to that: “He has lived long enough to become one of the greatest talents on the planet.”

WHEN YOU GO:
WED, THURS, FRI, - 8Pm. Sat & Sun. 7Pm.
WHERE: The Rrazz Room
Hotel Nikko – Corner of Mason and O’Farrell.
http://www.therrazzroom.com/

BEN VEREEN STAR OF FILM AND STAGE

(Picture on the right: Ben Vereen Courtesy Photo)



By Lee Hartgrave
May 5, 2009


BEN VEREEN

Song, Dance, Film, and Stage – He does it all

Ben Vereen has appeared in numerous Broadway theatre shows. He was nominated for a Tony Award for Jesus Christ Superstar in 1972 and he won a Tony for the musical ‘Pippin in 1973.

The all-around talented Vereen has also performed in a one-man show on black history. And of course, we all remember him in film roles like “Funny Lady” and “All That Jazz.” He will, of course always be remembered as “Chicken” George Moore in the huge Television series “Roots.”

If you take a trip to L.A. you will find Vereen’s handprints in front of the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios theme park. Now that your memory has been refreshed, I can’t wait to tell you that Vereen is going to be in San Francisco’s Rrazz Room at the Hotel Nikko.

The Talented and versatile entertainer will treat us to a wonderful evening of memorable songs, including songs that Sammy Davis Junior made famous. Vereen understudied Davis’s role in “Golden Boy” in London.

WHEN YOU GO: The Rrazz Room, Mason and O’Farrell.
When: 8 pm Tonight, Wed., Thurs, Fri, 8Pm. Saturday, Sunday 7PM www.therrazzroom.com.

MORE REVIEWS: www.beyondchron.org

OLETA ADAMS AT THE RRAZZ ROOM

By Lee Hartgrave
April 29, 2009


SPOTLIGHT ON OLETA ADAMS

Oleta Adams is a honey voiced musical star. And lucky for us in San Francisco, she will be appearing at the Fab Rrazz Room in the Hotel Nikko on O’Farrell Street.

One of the reasons that Adams is so great is probably due to her early training in classical music. It paved the way for her to find her own niche in the music world where she was able to extend her vast talents beyond just vocals into songwriting as well. Adams has a vast dedication to bringing out the sparkle.

She can take songs of Elton John, Bernie Taupin and Gershwin and make them glitter like newfound Gems. Her quality of singing and performing is right up there with Dinah Washington and Billie Holiday. Adams can bring you to tears with songs like “We Will Meet Again” and “I Knew You When.”

Her styling is truly original. This soulful and jazzy singer is just the kind of thing you need for these cool and breezy San Francisco nights. Have some wine – mellow out, and let O.A spark your evening. If you liked the legendary Anita Baker – then you are going fall in love with Adams. Oleta Adams will only be at the Rrazz Room Thru this coming Sunday. The opening is tonight, and I think that you should surrender yourself to a great treat. Forget politics and the office. Just kick back and fall into a dreamy, glossy evening of upbeat and fantastic singing.

The Review will be up on www.beyondchron.org this coming Friday on www.beyondchron.org.


(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many stories to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook section and produced a long-running Arts Segment on PBS KQED)))

TWITTER LEE HARTGRAVE FOR LATE BREAKING NEWS!

THE LIEUTENANT OF INISHMORE

(Pictured to the Right. Daniel Krueger (hanging) and Blake Ellis. Photo Courtesy Mellopix.com)

HARTGRAVE POST
by Lee Hartgrave
April 22, 2009


THE LIEUTENANT OF INISHMORE

In Martin McDonagh’s black comedy ‘The Lieutenant of Inishmore’ -- Padraic, is a man who was refused entry to the I.R.A. for being ‘too insane’. He was just finishing up torturing a young man who is hanging upside down. Padraic has already pulled some of the mans toenails off, and he is just about to cut off one of his nipples when the phone rings. It’s not good news for the torturer – his cat Wee Thomas was a friendly cat. “He is my best friend says Padraic.” He loves that cat more than life itself. In his life – humans are expendable – even his own Dad.

The voice on the phone tells Padraic that his cat is ill. The man hanging from the ceiling upside down pretends that he has a cat and sympathizes with his torturer. It works and Padraic cuts the rope and lets him go, telling him that he should put something on his bloody feet before his toes gets infected.

This funny play, which was banned in many parts of Ireland, is political satire and at times, extremely shocking. There is lots of violence along with a not-so-subtle statement about the nature of Ireland and it’s competing population. However, the violence is tempered by witty writing. Humor is the main engine in the play. Without it, you would just end up with a horror story.

The cats name is ‘Wee Thomas’. “He was a friendly cat. He would always say hello to you were you to see him sitting on a wall. He won’t be saying hello no more, God bless him.” Who killed ‘Wee Thomas’? Was it a neighbor or someone who had it in for ‘Mad Padraig’? Paidraig will go to any lengths to find out who killed his cat. Here is another warning. There are very loud gunshots during the play that lead to many bodies strewn about the stage. Some people in my aisle were covering their ears and their eyes. It gets that brutal – all of course, with that great Irish humor.

Most of the audience enjoyed the show, even giving it a standing ovation. The language is salty, colorful and quirky in this comedy drama. And it is utterly spellbinding! It’s clear from the opening scene that the play is loaded with solid acting.

The ending is a complete surprise in this stunning and memorable Theater piece. I won’t tell you what happens in the end, but it is staggering.

HERE IS THE RIVETING CAST: Blake Ellis (Padraic) – Magnificent portrayal! James Carpenter (Donny) Compelling acting of the highest order! Molly Camp (Mairead) Entertaining and seductive, Great Performance! Daniel Krueger (James) Amazing performance! Absolutely terrific! Rowan Brooks (Brendan) Extraordinary acting! Adam Farrabee (Davey). Nutty and hugely entertaining! Michael Barrett Austin (Joey) Pitch Perfect! Everyone was marvelous – add this show to your must-see-list!

RATING: THREE GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!! –trademarked-

NOW PLAYING AT THE BERKELEY REP THEATRE

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook Section and produced a long-running arts segment on PBS KQED)))

More reviews: www.beyondchron.org and

http://www.forallevents.com.info/leehartgrave/

http://www.leehartgrave.net/

AND THAT’S A WRAP!!!

THE HARTGRAVE POST

Lee Hartgrave Post
4/22/09

THRILLPEDDLERS KNOW HOW TO THRILL

LET ME TELL YOU, THE THRILL IS IN HIGH SPEED AT THE HYNODROME THEATER ON 10TH STREET.

This time they have whipped up a really quirky evening of four classics from the horror vaults. The absurdly enjoyable evening is about as guilty as pleasure gets, starting with “Private Room Number Six”. A very attractive and sexy woman visits a man who is robust, drinks too much and is basically a crowing boor. He is a domineering male who becomes dangerous when he drinks too much. And the woman that he intends to abuse turns the tables on him. She has other plans for his family jewels. Both in his pants and his checkbook. Creepy yes, but the exhilarating acting keeps you on the edge of your chair as the play creeps you out. It’s Cat and Mouse – and it doesn’t go where you expect it too.

The great thing about the “Thrillpeddlers” is not only the great acting -- it’s the atmosphere of the Theatre. The minute you walk in you feel like you have stumbled into some old Castle that needs repair. Then of course there is the piano that people can play during intermission. That is if they know how to work a piano that has the ancient music rolls that play themselves. You just have to sit there. Never seen one? Then that’s another reason to buy a ticket. You’ll also discover other wonderful things. Like the sections of the Theatre that are designated “Psychiatrist office, or The Architectural Office. “Each one has unique views” – says the greeter as he explains the advantages of each section.

The next play: “Tics, or Doing the Deed” is quite a show and a jazzy crowd pleaser. And, I do mean JAZZY! Men will be men and will generally sleep with anything. Well, in this upper class house – not only do the men sleep around (even with servants) but the women do as well. Yes, everyone in this house is ‘needy’. The fun of this story is that two of the men have a strange tic about their habits after having sex. One cannot speak for Ten minutes. And strangely enough another man – a Doctor gets a strange Tic in his right leg after having sex. His affliction also lasts about 10 minutes. This show is one of the funniest that I have ever seen. It’s exciting fun – with an out-of-this-world cast. It couldn’t be better even in 3D!

THE HEAD HUNTERS is really scary. Some may even close their eyes as the danger in the jungle becomes really bizarre. The lesson that you will learn from this intriguing play is that “sometimes it is better to travel alone” A man has disappeared, and his family begin to look for him. They know that he was on an excursion in the Jungle. They fear for him and begin to search. What they find – will horrify them. ‘The Head Hunters’ was written in 1958, the peak era of men’s magazines.
Let me tell you – this is intense and chilling stuff. Powered by great breakout performances.

THE DISCIPLINE is laugh out funny. Nuns are not immune to sexual drives. This play has a horny man who works at the nunnery. He has convinced the Nuns that sex will make them more spiritual. Heck, he is already saving the Mother Superior – so they might as well take a ride on the “Thing down there”. And when the handsome dude comes into to the room with a huge impression sticking out from under his pants – the nuns have no choice but to raise their habits and let him ‘save’ them. Some of the fun is done behind a screen where the lighting makes the manhood look enormous. I think everyone in the audience was turned on. Especially at the end – when by some magic, huge penises were floating in front of the audience and headed right for an open orifice. So keep your mouth shut. Scary, but exciting. I’ve never seen anything like it and haven’t laughed so much in years. They should make a movie of this and put it on “You Tube” – I predict billions of hits. Everyone was ‘Pleasured”! You know what I mean?

You must see these plays. Once you go to a Thrillpeddlers show – you will be hooked.

THE ACTING IS SUPERB AND INCREDIBLE! Here is a the cast to die for: Lanny Baugneit, TJ Buswell, Russell Blackwood, Kara Emry, Jonathan Ingbretson, Ann Vand, Erick Tyson Wertz, Gina Seghi, James Toczyl, Maria Leigh. (Most of the actors appear in all the plays and appear as different characters). And they are all absolutely extraordinary.

RATING: FOUR GLASSES OF CHAMPAGNE!!!! (highest rating) –trademarked-

(((Lee Hartgrave has contributed many articles to the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday Datebook section, and produced a long-running Arts Section on PBS KQED)))

Twitter Lee Hartgrave or Google him to see what else he’s up to.

MORE REVIEWS AT http://www.beyondchron.org/

AND THAT’S A WRAP!!!