42nd STREET MOON - OH, OH...OH KAY!

Jackson Davis. Courtesy Photo - 42nd moon

42^nd STREET MOON – “OH KAY!”

Poignant – Hysterical

It all starts out with dazzling pianist (Brandon Ames) at the keyboard. Most of us are familiar with the musical “Oh Kay” – and it sounds and looks like “Kay” will back another time. Why? ...Because -- the Gershwin musical still sparkles after all these decades.

Theresa Byrne (Kay) is a strong presence in this freshened up musical. Her operatic version of “Someone To Watch Over Me” – gives a new look to one of the greatest songs ever written.

“Oh Kay” is pretty heavy on the dialogue – but that is the way it was put together in the 20’s. But still – when the singers are simply marvelous you know why this musical has endured over time.  Here is the recipe. The entire cast is really very funny and charming. How could anyone not like it?

Director Maureen McVerry has done a wonderful job in keeping up the pace in this tuneful Gershwin musical. By the way, the sound quality was superb in the Theatre. I also got a kick out of watching the magical changes in the furniture on stage. One minute you are in a mansion and the next you are out on a wonderful patio. Quick changes happen really fast. Remarkable.

“Oh Kay” of course is a love story sung by the captivating cast – which is huge. The song “Do, Do, Do – is such fun to hear. The popular song went on to sell plenty of records.

The Choreographer, Staci Arriaga is a stage wizard that keeps those high steps moving. Also loved the exceptional Lighting design by Mazz Kurzunski. And the Costumes to die over are by Stephanie Finader. Ron Gasparinetti is an amazing set designer. He can design my place anytime. It needs it.

The Cast is “Firecracker funny” and sometimes hysterical – but they bring “Oh Kay” every actor you ever wanted to see on stage. Here is the Powerhouse cast: Teressa Byrne, Jackson Davis (really funny), Alanna fox, Kathryn Han, Christina Ingram, Craig Jessup, Erica Kimble, Tyler McKenna, Lisa-Marie Newton, Amie Shapiro, Brian Yates Sharber. Stephen Vaught, Zack Thomas Wilde and Skye Wilson.

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

AT THE 42^nd Street Moon Theatre at the Eureka Theatre on Davis Street. 

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

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LEE HARTGRAVE REVIEWS - DEEPLY MOVING AND ROMANTIC

MAUDE MAGGART AT THE RRAZZ ROOM 

Intrique...Jealous...Love...and Escape. What could be more exciting and tantalizing? Maggart treats us to a wonderful evening of songs during the most wonderful musical era of all times. Who could not fall in love with her rendition of "Where or When"? Then she sings the fabulous "Isn't it romantic" (Rogers &; Hart). The wonderful treatment of the world class songs don't end there. You become the dreamer as she glides in "The Dreamers ((Hart and Hugh Martin) 

Maggart is backed up with the wonderful talents of John Boswell Pianist). The two are meant for each other as they meld the wonderful songs of Frank Loesser, Jules Styne, Sondheim, Paul Williams and Billy Rose -- just to mention a few of the greats. 

I have seen and heard Maggart several times over the years. And like a rare old wine, she completely has hit the top of her game. She has never sounded better.On each song, she goes for broke emotionally. I didn't want it to stop. Her voice is just perfect for the great music. Not all of the songs are all drama - no indeed, she has a few very funny lyrics from some obscure songs that are just hysterical. 

To say that Maggart delivers a radiant performance is really not enough. It is a visually fascinating as well. One of the things that really intriqued me is that Maggart is a little quirky. That I liked a lot. She just doesn't sing - she becomes that singer of the era. There is nothing egotistical about her or the show. Maggart is the real deal. 

You have one more chance to catch her at the Rrazz Room this Evening (Sunday 8pm).  

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

therazzroom.com.

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

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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

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