CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE BLOG: 8/8/10

Saturday, August 14, 2010

AUGUST 20th NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 - Part II - FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

AUGUST 20th NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 - Part II -
FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

Sue Matsuki has joined John Hoglund as Co-producer for "Calling All Angels 2" for the second of two special Fridays, on August 20th at 7:00 pm at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440). The two evenings are emergency benefits for cabaret's own Gregory Kennell and will offer some of today's outstanding artists from cabaret and theater. The lineup at press time for the show on August 20th includes: Scott Albertson, Esther Beckman, Jill Cohen, Baby Jane Dexter, Maria Gentile, Rob Langeder, Sue Matsuki, Marieann Meringolo, Sidney Myer, Peter Napolitano, David Pellegrene, Miles Phillips, Caress Ricardo, Steve Ross, Marcus Simeone and more TBA. As with all live entertainment events, performers are subject to change without notice. Proceeds of the two evenings will go directly to the fund for Gregory Kennell who remains partially paralyzed after emerging from a coma that lasted almost two months. Doctors feel more aggressive therapy is needed as well as many consultations, etc. This is all at a crucial stage for Greg's recovery and that's what makes these evenings so very special. For those unable to attend but wishing to help, checks may be made payable to Gregory Kennell c/o Sue Matsuki : 16 Clifford Place, Brooklyn, NY 11222. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
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SUNDAY IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX at The Butterfly

SUNDAY IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX at The Butterfly

Fiona Claire, Melbournian folk-pop songstress, presents the beautiful and absurd world of a housewife with an artistic temperament at THE BUTTERFLY CLUB(204 Bank Street, South Melbourne, VIC - 03 96902000) Thursday through Sunday, August 12th through 15th at 7:00 pm (6:00 pm on Sunday). Original songs, laughter and tears, secrets and memories, it's all here as we wonder 'How do you get to Paris with just a song in your heart and a dishcloth in your hands? And will it be all that you dreamed?' Tickets are $22.

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR at the RRAZZ

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR at the RRAZZ

Del Shores' A SORDID AFFAIR is headlined by "Sordid Lives" mastermind Del Shores, who tells his Sordid tales from his sold-out stand-up tour and more atRRAZZ ROOM at THE HOTEL NIKKO (222 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA - 415-394-1189) Thursday through Sunday, August 12th through 15th at 9:30 pm (Sunday at 4:00 pm). Del's special guests include everybody's favorite "Aunt LaVonda," Ann Walker, Rosemary Alexander ("Dr. Eve") and Newell Alexander ("Wardell"), along with Jason Dottley ("Ty"). Tickets are $35-40 ($45-55 Limited VIP) with a 2-drink minimum.
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TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE at THE RRAZZ through Sunday

TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE

ALL-4-ONE will perform for four performances only, Thursday through Sunday, August 12th through 15th at 7:30 pm at RRAZZ ROOM at THE HOTEL NIKKO(222 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA - 415-394-1189). In September 2009, after a seven-year hiatus from the US market, All-4-One released its seventh studio album "No Regrets", a creative masterpiece of classic pop, Old School R&B and hip-groovin' dance tunes. All-4-One's live show is an emotional roller coaster ride consisting of their classic master ballads and soul-stirring songs. Their first single "So Much In Love" quickly climbed to the top of Billboard's Hot 100 chart. Their next single "I Swear" became one of longest running No. 1 singles in Billboard history. The group's streak of hits continued with other top charting singles such as "I Can Love You Like That," "She's Got Skillz," "Beautiful As U" and "Someday." All-4-One won a Grammy Award, American Music Award, Blockbuster Award, and a slew of international equivalents. Tickets are $30-$35 with a 2-drink minimum.
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TODAY IN L.A.AREA: JAI RODRIGUEZ PERFORMS AT ARTHUR NEWMAN THEATRE Palm Springs

TODAY IN L.A.AREA: JAI RODRIGUEZ PERFORMS AT ARTHUR NEWMAN THEATRE Palm Springs

Emmy Award winning Host/Singer Jai Rodriguez brings his one-man show toJOSLYN CENTER THEATRE (73-750 Catalina Way, Palm Desert, CA - ) on Saturday, August 14th at 7:00 pm. Joining him will be acclaimed musical director Christopher Marlowe on the baby grand piano. Jai began his career at age 18 in the role of Angel in the smash-hit Broadway Musical RENT. Other Broadway shows followed including: The Producers, Spinning Into Butter and Zanna Don't, where he created the title role of Zanna. In tandem with Broadway, Jai played the cabaret circuit and created his long-running "Twisted Cabaret" that ran for three consecutive years. Most recognized for his role in the hit BRAVO TV series: Queer Eye For The Straight Guy where Jai created a niche role as the 'Culture Vulture' a youthfully savvy addition to the show's already dynamic cast. Jai works regularly as an authority in culture and style. As an actor, Jai has guest starred on numerous series for LOGO, FX, and NICK Networks as well as feature films and stage productions in New York City and Los Angeles. Tickets are $10 cash at the door or on line at http://www.brownpapertickets/event/122023
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TODAY IN the M.W.: CHRISTINE PEDI COMES TO THE COLUMBIA CLUB CABARET

TODAY IN the M.W.: CHRISTINE PEDI COMES TO THE COLUMBIA CLUB CABARET

THE CABARET AT THE COLUMBIA CLUB(121 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN - 317-275-1169) presents Christine Pedi in "Great Dames" on Friday & Saturday, August 13th & 14th at 8:00 pm. Long time Forbidden Broadway diva and impressionist Christine Pedi sings songs made famous by the greatest ladies of the stage, screen and beyond. Where else can you see Judy Garland, Liza Minelli, Barbra Streisand Julie Andrews and Ethel Merman all in the same show? With comic flair and warm appreciation, she conjures up classic tunes first popularized by many a great dame. Great Dames has won the New York NightLife Award, the Bistro Award and received a MAC nomination. She was most recently on Broadway in Eric Bogosians Talk Radio starring Liev Schrieber. Tickets are $35, $45, $55.

TODAY IN FLA: TONY DESARE RETURNS TO PALM BEACH'S ROYAL ROOM

TODAY IN FLA: TONY DESARE RETURNS TO PALM BEACH'S ROYAL ROOM

Returning to The Colony directly from concert engagements in Manhattan, London and around the world is swinging singer/pianist Tony DeSare will perform on Fridays & Saturdays, August 13th & 14th and 20th & 21st at THE ROYAL ROOM at THE COLONY HOTEL (155 Hammond Avenue, Palm Beach, FL - 561-659-8100 - ). DeSare is an elegant, young crowd-pleaser whose singing style ranges from dreamy pop standards to boogie-woogie and R&B. Tony DeSare performs with infectious joy, wry playfulness, and robust musicality. His takes on classic standards and sophisticated original compositions have earned him a reputation as one of country's hottest young performers. His sound is romantic, swinging and sensual, but what sets Tony apart is his ability to write original material that sounds fresh and at the same time blends seamlessly with the Great American Songbook. Tony has the capability to glide from a standard by George Gershwin to a contemporary classic by Bob Dylan or Phil Collins to one of his inventive original songs with ease. Cost is $90 per person, dinner & show, and $45 for show only.

TODAY IN N.Y.STATE: FORT SALEM THEATER PRESENTS ORIGINAL MUSICA

TODAY IN N.Y.STATE: FORT SALEM THEATER PRESENTS ORIGINAL MUSICAL

Imagine the surprise for a young girl looking to start a career in Hollywood when she drops into an agent's office and the agent asks her if her mother were arguably the most famous singer/actress in show business. "Are you adopted?" he asks, matter-of-fact-like. "As a matter of fact," she responds, "I am." Thus began the real life quest for identity of Kate Brex, whose personal story has been transformed into StarCrossed, A Musical Tale of Triumph and Tragedy in Old Hollywood, opens on Friday, August 13th at the MAINSTAGE AT FORT SALEM THEATER (11 East Broadway, Salem, NY - 518-854-9200 - ). StarCrossed plays Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm, August 13th through 22nd. Written with a score reminiscent of forties film musicals by the Fort's artistic director, Jay Kerr, and a book by Salem playwright Al Budde, this musical-a-clef takes Brex's story, changes some names, and turns a real-life quest for identity into song, dance, and a story that is at once amusing and heart-warming. Jay Kerr was married to Brex during the seventies, when she was looking not to cash in on her suspected heritage, but to prove that the celebrity in question could not possibly be her mother. Starring as the young actress, Andrea Green, from Greenwich and New York City, is joined by news anchor Benita Zahn, celebrity impersonator Laura Roth, and two Broadway performers, Robert Silver and Jim Raposas. Peter Kidd, a Philadelphia-based attorney and actor, who, while at Princeton University, studied writing for musical theater with Kerr, is cast as the character loosely based on his former instructor. Additional casting includes Albany professionals and Fort regulars Susan Cicarelli Caputo and Gordon Hazzard, and local performers Shelley Dean, of Salem, and Ron Nagle, of Dorset, VT. Call for information.
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TODAY IN NYC: JANET PLANET TAKES "LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN" UPTOWN at Feinstein's

TODAY IN NYC: JANET PLANET TAKES "LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN" UPTOWN at Feinstein's

Jazz vocalist Janet Planet will present her show "Like a Complete Unknown" atFEINSTEIN'S at the Regency Hotel (540 Park Avenue, NYC - 212-339-4095 - ) on Friday & Saturday, August 13th & 14th at 8:30 pm after a one-night appearance at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM. Janet will sing from her repertoire of 20th century lyricists. Dylan to Dearie - Porter to Jobim as well as will perform songs from her recent project, "Of Thee I Sing," and previews coming attractions, her "Dylan Songbook" album, with a focus on Dylan's early compositions, due to be released this summer. There is a $30-$50 cover plus a $25 food/drink minimum.

TODAY IN NYC: LAURA HULL & HER JAZZ GEMS JOIN WORLD YACHT

TODAY IN NYC: LAURA HULL & HER JAZZ GEMS JOIN WORLD YACHT

Acclaimed jazz vocalist-songwriter Laura Hull will kick off a new jazz cruise series with New York City's World Yacht Cruises Jazz cruises will be featured every Saturday. Cruise ships leave from World Yacht Marina at Pier 81 located at 41st Street and 12th Avenue. A native of New York City, Ms. Hull spent her formative years singing at the resorts of upstate New York's fabled Catskill Mountains. In her early career, she worked as a session and jingle singer and showcased her singing at clubs in and around New York City. After a 24-year hiatus from music to pursue a business career, she returned to live performance in 2004 and has been described as having an infectious sense of swing, phrasing and style, applies tasteful treatments to superior material with an array of texture and color. Her music is drawn from an extensive repertoire of American popular songs, jazz standards, obscure gems, and her original songs. Laura Hull & Her Jazz Gems include best-in-class musicians playing the New York jazz scene today. Reservations are highly recommended and a variety of packages are available. See http://www.WorldYacht.com/ for details and reservations.
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TODAY IN NYC: NORA MCCARTHY WITH "LIFE IS A SONG TO SING" at The Metropolitan Room

TODAY IN NYC: NORA MCCARTHY WITH "LIFE IS A SONG TO SING"

Nora McCarthy brings her show "Life Is A Song To Sing - Music of the Great American Jazz Composers" to THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440 - ) on Saturday, August 14th at 7:00 pm. Nora McCarthy has thus far had a very productive and significant musical career. A poet and a songwriter in addition to being a singer, she is an important force in the advanced New York jazz vocal scene since 1996 when she recorded her first CD, Red & Blue. Her collaboration with alto-saxophonist Jorge Sylvester began in 2001 and the synergy of their near telepathic level of communication has produced several unique and groundbreaking projects: A Small Dream In Red (voice and saxophone duo), a 20-piece all original music orchestra Conceptual Motion, and the ACE (Afro-Caribbean-Experimental) Collective. Nora has performed with Kuumba Frank Lacy's Vibe Tribe, Lawrence D. "Butch" Morris' A Chorus Of Poets, the Next Legacy Jazz Orchestra, in addition to her own Qu'ART'et. She and her various groups work at the top jazz venues in New York and elsewhere in the world. There is a $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
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TODAY IN NYC: THE CHURCH LADIES OF "THE COLOR PURPLE" AT THE TRIAD

TODAY IN NYC: THE CHURCH LADIES OF "THE COLOR PURPLE" AT THE TRIAD

The Church Ladies of Broadway's "The Color Purple" return to THE TRIAD(158 West 72nd Street, NYC - 212-362-2590 - ) for a command performance on Saturday, August 14th at 9:30 pm. Leilani N. Bryant, Yolanda Wyns and Teresa Stanley, were the ever-present trio in Oprah Winfrey's Broadway production of The Color Purple. They appeared virtually in every scene of the award-winning production, narrating the story of Celie (performed by American Idol Fantasia) through gossip. Now that the show has closed, the women perform as The Broadway Church Ladies. Their show has been the buzz around New York City and they are back by popular demand to the Triad. The Ladies contrasting personalities blend gossip, song, and comedy with spirituality. Their musical style can best be described as "elevating," - an eclectic mixture of Broadway Classics, R&B, Jazz, and Gospel, designed to provide audiences with an elegant, heart-warming, and moving entertaining experience. Tickets are $20 and available at http://www.smarttix.com/ or call 212-868-4444.

TODAY IN NYC: JUDY GARLAND LIVE! WITH GUEST MEG FLATHER at Don't Tell Mama

TODAY IN NYC: JUDY GARLAND LIVE! WITH GUEST MEG FLATHER

Tommy Femia, the 7-time MAC Award-winning impersonator, continues his 20th season at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ) with his acclaimed portrayal of the legendary Judy Garland in "JUDY GARLAND LIVE!" with two shows a month, every other Saturday at 8:30 pm. Miss Garland's guest for Saturday, August 14th will be Meg Flather. Christopher Denny and David Maiocco serve as musical directors. Tommy Femia made his Off Broadway debut in The New American at The Nat Horne Theatre, and toured the country, as Linus in You're A Good Man Charlie Brown. In Bucks County he appeared as Tallulah Bankhead in the musical Tallulah! and in New York City as Bette Davis in A Very Bette Christmas. He also starred in the hit Off Broadway production of the Drama Desk Award-winning Whoop-Dee-Doo! at the Actors' Playhouse, and starred as Judy Garland in the one-man show I Will Come Back at The Players Theatre. Mr. Femia took a recent break from his MAMA shows to perform in the role of Norma in a parody of Sunset Boulevard at the Abingdon Theatre on West 36th Street. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.

TODAY IN NYC: ANNUAL MAE WEST BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE AT ACTORS' TEMPLE

TODAY IN NYC: ANNUAL MAE WEST BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE AT ACTORS' TEMPLE

ACTORS TEMPLE (339 West 47th Street, NYC - TKTS:http://thegaudygirls.com/ ) - where Sophie Tucker was one of their first vaudeville members in 1923 - will hold their "The Annual Mae West Birthday Tribute" on Saturday August 14th at 10:00 pm written by playwright LindaAnn Loschiavo and starring The Gaudy Girls, two talented beauties who perform the best-loved songs made famous by Sophie Tucker [Maggie Worsdale] and Mae West [Anne Marie Finnie]. When the Conservative Congregation Ezrath Israel began administering to vaudevillians in 1923 on 47th Street just west of Broadway, Rabbi Bernard Birstein did something radical: he reversed an old discriminatory policy banning actors from saying kaddish here. Then Rabbi Birstein reached out to Sophie Tucker. She appreciated his gracious invitation and joined. Following her lead were several new members: Jack Benny, Milton Berle, Oscar Levant, Red Buttons, and Eddie Cantor, if he was in town. As part of their repertoire, the ladies will spotlight a tribute to the Jewish composers and lyricists who created those popular numbers such as "My Yiddishe Momme," "Red Hot Mama," "Everybody Shimmies Now," "Some of these Days", "Baby, It's Cold Outside," and more. Tickets are just $15 and available online at http://thegaudygirls.com/ .
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Friday, August 13, 2010

HERE'S WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SEND A PRESS RELEASE TO CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE

If your press release is appropriate (cabaret related) and complete (CLICK HERE) here's what happens:

1) It gets listed in the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE NEWSLETTER (sent twice a week to more than 2700 cabaret-loving subscribers) two to three weeks before the event (providing release is received by then). The newsletter is also posted on the website - visited over 6000 times a day by cabaret fans worldwide.

2) All items listed in the newsletter are then added to the CABARET EVENTS LISTING page on the website according to date (including multiple events) and a headshot (if available) is included.

3) The day of the event, all listings for that date are moved to the "home" (opening) page on the website and when moved it is announced on TWITTER and FACEBOOK

4) Around 10:00 am (EST) each day, specially chosen events (picks) are announced on the BLOG and the event headlines are announced with a link on TWITTER & FACEBOOK (Items running ads and/or offering discounts are always included.

Every day, in every way, we're promoting cabaret! Listings in the newsletter, on the website and on the blog are FREE - be sure to read the rules regarding press releases (CLICK HERE).

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SATURDAY NIGHT IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX at THE BUTTERFLY through Sunday

SATURDAY NIGHT IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR at the RRAZZ through Sunday

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR

TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE at the RRAZZ through Sunday

TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE

TODAY IN M.W.: CHRISTINE PEDI COMES TO THE COLUMBIA CLUB CABARET in Indianapolis - tonight & Saturday

TODAY IN M.W.: CHRISTINE PEDI COMES TO THE COLUMBIA CLUB CABARET

TODAY IN M.W.: RICK JENSEN AT THE KRANZBERG ARTS CENTER in St. Louis - tonight only!

TODAY IN M.W.: RICK JENSEN AT THE KRANZBERG ARTS CENTER

NYC based Rick Jensen will be doing a solo show of his own songs at KRANZBERG ART CENTER STUDIO THEATRE (501 North Grand Street, St. Louis, MO - 314-795-8778) on Friday, August 13th at 8:00 pm. Jensen has been one of the biggest forces behind the piano in New York's vibrant cabaret scene for years. Now he steps into the spotlight to share his great pop vocals and original songs that been recorded by many artists (Nancy LaMott, among others) - but for this evening he will be singing them as he wrote them. Tickets are $25 and available at http://www.MetroTix.com/ or call 314-534-1111.

TODAY IN FLA: TONY DESARE RETURNS TO PALM BEACH'S ROYAL ROOM tonight & Saturday night (and again next weekend)

FLA: TONY DESARE RETURNS TO PALM BEACH'S ROYAL ROOM

TODAY IN N.Y.STATE: FORT SALEM THEATER PRESENTS ORIGINAL MUSICAL - "StarCrossed"

TODAY IN N.Y.STATE: FORT SALEM THEATER PRESENTS ORIGINAL MUSICAL

TODAY IN NYC: JANET PLANET TAKES "LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN" UPTOWN at Feinstein's tonight & Saturday

TODAY IN NYC: JANET PLANET TAKES "LIKE A COMPLETE UNKNOWN" UPTOWN

TODAY IN NYC: THE GARY NEGBAUR GROUP PLAYS 5C CAFE in the East Village -8 pm to midnight

TODAY IN NYC: THE GARY NEGBAUR GROUP PLAYS 5C CAFE in the East Village -8 pm to midnight

The Gary Negbaur Group will be playing a mix of blues, jazz, and what-have-you on Friday, August 13th from 8:00 to midnight at5C CAFE (68 Avenue C, NYC - 212-477-5993). Pianist/singer/ songwriter Gary Negbaur has toured across the USA, Europe and Australia wowing audiences with his heartfelt and often humorous originals along with his innovative arrangements of standards. His recordings include a CD of original music (Let Me Explain) as well as a critically acclaimed solo album of standards (Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat) and a children's CD (Max's Family Band). In addition to performing, Gary writes music for theater and film, and many of his songs are performed and recorded by other singers. There is a $10 cover.

CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT IN AUGUST

Here's the deal: I've been renting a room in the East Village for 3 1/2 years in a friend's apartment. On Sunday he informed me that he needs the room for a relative who is getting divorced - and he needs it by September 1st. Since he's a friend, he did not require me to give him a security deposit. And because this was unexpected, I have no extra funds set aside at this time.

Consequently I need to find a new place to live in less than 3 weeks - and I need to raise funds for a security deposit and rent as soon as possible. Income from banner sales has been next to zero this summer - and membership income has tapered off (in dollars, membership inclome is running far behind last year at this time).

I figure I need to raise $2,000 by September 1st - which looks easy since 200 folks still need to renew their memberships, which at $20 each would mean twice what I need. But money is tight - with an official unemployment rate of nearly 10% (and actually closer to 18% if you count folks who gave up looking for work) - and I know a lot of members are hurting this year.

If you can help - if you can afford a $20 membership or more, I could use your help this week. Even a basic sustaining membership of just $5 would help. Please CLICK HERE for all the membership levels and benefits available with easy to use PayPal buttons for joining.

Your membership dollars will help us continue to promote the art and the artists of cabaret without interruption - I'm counting on you. Every day, in every way, we're promoting cabaret!

Thanks for your support of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE!

STU

PS: I would prefer to rent a furnished room from a fellow cabaret fan rather than from Craig's list, etc. All I need is a bed and DSL/cable hookup - send me a note at stuhamstra@svhamstra.com if you can help.

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TODAY IN NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 • FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

TODAY IN NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 • FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

Sue Matsuki has joined John Hoglund as Co-producer for "Calling All Angels 2" for two special Fridays, on August 13th and 20th at 7:00 pm at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440). The two evenings are emergency benefits for cabaret's own Gregory Kennell and will offer some of today's outstanding artists from cabaret and theater. The lineup at press time for the show on August 13th includes: Nate Birkey, Baby Jane Dexter, Natalie Douglas, Jose Luis, Audrey Lavine, Dana Lorge, Richard Malavet, Sue Matsuki, Mark Nadler, Peter Napolitano, Anthony & Will Nunziata, Sarah Rice, Marcus Simeone, Frank Torren and more TBA. As with all live entertainment events, performers are subject to change without notice. Proceeds of the two evenings will go directly to the fund for Gregory Kennell who remains partially paralyzed after emerging from a coma that lasted almost two months. Doctors feel more aggressive therapy is needed as well as many consultations, etc. This is all at a crucial stage for Greg's recovery and that's what makes these evenings so very special. For those unable to attend but wishing to help, checks may be made payable to Gregory Kennell c/o Sue Matsuki : 16 Clifford Place, Brooklyn, NY 11222. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
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Thursday, August 12, 2010

2010-2011 MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE - GOOD THROUGH ON JULY 5, 2011 • DON'T LOSE OUT ON ANY DAYS OF BENEFITS!

2010-2011 MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE - GOOD THROUGH ON JULY 5, 2011 •
DON'T LOSE OUT ON ANY DAYS OF BENEFITS!

CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE memberships are now available for 2010-2011. Memberships start at just $5! Basic SILVER membership is still just $20. GOLD: $50 (new lower cost); CRYSTAL: $100 (new lower cost) $DIAMOND: $250 (new lower cost). New 2010-2011 Membership cards are valid through July 5th, 2011. Full details of benefits for each level of membership are on the website - just click here

If you haven't joined or renewed yet, you can join instantly via PayPal for whatever amount you wish! Just click here, fill it in and we'll set the right level

If you decide to join by check (*must be over $19), please remember, all checks should be made out simply to STU HAMSTRA and mailed to 676A Ninth Avenue #120, New York, NY 10036.

(*Note: you must use PayPal if your membership is in the $5-$19 range, since my bank gets a little irritated if I deposit too many small checks. If you cannot use PayPal send me a note at stuhamstra@svhamstra.com for an alternate method I can't publish here.)

ALL members can upgrade to another level at any time during the membership year to gain additional benefits with full credit of membership fee already paid.

"HERE & THERE" COLUMN FROM CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE WEEKEND EDITION - 08/12/10

"HERE & THERE" COLUMN FROM CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE WEEKEND EDITION - 08/12/10

It's been a slow "cabaret news" week - which is an annual event as folks begin to "button down" their summer vacations and prepare for the fall season. Which is a little fortunate for me, since I have far too much on my plate already. As mentioned in Monday's newsletter, last Sunday my roommate (who has kindly rented me a room in his apartment room in the East Village for nearly 3 1/2 years) informed me that due to a family emergency, I must find a new place to live by September 1st. He needs the space for a relative who is getting divorced and has to find a new place to live by that date. Which means I not only need to find new housing, but I need to find the funds needed for rent & security (I wasn't required to make a security deposit here, because my current roommate has been a friend for several years).

It is quite possible that I will have to move back to Queens or maybe Bronx or Brooklyn, since I doubt very much that I will find any room in Manhattan at the rate I am currently paying (and right now I can hardly afford what I'm paying here). I have some sources to follow up on, but prefer to live with someone who shares my love for cabaret. If you are aware of a furnished room available, please let me know. All I need is a bed and a DSL/Cable connection (I don't need a phone, since I very rarely use one - and have a computer desk & chair). Something convenient to subway/bus is necessary as well.

Moving to a new space means a lot of extra, unanticipated expenses for me (and CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE) and I'm depending on your support as we go into the final weeks of summer. Please consider joining as a member of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE today. Memberships start at just $5 - we now have 210 members - and we're trying for 300 by LABOR DAY (September 6th). You can join instantly via PayPal for whatever amount you wish! Just click here, fill in any amount and we'll set the right level

One final mention of tomorrow's CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 cabaret benefit on behalf of Gregory Kennell at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440 - ) on Friday, August 13th (as well as on Friday, August 20th at 7:30 pm). The event is produced by John Hoglund & Sue Matsuki and they have lined up most of the top names on cabaret to take part (CLICK HEREfor details).

We "bit the bullet" and joined FaceBook - for how long this time I'm not sure. I've already discovered some real drawbacks - my Twitter Feed appears via Echofon along the left edge of my computer monitor, so I can keep on writing or e-mailing, or whatever, and still keep track of all tweets. FaceBook requires that I open my web browser and the pages take over the full screen. I'm a multitasked and find this most intrusive. Consequently, I check my FaceBook page perhaps twice or three times a day, while my Twitter feed is on all day long.

I joined to try to get the word out to as many folks as possible about my search for a new place to live - with less than 3 weeks to find a space, I'm trying to keep from "panic mode" at least until after I get back from Michigan on the 23rd. My hopes and prayers are to have something lined up by then.

I also signed on for FarmVille - perhaps the most boring computer game I've ever been a part of (it's interactive). I thought at least there would be a floor or tornado to deal with, but is is a boring as watching grass grow (or avocados). I am currently harvesting the last of my "crops" and closing the farm.

On Monday night I attended the memorial event at DON'T TELL MAMA in honor of Frank J. Levandoski, who passed away after a long illness on May 19th. Frank was the partner for 31 years of one of the most ardent supporters of cabaret (and cabaret performers) in town, Joe Regan, Jr. One does not "review" memorial services, but I do want to report on some impressions gained at this completely "sold out" event (there was now cover charge). The 2+ hour event featured performances by a large variety of cabaret's best - from stars like Karen Mason, Karen Oberlin, Marcus Simeone, Sue Matsuki, Baby Jane Dexter, Julie Wilson, Mary Foster Conklin, Miles Phillips and Ronny Whyte (and that's just a few) to some of the lesser known but just as talented - there is no way I can list them all! And I was particularly thrilled to see some performers not as frequently seen in the New York rooms. One such special treat was Stephanie Zagoren, who one sees in the audience at nearly every show, but is also a fantastic vocalist. It is at events like these that once can thrill to the talents of folks at every level of cabaret!

We've been doing some "nip & tuck" work on the website - - a few hours a day - mostly replacing "flash" objects, artwork and buttons and replacing them with jpg or gif items. This will make the website more "smart phone friendly" as well as allow the website's pages to download more quickly. But you may seen some inconsistency in button colors and sizes as we replace ever button on all 6700 pages on the website. Some pages have as many as 24 buttons the need replacing.

In Saturday's MEMBERS ONLY newsletter we plan to include another special article, this time not just for performers. It will be a guide that will help everyone get more for their cabaret dollar in these so very difficult times. We're going to pass along some tips and suggestions on how to pick a good cabaret show. These articles will not appear in any of the regular twice-weekly issues, and won't appear on the website or the blog until later this year when I reorganize theFAQ's & TIPS section - everything you wanted to know about #cabaret but didn't know who to ask . Memberships are available for as little as $5. Full details of benefits for each level of membership are on the website - just click here: .

Just a little reminder about some schedule changes for CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE. Next week Friday, August 20th I will be travelling to Grand Rapids, MI, where my two older sisters reside, to be joined by my younger sister flying up from Florida, for a sort of "family reunion". We're all well past 65, and all fairly healthy, and what better time to see each other! I will return to NYC on Monday the 23rd, so the MEMBERS ONLY issue scheduled for Saturday the 21st will be sent on Friday the 20th before I leave for the airport; the issue normally scheduled for Monday, the 23rd, will go out on Tuesday the 24th. This will be the first time I've been away from NYC in nearly 2 years (the last trip was to St. Louis, MO) and I'm just a little excited to be "on the road again." A big thanks to my sisters who are paying for my air travel and providing lodging while I'm there (I might be able to mooch a few meals, too!)

See a show or two this week! Visit our websites! Run a banner or sidebar ad! Join CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE for 2010-2011. Now - more than ever - cabaret (and CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE) needs your support.

Look for more news on the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE website, on theCABARET HOTLINE ONLINE blog and almost-hourly updates, picks & reminders on TWITTER.

And that's just about the way it was. We'll be back on Monday with our "Mostly Listings" Issue (The MEMBERS ONLY ISSUE goes out as usual on Saturday).

Thanks for your support of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE!

Hugs & Stuff,

NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 FRIDAY NIGHT at the METROPOLITAN ROOM • FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

NYC: CALLING ALL ANGELS 2 FRIDAY NIGHT at the METROPOLITAN ROOM •
FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

FRIDAY NIGHT IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX at THE BUTTERFLY

FRIDAY NIGHT IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX at THE BUTTERFLY

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR at the RRAZZ

TODAY IN S.F.: DEL SHORES IN A SORDID AFFAIR

TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE at The RRAZZ

TODAY IN S.F.: ALL-4-ONE LIVE & UP CLOSE - GREATEST HITS & MORE at The RRAZZ

TODAY IN M.W.: LIZ CALLAWAY AND JASON GRAAE AT THE SHELDON tonight only!

TODAY IN M.W.: LIZ CALLAWAY AND JASON GRAAE AT THE SHELDON tonight only!

Liz Callaway and Jason Graae will perform on Thursday, August 12th at 7:30 pm at the SHELDON CONCERT HALL (3648 Washington Street, St. Louis, MO - 314-534-1111). She's the crystalline voiced Broadway diva who spent 5 years belting the hit "Memory" on the Great White Way in Cats, created the role of Ellen in the original Miss Saigon and was nominated for a Tony in Baby. He's the comic force who is the veteran of Broadway's Falsettos and A Grand Night For Singing, was an original cast member of the long running hit Forever Plaid, and was featured on HBO's Six Feet Under. Together they join forces for a dynamic evening of great music, stories, singing and laughter. Alex Rybeck backs them up at the piano. Tickets are $40-$45 and are available at http://www.MetroTix.com/ .

TODAY IN NYC: THE GEORGE COLEMAN QUARTET AT BIRDLAND through Saturday

TODAY IN NYC: THE GEORGE COLEMAN QUARTET AT BIRDLAND

The George Coleman Quartet, with Harold Mabern, Joe Farnsworth, & John Weber. will perform at BIRDLAND (315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080) on Tuesday through Saturday, August 10th through 14th with shows at 8:30 & 11:00 pm. Growing up in Memphis' rich musical environment of the late 1940's alongside such notables as Booker Little and Hank Crawford, tenor saxophonist George Coleman was invited to tour with B.B. King at the age of 17. He went on to perform with jazz legends Max Roach, Charles Mingus, Chet Baker, Ahmad Jamal, and most notably in Miles Davis' ground breaking quintet with Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Tony Williams. The group recorded four classic albums - Seven Steps to Heaven, My Funny Valentine, Four and Miles Davis in Europe and made a significant contribution to jazz history. There is a $30-$40 cover plus a $10 food/drink minimum.

TODAY IN NYC: SETH'S CHATTERBOX TONIGHT WITH GUEST ALYSHA UMPHRESS

TODAY IN NYC: SETH'S CHATTERBOX WITH GUEST ALYSHA UMPHRESS
FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

Seth Rudetsky's BROADWAY CHATTERBOX at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ) is usually presented on Thursdays at 6:00 pm. The show scheduled for Thursday, August 5th features an interview with Alysha Umphress from "American Idiot" and the last-minute hero of "On a Clear Day...". Seth's weekly interview show always features stars, soon-to-be stars and folks behind the scenes of the musical theater stage - for just a $10 cover - 2-drink minimum. Best of all, all proceeds from the cover go to BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS (http://www.bcefa.org )!
copyright 2010 - CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE - POST YOUR COMMENTS BELOW

TODAY IN NYC: NEW JAZZ VOCALIST AT THE ALGONQUIN THROUGH AUGUST 28th

TODAY IN NYC: NEW JAZZ VOCALIST AT THE ALGONQUIN THROUGH AUGUST

THE ALGONQUIN OAK ROOM (59 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-419-9331) presents, "Summertime", a jazz cabaret featuring young new jazz vocalist Kat Gang on Thursdays through Saturdays through August 28th at 8:30 pm. Kat Gang will sing favorites including "Summertime" by George Gershwin, "Too Darn Hot" by Cole Porter, "Somewhere" by Bernstein, "Manhattan" by Rodgers and Hart, "The Days of Wine and Roses" by Henry Mancini, and "The Summer Wind" by Mayer and Mercer. Kat Gang, international vocalist and eloquent songwriter, has a soul steeped in jazz. Her style is a mix of old and new, borrowed and blue including delightful swing and stirring ballads. There is a $30 cover. Call for minimum information.
copyright 2010 - CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE - POST YOUR COMMENTS BELOW

TODAY IN NYC: CALENDAR GIRL PRESENTS "MY STUPID MOUTH" AT THE DUPLEX

TODAY IN NYC: CALENDAR GIRL PRESENTS "MY STUPID MOUTH" AT THE DUPLEX

In honor of her upcoming semi-annual dental check-up, Colleen McHugh presents her latest show of her monthly CALENDAR GIRL series, "My Stupid Mouth" at THE DUPLEX CABARET THEATRE (61 Christopher Street, NYC - 1-212-255-5438) on Thursday, August 12th at 7:00 pm. She is joined by Eugene Gwozdz, piano. The show is a fabulous collection of songs celebrating one of our most beloved orifices. Laughing, crying, kissing, smoking, drinking, shouting, singing - the mouth really does do it all. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

THURSDAY IN NYC: SETH'S CHATTERBOX WITH GUEST ALYSHA UMPHRESS • FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

NYC: SETH'S CHATTERBOX WITH GUEST ALYSHA UMPHRESS
FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT

Seth Rudetsky's BROADWAY CHATTERBOX at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ) is usually presented on Thursdays at 6:00 pm. The show scheduled for Thursday, August 5th features an interview with Alysha Umphress from "American Idiot" and the last-minute hero of "On a Clear Day...". Seth's weekly interview show always features stars, soon-to-be stars and folks behind the scenes of the musical theater stage - for just a $10 cover - 2-drink minimum. Best of all, all proceeds from the cover go to BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS (http://www.bcefa.org )! See website.

copyright 2010 - CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE - POST YOUR COMMENTS BELOW

THURSDAY IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX AT THE BUTTERFLY

THURSDAY IN AUS: FIONA CLAIRE IN THE PARIS PARADOX AT THE BUTTERFLY

HERE'S WHAT ITS ALL ABOUT ....

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Friday, August 13, 2010

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Wednesday, August 11, 2010