NYC: THE 20TH ANNUAL CABARET CONVENTION OPENS OCTOBER 7th
FEATURED CABARET FESTIVAL EVENT
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THE 20TH ANNUAL CABARET CONVENTION, presented by The Mabel Mercer Foundation on Wednesday through Friday, October 7th through 9th at FREDERICK P. ROSE HALL (Columbus Circle, Broadway at 60th Street, NYC - CenterCharge: 212-721-6500 - ).
The three-day convention, which salutes the best of New York cabaret, will kick off on Wednesday with "Celebrate! Celebrate! Celebrate!" The evening, which will include the presentation of the Dick Gallagher Award to Eric Michael Gillett, will feature the talents of Lucie Arnaz, Barbara Carroll, Matt Cavenaugh, Simon Green, LaTanya Hall, Mary Cleere Haran, Nicolas King, Andrea Marcovicci, Karen Mason, Amanda McBroom, Sidney Myer, Marian Seldes, Elaine Stritch, Wesla Whitfield and award recipient Gillett.
"All in the Family" the title of the Thursday show will feature the talents of Adam, Batyah, Kerry and Sheera Ben-David (who will be presented the Julie Wilson Award); Ann Hampton, Liz and Shirley Callaway; Eric Comstock; Tony DeSare; Kevin Dozier; Tim Draxl; Christine Ebersole; Barbara Fasano; Nicole Henry; Beckie Menzie; Tom Michael; Mark Nadler; Will and Anthony Nunziata; Elizabeth, Stacy and KT Sullivan; and Maria Teece.
The convention will concludes on Friday with "Music Heals" which will feature the vocals of Karen Akers, Baby Jane Dexter, Natalie Douglas, Jeff Harnar, Marilyn Maye, Phillip Officer, Barbara Rosene, Craig Rubano, Catherine Russell, Daryl Sherman, Billy Stritch, Marlene VerPlanck and Julie Wilson. As with all live performances, performers subject to change without notice. All shows begin at 6:00 pm.
Tickets are priced $20, $50 and $100. Tickets are available for all shows.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE ANNOUNCES 2009 CD CONTEST
Did you release a new CD in 2009 (between November 1st, 2008 and November 1st, 2009)? Well, you might want to enter it in our 2nd Annual CABARET CD contest. This year we have three judges, a performer, a reviewer and a cabaret maven. So we need for you to submit 3 copies of your CD (non returnable) to CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE, 676A Ninth Avenue #120, New York, NY 10036. The contest is free for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE - if you're not a member, a SILVER membership is just $20 and comes with a host of benefits. Top three winners will be announced at our 2nd Annual CABARET CDs FOR THE HOLIDAYS event in November (date to be announced). More details going out tomorrow in the Friday MEMBERS' ONLY newsletter, including deadlines, names of judges, submission rules, etc.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
TOWNHOUSE HAS TALENT CONTEST SERIES II STARTS OCTOBER 5th
THE TOWNHOUSE OF NYC (236 East 58th Street, NYC - 212-754-4649) will be holding a Talent Contest for Singers - THE TOWNHOUSE HAS TALENT - hosted by David Pelegrene and held every Monday night starting on October 5th through the 26th. Musical directors are Steve Bocchino and David Pelegrene. 1st prize is $500, 2nd place: $250 and 3rd place $100. All the rules and more information are on the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE website - just click on the SIDE-BAR banner in the right column on the opening (home) page, or click on the SUPERSIZE banner that will appear at random at the top of every page.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Celebration of Hal Blankenship's Life
There will be a Celebration of Hal Blankenship's Life Monday October 19 from 7-9 PM Actors' Equity Association 165 W. 46th St., 2nd fl. NYC
WEST COAST NEWS AND PUBLICITY AVAILABLE FROM LES MICHAELS
WEST COAST NEWS AND PUBLICITY AVAILABLE FROM LES MICHAELS
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Les Michaels publishes a weekly newsletter covering events on the West Coast - check out http://lesmichaels.com/lifeisacabaret/newsletter - and has sponsored recent shows in Palm Springs featuring L.A. area cabaret artists and also heads up a weekly open-mic show in the area. The newsletter is free and instructions for submitting your West Coast news are right on the site. Don't forget to also send your release us at CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE. Les also assists in all areas of publicity for West Coast cabaret events.
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Les Michaels publishes a weekly newsletter covering events on the West Coast - check out http://lesmichaels.com/lifeisacabaret/newsletter - and has sponsored recent shows in Palm Springs featuring L.A. area cabaret artists and also heads up a weekly open-mic show in the area. The newsletter is free and instructions for submitting your West Coast news are right on the site. Don't forget to also send your release us at CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE. Les also assists in all areas of publicity for West Coast cabaret events.
"THE LEADING MEN IV" DVD SOLD AT B'WAY FLEA MARKET
"THE LEADING MEN IV" DVD SOLD AT B'WAY FLEA MARKET
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A DVD of "The Leading Men IV", a benefit concert for Broadway Cares, will be sold exclusively at the Broadway Flea Market in Shubert Alley (between 44th and 45th Streets, NYC) on Sunday, September 27th. Filmed on May 11, 2009 at BIRDLAND, the sold-out event was a celebration of outstanding male performers from Broadway, Off-Broadway and cabaret. John Tartaglia hosted a lineup that consisted of: Nick Adams, Tom Andersen, James Barbour, Jim Caruso, Mickey Conlon, Michael Kadin Craig, Jack Donahue, Kevin Earley, Cody Green, Jonathan Groff, Norm Lewis, Paolo Montalban, Graham Phillips, Tom Postilio, Zak Resnick, Nicholas Rodriguez and Tony Yazbeck. With musical direction by Seth Rudetsky and direction by Alan Muraoka, the benefit raised more than $10,000 for BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS. It was produced by Wayman Wong, who edits entertainment for the NY Daily News and wrote "The Leading Men" column for Playbill.com from 2003-06. The DVDs will be sold for $25 each at the Flea Market. After September 28th, it will be only available through Applause Video for $35.
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A DVD of "The Leading Men IV", a benefit concert for Broadway Cares, will be sold exclusively at the Broadway Flea Market in Shubert Alley (between 44th and 45th Streets, NYC) on Sunday, September 27th. Filmed on May 11, 2009 at BIRDLAND, the sold-out event was a celebration of outstanding male performers from Broadway, Off-Broadway and cabaret. John Tartaglia hosted a lineup that consisted of: Nick Adams, Tom Andersen, James Barbour, Jim Caruso, Mickey Conlon, Michael Kadin Craig, Jack Donahue, Kevin Earley, Cody Green, Jonathan Groff, Norm Lewis, Paolo Montalban, Graham Phillips, Tom Postilio, Zak Resnick, Nicholas Rodriguez and Tony Yazbeck. With musical direction by Seth Rudetsky and direction by Alan Muraoka, the benefit raised more than $10,000 for BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS. It was produced by Wayman Wong, who edits entertainment for the NY Daily News and wrote "The Leading Men" column for Playbill.com from 2003-06. The DVDs will be sold for $25 each at the Flea Market. After September 28th, it will be only available through Applause Video for $35.
NEW MAC BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED - ANNUAL MEETING DATE SET
Congratulations to the new members who were elected recently to the Board of Directors of MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets): Eric Michael Gillett, Thomas Honeck, Sue Matsuki and Julie Reyburn, who will join existing Board members Scott Barbarino, Hector Coris, Jenna Esposito, Ruth Kurtzman, Sidney Myer, Eric Pickering, Ricky Ritzel and Lennie Watts. Interestingly, out of 688 ballots that were mailed to the members, only 147 were returned in the election. For many current MAC members, memberships will expire December 31, 2009. MAC extended all memberships with 2009 expiration dates through December 31, 2009. The annual membership meeding of MAC will be held at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM on Saturday, October 24th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.
MESSAGE BOARD ON WEBSITE FOR YOUR COMMENTS AND PLUGS
And we often forget to promote the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE MESSAGE BOARD - the longest running cabaret message board on the internet - active since 1997. Anyone is free to post - if they follow the rules. You must use your own name - which is intended to eliminate those nasty personal comments you might see on other message boards where folks can post anonymously. My rule is that if you can't put your name on it, it isn't worth writing (or reading)!
We're always looking for more ways to grow our benefits for all members. Please send in your suggestions and comments. Every day in every way, we're promoting cabaret!
We're always looking for more ways to grow our benefits for all members. Please send in your suggestions and comments. Every day in every way, we're promoting cabaret!
MORE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
We're trying our best to make CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE memberships more valuable - and not simply for performers. We have had the member discount program in effect since the start of the membership system in 2001, and this year we added "Cabaret for Seniors" - where senior members get a 2-year membership for the same cost as one year, and can get extra senior discounts, free covers for select shows, and their own special section of the website and a monthly newsletter.
We have added our TWITTER account postings - http://twitter.com/cabarethotline - to the front page of the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE website, which lists our cabaret picks every day as well as special bulletins and notices of fast moving stories. In addition, my personal TWITTER ACCOUNT - http://twitter.com/stuhamstra - which mainly covers thoughts, ideas, comments and jokes - can now be found on the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE BLOG - the last 5 comments are listed. I am able to post quickly to both TWITTER accounts even while I am away from my computer, using my iPod Touch (I can also read my e-mail and answer important ones on the go).
We have added our TWITTER account postings - http://twitter.com/cabarethotline - to the front page of the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE website, which lists our cabaret picks every day as well as special bulletins and notices of fast moving stories. In addition, my personal TWITTER ACCOUNT - http://twitter.com/stuhamstra - which mainly covers thoughts, ideas, comments and jokes - can now be found on the CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE BLOG - the last 5 comments are listed. I am able to post quickly to both TWITTER accounts even while I am away from my computer, using my iPod Touch (I can also read my e-mail and answer important ones on the go).
HOT MESS IN MANHATTAN
If you are in Manhattan for the next few days, leave your car parked somewhere - traffic will be a mess at least through Thursday morning. All the big mucky-mucks from around the world are in town for some shindig on the East Side which will be big on noise but probably small on accomplishment. It is a once-a-year chance for a bunch of non-important people to feel important by arranging motorcades to zoom around the city, running red lights, chasing all other cars to the curbs and generally causing gridlock and mayhem along their routes. Stay away from the areas between First & Park Avenues and 42nd to 50th Street because there will be a constant shuttle between that area hotels and the East River debating society's building. Even the theater district and the major shopping areas will be affected as wives and girlfriends of the delegates (most of the delegates are male) spend the aid dollars the US gives their countries at the fancy shops and for expensive theater seats - all the time accompanied by several carloads of police and secret service agents.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
SONGWRITERS & SONGSEEKERS: THIS ONE'S FOR YOU
You can see some of the top songwriters who specialize in "cabaret songs" at http://www.cabaretsings.com - check it out!
ON RADIO: "EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW": BILLIE HOLIDAY
ON RADIO: "EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW": BILLIE HOLIDAY
CABARET ON THE RADIO - TV - WEB
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On Sunday, September 20th, EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN, on the Radio over WBAI 99.5 FM and on the Internet at http://www.wbai.org/, usually heard from 9:00 to 11:00 pm and hosted by David Kenney, will feature the music of Billie Holiday - the Early Years. David will also have an in-studio interview with Laurie Krauz prior to her performance of TAPESTRY REWOVEN at BB KING Blues Club in NYC on Tuesday, September 29th. (For more information, see http://www.oldisnew.org/ .) Each week David presents the usual blend of big-band jazz, swing, standards, showtunes, contemporary cabaret and celebrity interviews plus MEGA-MEDLEY MADNESS. For more information contact: oldisnew@earthlink.net. You are also invited to e-mail your comments and suggestions for future shows. You can listen to past shows at any time by going to the WBAI Archives at http://www.archive.wbai.org/ .
CABARET ON THE RADIO - TV - WEB
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On Sunday, September 20th, EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW AGAIN, on the Radio over WBAI 99.5 FM and on the Internet at http://www.wbai.org/, usually heard from 9:00 to 11:00 pm and hosted by David Kenney, will feature the music of Billie Holiday - the Early Years. David will also have an in-studio interview with Laurie Krauz prior to her performance of TAPESTRY REWOVEN at BB KING Blues Club in NYC on Tuesday, September 29th. (For more information, see http://www.oldisnew.org/ .) Each week David presents the usual blend of big-band jazz, swing, standards, showtunes, contemporary cabaret and celebrity interviews plus MEGA-MEDLEY MADNESS. For more information contact: oldisnew@earthlink.net. You are also invited to e-mail your comments and suggestions for future shows. You can listen to past shows at any time by going to the WBAI Archives at http://www.archive.wbai.org/ .
Friday, September 18, 2009
MAC BOARD ELECTION RESULTS
MAC BOARD ELECTION RESULTS
The MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets) Board welcomes new members:
ERIC MICHAEL GILLETT, THOMAS HONECK, SUE MATSUKI, JULIE REYBURN who join existing Board members Scott Barbarino, Hector Coris, Jenna Esposito, Ruth Kurtzman, Sidney Myer, Eric Pickering, Ricky Ritzel and Lennie Watts.
The MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets) Board welcomes new members:
ERIC MICHAEL GILLETT, THOMAS HONECK, SUE MATSUKI, JULIE REYBURN who join existing Board members Scott Barbarino, Hector Coris, Jenna Esposito, Ruth Kurtzman, Sidney Myer, Eric Pickering, Ricky Ritzel and Lennie Watts.
SIX GREAT SHOWS GIVING DISCOUNTS TO MEMBERS NEXT 10 DAYS!
$30 WORTH OF MEMBER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE!
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NYC: TWO AND A HALF WOMEN RETURNS "BY POPULAR DEMAND"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $3 OFF THE COVER
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Two and a Half Women, a new cabaret show dedicated to the women who survived the noxious men that once captivated them and a caveat for those who can't seem to kick the habit, returns for one additional performance at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ) on on Saturday, September 19th at 9:00 pm. Starring Haleigh Carabin, Alie Marie and Angela Sytko with musical direction & accompaniment by Jeff Cubeta and direction by Rob Grippa, the show features the songs of Harold Arlen, Ahrens & Flaherty, Jason Robert Brown, Jule Styne, Craig Carnelia, Jacques Brel, Irving Berlin, Andrew Lippa, Burt Bacharach, Peter Allen, and more. There is a $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $12 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: MARCUS SIMEONE RETURNS WITH "EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $7 OFF THE COVER
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Bistro & MAC Award winner Marcus Simeone returns with his show "Everything Must Change" to THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) on Sunday, September 20th at 9:45 pm. "Everything Must Change" is all about the beautiful songs that changed lives through the music and lyrics of Johnny Mercer, Jimmy Van Heusen, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Bobby Darin, Carol King and more. The songs are a unique and visionary mix of familiar and rarely heard songs celebrating the insistence of change as seen through the eyes of this acclaimed and exciting singer. As an artist and a person, Marcus Simeone has experienced exceptional life-alterting experiences over this past year, contributing to the development of this show. Marcus will be accompanied by a band led by musical director Barry Levitt. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $13 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE
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NYC: SHANA FARR HAS "PURE IMAGINATION"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
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Shana Farr brings her acclaimed debut cabaret show, Pure Imagination, back to THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909) for on more performance on Sunday, September 20th at 4:00 pm. Shana Farr is known for her classically trained, operetta voice and has been seen on several New York stages, including the New York City Center. In "Pure Imagination" she sets aside the classical music and brings her rich, expressive voice to songs from all different genres and songwriters, including Kurt Weill, Harold Arlen, Tim Di Pasqua, Francesca Blumenthal, Jeanine Tesori, Cyndi Lauper, Carly Simon and more. The show is directed by Lennie Watts, with musical direction by Steven Ray Watkins. There is a $20 cover plus a $15 food/drink minimum. $15 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: CABARET DEBUT OF JENNIFER GREGSON AT MAMA'S
MEMBER DISCOUNT - $5 OFF THE COVER
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Jennifer Gregson explains "The Facts of Life" one scene at time at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ), on Sunday, September 20th at 6:00 pm. By using music from the 1960's to today, she proposes to take you on a journey of self-discovery in her cabaret debut show. Direction is by Lennie Watts and musical direction by Steven Ray Watkins. There isa $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $10 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: SUE MATSUKI BRINGS NEW SHOW TO THE LAURIE BEECHMAN
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
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Sue Matsuki brings her first new show in 2 years to THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909 - ) for two more performances, on Saturday, September 26th at 8:00 pm and Sunday, September 27th at 7:00 pm. Featured in the show are Sue's Musical Director of over 13 years, Gregory Toroian; her percussionist who has also worked with her for 13 years, Ron Tierno and the two new additions to Team Matsuki are: Steve Millhouse on bass and the multi-award winning singer/director Eric Michael Gillett as her Director. In this show, Sue will go back to her singing roots, which will mean getting her trio together and doing a jazzier set in a show arc that will mean whatever it will mean to the audience as heard through their own filters. There is a $20 cover plus a $15 food/drink minimum. $15 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: JARON VESELY RETURNS WITH SWINGERS & STANDARDS
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
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Jaron Vesely returns to THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) with his acclaimed show, "Swingers & Standards!" with a performance scheduled for Sunday, September 27th at 4:00 pm. Swingers & Standards features an exciting assortment of music from songwriters and artists including: The Beatles, Jeff Buckley, Lerner & Loewe, Joni Mitchell, Thelonious Monk, Rodgers & Hart, Three Dog Night, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Steven Tyler and even Pink. Jaron Vesely is no stranger to the cabaret world. A member of the Award Winning Fabulous Pink Flamingos, Jaron has performed at Birdland, The Metropolitan Room, Don't Tell Mama and The Encore. He recently made his television and film debuts as a principal in an episode of "Gossip Girl" and a featured role in the independent film Jonathan, Just Because. Musical Director is Scott Bradlee with Jared Schonig on Percussion and Ike Sturm on Bass. Miles Phillips directs.There is a $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $10 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: TWO AND A HALF WOMEN RETURNS "BY POPULAR DEMAND"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $3 OFF THE COVER
---------------
Two and a Half Women, a new cabaret show dedicated to the women who survived the noxious men that once captivated them and a caveat for those who can't seem to kick the habit, returns for one additional performance at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ) on on Saturday, September 19th at 9:00 pm. Starring Haleigh Carabin, Alie Marie and Angela Sytko with musical direction & accompaniment by Jeff Cubeta and direction by Rob Grippa, the show features the songs of Harold Arlen, Ahrens & Flaherty, Jason Robert Brown, Jule Styne, Craig Carnelia, Jacques Brel, Irving Berlin, Andrew Lippa, Burt Bacharach, Peter Allen, and more. There is a $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $12 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
---------------
NYC: MARCUS SIMEONE RETURNS WITH "EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $7 OFF THE COVER
---------------
Bistro & MAC Award winner Marcus Simeone returns with his show "Everything Must Change" to THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) on Sunday, September 20th at 9:45 pm. "Everything Must Change" is all about the beautiful songs that changed lives through the music and lyrics of Johnny Mercer, Jimmy Van Heusen, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Bobby Darin, Carol King and more. The songs are a unique and visionary mix of familiar and rarely heard songs celebrating the insistence of change as seen through the eyes of this acclaimed and exciting singer. As an artist and a person, Marcus Simeone has experienced exceptional life-alterting experiences over this past year, contributing to the development of this show. Marcus will be accompanied by a band led by musical director Barry Levitt. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $13 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE
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NYC: SHANA FARR HAS "PURE IMAGINATION"
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
---------------
Shana Farr brings her acclaimed debut cabaret show, Pure Imagination, back to THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909) for on more performance on Sunday, September 20th at 4:00 pm. Shana Farr is known for her classically trained, operetta voice and has been seen on several New York stages, including the New York City Center. In "Pure Imagination" she sets aside the classical music and brings her rich, expressive voice to songs from all different genres and songwriters, including Kurt Weill, Harold Arlen, Tim Di Pasqua, Francesca Blumenthal, Jeanine Tesori, Cyndi Lauper, Carly Simon and more. The show is directed by Lennie Watts, with musical direction by Steven Ray Watkins. There is a $20 cover plus a $15 food/drink minimum. $15 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: CABARET DEBUT OF JENNIFER GREGSON AT MAMA'S
MEMBER DISCOUNT - $5 OFF THE COVER
---------------
Jennifer Gregson explains "The Facts of Life" one scene at time at DON'T TELL MAMA (343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788 - ), on Sunday, September 20th at 6:00 pm. By using music from the 1960's to today, she proposes to take you on a journey of self-discovery in her cabaret debut show. Direction is by Lennie Watts and musical direction by Steven Ray Watkins. There isa $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $10 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: SUE MATSUKI BRINGS NEW SHOW TO THE LAURIE BEECHMAN
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
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Sue Matsuki brings her first new show in 2 years to THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909 - ) for two more performances, on Saturday, September 26th at 8:00 pm and Sunday, September 27th at 7:00 pm. Featured in the show are Sue's Musical Director of over 13 years, Gregory Toroian; her percussionist who has also worked with her for 13 years, Ron Tierno and the two new additions to Team Matsuki are: Steve Millhouse on bass and the multi-award winning singer/director Eric Michael Gillett as her Director. In this show, Sue will go back to her singing roots, which will mean getting her trio together and doing a jazzier set in a show arc that will mean whatever it will mean to the audience as heard through their own filters. There is a $20 cover plus a $15 food/drink minimum. $15 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
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NYC: JARON VESELY RETURNS WITH SWINGERS & STANDARDS
MEMBER DISCOUNT: $5 OFF THE COVER
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Jaron Vesely returns to THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) with his acclaimed show, "Swingers & Standards!" with a performance scheduled for Sunday, September 27th at 4:00 pm. Swingers & Standards features an exciting assortment of music from songwriters and artists including: The Beatles, Jeff Buckley, Lerner & Loewe, Joni Mitchell, Thelonious Monk, Rodgers & Hart, Three Dog Night, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Steven Tyler and even Pink. Jaron Vesely is no stranger to the cabaret world. A member of the Award Winning Fabulous Pink Flamingos, Jaron has performed at Birdland, The Metropolitan Room, Don't Tell Mama and The Encore. He recently made his television and film debuts as a principal in an episode of "Gossip Girl" and a featured role in the independent film Jonathan, Just Because. Musical Director is Scott Bradlee with Jared Schonig on Percussion and Ike Sturm on Bass. Miles Phillips directs.There is a $15 cover plus a 2-drink minimum. $10 cover for members of CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE.
NYC: THE BEECHMAN FOLLIES WITH STELLAR CAST
FEATURED CABARET BENEFIT EVENT
FULL STORY: http://www.cabarethotlineonline.com/
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The Laurie Beechman Theatre is proud to present THE BEECHMAN FOLLIES on Saturday, September 19th 7:00 pm at THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909 - ). This thrilling one night only concert features some of the outstanding talents who have graced the stage of this midtown venue over the past three years. Among the cast are some of Broadway's brightest lights, as well as cabaret's most dynamic performers. The concert will benefit The Beechman's acclaimed Voices from the Great White Way series, which features one night only concerts from some of our favorite Broadway vocalists. The evening will be under the musical direction of The Barry Levitt Trio, and is produced and directed by MAC, Bistro and Nightlife Award winner Phil Geoffrey Bond. There is a $25 cover plus a $15 food/beverage minimum.
FULL STORY: http://www.cabarethotlineonline.com/
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The Laurie Beechman Theatre is proud to present THE BEECHMAN FOLLIES on Saturday, September 19th 7:00 pm at THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909 - ). This thrilling one night only concert features some of the outstanding talents who have graced the stage of this midtown venue over the past three years. Among the cast are some of Broadway's brightest lights, as well as cabaret's most dynamic performers. The concert will benefit The Beechman's acclaimed Voices from the Great White Way series, which features one night only concerts from some of our favorite Broadway vocalists. The evening will be under the musical direction of The Barry Levitt Trio, and is produced and directed by MAC, Bistro and Nightlife Award winner Phil Geoffrey Bond. There is a $25 cover plus a $15 food/beverage minimum.
NYC: AFTER PARTY TONIGHT WITH SPECIAL GUEST COLMAN DOMINGO
At THE WEST BANK CAFE/LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER (407 West 42nd Street, NYC - 212-695-6909 - ) on Fridays at 10:30 pm, 2009 MAC AWARD NOMINEE Brandon Cutrell & 2009 MAC AWARD NOMINEE Alysha Umphress host AFTER PARTY, a free-wheeling open-mic with guest stars from Broadway and Cabaret, Ray Fellman at the piano and others serving up drinks and taking turns at the mic. Guest performers from Broadway, off-Broadway and cabaret drop by each week to sing, chat and join in the fun. This week's AFTER PARTY special guest is Coleman Domingo (PASSING STRANGE). No cover, no minimum.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
ALGONQUIN SALON ON HIATUS
I just received word from the producer that the ALGONQUIN SALON is unfortunately on hiatus as they work to resolve some issues with the hotel, or failing that, find another venue. Thus, there will be no Salon this Sunday, September 20th. Mark Janas' Algonquin Salon, which has been taking place weekly in the lobby of the ALGONQUIN HOTEL on Sunday nights, is a semi-open mic event and has been extremely popular, selling out week after week. This is indeed unfortunate - the producer assure me that an update will be coming shortly - stay tuned.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
SUE MATSUKI - 'LIVE AT THE BEECHMAN' REVIEWED
On Sunday night, September 14th, I was at THE LAURIE BEECHMAN THEATER for Sue Matsuki's new show. With direction by Eric Michael Gillett, and musical direction my Gregory Toroian, this show marked yet another step in the constantly
growing Ms. Matsuki.
Each time I feel she is at her best, Sue changes direction slightly, chooses a new angle, and progresses even further. Starting off with two very familiar standards (Ac-cent-tchu-ate The Positive & The Tender Trap), she gave each a new spin - a new approach. But the song list was not simply rearrangements of old standards. New songs from songwriters like Zoe Lewis, Dan & Michele Page (with music by Ms. Matsuki & Mr. Toroian) gave sparkle to the set.
Vocally, Ms.Matsuki has been at the very top for nearly all the years I've been a fan - her first CD, "A New Take", remains one of the vocal/musical/production standards by which I measure all the CDs I review. I have been hard pressed to find a total recording to surpass that one.
If I would register one complaint, it was that the show was too short - not by my watch, but by my heart. I could have stayed for two or three more songs and not have noticed the passage of time, Sue's delivery and presence is that compelling!
growing Ms. Matsuki.
Each time I feel she is at her best, Sue changes direction slightly, chooses a new angle, and progresses even further. Starting off with two very familiar standards (Ac-cent-tchu-ate The Positive & The Tender Trap), she gave each a new spin - a new approach. But the song list was not simply rearrangements of old standards. New songs from songwriters like Zoe Lewis, Dan & Michele Page (with music by Ms. Matsuki & Mr. Toroian) gave sparkle to the set.
Vocally, Ms.Matsuki has been at the very top for nearly all the years I've been a fan - her first CD, "A New Take", remains one of the vocal/musical/production standards by which I measure all the CDs I review. I have been hard pressed to find a total recording to surpass that one.
If I would register one complaint, it was that the show was too short - not by my watch, but by my heart. I could have stayed for two or three more songs and not have noticed the passage of time, Sue's delivery and presence is that compelling!
RAY MARSILIO'S'TOUCHSTONES' SHOW REVIEWED
On Saturday, September 13th I was back at DON'T TELL MAMA at 5:00 pm for Ray Marsilio's TOUCHSTONES show, with Rick Jensen as musical director and direction by Lina Koutrakos. I have an apology to make - with "Fashion Week" causing uptown traffic delays on Sixth Avenue, a street fair closing Eighth Avenue from 14th Street to 23rd Street, and construction closing two of four lanes on 14th Street between Sixth & Seventh Avenue, it took me over 90 minutes to get to MAMA'S from home, rather than the usual 45 minutes (I always plan an hour so as not to be late). Thus I missed the first several songs in Ray's show, and of course "the setup."
So it would not be fair for me to review the event as a full show - so I will confine my comments to the very talented Mr. Marsilio. Hailing from the Trenton/Philadelphia area, I had never had the opportunity to see this performer before. So I never had a chance to hear his terrific velveteen vocals. Classically trained (he gave a sample of his opera chops in the show), Mr. Marsilio truly has one of the finest vocal instruments in cabaret today. And he doesn't always take the safe route when making his song choices - his performance of Jason Robert Browns' very difficult to interpret "I'm Not Afraid of Anything" was a new approach that gave a new slant on the lyrics - and it worked!
My big regret was that I wasn't there from the start of the show - hopefully Mr. Marsilio will return soon.
So it would not be fair for me to review the event as a full show - so I will confine my comments to the very talented Mr. Marsilio. Hailing from the Trenton/Philadelphia area, I had never had the opportunity to see this performer before. So I never had a chance to hear his terrific velveteen vocals. Classically trained (he gave a sample of his opera chops in the show), Mr. Marsilio truly has one of the finest vocal instruments in cabaret today. And he doesn't always take the safe route when making his song choices - his performance of Jason Robert Browns' very difficult to interpret "I'm Not Afraid of Anything" was a new approach that gave a new slant on the lyrics - and it worked!
My big regret was that I wasn't there from the start of the show - hopefully Mr. Marsilio will return soon.
'GRACE NOTES - a singers soiree' REVIEWED
On Friday night September 11th, at 7:00 pm I was at DON'T TELL MAMA for the first edition of GRACE NOTES - a Singers' Soiree, the special showcase produced and hosted by Grace Cosgrove. Since the show is not quite a cabaret, not quite a revue, and not even really a showcase, it doesn't qualify for a review as much as a report - and the report is "fantastic."
Each of the "Soirees" features a half-dozen or more performers, many of whom have a cabaret show scheduled in the near future. GRACE NOTES gives them an opportunity to test new songs, new arrangements of old songs, as well as test medleys and song pairings. In addition to Grace, who always opens and sometimes closes each show, the cast this month covering the theme SONGS OF CHILDHOOD & GROWING UP, included veteran performers Dezur Kenna, Roosevelt Credit, Rosemary Loar and the comedy vocal trio THE CHALKS, as well as comparative newcomers Shana Farr, Angela Shultz and Kim Smith. All can share my praise for a job well done - a truly entertaining evening. Don Rebic is Musical Director, with Tom Hubbard on Bass. Lennie Watts serves as Director.
This was a special benefit show to honor SEPTEMBER IS CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH (a percentage of the proceeds will go to Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation - http://www.candlelighters.org/ ). If there is one complaint, it really goes to the cabaret community and even past performers in this series. Given the host of performers given an opportunity to be a part of past shows, and given the terrific and talented cast for this (and every show), I was again truly disappointed that the room was not filled beyond capacity.
Each of the "Soirees" features a half-dozen or more performers, many of whom have a cabaret show scheduled in the near future. GRACE NOTES gives them an opportunity to test new songs, new arrangements of old songs, as well as test medleys and song pairings. In addition to Grace, who always opens and sometimes closes each show, the cast this month covering the theme SONGS OF CHILDHOOD & GROWING UP, included veteran performers Dezur Kenna, Roosevelt Credit, Rosemary Loar and the comedy vocal trio THE CHALKS, as well as comparative newcomers Shana Farr, Angela Shultz and Kim Smith. All can share my praise for a job well done - a truly entertaining evening. Don Rebic is Musical Director, with Tom Hubbard on Bass. Lennie Watts serves as Director.
This was a special benefit show to honor SEPTEMBER IS CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH (a percentage of the proceeds will go to Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation - http://www.candlelighters.org/ ). If there is one complaint, it really goes to the cabaret community and even past performers in this series. Given the host of performers given an opportunity to be a part of past shows, and given the terrific and talented cast for this (and every show), I was again truly disappointed that the room was not filled beyond capacity.
PARK CABARET CONCERT DRAWS CROWD OF 350+
Raissa Katona Bennet reports that over 350 folks were in the audience at the last CONCERT AT TUDOR CITY GREENS in NYC on Wednesday, the 9th of September. Fantastic!
CABARET IS GIVING ME SO MUCH - THANK YOU ALL!
I want to say that my life right now - even in these tight financial times - is probably the best it has ever been in terms of joy and happiness in all my 70 years. Every day brings me another great experience, another new friend, another new discovery. Because my life sort of revolves around cabaret about 90 percent of the time, I have a chance to meet talented and giving people day after day, night after night. Via the internet I have a host of great friends I have never met - two folks in Adelaide (who have never met each other), a fellow in Cape Town, a performer in London, a singer in Phoenix, a fellow on a cruise ship sailing somewhere in the world - entertainers all. I estimate I listen to 10,000 different songs a year - on CDs, at shows, at festivals (and my iPod).
A lot of folks, when they write, add the comment "Thanks for all you do for cabaret." Well, I must protest because, to be quite honest, cabaret has done for me much more than I can do for it.
A lot of folks, when they write, add the comment "Thanks for all you do for cabaret." Well, I must protest because, to be quite honest, cabaret has done for me much more than I can do for it.
YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS STUFF UP - TRUE STORY
I have to share this with you all. Every once in a while I get an e-mail that "makes my day" and last week one came that was a winner. On Friday I made another plea to all the members of 2008-2009 who had not rejoined. One response went something like this (I am paraphrasing so as not to reveal the writer's identity). "I won't be joining this year because I am not getting any benefit from CABARET HOTLINE. Enclosed is a press release for my show in October. I hope you can make it." As "Judy" would say, you can't make this stuff up!
A number of folks (mostly performers) replied that they would like to rejoin, but their financial situation made it impossible right now. Performers, especially entertainers, are especially hit by economic downturns, since what they offer is not considered "essential." No one is "bailing them out." So I sent a note to subscribers on Sunday (you probably received one) offering to give a free membership to anyone who truly couldn't afford to join for every member who joined over the weekend. Over two dozen folks responded with memberships and donations!
And - almost as a counterpoint to the above comment - I received this note - with a PayPal membership donation: "I feel very blessed that I can make this donation. These are very difficult financial times and I am lucky that I can give back to the community through CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE's "special fund." During times of difficulty and transition I think the art of cabaret is extremely important - audiences need that connection to the performer.
I don't care what the economists say - live entertainment IS essential. And I am going to do my very best to promote the art - and the wonderful artists - of one essential part of live entertainment - which we call cabaret (and more on this below)
A number of folks (mostly performers) replied that they would like to rejoin, but their financial situation made it impossible right now. Performers, especially entertainers, are especially hit by economic downturns, since what they offer is not considered "essential." No one is "bailing them out." So I sent a note to subscribers on Sunday (you probably received one) offering to give a free membership to anyone who truly couldn't afford to join for every member who joined over the weekend. Over two dozen folks responded with memberships and donations!
And - almost as a counterpoint to the above comment - I received this note - with a PayPal membership donation: "I feel very blessed that I can make this donation. These are very difficult financial times and I am lucky that I can give back to the community through CABARET HOTLINE ONLINE's "special fund." During times of difficulty and transition I think the art of cabaret is extremely important - audiences need that connection to the performer.
I don't care what the economists say - live entertainment IS essential. And I am going to do my very best to promote the art - and the wonderful artists - of one essential part of live entertainment - which we call cabaret (and more on this below)
TOM DICKINS PRESENTED WITH "UNDER OUR WING AWARD"
Tom Dickins was recently announced as winner of the prestigious annual 'Under Our Wing Award', one of Australia's top awards given to emerging cabaret performers. David Read, of THE BUTTERFLY CLUB (204 Bank Street, South Melbourne, VIC - 03 96902000 - ) said "the Under Our Wing Award is given to outstanding emerging cabaret performers who in our opinion deserve much more recognition than they are currently receiving."
Tom returns to the stage as headline performer of THE BUTTERFLY CLUB for the 2009 Melbourne Fringe Festival. His exciting new show 'Where Was I' runs for the full three weeks of the Festival, Thursdays through Sundays, September 24th through October 11th at 9:00 pm (Sundays at 8:00 pm.
"Where Was I?" is the story of Dickins' running, tripping and tumbling journey around the world in a crazed search for identity, love, sex and purpose. The cabaret features "deliciously dark original songs that claw into the brain and refuse to let go" (David Allen, ArtsHub) along with some very familiar songs played in very unfamiliar ways such as an upbeat, cheerleader version of "Hurt" by Nine Inch Nails.
ABOUT THE AWARD
Tom joins luminaries Tim Minchin (2003), Daniel Maloney (2004), Reuben Krum (2005), Sammy J (2006), Karin Muiznieks (2007), Joanne O'Callaghan (2008) and James Simpson (2008).
Like all of the previous Under Our Wing Award winners, Tom fits The Butterfly Club's preferred style of cabaret. While we welcome all forms of cabaret, we favor those of the European model that reflect the style of performance for which cabaret was originally created shows that satirize or reflect contemporary life and enlighten audiences, performed in an intimate setting.
Preview week ticket price: $15 - Season ticket price: $22
Tom returns to the stage as headline performer of THE BUTTERFLY CLUB for the 2009 Melbourne Fringe Festival. His exciting new show 'Where Was I' runs for the full three weeks of the Festival, Thursdays through Sundays, September 24th through October 11th at 9:00 pm (Sundays at 8:00 pm.
"Where Was I?" is the story of Dickins' running, tripping and tumbling journey around the world in a crazed search for identity, love, sex and purpose. The cabaret features "deliciously dark original songs that claw into the brain and refuse to let go" (David Allen, ArtsHub) along with some very familiar songs played in very unfamiliar ways such as an upbeat, cheerleader version of "Hurt" by Nine Inch Nails.
ABOUT THE AWARD
Tom joins luminaries Tim Minchin (2003), Daniel Maloney (2004), Reuben Krum (2005), Sammy J (2006), Karin Muiznieks (2007), Joanne O'Callaghan (2008) and James Simpson (2008).
Like all of the previous Under Our Wing Award winners, Tom fits The Butterfly Club's preferred style of cabaret. While we welcome all forms of cabaret, we favor those of the European model that reflect the style of performance for which cabaret was originally created shows that satirize or reflect contemporary life and enlighten audiences, performed in an intimate setting.
Preview week ticket price: $15 - Season ticket price: $22
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