For the second year, Sue Matsuki and Edd Clark performed their Christmas show, this time also celebrating the release of their CD, Sue and Edd's Fabulous Christmas. After dramatically entering the darkened Duplex holding candles and chanting in Latin, they presented an essentially secular show. Exceptions were Edd's "Some Children See Him," and Sue's moving rendition of the beautiful "Mary, Did You Know?," an increasingly popular song that can still delight with surprise. The songs, however, were often ironic or satirical, most notably "I Bought You A Plastic Star for Your Aluminum Tree." This could lead to some puzzlement, since the plaintive tone of accompanist Brian Taylor's flute seemed more appropriate to sacred Christmas music. Edd Clark's pantomime in "Please Come Home for Christmas" was very amusing and his body language acted as comic counterpoint to Sue's vocalizing. Guest performer Dana Lorge sang the always funny "My Simple Christmas Wish," and Paul Stephan as musical director played a strong piano. The show was fun but freewheeling, needing a stronger central focus.
Barbara Leavy
Cabaret Scenes
December 5, 2007
www.cabaretscenes.org
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