Bubbly, chatty, enthusiastic, gracious – good qualities for a “hostess with the mostes’ on the ball” – and Jennifer Wren is definitely on the ball as an entertaining, bright-voiced vocalist. Big Night Out on some Wednesdays (10 pm-12:30 am) is a potpourri of announced and drop-in singers and musicians. Bill Zeffiro, singing pianist/ accompanist for anyone and anything has all songs (including his own and Noel Coward, Irving Berlin, etc.) at his fingertips at Broadway Baby’s baby grand. And it’s a grand night for singing. I heard MAC-nominated songwriter Nick Levin dazzle with his own superb songs with a witty twist on Cole Porter’s “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” too. Those brushing up their own material or trying out new ideas find the right atmosphere over on West 53rd Street. Featured performers are booked ahead, but there’s always room and encouragement for anyone present to take the mic. Cozier and more casual than some such happenings, the small room keeps things up close and personal. It’s pot luck, but I’ve been lucky the times I went: a good batting average as these things go, and a mixed crowd. All-night open mic on October 29, then hilarious satirical Hector Coris is featured November 12.
Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
October 1, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org
|
