A birthday salute to Michael Jackson benefitted God’s Love, We Deliver with an all-star cast of cabaret and Broadway performers assembled by John Hoglund. Making the evening possible: Michael Kadin Craig’s high energy “Heal the World”; nimble-fingered Jon Weber’s “Jackson Overture”; Marcus Simeone’s “Shake Your Body”; Baby Jane Dexter’s “Man In the Mirror” (Steven Ray Watkins piano/vocals); Miles Phillips’ “Rockin’ Robin” (Anne Steele and Tanya Holt–backups); Bobby Belfry’s “Ben”; German Rodriguez & Jose Luis’ “Smile”; Terese Genecco’s “She’s Out of My Life”; Dimitri Minucci’s grand interpretation on “Billie Jean” (Sean Harkness, guitar); Lee Summers’ “I’ll Be There” and powerful Natalie Douglas’ “A Place in the Sun”/”Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer.” Eric Michael Gillett knocked us out with “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” Anne Steele won with “I Want You Back” (Kenny Davidsen, piano). Anaiza Otis, daughter of Clyde Otis, delivered a soulful “God Bless the Child.” Others present: John DiPinto on piano with “Off the Wall”; Marieann Meringolo’s “Gone Too Soon” and Michael Isaacs’ “Rock with You.” Grammy Award winner Carol Woods wailed on “Never Can Say Goodbye” and the ever adorable KT Sullivan was perfect for “Never, Never Land.”

BIG thank you to host Lennie Watts, the Mazzilli Brothers, the always fabulous Barry Levitt (piano) and especially to John Hoglund for his work, effort and heart.

Sandi Durell
Cabaret Scenes
August 29, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org