Two childhood friends, Stearns Matthews and Megan Candio, sparkled in 50 Years Experience.....25 Years in the Making, with youthful, enthusiastic renditions of songs by a broad variety of American songwriters. The young pair displayed a number of pleasing qualities – exuding confidence, verve and charm. Their voices complemented each other, particularly in Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Stepsisters' Lament," Craig Carnelia's "Fran and Janie," "You Walk with Me" by David Yazbek and a captivating Irving Berlin medley.

Candio's classical training was evident in a bravura display of "Tomorrow" from Annie, the Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin musical. In turn, Matthews – a recent nominee for the MAC Award for best male debut – shone on Grossman and Hackady's "Poor Sweet Baby."  The two songs included in French, one by Fauré, the other by Satie, were the only disappointment.

The pair exhibited a comfortable stage presence during some engaging patter about their younger days. James K. Mitchell was their musical director and accompanist. The show, which provided welcome fun and pleasure, was directed by Lennie Watts.

Seymour Spilka
Cabaret Scenes
August 5, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org