I don’t use this word often or casually, but Gretchen Reinhagen’s show about Kaye Ballard is a triumph. It’s everything a tribute show should be: loving, illuminating, informed and informative, with the icon’s style captured to result in appreciation of the tributer and tributee. A longtime Kaye admirer myself, I knew the rare “special material” songs but laughed again because Gretchen “gets” it and gives it: the delicious daffiness in reactions and attitude, fully committed. There’s the momentary look of horror, delight or outrage in a line. Spot on! She even got a Kaye colleague, director-writer Barry Kleinbort, to direct her (superbly) and update two songs he’d written for the star. Another smart choice was giving us songs Kaye would have introduced if show biz plans had gone as planned. The Ballard ballads and Ballard belters provide balance so it wasn’t all yuk-yuk or bombast. Versatile Gretchen can pull back her own brashness and displayed lovely tones. From “Lazy Afternoon” to the de rigeur performer’s thanks cheekily sung in “I Told Ya That I Love You, Now Get Out,” it’s a grand slam. The trio led by David Gaines was tops, like everything in this dazzling dynamic display. Such alignment rarely happens so expertly…and so entertainingly.

Special Kaye is back at the Metropolitan Room Dec. 19, Jan. 17 & 24 and Feb.4.

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
December 6, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org