Decades have passed since Andrea Marcovicci played a small venue in Chicago. The small venue experience differs from the large venue experience: In a large venue, the takeaway is elegant. In a small venue, the Marcovicci takeaway is warm. In Davenport’s cozy listening room, Marcovicci kibitzed like an old pal with audiences delighted to kibbitz back. Although she has clearly done vocal homework, we come for the words. The offhand remark about Robert Redford needing moisturizer is merely one example of connection with humor and truth. Marcovicci makes an early, inclusive choice, inviting the audience to sing along with the wistful “Hi Lili, Hi Lo.” “Swinging on A Star” from the film Going My Way, is particularly delicious in a show titled Marcovicci Sings Movies II, From musical director Shelly Markham’s Basie lead in to La Marcovicci’s goofball fish faces, we are having great fun but not at the expense of the song’s sage message. Marcovicci plumbed the emotional layers of “Call Me Irresponsible,” taking the song beyond an apologetic shrug. Chicago’s fans embraced Marcovicci: an extra show had to be added to Davenport’s calendar. Our cabaret community enjoyed her effective Master Class and appreciated her attendance at a showcase featuring former students. Thanks for the memories.

Carla Gordon
Cabaret Scenes
June 18, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org