Even the Pops popped up with a Mercer tribute. The joy of hearing a glorious full orchestra in Carnegie Hall made it seem less irksome that instrumentals chosen included “Emily” and “And the Angels Sing” where Mercer wrote only the here-unsung lyrics. Granted, Mercer far less often wrote his own melodies—but for a tribute, couldn’t one dig deeper? That being said, they were splendidly done, never stodgy. Conductor-host Steven Reineke was enthusiastic and gracious, making it all audience-friendly with concise informative spoken introductions. For “On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe,” he donned a train conductor’s hat (“After all, I’m a conductor!”). It was one of the numbers by a number (100!!!) of the well-rehearsed, bright-eyed kids from Camp Broadway with synchronized movements and bubbling with vim singing Mercer’s words: a dazzling delight.
Though energized, singer-dancer James T. Lane and gaudy-gowned stylist N’Kenge had velvet in vocal chords but seemed short on subtlety and convincing interpretation. More steeped in the material, Ann Hampton Callaway, however, was a knockout, sounding thrilling. Unannounced performer Michael Feinstein was a happy surprise for the crowd, adding class and yes, some fire. Each had three socko solos. And oh, that orchestra! Grand!
Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
November 20, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org
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