Oklahoma-born Harold Sanditen has spent most of his adult years living in London and is working on his third career.  A former investment banker and theater producer, currently Vice Chairman of the Board of London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, he’s exploring new territory in the world of cabaret. Having put in some time at workshops in Tuscany and Steamboat Springs and with a debut show at The Duplex and Pizza on the Park under his belt, he’s moving along with songs of romance and love.

Although he labels this show as being somewhat "edgier," that description is not completely accurate. What it is, however, is a good mixture of songs of pop, jazz, Latin, and show tunes, affording an opportunity to explore various facets of who he is musically.

Novelty animates “Mr. Byrd” (not Miss!), and “When in Rome” and the intricate entwining of “One Night Only” and ”Speak Low” attempt to hold our interest— sometimes successfully—but he’s more successful on heartfelt, honest ballads like Adam Guettel’s “Dividing Day” and Sager/Bacharach/Roberts’ “Making Love.”

His voice is pleasant, possessing a slight tremor perfect on songs of pain such as Brel’s “Ne me quitte pas.” He is of good humor and has fun performing. Keep working it, Harold! Musical Director is David Gaines with Louis Tucci on bass. The show is directed by Lisa Forrell.

Sandi Durell
Cabaret Scenes
November 20, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org