Steven Brinberg’s masterful homage to Barbra Streisand, the self-proclaimed diva, and a rare appearance by the true original cabaret diva Julie Wilson, was a joyful and heartfelt evening displaying two very different, yet classic styles of performing.

Simply Barbra revolves around Brinberg’s amazing spot-on Streisand vocals. “The Way We Were” and Yentl’s  lovely “The Way He Makes Me Feel” are shockingly close to the source. The phrasing, the timing, the breathy extended notes and clear delivery put Brinberg at the top of his game. Add to the mix a sharply written satirical script that mocks Streisand’s annoying self-importance and you’ve got a Streisand show that rings true.

There is only one Julie Wilson. Irrepressible at 85, she maintains the joy and verve that defies her frailty. Delivering her numbers in a recitative, almost spoken, word style, Wilson can still summon the power and expression of a lyric, aptly demonstrated in the angry Brecht/Weil “Surabya Johnny,” where Wilson showed a taste of her true brilliance. The powerful lyrics of “Here’s to Life” seemed to sum up Wilson’s majestic career and offered a plea to the future unfettered by regrets. It was a beautiful evening by two masters of their craft.

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
September 1, 2009
www.cabaretscenes.org