In The Hills Are Alive with the Sound of Julie, Laura Freeman celebrates the long, varied career of Julie Andrews. Of course there are the Andrews signature tunes, including “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “A Spoonful of Sugar.” All are delivered well by Freeman, who, like Andrews in her prime, enjoys a strong upper vocal register. Freeman also offered lesser-known Andrews tunes including “Whistling Away the Dark” from the film Darling Lili and “In My Own Little Corner” from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s televised version of Cinderella. Particularly delightful was Freeman’s update of “You’re So London,” originally performed in 1962 as a duet by Andrews and Carol Burnett at Carnegie Hall and broadcast on television. (This reporter remembers it fondly). In Freeman’s version, the “so London,” Andrews is contrasted with Indiana corn-fed Freeman. It’s charming. Freeman also shares the remarkable story of Andrew’s career; starting as a kid in the last years of British Music Hall, then being cast as Eliza Doolittle opposite displeased Rex Harrison as Professor Higgins. After observing Andrews’s performances, though, Harrison found praise for his co-star. Like Andrews, Freeman likes to challenge her own girl-next-door image and found effective ways to make that happen in “Le Jazz Hot” and “(Don’t Put Your Daughter On the Stage) Mrs. Worthington.” Musical Director Beckie Menzie provided excellent support. The Hills are Alive with the Sounds of Laura. Loverly.
Carla Gordon
Cabaret Scenes
April 9, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org
|
