Like a breath of spring, Karen Oberlin’s lush vocal renditions of the songs of one of America’s foremost writers of the American theater filled the air of the historic Oak Room. Keeping a sharp eye on Frank Loesser’s widow, Jo Sullivan Loesser, a few feet away, Ms. Oberlin approached each musical gem with forethought, intimacy and passion.

With hundreds of songs from which to choose, a fine assortment filled the evening. Guys and Dolls was front and center, featuring “If I Were A Bell,” “My Time of Day,” and “More I Cannot Wish You," her encore that she began a capella.

Ms. Oberlin’s sense of wit, continually present, was evident as she regaled us with stories about song histories and lively tidbits about Loesser himself. He woke up every morning at 4 AM to write, having the same sandwich—peanut butter and olive—(Loesser loved them) and coffee. From one of those early morning sessons, Oberlin relates, came the subtle humor of “Bloop Bleep” (1947), quick thoughts of a man tossing and turning to the sounds of a leaky faucet.

Oberlin, always in control, cleverly weaves lyrical wonders whether it’s a sensitive and plaintive “I Don’t Want to Walk Without You” (music by Jule Styne) or a meticulously sung novelty, “Hamlet” (1949 film: Red, Hot and Blue). Musical Director Jon Weber, skillful in his accompaniment and arranging, added vocal counterpoint to a sultry “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” From Pulitzer Prize winner How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (slated for a Broadway revival in 2011), Oberlin showed off flawless styling on “I Believe in You.”

A mix of pop and jazz with an easy delivery, it feels as if she hugs each lyric, Oberlin is joyous to behold. Sean Smith is on bass and Eric Michael Gillett directs.

Karen Oberlin is at the Oak Room Tuesdays-Saturdays through June 19.

Sandi Durell
Cabaret Scenes
June 2, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org