Once upon a time, there was a shy young lady from Philadelphia who had begun to write songs. She came to New York; her songs—including such now- popular pieces as “From a Distance,” “Goodnight, New York” and “Heaven”—were noticed throughout the cabaret community and beyond, and they moved their listeners. Today, that songwriter, Julie Gold, continuing to write new material, has also blossomed into a warm, no-longer-so-shy performer, presenting her music onstage at The Duplex in a monthly series.

Julie and her own songs would be enough to carry an evening, particularly supported, as they are, by her two fine back-up singers, Margaret Dorn and Emily Bindiger. However, Julie now varies the programs with special guests; in June, it was John McDaniel, formerly Music Director of the Rosie O’Donnell Show, who charmingly shared samples of his own new musical material. John, in turn, brought his own guest: a gifted actor/singer – all of 14 years old – named Sean Curley, who brought the room to cheers.

Observing songwriters—including such other New York-based talents as Steven Lutvak, Carol Hall and Heisler & Goldrich—perform their own work in the city’s clubs is to witness, first hand, the continuing creativity that keeps cabaret fresh.

Peter Haas
Cabaret Scenes
May 9, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org