Lee Lessack chose Pizza on the Park for the European premiere of his new show, Chanteur, before taking it on to la belle France. Lucky London! It’s a tribute to things French — singers, songwriters and song titles — and was aptly described as the American meets French Songbook.

Lessack has a beautiful baritone voice, and chooses songs which suit it to a tee. He also has a warm and cute persona. These make for a very enjoyable evening. The highlights of the night were “Song of Bernadette,” my favorite, a nicely dark version of “The Windmills of Your Mind,” and the always moving “I Will Wait for You.”

While Lee delivers his songs beautifully, I do have two criticisms. Many of the arrangements are safe, and I’d like to see Lee aim for a bit more variation. He’s a crooner at heart, but it would be nice to see more aspects of his vocal abilities. Also, too many of his songs build up to snap endings, which makes them feel too similar. Another minor criticism was the lighting. The focus was too narrow, and Lee often moved out of the light, although never for long.

Lee was joined by the wonderfully talented Nathan Martin on piano.

It’s a good night out.

Harold Sanditen
Cabaret Scenes
May 14, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org