“The Dame,” as Niki Scalera refers to Shirley Bassey, is a bi-racial child, one of seven, of Welsh descent and best known for her recordings of theme songs from some of the James Bond 007 films. Bassey has had, and continues to have, an extensive international career.

Ms. Scalera, who has been in show biz and singing since the age of five (she was recently Penny Lou Pingleton in Broadway’s Hairspray), put this tribute together utilizing a screen with photo selections of “The Dame”’s career which enhanced the mood. Opening with an intertwined “Where Do I Begin” and “Get This Party Started,” Scalera was off to a bright beginning. She tackled a nice variety of Bassey songs including “Burn My Candle (At Both Ends)”—with lyrics considered too suggestive when first recorded by Bassey in 1956—and “Kiss Me, Honey Honey (Kiss Me),” along with Bond 007 film songs. Included was ongoing, but somewhat tedious, patter about Ms. Bassey’s life.

Bassey is known for her melodramatic, powerful and torchy sound and emphasis on the lyrics. Niki should follow Shirley's example and concentrate on her interpetation of the lyrics. Although she has a soaring, high-pitched belt that can tackle most anything musically, Niki didn’t pay enough attention to the use of subtleties, making the majority of songs all sound similar—no highs, no lows, no colorations. Lessons yet to be learned. Ms. Scalera was backed by a four-piece band with Lon Hoyt as Musical Director. Daniel Frank Kelley was director.

Sandi Durell
Cabaret Scenes
May 17, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org