I’m not a huge fan of Barbra Streisand, but I love Simply Barbra. Steven Brinberg’s creation is a totally satisfying concert that amazingly creates the sound of the legend with the tongue-in-cheek humor of a great satirist. Without having to pay $10,000 a seat, Brinberg fans can bathe in his exquisite recreations of Streisand favorites like “Evergreen,” “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “People.” “Here’s To Life,” “With a Song in My Heart” and “Send in the Clowns” were bathed in the lush Streisand sound. Brinberg skewers the object of his affection with his witty between-song banter about her lifetime achievement honors, long periods between movie roles and offering her husband James a signed photo. “Alfie” starts out all Streisand, but to show off his fine vocal mimicry, includes verses as Cher, Eartha Kitt, Lena Horne and a hilarious twist as Bette Davis. Not one to leave out the famous Streisand/Neil Diamond duet, Brinberg masters “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” singing both leads, as his creation and himself. It works wonderfully.

Sharing the evening was Broadway singer David Burnham, blessed with great looks, energy to spare and a beautiful tenor. Known for his starring roles in Wicked and The Light in the Piazza, Burnham has a great big voice that overwhelmed the small, intimate Rrazz Room setting. “Gypsy in My Soul,” “Over the Rainbow” and “That’s Life” are all out-muscled. When he takes it down a notch, “I Have Dreamed” and “Fly Again” (dedicated to his late mother), were honest and pure.

Burnham and Babs shared the duets “You Are Woman, I Am Man” (Funny Girl) as well as the famous Streisand/Garland “Get Happy”/“Happy Days Are Here Again” number. Simply Barbra is at the top of the list of tribute shows and is a must-see for all fans of the real thing—this as close as you may ever get!

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
September 2, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org