Theater veteran Melody Hollis made her solo cabaret debut at Sterling’s Upstairs at Vitello’s. Nothing unusual about that, except Melody is 13 years old. She handled the switch from theater stage to nightclub stage like the pro she is. She even had the audacity to essentially review herself with her second number, “Born to Entertain.” That song does sum up who she is. Opening with a clever special material number, “Melodyland,” penned for her by the show’s director, Bruce Kimmel, Melody exuded the poise and confidence that would be present throughout the evening.

Melody didn’t play it safe with her song selection. Her wide range of material showcased her ability to connect with a lyric, be it a ballad like “A Quiet Thing” or a fun song like “I Wanna Be a Rockette.” She handled a couple of challenging ultra multi-syllable songs with ease, namely a tour de force “Shermanized Medley” and the Mary Rodgers & Stephen Sondheim “The Boy From...” On that song, as on the others with multiple choruses, Melody demonstrated her understanding of the lyrics by the use of subtle changes with each chorus. In addition to her voice, she used her hands expressively and with very natural movements.

Her delight in performing was evident from the outset and her exuberant energy level carried through for the whole show. Her patter was built around her own story and career and the humorous elements of it landed on the mark. She mentioned her love of tap dancing and maybe with the addition of a tap board, she can add that next time out. Is there anything this young lady can’t do?

Steve Hollis, Melody’s father, did a terrific job as musical director, playing his own and John Boswell’s arrangements. Kimmel, who also conceived the show, shaped the evening into just the right blend of singer and material.

Les Traub
Cabaret Scenes
August 10, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org