Is there a Scottish equivalent of a leprechaun? If not, I propose the term “euan” in tribute to the charm, impishness and magic Euan Morton casts on his audience.

Morton returned to Signature Theatre where he had recently appeared in a production of Chess. He reminded the audience of his performance in the role by singing “Anthem” from the show, but dispelled memories of the dourness of the character, observing about the song, “It's very jolly. It's about being locked out of Russia-who wouldn't want to be locked out of Russia?”

Dressed in a clashing tartan shirt and tie, Morton took pains to remind the audience that he had somewhat different European roots from the Russian he played in Chess- hailing from the highlands of Scotland. “Ae Fond Kiss” and “Caledonia” were two of the most moving selections in the show, making one look forward to his forthcoming recording, Caledonia: The Homecoming.

The evening alternated between lovely heartfelt vocals—“Baby Mine,” “You Go to My Head,” and a progressively intense “Hallelujah,” to name a few-and hilarious anecdotes and observations. Highlights included a discussion of sporrans (pouches in a kilt, serving a pockets) and a story of getting a bikini wax with Sondheim on Sondheim co-star Vanessa Williams.

Morton called Musical Director Bryan Reeder his “practice wall: he's always there, he's solid, and it's like talking to a brick wall.” But what Reeder said with his hands provided a solid base of enchantment for Morton to work his charms.

Michael Miyazaki
Cabaret Scenes
February 10, 20110
www.cabaretscenes.org