Known as “11 O’Clock Numbers” because of the hour they’d stop Broadway shows with late climactic bursts of energy and/or emotion, many are juicy, jubilant or jolting. Savvy Scott Siegel, creator of cavalcade-like concerts of Broadway bonanzas at The Town Hall brings that panache — and three of the singers who’ve successfully trod those and other boards — to the smaller cabaret stage every Thursday actually at 11PM.  Not hosting this, too, he leaves the refreshingly informal but informative commentary to three thoroughly theatrical singers who’ve proven themselves in cabaret, too. They’re surefire and sure bring fire to these mostly big numbers.

Solo and in combo, they shine.  Newly Bistro Award-honored Carole J. Bufford belts and sasses, NEWSical’s Christina Bianco dazzles and includes some spot-on star impressions singing Cabaret’s title song, and multi-award winner Scott Coulter brings his angelic and fierce high notes.  On piano, John Fischer is splendid.  The show is a parade of pow and 'wow' moments, the set setting out to provide an out-and-out knockout, but wisely varied, showing that showstoppers from Broadway have a broad range of musical flavors. This talented trio works wonders with big-voiced fireworks and as well as with some striking harmonies on a zingy, polished “Sing for Your Supper” and a warm “What I Did for Love.”  Solo highlights include Carole’s all-stops-out “What Did I Have That I Don’t Have?” (On a Clear Day You Can See Forever), Scott’s involved and touching “I’ll Be Seeing You” and Christina’s vulnerable and well-calibrated “As Long As He Needs Me” from Oliver!

Bringing Broadway excitement east to Feinstein’s at Loews Regency, they might need to change the street sign on the corner to “Spark Avenue.”' The 11 O'Clock nightcap zap is an “up” show worth staying up late for.

11 O'Clock Numbers at 11 O'Clock continues every Thursday at Feinstein's.

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
March 24, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org