Copying the format of the ubiquitous American Idol series, producers (and two of the three judges) James Mooney and Dierdre Moncy have created a local version for wannabe cabaret stars. In this episode, 14 performers graced the stage to compete for career-related prizes, accompanied by the ever-supportive Ron Snyder (keys) and Kevin Widener (drums). The theme of the evening? Songs associated with “Divas!”

Voices ranged from the very weak to the warm and expressive (Daniella Painton), gutsy (Sheila Karls), and formally-trained (Jessica Reiner Harris, Frankie Marrone). Songs ranged from the overdone “Fever” to the sacrilegious “Jesus Calling” and even rap (“Ice, Ice Baby”). But perhaps the most inventive turn came from Silvin Johnson, whose ballad treatment of “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” was ingenious.

Scott Lowe was an excellent MC, moving the show along with lively banter and racy humor. The judges gave mostly similar criticisms—wrong key, create better patter, work the microphone correctly—with Mooney acting as the Simon Cowell-inspired Grouch, but rarely focused on the singing itself (the very territory needing to be covered) and were a bit too coddling. Daisy Eagan’s advice had the most ring of experience, and the contest would have more weight if all three judges had similar veteran careers.

Since CI is won by in-house votes (unlike a national call-in contest), performers pack the house and promoters make money at the door; a win-win situation. The variety and sincerity of the performances makes for an evening of fine entertainment, and I was surprisingly nervous watching performers line up for the final vote!

Dave Bass
Cabaret Scenes
March 6, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org