Gathering new songs and new fans, The Rescignos riotously find new themes and variations on a theme that’s their main one: themselves as twins pushing each other’s buttons. The more button-down Robbie is the “serious,” long-suffering object of his sillier sibling’s rivalry and ribbing. Robbie’s slow burn and perky Paul’s quick wit provide contrast, despite the bemoaned reality: “We’re genetically redundant!” Beneath convincingly created characterizations of brothers as bubbly, blistering, bickering busybody buddies, innocent charm endearingly prevails. So do playful puns. “This is my Har-Vest,” Paul commented craftily, modeling his outrageous arts-and-crafts creation: three-dimensional autumnal vegetables covering his trademark preppy vest. “Good Gord!” came the reaction.

Wordplay is played up in songs, many terrifically tailor-made by Michael Hadge. This month’s line-up’s clever lines concerned online issues: computer communication/dating pitfalls, Google searches, Carpel tunnel torment. Their singing seems stronger—with more colors—in solos and duets, while retaining naturalness and non-slick musical comedy zing. Hadge’s “Open This Jar” opened the proceedings to lively featured females: older sister Tricia Rescigno, Mary Falkenstern and Rebecca Weiner, favoring us with a litany of favors whiny little bothers demand. Non-jock Paul sweetly imagined his future “Athletic Son” making him feel manly, playing shortstop (“whatever sport that’s in”).

Sondheim provided inspiration: “Old Friends” allowed actual warmth; super-smart Paul-penned parody lyrics for “Agony,” turned the Into the Woods gripe into waiters’ self-serving complaints, and memories of being schoolkid band nerds sharing troubles and tater tots in cafeterias were set to Company’s “The Ladies Who Lunch.” Delicious!

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
September 16, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org