Bruce Kimmel’s location for his Kritzerland series may have changed, but his perfect touch in balancing obscure and well-known material in a thoughtfully presented show hasn’t. Throw in a first-rate cast and who could ask for anything more? From Jeffrey Christopher Todd and Kristopher McNeely’s delightful opening duet on “Penniless Bums” from Sugar to Julie Garnyé’s moving personal take on “Don’t Rain on My Parade” as a closer, the singers got to the heart of the songs by Bob Merrill (pictured).

Melody Hollis had her regular task of singing songs with an endless stream of lyrics—this time nailing it with “I’m the Greatest Star.” Juliana Hansen sweet and tasty medley of “A Very Nice Man” and “Mira” from Carnival hit just the right emotional level. Lainie Kazan electrified the room re-visiting “The Music That Makes Me Dance,” which she had sung in concert and originally on Broadway as Barbra Streisand’s understudy in Funny Girl.

Kimmel’s narration, as usual, was full of wit, insight into the songs and interesting biographical material. Musical Director Christy Crowl did a beautiful job on a wide range of material, even with having to play on a digital piano.

Les Traub
Cabaret Scenes
April 1, 2012
www.cabaretscenes.org