06/01/2023
Last night, I had the enormous pleasure of attending closing night of Marilyn Maye's birthday celebration run at 54 Below. As one reviewer noted, Ms. Maye is "reliably excellent". In this world of unearned, proforma, standing ovations, one of the few who truly deserves a standing O, is Ms. Maye. She was in terrific voice last night (she is 95, in case you don't know), and was her usual charming, humorous and marvelous self while turning in a performance no one I can currently name in this genre can match. She defines the art of the cabaret performer, inhabits every phrase, and is a consummate storyteller weaving together one scenario after the next using the American Songbook repertoire. If you are a performer, (or aspire to be), or if you love great songs composed by the likes of Richard Rodgers, Johnny Mercer, Kander and Ebb, Stephen Sondheim (to name just a few she sang last night) personalized in a way no one else can, you must make it a point to see her in the October run at 54 Below. Not only does she embody "how it's done" with every phrase, she is a delight to watch while she does it. Kudos to her terrific trio led by Ted Firth (he was on fire last night!). Make sure you go when she comes back in October--- she is truly a living legend who is always thrilled you have made time to come see her have fun performing for you and toss in a few kicks. I ALWAYS stand for excellence! https://54below.org/events/come-celebrate-with-marilyn-maye/
