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January 1, 2009 (*scroll down to read all 2009 Newspapers!)
Oh, what a night! Monday's Johnny Rodgers concert was a smashing success, as evidenced by the sold-out house, the cheering throngs and the superb music that he and his band brought to theBroadway at Birdland stage! After a brief, heartfelt intro by noneother than Liza Minnelli, Johnny and company stormed the stage and dazzled everyone (including Tommy Tune, a new fan) for almost 90 minutes. It was such fun, and a killer way to say goodbye to 2008 with some wonderful musical memories!
The following Cast Party was equally jammed…in fact there was a crazy line to get in for almost an hour! (Was EVERYONE in town for the holidays?!) The afore-mentioned Mr. Tune stuck around till the bitter end, applauding every single performance and sitting in awe of talent like Jeffry Denman (star of White Christmas) and his bride Erin, Klea Blackhurst, “The Amazing Race” winner Nick Spangler, Natalie Douglas, Nancy Anderson and her uke, “Da Doo Ron Ron” superstar Lala Brooks, jazzy gals Angela Bingham and Hilary Kole, Nicholas King, Rocco Fiorentino, Charlotte Durkee, Alex Getlin and The Locknar Sisters! 
The evening was also blessed by Michael Feinstein (left), who had PBS cameras following him to his favorite Monday night hangout! He showered us with some fantastic songs, too, including some never-heard lyrics of “There's No Business Like Show Business.” Now, does it get any hipper than that?? No, I don't think so! Many thanks to Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle, who, as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, kept the music on track all night! Steve Sorokoff, our resident photographer/pianist/bon vivant, took a bunch of amazing photos (including the ones here) that you can see on FLICKR! Check them out! And come visit us this coming Monday, when David Budway and Mr. Doyle provide the music, and I provide the sometimes-witty banter. We can't wait for the first Cast Party of 2009! It's our SIXTH YEAR!!! We think we look pretty good, all things considering.
By the way, if you still haven't seen "Liza's At The Palace," you have 2 more chances! There is a show tonight at 8pm, and one tomorrow at 3pm! Click on the link for all the info. It'd sure be great to see you there! Broadway at Birdland!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is proud to announce Broadway and television personality JULIE HALSTON will appear at Manhattan's premier club Birdland on Monday, January 5 at 7pm. This concert is part of the Nightlife Award-winning concert series, Broadway at Birdland. Reservations are highly recommended by calling 212-581-3080 or by visiting www.birdlandjazz.com.
Julie Halston has decided, for one night only, to throw caution to the wind and just go CRAZY with new material, old material and of course new clothes! Don't miss the fabulous comedienne in this one-night-only post-holiday bash called HOLIDAY MUFFULETTA…it's crammed with goodies! Ms. Halston is one of the busiest actress/comediennes working today. Most recently, she played Tina Carmello on the CBS sitcom “The Class.” Well-known to theatre audiences, she was last seen on Broadway inHairspray after receiving rave reviews (as well as receiving Drama Desk and Drama League nominations) for her performance in William Hamilton'sWhite Chocolate. She received an Outer Critics Circle nomination for her performance in The Roundabout's production of Twentieth Century. Other Broadway credits include Gypsy, The Women and The Man Who Came to Dinner. Off-Broadway credits include acclaimed performances in The Vagina Monologues, The Butter and Egg Man and The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told. She is a founding member of Charles Busch's legendary theatre company, Theatre-in-Limbo and received a Drama Desk nomination for her performance in Mr. Busch's play Red Scare on Sunset. She co-starred with Mr. Busch in many of his plays including Vampire Lesbians of Sodom, The Lady in Question and You Should be So Lucky. Miss Halston's one woman show, Julie Halston's Lifetime of Comedy which was developed from her wildly successful club act, ran Off-Broadway for six months and received an Outer Critics Circle Nomination for Best Comedy. CBS developed a pilot based on the play. Her film credits include “The Juror,” “Joe Gould's Secret,” “Addams Family Values,” “Dottie Gets Spanked,” “Celebrity” and “David Searching.” She can be seen in Charles Busch's latest film “A Very Serious Person” which has been selected for the Tribeca Film Festival. Television viewers may recognize her as Bitsy Von Muffling on “Sex and The City.” In January of this year, Julie co-authored the well-received book of original monologues “Monologues for Show-Offs” published by Heinemann Press. PERFORMANCE DETAILS: JULIE HALSTON WHEN: Monday, January 5 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKET INFO: $25 general admission, $50 orchestra $10 food/drink minimum per person RESERVATIONS: 212-581-3080 CLICK: www.BirdlandJazz.com NEXT: SCOTT ALAN -- It's Good to See You Again, with Merle Dandridge, Crystal Monee Hall, Megan McGinnis, Carrie Manolakos, Patti Murin, Allie Trimm, Lisa Brescia, Heidi Blickenstaff, Jenn Colella, Erin Davie, Merle Dandridge, Hadley Fraser, Crystal Monee Hall, Nikki M. James, Marcus Paul James, Megan McGinnis, Carrie Manolakos, Kenita Miller, Patti Murin, Lauren Thomas, Katie Thompson, Allie Trimm, Natalie Weiss and The Broadway Boys. January 12th at 7:00 PM January 8, 2009
Julie Halston is truly the funniest woman on the planet.This isn't news to her throngs of fans who were at Birdland on Monday night. The event was sold-out, but I mean sold-out in the “what the hell do we do with all these walk-ins?” way. It was fantastic, and the brilliant Birdland staff found places for every single body that came in the door! Ms. Halston is one of those comediennes who can take a situation, or even a word, and just make it screamingly funny. Sometimes it's just by her expression…or an emphasis on a certain syllable. You know what I mean. She's funny, and that's all there is to it. Her “Holiday Muffuletta” was everything is should have been, and more. The showbiz giltterati came out in full-force to support her, including (left) Matt McGrath, Mike Doyle,Denis Jones, Charles Busch and Andrew Rennells. We also spiedDenny Dillon, John McDaniel, Eric Myers, Robert LaFosse, Max von Essen, Natalie Douglas & Billy Joe Young, Jesse Tyler Feruguson,Carl Andress, Amanda Green & Jef Kaplan cheering, stomping and roaring their comedic approval for Julie Lynn!
The following Cast Party was way fun! One highlight was when our brilliantly talented pal from London, Giles Terera, decided to sing “Birth of the Blues,” but had no sheet music. David Budway wasn't completely sure of the changes, so superstar Paul Shaffer (“you know him…you love him…” -- left, thanks to Steve Sorokoff) volunteered to play! The result was a rollicking performance, and a great memory for Giles…and the rest of the crowd! We were delighted that Miss New York, Leigh Taylor Smith, tried out her Miss America song for us, thanks to a former Miss A/constant Broadway star Kate Shindle! Aussie Tim Draxl showed up after way too many years to sing his heart out, as did pal Nick Christo. “Who's Line Is It Anyway” improv-genius Collin Mochrie and his wife stayed all night to observe the scene, which was thrilling for us! All in all, it was a great night, thanks to brilliant newcomers, beloved regulars, Mr. Budway and Steve Doyle on piano and bass, and a bunch of Cast Party revelers (check out all the photos on our Flickr! site). We do the same thing next week, in an evening co-starring Budway, Doyle and Caruso!
For those keeping track, “Liza's At The Palace” closed on Sunday, after five glorious weeks on Broadway. To say that the run was thrilling would be a complete understatement. It was certainly one of the most exciting few weeks of my life, and I'm overjoyed that so many of you were able to share it with me and our fantastic cast and crew. Please check out the ad (below), which has information about the resulting CD, which was recorded by none other than Phil Ramone. We're all delighted with the way it sounds, and I hope you love it! It looks like we're going back out on the road in late February, so happily, my Minnellium hasn't ended!
January 22, 2009
Patrick DeGennaro kicked all kinds of super-pop tuchasin his Monday night concert at Birdland! His concert of highly original songs (with a few standards thrown in for good measure) had the place hopping and popping, thanks to a marvelous band, his gorgeous voice, superb backup from Ula Hedwig and Lisa Burns and special guest Annie Golden! (photo, left, of Patrick and Annie by Steve Sorokoff) Come back, Patrick!
The following Cast Party was about as diverse as it gets, with a poetess, a cellist, a tapping trombonist, some folk singers, a few jazzers and a Broadway star or two! Peter Sachon, everyone's favorite cello player, showed off a splendid new piece written for him especially by Michael John LaChiusa - and stunned the crowded room with his technique. Ex-pageant girl and current hottie singer Ryan Kelly (left) blew everyone away with her swinging and singing.
Todd Londagin made a triumphant return to our stage with his horn - and thrilled everyone with his tapping dexterity. South Pacific's Zachary James sang, and we celebrated his great casting news…he's going to be Lurch in upcoming Andrew Lippa Broadway production of The Addams Family, also starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth! If you missed it, be sure to check out the photos on Flickr! We do it all again this coming Monday - and we hope to see your face there! Broadway at Birdland!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is proud to announce a performance by acclaimed singer-songwriter and musical theater composerJEREMY SCHONFELD. The 7pm concert on Monday, January 26, 2009 is part of the long-running, critically-heralded concert series Broadway at Birdland.
Featuring an eclectic mix of brand new material from upcoming projects, the concert will also include familiar favorites from Drift, “37 Notebooks,” and “Blue Skies & All,” stripped down and reimagined for a trio of New York's top musicians, including Schonfeld (piano), John Clancy(percussion and djembo) and Randy Landau (upright and electric bass). Broadway performers Lauren Kennedy and Alan Campbell will be special guest vocalists. Hailed by The New York Times as a blend of Jonathan Larson and Billy Joel, Schonfeld's singular blend of tuneful pop, hard-edged rock, gospel, soul and blues has made him one of today's most sought after singer/songwriter talents and musical theater composers. Upcoming theatrical projects include: a soon to be announced Broadway-bound musical; a brand new contemporary musical take on a favorite Grimm's Fairy Tale; and the development of a new musical with director and producer Daisy Prince (Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years, John Bucchino's Ovation Award winning new musical It's Only Life). Other recent projects include: the album “37 Notebooks,” which featured the vocal talents of Shoshana Bean, Tracie Thoms, Amy Spanger, Lauren Kennedy, Luther Creek, and Kate Shindle, among others; the feature film “Clear Blue Tuesday”; as well as the musicals “Home” and innumerable “atrainplays”; and the Broadway Dreams Foundation's “Broadway Bootcamp,” for which Schonfeld serves as musical director. PERFORMANCE DETAILS: JEREMY SCHONFELD WHEN: Monday, January 26, 2009, at 7:00pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 General Admission / $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com NEXT: AMANDA GREEN: "Who's Worse Than People?" (And Other Songs of the Season) with David Pittu, Jenn Colella, Jonathan Dokuchitz & Jenifer Foote. January 29, 2009
Jeremy Schonfeld, as always, brought us a fabulous show showcasing his thoroughly original and rollicking pop/rock theater songs! Birdland was packed with show folk and the people who love them, and we couldn't have been happier with the response. Just another brilliant evening in the Broadway at Birdland series, with many thanks to Jeremy and company!
The following Cast Party boasted some showbiz heavy hitters like the great Larry Gatlin, the lovely Linda Lavin and the marvelous Marilyn Maye (left, thanks to Steve Sorokoff), all of whom graced our stage with a performance. 
Larry (left) and Ms. Maye came in to celebrate their dazzling performances over at The Nightlife Awards. Linda came in to announce her return engagement at Birdland on April 6, along with Billy Stritch at the piano,Steve Doyle on bass and Steve Bakunas on drums. Shockingly, those were the guys making up our Cast Party Symphony Orchestra on Monday! They helped make the genius music, along with drop-ins likeChristine Lavin, Sarah Rice, Darren Williams, Patrick Oliver Jones,Joan Crowe, Tom Leopold, Jamie DeRoy, William Blake, Lodi Carr,Jenna Esposito, and so many more! We'll be whooping it up again next Monday night with Tedd Firth and the afore-mentioned Mr. Doyle on piano and bass, respectively. And we wanna see you there, no kidding!
If you happen to be in Austin, Texas this week, come see me and Mr. Billy Stritch at Stuart Moulton's Austin Cabaret Theatre! We'll be bringing Cast Party to the gorgeous nightspot on Thursday and Friday, and can't wait to hear all the local talent again! Check out austincabaret.blogspot.com for all the details, and come see us, y'all! Broadway at Birdland!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is thrilled to announce the return of Amanda Green to the Broadway at Birdland concert series on Monday, February 2 at 7pm.
Come ring in Groundhog Day with the hilarious songs of award-winning Broadway songwriter and performer Amanda Green, joined by some of Broadway's finest. Amanda delivers her "murderously witty songs with the comic zing and self-lacerating rue of a young Carol Burnett,” says The Wall Street Journal. Joining Amanda will be Norm Lewis (Little Mermaid),Jenn Colella (High Fidelity, Urban Cowboy), David Pittu (What's That Smell?, Is He Dead?, Lovemusik) and Jenifer Foote (A Chorus Line, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels), composers Larry Grossman (Minnie's Boys, Grind, Goodtime Charley) and Tom Kitt (High Fidelity, Next To Normal) plus a surprise guest or two! Musical Director will be Matt Gallagher (9 to 5, Legally Blonde, High Fidelity). Amanda Green wrote the lyrics for High Fidelity on Broadway and is currently writing a musical with Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Doug Wright. She's also written for the TV show "The Wonder Pets" for Nick, Jr. She is the winner of MAC Awards, Bistro Awards, Jonathan Larson Award and Songwriter's Hall of Fame Award for Excellence in Songwriting. Who's Worse Than People? (And Other Songs Of The Season) The Heartwarming Lyrics of AMANDA GREEN WHEN: Monday, February 2, 2009, 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 General Admission / $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com NEXT: The Marcy & Zina Show! February 9th at 7PM February 5, 2009
Oh. Hello. Welcome to the weekly Cast Party Newsletter.This is where I tell you how brilliant last week's Broadway at Birdlandconcert was, and what dazzling celebs showed up for Cast Party. This week is no exception! Amanda Green and her cohorts, (David Pittu,Norm Lewis, Jenn Colella & Jeni Foote, left thanks to Steve Sorokoff) sang the Amazing Green Songs to a packed house on Monday night. Everyone was there, including my all-time favorite restauranteurs, Joe Allen.
There was no evidence of a recession, as everyone ate, drank and was totally merry, thanks to Amanda's hilarious, witty, and sometimes even funny musical creations. She even closed with one of her dadAdolph's tongue-twisters, “If.” The evening couldn't have been more fun. And you know she'll be back. 
The following Cast Party was dull, forgettable and nobody came. Not really. I just always thought it'd be funny to type that. Since it's my birthday, I gave myself permission to do it. Truthfully, it was fabulous as always. Our pal Jake Wilson (left) and Ana Nogueira sang two songs from their crazily-popular web tv show, The Batterys Down.com. Check it out. You won't believe it's not on ABC or something. So clever…so professional…and they are soooo talented! Adriana McPhee made her Cast Party debut and sang her face off. Tom Leopold was slyly brilliant with another original tune. Domenick Farinacci showed off his trumpet-playing genius with a tune from his new CD, “Lovers, Tales and Dances.” Broadway diva Karen Murphy blew us away with her voice, talent and charm. There were lots of regulars like Jenna Esposito, Ryan Kelly,Hilary Kole, Carrie Jackson, Christine Lavin, Rob Langeder, Joan Crowe, Fred Barton, William Blake…even David Sattler, who we haven't seen since early Cast Party days at the King Kong Room! Tedd Firth andSteve Doyle were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, of course, and we were thrilled to have Steve Bakunas on drums once again. It was a swingin' night!
I'll be hosting the totally sold-out Broadway Backwards Benefit at the American Airlines Theater this coming Monday, so please go see the extraordinary Klea Blackhurst guest-hosting for me at Cast Party!! She will tickle your funny bone and stun you with her fabulous vocals!! February 12, 2009
Monday night's Marcy & Zina Show was jam-packed with family, friends and family of the prolific songwriting team! Scott Coulterand Jill Abramovitz were dazzling guests in the show, singing the hits of our fave gal-scribes! The beautiful photo of M&Z (left) with superstar cellist, Peter Sachon was taken by our own Steve Sorokoff. Please clickFLICKR to see more proof of all the fun!
The following Cast Party was guest-hosted by funny girl and belter extraordinaire, Klea Blackhurst (left). Once again, she guided the hilarity, with some musical help from the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle. Lots of regulars showed up to strut their stuff, likeTom Leopold, Joan Crowe and Ben Rausch. Please join us this coming Monday, when David Budway, Steve Doyle and I will be on piano, bass and mic! You just never know who will be surprising us with a guest appearance, do you?
I took the night off to host the Broadway Backwards 4 fundraiser for the LGBT Community Center at the American Airlines Theatre. I can't tell you how much fun we all had, and raised about $165,000 in the process! The show boasted a cast that included the talents of Whoopi Goldberg,Florence Henderson, Alan Cumming, Gina Gershon, and some of the most brilliant performers on the Broadway scene today. Needless to say, I was happy to meet Becki Newton and Michael Urie (left) from “Ugly Betty.” They both sang great and were so, so funny. Congrats to Bob Bartley and Danny Whitman for putting together a spectacular evening.
Broadway at Birdland!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is proud to welcomesinger/songwriter KATIE THOMPSON to the Broadway at Birdland series on Monday, February 16 at 7pm.
Katie Thompson will be making her Birdland debut, and will be joined by some of today's brightest Broadway stars singing her songs and praises, including Shoshana Bean, Lisa Brescia, Carly Jibson, Carrie Maonlakos, Ann Harada, Molly Pop, Natalie Weiss, Julie Reiber andKate Shindle. Katie recently returned from the Los Angeles's sold-out run of her first musical R.R.R.E.D., which was Pick of the Week in Backstage Magazine, LA Weekly, Stage Scene LA, and Burbank Leader. Thompson and a bevy of Broadway stars will perform songs from the debut CD “What I've Done Right,” as well as songs from “KT: Live” and “R.R.R.E.D.” Backstage West said Thompson has "knockout vocal calisthenics, and segues from Merman to Buckley to Tori Amos with beautifully constructed songs.” The Glendale News called Thompson “gloriously beautiful and indisputably talented.” As an actress/singer she has been featured on Michael Mclean's “The Forgotten Carols,” “The Ark,” and Scott Alan's “Dreaming Wide Awake.” Katie has performed in NYC in “Broadway's Acoustic Soul,” “Broadway Loves Country,” and “Broadway Idol” -where she made the Top 3. Katie has been involved in the workshop of several new musicals including:Anything at the Tisch, Scott Alan's Piece, Duncan Sheik's The Lighthouse Project, and Giant, a new musical by Michael John LaCiusia and Sybille Pearson. KATIE THOMPSON WHEN: Monday, February 16, 2009, 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 General Admission / $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com UPCOMING SHOWS: Jason Danieley (February 23), The Broadway Boys (March 2), John Bucchino & Friends (March 9), Christine Pedi (March 16), Kate Shindle & John McDaniel (March 23) February 26, 2009
THANKS TO YOU, MY HUMBLE READERS, the numbers in my dramatic race to become the Genre Magazine Man of the Year shot up in a big way! Please feel free to vote again…the rules say you can do it once a day. Winning would be a fantastic way to promote Cast Party and theBroadway at Birdland series to hundred of thousands of folks - which would be great for all of us! So click now and VOTE! (Needless to say, '10' is best - '1' is not-so-much best.) You'll feel better for it.
OK. We can continue. Jason Danieley and the Frontier Heroes (left, thanks to Steve Sorokoff) brought a kickin' show to Birdland on Monday night! And what a thrill to have Broadway leading lady Marin Mazzie added to the brilliance! The new CD is sublime, and we can't wait to have the band back on our stage - and soon! Click on Flickr and see how much fun everyone had! 
The following Cast Party kicked all kinds of open-mic tuchas. We were delighted that TV and Broadway star Paige Davis, and Vegas entertainment power-couple Clint and Kelly Holmes came to show their musical stuff on our stage! Paige just flew in from a “Trading Spaces” shoot, Clint is working on a new musical with Bill Fayne, and Kelly - who is a great singer - showed off her amazing talent for impersonations! Chicago diva Lynne Jordan killed as always, Aaron Davis celebrated his birthday with a song, Jonno Gasparo made his Birdland debut with some fancy trumpeting, the delovely Adriana McPhee (see ad below) sang for us, and Shannon Thursdon & Paul Mills absolutely thrilled us with a very original, and exquisitely sung new tune. The night ended with a musical sit-in, led by Melissa Ward, with Clint on vocal percussion, Jonno on horn,Tedd Firth on piano, Steve Doyle on bass, and me on backup! And guess what? We do it all over again next Monday night! Dust off your zippy upbeat sheet music and join us! You just never know who you'll see at Cast Party!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE BROADWAY BOYS in concert at Birdland on Monday, March 2 at 7pm. The event is part of the ongoing concert series, Broadway at Birdland.
The Broadway Boys return to Birdland to perform their contemporized showtunes, funked-up 50's and 60's classics, and unique spin on Top 40 hits! The concert, entitled “Sampler,” will combine the many different Broadway Boys concert hits, including songs from "Broadway Today," "The Radio," and "Oh What a Night.” The cast of Broadway Boys includesMarty Thomas (Xanadu), Jesse Nager (Mary Poppins), Danny Calvert(Altar Boyz), Maurice Murphy (…Spelling Bee), Morgan Karr (Spring Awakening) and Landon Beard (Altar Boyz). The Boys' very special guests will be Shayna Steele (Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On, Hairspray) and Antonique Smith (Notorious, Rent). THE BROADWAY BOYS WHEN: Monday, March 2, 2009, 7:00 pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 General / $50 VIP; $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com UPCOMING SHOWS: John Bucchino & Friends (March 9), Christine Pedi (March 16), Kate Shindle & John McDaniel (March 23) March 5, 2009
First of all, a gigantic thanks to all of you who are dutifully voting for me every day! The Genre Magazine Man of the Year contest is coming along, and although the scores change every few seconds, at this point I'm #1 in New York and #6 on the national chart. I've learned that if you click a high number for me, then low numbers for the other guys, it helps. I'm not saying it's ethical. I'm just saying. OK. Enough about me. What do YOU think of me? Don't answer that…
John Bucchino burst onto the New York scene about the same time I did. Everyone kept telling me about this brilliant songwriter who specialized in touching, tender ballads, as well as smart-as-a-whip Sondheimian patter songs. Even at that young age, I was wary. Everyone in town writes those kinda songs. Who was THIS guy…from Los Angeles, yet? Then I heard him. Cut to Monday night, when I proudly presented him for the second time in the Broadway at Birdland series. I'm a huge Bucchino fan, and clearly so are alot of you. The evening was a poo-poo platter of John's greatest hits, with a couple of never-heard trunk songs thrown in for the aficionados. Singing his praises and songs were a dream cast which included Brian Lane Green (who introduced us originally), Justin Paul,Benj Pasek, Jessica Phillips, Lucas Steele, Jamison Stern, Joan Almedilla, Jacqueline Hester and cellist Yair Evnine. Carnegie Mellon almost-grad Zak Resnick made an auspicious New York solo debut, filling in for an out-of-town Billy Porter. You'll be hearing a lot more about Zak, I'm positive! Ann Hampton Callaway sang one of my faves, “In A Restaurant By The Sea,” which she warned always makes her cry. She didn't. We did. “Grateful,” the anthemic piece de résistance, was performed by Broadway superstar Brian Stokes Mitchell, with about as much honey-voiced charm as anyone on the planet could muster. Bravo and brava to all!
The following Cast Party kept the magic in the rarefied Birdland air. Gorgeous and talented LaTanya Hall (left, by Steve Sorokoff) gave us a taste of her brand new CD, “It's About Time,” which hasn't left my cd player since it arrived. (Wait till you hear the strings and accordion on “Summertime!” And those Bill Westmoreland photos…spectacular!) Broadway's Kevin Worley, Italian jazzer Andrea Balducci, the singing CPA Steven Zalin, funny girl Christine Pedi, and the swingin' Andrew Suvalsky all helped make the evening so entertaining. We were also thrilled to be part of the New York debut appearance of one Jennifer Hoyt. She's young, talented and she can swing, folks! Everyone was thrilled to perform with the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra - which included Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas on piano, bass and drums, respectively. Can you believe that we get to do this every week? That's right, you can join us this coming Monday, but come armed with your sheet music, tap shoes, guitars, didgeridoos, and whathaveyou's!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY is proud to announce CHRISTINE PEDI IS WINGING IT AT BIRDLAND, a new musical extravaganza, on Monday, March 16, 2009 at 7pm, as part of the Nightlife Award-winning concert series Broadway at Birdland.
Longtime Forbidden Broadway diva, CHRISTINE PEDI comes out of her shell, let's her hair down and throws caution to the musical comedy wind in WINGING IT. Expect hilarity & heartbreak, silly songs, satire, standards and the occasional channeling of a famous diva or two, or three…or more! Well-known for her long association with Forbidden Broadway, CHRISTINE PEDI's skilled mimicry and theater superstar impersonations have earned her Drama Desk and LA Ovation Award nominations. She's has appeared in FB companies all over the world including LA, Tokyo, Singapore, Australia and London's West End and recorded many cast albums. Her work in New York nightclubs has earned her a Nightlife Award, Show Business Weekly Awards, a MAC Award for her turn as Liza Minnelli in “Judy & Liza Live”, as well as a guest spot on John McD's Cabaret Corner on “The Rosie O'Donnell Show.” PEDI made her Broadway debut in the revival of Little Me and was most recently seen, or rather heard, on Broadway in Talk Radio with Liev Schrieber, when she portrayed a wide variety of opinionated and colorful "callers.” Other NYC credits include A Broadway Diva Christmas, and appearances in the “Broadway by the Year” series at Town Hall. You can hear Christine daily on SIRIUS-XM Radio's "Broadway Breakfast,” playing show tunes and interviewing theatre legends on the “ON BROADWAY” channel. She has performed for President and Mrs. Clinton (playing Mrs. Clinton), appeared at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall, and headlined on the luxury ship Queen Mary 2. Fans of “The Sopranos” may recognize Christine as the dearly departed Mrs. Bobby Baccala. Her upcoming CD is called “Good To Mama.” CHRISTINE PEDI IS WINGING IT AT BIRDLAND WHEN: Monday, March 16 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 Cover Charge; $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com UPCOMING: Kate Shindle & John McDaniel (March 23) March 19, 2009
IN THE IMMORTAL WORDS OF RHODA MORGANSTERN, "THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE!" My race to become Genre Magazine Man of the Year will come to a conclusion as of Saturday. I was #1 in New York until apublicist for porn sites (you can't make this up) passed me by. Is that who we want representing us, people? Come ON! If everyone who reads this newsletter clicks on Genre Magazine once a day, my numbers would go through the roof! I hear that if you click “10” for me, then “1” for everyone else, the averages change more dramatically. Take a second (literally) and vote. You'll feel better for it! And it'll mean great press for our beloved Cast Party and Broadway at Birdland concert series!
Christine Pedi has more celebrities coming out of her than the parking lot at Spago. Her Birdland concert was jammed with fans and friends cheering and stomping for her extraordinary impressions and Broadway ditties. There were two extra-special gals in the audience, too…icons both! Cabaret royal Julie Wilson and “ghostess with the mostess” Marni Nixonboth showed up to check out Ms. Pedi's new show, as did talented theatrical types like Joseph Spieldenner, Eric Ulloa, Max Miller, and Mr. Showbiz himself, Joe Franklin. Many thanks to Steve Sorokoff, our resident phographer, for the gorgeous shot (left) of Christine and musical director Matthew Ward doing what they do best!
Then - there was Cast Party. I haven't seen the room so packed since the Chita concerts. No kidding. There were folks hanging from the rafters, which is just the way we like it! Evidently everyone in town felt the urge to check out the most impressively psychotic open mic on the face of the planet. We heard Broadway singers like the dazzling Eden Espinosa (left, and see sponsor ad below for concert info!), standards from gorgeous couple Sean and Melissa Attebury, an Irish ditty from Colleen McHugh, Arabian comedy (yes) from Vinnie Lopreto, Brazilian fare from David Goldman, Italian pop from Italian dude Andrea Balducci, and swingin' sounds from Andrew Suvalsky and company! Michael Sample andNatalie Ellis duetted spectacularly, Sue Matsuki killed, Steven Zalin (The Singing CPA) tickled, and Sarah Rice warbled like a linnet bird. There were newcomers and regulars, tourists and homies, shockers and swingers - all accompanied by the best trio in town, Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas. Can you believe we get to do it all again this Monday?! Be there - or be extremely square.
March 26, 2009
**PLEASE NOTE! THIS COMING MONDAY, CAST PARTY WILL START A BIT LATER, at 11pm, because of our double header Broadway at Birdland Jack Donahue/Georgia Stitt concerts!
Monday night's Kate Shindle/John McDaniel concert was everything we hoped it would be…and more! Great arrangements of gorgeous Broadway and pop classics, pianistic excellence, smart chat, and stellar singing! The crowd went wild! I love the photo (left) that Steve Sorokoff took of Kate, and you can see many more on our FLICKR site. (Did you see Ms. Shindle holding her own along with the charming Ann Coulter on the “Hannity” show on Fox-TV?) It blows my mind that some of my fave performers are part of the Broadway at Birdland series. We have some shockingly brilliant folks coming up (see below) as well as Shoshana Bean, Linda Lavin, Peter Eldridge, Laurel Masse, Victoria Shaw, Marilyn Michaels, Julie Halston, Groove Lily, Annaleigh Ashford, Natalie Douglas, Ron Abeland Stephanie J. Block! 
The following Cast Party was…well…one for the history books. It's hard to explain just how…varied…the entertainment was. Again, check out the photos on Flickr, and you'll get the idea. We kicked off the night with theFleet Street Singers (left), 16 fresh-faced, bow-tied guys from Stanford University, who absolutely killed with their harmonies, choreography and humor.
Michael Winther sang a brand new song written by Deborah Barsha andLance Horn, who accompanied him on piano and vocals. Forbidden Broadway superstar Christine Bianco did the best Celine Dion impression on Earth. Eddie Bruce gave us a swingin' taste of his Tony Bennett show. The amazing Zoe Lewis, whom I've heard about forever, finally had her Cast Party debut, along with extraordinary recorder player Roxanne Layton. KT Sullivan showed off her chops and gave us a preview of her Algonquin material. Then, Jeanette Bayardelle stunned the packed house into dead silence with her performance of “I'm Here,” the eleven o'clock number she sang in The Color Purple on Broadway. There were some showbiz swells in the audience taking it all in, like Village People CowboyRandy Jones, movie stars Craig Chester, Parker Posey, and comedy writer Robbie Robertson (left), and Broadway boy Ward Billeisen. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas performed brilliantly as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, as they will this coming Monday, when YOU'LL be there to sing your way into our collective hearts!! Keep in mind that we'll be starting Cast Party a bit later - at 11pm, because of our double-header Broadway at Birdland concerts!
Broadway at Birdland!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is proud to announce the return of songwriterGEORGIA STITT in Concert on Monday, March 30 at 9pm, in continuation of the Broadway at Birdland series.
In anticipation of the March 31st release of “Alphabet City Cycle” (PS Classics), Georgia Stitt and her fabulous friends return to Birdland on March 30th at 9pm. There will be featured performances by Broadway talents Julia Murney, Tituss Burgess, Kate Baldwin, Graham Rowat, Laura Osnes, Kathleen Monteleone and Kevin Greene, as well as a New York City debut of newcomer Ashley Marks. Expect songs from Georgia's album "This Ordinary Thursday" and her new musical revue Sing Me A Happy Song, as well as a handful of brand new song never before performed in New York. The rocking house band will include Shannon Ford on drums, Randy Landau on bass and Christian Hebel on violin. GEORGIA STITT is a composer and a lyricist. Her musicals Big Red Sun(winner of the Harold Arlen Award in 2005 and written with playwright John Jiler) and The Water (premiered at the University of Michigan in 2004 and written with collaborators Jeff Hylton and Tim Werenko) are both in development. At present she is developing a musical revue with composer/lyricist David Kirshenbaum, currently titled Sing Me A Happy Song. In spring of 2007 she released her first album, “This Ordinary Thursday: The Songs of Georgia Stitt,” on the PS Classics label. The recording features stellar performances by such contemporary theater luminaries as Sara Ramirez, Kelli O'Hara, Faith Prince, Carolee Carmello, Susan Egan, Tituss Burgess, Keith Byron Kirk, Andrea Burns, Matthew Morrison, Will Chase, Jenn Colella, Lauren Kennedy and Cheyenne Jackson, and the CD's songbook of printed music is now available through Hal Leonard. Aside from contributing two songs to the 2008 MTV movie “The American Mall,” Georgia has also written songs that are included on Susan Egan's solo albums “Coffee House” and “Winter Tracks” (LML Records) and Lauren Kennedy's album “Here and Now” (PS Classics). GEORGIA was the on-camera vocal coach for the NBC reality TV show “Grease: You're The One That I Want,” and the Production Music Coordinator for the Disney/ABC TV musical “Once Upon A Mattress” starring Tracey Ullman and Carol Burnett. On Broadway she was the assistant conductor of the 2003 Little Shop of Horrors revival and the associate conductor of the Encores! production of Can-Can starring Patti LuPone. In 2005 she served as an arranger for the Boston Pops Orchestra (Keith Lockhart, conductor) in their 75th Anniversary Tribute to Stephen Sondheim at Tanglewood and Boston's Symphony Hall. GEORGIA STITT & FRIENDS WHEN: Monday, March 23 at 9:00 pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25 Cover Charge; $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com 
Jim Caruso's Cast Party is proud to announce that Jason Robert Brown, the award-winning composer/lyricist (Parade, The Last Five Years) will be returning to Broadway at Birdland for a five (5) night engagement (March 31-April 4) that will feature new material from the past five years. As always, they will be some of the most exciting and original songs in town! Brown will be joined by Lauren Kennedy (The Last Five Years), as well as many other singers with whom he has worked.
Jason Robert Brown has been hailed as "one of Broadway's smartest and most sophisticated songwriters since Stephen Sondheim" (Philadelphia Inquirer), and his "extraordinary, jubilant theater music" (Chicago Tribune) has been heard all over the world, whether in one of the hundreds of productions of his musicals every year or in his own incendiary live performances. The New York Times refers to Jason as "a leading member of a new generation of composers who embody high hopes for the American musical." Performances are Tuesday through Saturday, March 31- April 4 at 7PM. Tickets are $35 for General seating and $50 for Premium seating and may be obtained by calling (212) 581-3080 or online at www.birdlandjazz.com. There will be a $10 food/drink minimum. JASON ROBERT BROWN WHEN: Tuesday through Saturday, March 31 - April 3 at 7:00 pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $35 Cover Charge; $20 Premium Seating, plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com UPCOMING: Linda Lavin with Billy Stritch: "Moments Like This" April 2, 2009
THERE'S A WHOLE LOTTA SHOWBIZ GOING ON AT BIRDLAND THIS WEEK. The Jason Robert Brown concerts continue every night at 7pm through Saturday night! The Tony-winning composer (left) is selling out, so you better call the club now if you expect to get a seat for his extravaganza! He has brought some of the most talented 'belting freaks' in the world to help sing his songs, and we couldn't be happier for his return!
This past Monday night scored a musical triple-header, with swingin' jazz dude Jack Donahue starting the night with a laid-back show of standards and some highly original tunes. I love the photo Steve Sorokoff took of Jack's exit from the stage (left) - coat thrown casually over his shoulder like a modern-day Sinatra. And look at those audience faces. That's a happy crowd!
Composer/hottie Georgia Stitt (left) was next on the bill, bringing Broadway at Birdland yet another evening of her compositions, sung by some top notch performers like Julia Murney, Tituss Burgess, Kate Baldwin, Graham Rowat, Jamison Stern, Laura Osnes, Kevin Greene,Ashley Marks, Kathleen Monteleone, and Christian Hebel on violin! There were some heavy-hitters in the crowd: Jim Jacobs (co-creator of the hit Broadway musical Grease), and Daisy Prince (director of The Last Five Years and Songs For A New World) were both seen cheering Georgia and the cast.
And then there was Cast Party. Since we had two concerts, the wackiness started a bit later than usual, but the quality of the talent was beyond first-rate! Jeanette Bayardelle (left), who starred in The Color Purple on Broadway and in the National Tour, The Broadway Boys, The Carlyle Hotel's Loston Harris, Italy's Andrea Balducci, the very young and very talented Alex Getlin, Forbidden Broadway's Christina Bianco, “The Guitar Man of Central Park” David Ippolito, Christine Lavin, Colleen McHugh,William Blake, David Goldman, Sarah Rice, Badia Farha, Jenna Esposito and Rob Langedar all entertained the lucky audience. The evening was capped off by a surprise performance by Luke Hawkins, a Broadway dancer extraordinaire, who just happened to have his tap shoes handy. He dazzled everyone with his talents, and sent them all out into the cool spring night with visions of Astaire and Kelly. Linda Lavin andMichael Feinstein were both watching, cheering and laughing on the sidelines! Billy Stritch, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas performed as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, proving that we're the luckiest Open Mic on the planet. And we do it all again this coming Monday. You better be there!
April 9, 2009
“SHEER JOY!” THAT'S WHAT LINDA LAVIN BRINGS TO THE BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND STAGE. Time after time, she dazzles and delights packed houses with her songs, conversation and an overall party atmosphere that we absolutely love. Backed by an extraordinary trio that included Billy Stritch, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas, Lavin and Company entertained the Smart Set from the Broadway community, including Joel Grey, Tyne Daly, Nora Ephron, Mike Doyle, Matt McGrath, Amanda Green, Edward Hibbert, Paul Rudnick, and David Zippel, among others. Check out the other great photos that Steve Sorokoff took of the evening on our FLICKR site! And watch for Linda's next Birdland appearance!
The following Cast Party was a swell one - and with talent like the amazingZoe Lewis (left), Andrew Suvalsky, Travis Moser, Matt Mager and the brother/sister musicians Bronwyn and Trevor Exter, how could it not be? Glam songbird Hilary Kole showed up after her gig at Dizzy's and duetted with our new fave violinist Aaron Weinstein, leaving everyone breathless. 17 year-old Charlie Puth took control of the Bosendorfer and jazzed everyone to their toes. There were lots of regulars and quite a few newcomers jamming the room - just the way we like it! David Budway,Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas comprised the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra and accompanied everyone in the best possible way - proving why this is the most extreme open mic on the face of the planet!
You might want to check out the entertainment section of this Sunday's New York Daily News. I hear there might be mention of our Monday night soiree! Get it while it's hot! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT JAZZ VOCALIST PETER ELDRIDGE at Birdland on Monday, April 13 at 7pmas part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Peter and his band will debut songs from Peter's brand-spanking new Brazilian-inspired recording project, “Mad Heaven,” along with some classic Eldridge originals and freshly interpreted standards. Special guests will include the just Grammy-nominated Kate McGarry, the Grammy-winning fellow New York Voice Lauren Kinhan, and the soon-to-be nominated Jo Lawry. With Ben Wittman on drums, Tim Lefebrve on bass, Keith Ganz on guitars, and James Shipp on percussion. Peter Eldridge has released three solo recordings: “Stranger in Town,” characterized by its bittersweet swing and called the Best Jazz CD of 2001 by Boston radio station WICN; “Fool No More,” full of Peter's original compositions in a sophisticated pop style, released in the same year (both on the independent label Rosebud Records); and “Decorum,” a 2005 release of originals. Peter is also a member of the double-Grammy winning New York Voices, a vocal group he co-founded with Darmon Meader, which has recorded six studio albums and toured internationally for more than a decade, with appearances at Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, and the Kennedy Center, among many others. In addition, compositions by Mr. Eldridge have been included on albums by other artists including Nancy Wilson and Jane Monheit. He has also worked with Bobby McFerrin, Michael Brecker, Meredith Monk, George Benson, David Byrne, Jim Hall, the Roches, Jonathan Brooke, Bill Charlap, Betty Buckley and Joshua Redman among others. There will be a $25 cover and $10 food/drink minimum for the Peter Eldridge concert. PETER ELDRIDGE IN, "MAD HEAVEN" WHEN: Monday, April 13 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25; $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com AND THEN….Victoria Shaw (April 20), Laurel Masse (April 26),Christine Ebersole (May 4), The Leading Men Concert Benefitting Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (May 11), Julie Halston (May 12),Groove Lily (May 18), Julie Halston (May 19), Carol Fredette With Bob Dorough (May 25), Malcolm Gets & John McDaniel (June 1), Natalie Douglas (June 8). April 16, 2009
ALERT! If you haven't seen the brilliant video clips that have taken the showbiz world by storm, click on Miranda Sings! You just might become as obsessed as I am with the very unique song stylist-slash-vocal coach with Joan Crawford brows and schmear of lipstick. And the good news is that she'll be visiting our fair city, and will be making her New York Debut at Cast Party on Monday, April 27! Whatever you do, don't miss this historic opportunity to glean some words of wisdom from the arbiter of vocal taste, the miraculous Miranda!
OK. And then Monday happened. Peter Eldridge's concert was so cool, so jazzy, and so swingin' that we didn't get one photo of the whole event. Everyone was mesmerized by his amazing vocals and gorgeous new songs from the upcoming Brazilian-inspired CD, “Mad Heaven.” Just know that we were duly impressed and can't wait for his return! The following Cast Party was one for the books. There were stars like Alan Cumming(left), who favored us with a witty ditty, loads of newcomers, lotsa regulars, very young singers, very old singers, guitars, cellos, violins, harmonicas, and a guy named Bob 3-3 who yodeled an Elvis tune. I'm not kidding. Why would I? 
Baby Jane Dexter sang the blues, Jenna and Dad Fortune Espositorocked out with Rob Langeder, Trevor Exter cello'd with Jason on harmonica, Chris Dilley sang high and beautifully, and Alex Getlin (left) showed why she's an integral part of the TADA performing kids group! It was great to meet and hear Ariana Grande, who starred in Jason Robert Brown's 13 on Broadway. She sang her face off, as the kids say. Her brother, Frankie James Grande, also sang and promoted the Mr. Broadway Beauty Pageant, which he won a few years ago. Sean Harknessmade a musical visit, bringing his guitar to show off for the nice people, as did our pal Christine Lavin.
Kristin Lamoureux came all the way from California to make her New York debut, and she was as wonderful as we'd hoped! The night was packed, partly thanks to the amazing Daily News spread we got! Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas worked their fingers to the bone as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra - just like they will this coming Monday. You've just gotta be there! April 23, 2009
“UNDER THE COVERS WITH VICTORIA SHAW" is consistently one of the most casually fun and entertaining shows in our series. Each time, Vic brings a passel of her Nashville neighbors who just happen to be some of the most successful songwriters in the business, and this past week was no exception. Gary Burr, Bob DiPiero, Mark Hudson, Sarah Buxton andRyan Rothe all played 'round robin' on our stage, singing and showing off their greatest hits. It was the most fun ever. No kidding. Beyond the brilliant musicianship, these folks bring such good cheer, humor and showmanship time after time, and we couldn't love them any more. Steve Sorokof caught the great photo (left), and if you want to see many more, click on our FLICKR site! You can even see some video on YouTube, thanks to the fabulous Stevie Boothe!
The following Cast Party had a discinct Nashville flair, too, because the cast stuck around for the fun. We were also delighted that The Marvelous Wonderettes paid us a visit all the way from their home at the Westside Theatre on West 43 Street! They were armed with a great performance, ticket giveaways and CDs for the lucky folks! We love them! Steven Fales, AKA “Ethel Mormon,” (pictured at left) sang a downright dirty “Son of a Preacher Man!” Gene Santini performed a Tony Bennett ditty. Susan Winter and Deb Berman showed off their swingin' chops, Jonny Petersonwas the ultimate song and dance man, Cole Rumbough recalled a more elegant time with a Gershwin tune, Jula Kalshoven made her Birdlanddebut all the way from Denmark, and the insanely young and talentedCharlie Puth showed off his pianistic talents for everyone! Tedd Firth andSteve Doyle accompanied newcomers and beloved regulars to the utmost, and it was one of the better Cast Parties ever! To think we do it all over again this coming Monday!
We're proud to announce that it will be a Very Miranda Cast Party this coming week! That's right - the infamous Miranda Sings will make her New York (and onstage!) debut on Monday night! Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that this dazzling diva took the World Wide Web by storm with her 'Free Voice Lesson” video on YouTube. I knew we had to know her, so I quickly contacted her to see if she'd bring her magic to the Cast Party stage. She found time in her busy teaching schedule to comply, and you just have to be there. Rumor has it that a very accomplished and well-known Broadway star is preparing for a performance, and might need some tutoring! It's going to be historic, kids! (Here's her personal announcement about the event - I'M COMING TO NYC!)
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE the return of LAUREL MASSÉ to the Broadway at Birdland stage on Monday, April 27 at 7pm. LAUREL MASSÉ brings her literate and eclectic blend of jazz-infused tunes from around the globe to Birdland for an evening that combines elements of swing, classical music, standards and world music to unforgettable effect. LAUREL MASSÉ, founding member of Grammy award-winning vocal group Manhattan Transfer, toured internationally for seven years with the group and recorded five albums. In 1979, a serious automobile accident forced her departure, and after two years of convalescence, she began recording, as well as touring again as a solo artist, both in the States and in Europe. The first two of her solo albums,” Alone Together” and “Easy Living,” both hit the Billboard Jazz charts, and the third, “Again,” was a People magazine pick. “Feather & Bone,” her 2000 release, was chosen by audiophile magazine The Absolute Sound as "a recording of extraordinary musical and sonic value.” Throughout the course of her career, LAUREL has performed at such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, the London Palladium, Salle Pleyel de Paris, the Hollywood Bowl, The Smithsonian Institution, as well as numerous American and Canadian jazz festivals and clubs such as the Blue Note, The Roxy and Harrah's, Caesar's Palace, MGM Grand, and the Hilton in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe. The Chicago Tribune has called her “one of the best vocalists in jazz...Indeed, there is something almost otherworldly about Massé's emotional magic...as though like Fred Astaire she seemed merely to be down here on a visit,” and The New York Times has praised Laurel for a “marvelous sense of style, a purity of tone that is evident in everything she does and uses it to a brilliant effect, a technical tour de force, a dazzling performance.” LAUREL MASSÉ WHEN: Monday, April 27 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC COVER CHARGE: $25; plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN…..CHRISTINE EBERSOLE in “Garage Band Fantasy” with Bette Sussman and the Band! May 4 at 7pm! May 7, 2009
CHRISTINE EBERSOLE SLAYS ME. In the past, she's brought some of the best nights of music in the history of the Broadway at Birdland series, along with musical cohort, Billy Stritch. The shows have been rich in jazzy standards, Broadway favorites and lots of Ebersole/Stritch close harmonies that their fans can't get enough of. This time, she served us something completely different, with “Garage Band Fantasy.” Armed with a superstar band headed by Bette Sussman, she chose some of her favorite pop and rock tunes from the 70's and 80's - and it was extraordinary to hear just how versatile her voice is. And to think she's doing an 8-show week on Broadway in Blithe Spirit - Chris has energy to spare and an intense love for her material and making us all sooooo happy! Her songs came from her heart and her toes - and trust me when I say that we're checking the schedule for a re-booking! If you missed it, you'll want to order tickets early for the comeback! (The beautiful photo at left was taken by Ryan Paternite, who also happens to schedule all the Tuesday through Sunday bookings at Birdland!) You can also click on Photo Coverage atBroadwayWorld.com to see more photos, of course!
Broadway at Birdland!
"THE LEADING MEN IV", A BENEFIT CONCERT FOR BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS, will be held Monday, May 11, at 7pm at Birdland. As part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland series, it will feature top singers from Broadway and cabaret. John Tartaglia (Avenue Q, Shrek the Musical) will host once again, and Emmy-nominated writer, host and comic Seth Rudetsky returns as musical director, along with director Alan Muraoka (NAATCO's Falsettoland). Taking part in the musical fun will be Nick Adams, Tom Andersen, James Barbour, Jim Caruso, Michael Kaden Craig, Jack Donahue, Kevin Earley, Cody Green, Jonathan Groff, Norm Lewis, Paulo Montalban, Graham Phillips, Tom Postilio, Zak Resnick, Nicholas Rodriguez and Tony Yazbeck.
LEADING MEN IV BENEFIT FOR BC/EFA: WHEN: Monday, May 11 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $50 General; $100 Premium; plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com May 14, 2009
THIS PAST WEEK, THE BIRDLAND STAGE WAS PACKED WITH SOME OF THE BEST PERFORMERS BROADWAY HAS TO OFFER! Monday night's “Leading Men IV” benefit for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDSraised over $10,000, thanks to producer Wayman Wong, director Alan Muraoka, and musical director Seth Rudetsky. That's host John Tartagliaand superstar guys Jonathan Groff, Nick Adams, Cody Green (left) cavorting in the dressing room, while Michael Kadin Craig (below left,thanks to Tamra Anne Sheehan) sang his face off for the jammed house! You can see many more photos of the cast taken by Linda Lenzi andWalter McBride at Photo Coverage and Performance. You'll see it was a starry cast! We're talkin' Norm Lewis, Zak Resnick, Tom Andersen,James Barbour, Jack Donahue, Kevin Earley, Graham Phillips, Tom Postilio, Mickey Conlon, Nicholas Rodriguez, Tony Yazbeck, andPaolo Montalban. Even I sang a ditty - and was proud to be in that swell bunch of talented dudes.
The following Cast Party was equally enjoyable, thanks to folks like the cast of The Mel & El Show, Uptown Express, Nate Lombardi, Laura Hull, Domenic Farinacci, Maude Maggart, John Boswell, Shana Farr,Rosemary Loar, Matthew Feld and Brendan Irving. Of course, lots of regulars and a buncha newcomers were brilliantly accompanied by David Budway and Saadi Zain, our Cast Party Symphony Orchestra du jour!
On Tuesday night, we were hardly prepared for the onslaught of crazed fans packing the house for Dame Julie Halston's whine-fest. There were some showbiz heavy-hitters like Jane Alexander, Peter Bartlett, Charles Busch, and David Zippel. We were also thrilled to meet Lisa Lampanelli(left with Julie), one of the hottest stand-ups on the planet - known for her bawdy-if-not-downright-filthy sense of humor. She couldn't have been sweeter and more demure - although she cheered Ms. Halston with great vigor from the front row!
If you happen to be in the Provincetown vacinity this Friday and Saturday,Billy Stritch and I would love to see you at the Cabaret Fest! Click onProvincetown.com for all the details. It's our maiden voyage to P-town, and we can't wait to meet all the local singers and maybe even get some sun!! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT GROOVELILY in the Broadway at Birdland concert series on Monday, May 18 at 7pm.
Pop-rock band GrooveLily makes their Birdland debut May 18th withSLEEPING BEAUTY WAKES. In this Ovation Award-winning hit musical from the authors of the hit STRIKING 12, band members Brendan Milburn, Valerie Vigoda and Gene Lewin perform the magical story in an unforgettable evening of song and laughter. The musical takes the well-known fairy tale and gives it a decidedly modern twist. New York City trio GrooveLily inhabits that contemporary space where creative musicians ignore the boundaries laid down by words like rock, folk, jazz and pop. Intelligent original songs with no shortage of wit connect lush musical textures and soaring vocals with the blazing six-string electric violin of Valerie Vigoda, the lightning-fingered piano of Brendan Milburn, and the joyful drums of Gene Lewin. With backgrounds in classical music, musical theater, jazz and rock, the three members of GrooveLily are making a new music that's all their own. The success of their first concert-musical, the critically- acclaimed holiday showSTRIKING 12, has led them farther into the world of theater, where they have carved out a unique niche as a rock band writing and performing shows. After years on the indie touring circuit, they are delighted to be creating many projects with variouscollaborators: STRIKING 12, the first GrooveLily concert (Off-Broadway 2006, Lucille Lortel Nomination for Outstanding Musical, Bay Area TheatreCritic's Choice Award); TOY STORY THE MUSICAL for Disney; SLEEPING BEAUTY WAKES for Deaf West Theatre/Center Theatre Group (Two 2007 Ovation Awards, including World Premiere Musical; Valerie was also nominated for Lead Actress);WHEELHOUSE, the second GrooveLily concert-musical; LONG STORY SHORT for City Theatre of Pittsburgh/ TheatreWorks Palo Alto; A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM for McCarterTheatre/Paper Mill Playhouse; and ERNEST SHACKLETON LOVES ME, a new 1-womanfever-dream musical. GROOVELILY: SLEEPING BEAUTY WAKES WHEN: Monday, May 18 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $25; plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com May 21, 2009
I WAS NEW TO GROOVELILY. I didn't get to see their Off-Broadway hitStriking 12, but everyone on the planet told me how fantastic it was. When I finally heard the cd, I was hooked. That's why I was thrilled and delighted to host the group at the Broadway at Birdland series on Monday night. This time, they brought their unique sound to Sleeping Beauty Wakes, which has already won an Ovation Award. Many thanks to Valerie,Brendan and Gene for bringing an unforgettable evening of music and laughter to the Birdland stage. We hope you've found a home! The following Cast Party was even more celebrational than usual, what with the presence of quite a few MAC Award winners who chose Birdland as their post-Award party place. That's Billy Stritch, Marilyn Maye and Klea Blackhurst surrounding me (left), and we all won the coveted MAC that night! Congrats to everyone involved, and many thanks to those who voted Cast Party as their fave Open Mic! Check out our FLICKR site to see bajillions more photos taken by Stephen Sorokoff! And do I need to tell you how much fun with had with Julie Halston in concert on Tuesday night? The place was jammed with showbiz glitterati, screaming at Halston's hilarious stories, rants, monologues, readings and whines. Nobody, but nobody does it better.
We were also thrilled to meet Guy Sebastian (left), who won “Australian Idol” a few years back, and has just made NYC his home! Our gorgeous and talented pal Gemma Kaplan brought him to Cast Party, and they both treated us to some sublime music! Guy's first CD went double-platinum, and his newest one, “The Memphis Tour,” is selling like hotcakes. All fingers are crossed that he makes Birdland his second home - what a voice…what a talent…and what a great Guy! We were also happy to see and hear Rudy Martinez, who doesn't join us near enough, and enjoy the debuts of Elias John Ruperto, Matthew Leddy and lots of others! The afore-mentioned Marilyn Maye treated us to some swinging vocals with Mr. Stritch at the piano and Domenic Farinacci on trumpet. Klea Blackhurst belted some serious tune-age, Tracy Reynolds kicked some musical tuchas, Christine Pedi killed with her impressions, and we all had more fun than humanly possible. Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle kept the music swinging into the wee hours, as always. We do the whole thing again this coming Monday at 9:30-ish, so rummage through your upbeat tunes and join us!
On a side note, Billy Stritch and I had an absolute ball hosting and performing in the Provincetown Cabaret Fest this past weekend. Meeting and being entertained by Piero Bonamico, Patricia Fitzpatrick, Celeste Howe, Bobby Wetherbee, Lisa Jason, Carol O'Shaughnessy, Ida Zecco, Suede, Fred Boyle and Brian Patton was a little bit of heaven. MANY thanks to Don Knutilla, Bart Weisman, Shawn Nightingale, Seth Scholes, The White Horse Inn, the Prince Albert Guesthouse and Cape Air! We can't wait for a return visit!
May 28, 2009
MONDAY NIGHT'S CAST PARTY MIGHT HAVE RESEMBLED "BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN," minus the mountain, had I dragged myself there with my suddenly aching lumbar. I have no idea what I did to injure myself so horrendously, but it sure happened, and it wasn't pretty. The good news was that Scott Siegel was able to pinch hit for me at the last second. Quickly donning his orange pants, he ran over to Birdland and did such a good job I'm never asking him back again. I'm kidding. There are no jokes about what a great night it turned out to be, though. It might have been the end of the Memorial Day Weekend but the folks came outen masse, including jazz legend Jon Hendricks (left, thanks to Todd Forman) and his daughter Aria, who were nothing short of sensational. David M. Sanborn, the star of the Off-Broadway musical King David came in for the very first time and both he and Scott talked to each other doingJimmy Stewart impressions. Comedy was king all night with Ray Jessellsinging his famous weiner song, and Christine Lavin knockin' em dead with her song about polite New Yorkers.
The topper of the evening had to be a young lady (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) from Turkey, Seran, who rocked the room with "Big Spender." Just goes to show you, you never know who's going to show up at Cast Party. Who knows, even I might show up next week! Of course, Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle will be at the piano and bass, respectively. We sure hope to see YOU!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE RETURN OF MALCOLM GETS to the Broadway at Birdland concert series. Gets will be celebrating the release of his new CD, “The Journey Home” (PS Classics) on Monday, June 1 at 7pm. Composer/pianist/Emmy winnerJOHN McDANIEL will serve as Musical Director for the evening.
Malcolm Gets has often said that his career happened because of the record cabinet in his parents' living room…specifically, the cast albums of the 1950s and '60s that were stored there. Gets was studying to be a classical pianist, but instead of practicing, would end up playing selections by Rodgers & Hammerstein. Now, after forging an acclaimed career as a star of Broadway (Amour, A New Brain and The Story of My Life) and television (“Caroline in the City” and HBO's “Grey Gardens”), Gets retraces his musical roots in his debut solo album, “The Journey Home.” Rediscovering his diverse musical touchstones, Gets digs deep into beloved classics like “You Are Beautiful” and “Long Before I Knew You,” takes on anthems both raucous (“It's a Fine Life”) and romantic (“Look to the Rainbow”), and mines the passion and pathos in newer ballads like William Finn's “Anytime.” Malcolm Gets recently starred opposite Will Chase in the Broadway musical The Story of My Life and was seen as George 'Gould' Strong in the HBO film “Grey Gardens.” He played opposite Kristin Chenoweth in the Encores! production of The Apple Tree, and starred in the Broadway musical Amour. His off-Broadway credits include Polish Joke, Boys and Girls, A New Brain, Hello Again, Merrily We Roll Along, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Finian's Rainbow and the Encores! The Boys From Syracuse. He is perhaps best known for his work on the television series “Caroline in the City.” 
Conductor, composer, orchestrator, record producer, Grammy and two-time Emmy Award-winner John McDaniel has enjoyed a lively career on Broadway and on television. His Broadway shows as arranger and musical director include Annie Get Your Gun, Brooklyn, Taboo and Grease. John is perhaps best known as the band leader on “The Rosie O'Donnell” Show. He has conducted symphony orchestras from coast to coast including the San Francisco Symphony, The Baltimore Symphony and his own hometown St. Louis Symphony. He has recorded three solo CD's, John McDaniel at the Piano: Broadway, John McDaniel at the Piano: Christmas,and John McDaniel at the Piano: Compositions. His most recent release isJohn McDaniel Live at Joe's Pub.
MALCOLM GETS: THE JOURNEY HOME WITH JOHN MCDANIEL and Special Guest, MELISSA ERRICO WHEN: Monday, June 1st at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $25 General/$40 Premium,; plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... June 8 - Natalie Douglas, June 15 - “The Divas Sing Scott Alan”, June 22 - Shoshana Bean, June 29 - Ron Abel June 4, 2009
MALCOLM GETS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE GUYS TO WATCH on theBroadway at Birdland stage. First of all, his voice is so easy to listen to. Don't get me wrong, everyone in the series sings great...but the beautiful timbre, clarity and intelligence with which he sings just makes me relax from the second he takes the stage. This past Monday was no exception to the rule. Malcom, his brilliant musical director John McDaniel and superb band brought us a wonderful show with swell material, fascinating stories and great warmth. He even surprised us with a special musical guest - his Broadway Amour Melissa Errico (left with another diva/fanJudy Kurn). Stay tuned for many, many more Malcolm sightings at Birdland!
The following Cast Party was such fun, as the music continued into the night! Super jazz-violinist Aaron Weinstein (left, surrounded by Birdland Beauties) stopped the show with his Irving Berlin reading and dazzling playing. Nate Lombardi mixed the Great American Songbook with Hip-Hop to great effect. Sue Bilich, our pal from the Austin Cast Party, killed with her “Vodka.”
And what a true delight to see Claire Martin and Sir Richard Rodney Bennett take to the stage, and show us why they're breaking all records at the Oak Room at the Algonquin Hotel. They are truly a musical Dynamic Duo, and we sure hope they make a return visit soon! Tedd Firthand Steve Doyle were our in-house musical team, and kept the music sublime into the wee small hours. We do it all again next Monday, and can't wait! Rumour has it that one of our favorite Cast Party-ers, YouTube superstar Miranda Sings, will be strutting her stuff for us. Yikes! Get ready!! 
This Sunday, all of our fingers, toes and eyes are crossed that “Liza's At The Palace” takes home a Tony! In celebration of the nomination, I had a great chat with my favorite boss, which you can see onBroadwayWorld.com. And my talented friend Squigs, who is most-certainly the next Hirschfeld, sent me this fantastic artwork (left) celebrating all of the nominees in the “Special Event” category, which includes Liza May, Cortes, Tiger, Johnny and me! Thank you, as always, Squigs!
June 11, 2009
WAS IT THE ELEVENTH TIME NATALIE DOUGLAS TOOK TO THEBROADWAY AT BIRDLAND STAGE? The seventeenth? The forty-ninth? We have no idea, because we lost count. All I know is that once again, she packed the room with crazed fans and friends - all of whom could not get enough of her blues-tinged vocals, fabulous material and snappy patter. Musical director Mark Hartman was there, as always, to provide accompaniment and musical know-how, and the band rocked. The photo atleft is by our friend Todd Foreman, who's been following Nat's career for a long time! Thanks to all involved, and we can't wait for the next one!
The following Cast Party was pronounced “one of the all-time best,” which is saying something, since it was # 337 in a row. I'm so not kidding you. The Party started with a duet by ex-Wicked cast member Natalie Weissand the Superstar Of The Interweb, Miss Miranda Sings (left). It was a memorable sound, to be sure, and the Miranda fans ate it up like candy. It was fun to follow that performance with one by newcomer Jason Maniscalco, who sang his “Ode to Miranda” - a semi-sweet lovesick tribute to our favorite professional sinGer. He was rewarded by a quasi-awkward kiss by Miss Sings, which seemed to make his night. We were also thrilled by a duet by Colleen Ballinger and Jonathan Hawkins (left), wonderful special material by Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, Mary Foster Conklinand Mark Winkler, swinging singing by Deb Berman and David Sanbornand a guitar/sax duet by Sean Harkness and Eric Knight. John Prouixproved why Michael Feinstein invited him to open for the successful act he's doing with Broadway's Cheyenne Jackson at Feinstein's at the Regency - and we can't wait to hear more from him! Billy Stritch brought in the cast from his crazily successful “Lyrics & Lyricists Tribute to Mel Torme,” starring Marilyn Maye, Hilary Kole, LaTanya Hall and Johnny Rodgers. They were extraordinary!
The night ended with us boys from the (drum roll) Tony-winning “Liza's At The Palace!” It was fun to sing, once again, with my 'brothers' Cortés Alexander, Johnny Rodgers and Billy Stritch. By the way, many thanks to all of you who wished us good luck at the Awards - it worked! We are all thrilled that the show was honored, and that Liza May Minnelli proved once again that she is a force to be reckoned with! We had a ball at the Tonys (left, photo by Joe Marzullo) - and hope you watched and enjoyed!
Whatever you do, come to this Monday's benefit for Greenwich House Music School, “Come Rain Or Come Shine - The Songs of Johnny Mercer!” It stars Christine Ebersole, Klea Blackhurst, Billy Stritch and myself, with very special guest Aaron Weinstein! It'll be at the Cherry Lane Theatre, and if you click on Come Rain or Come Shine, you'll get all the information. I can't tell you how fun it's going to be…you'll just have to see for yourself! June 18, 2009
MONDAY NIGHT'S SCOTT ALAN CONCERT WAS A BIG, GIGANTIC SMASH HIT! I wasn't able to be there (see reason below), but everyone I spoke to was absolutely kvelling over the experience. Scott's songs, along with some of the best performers in the universe (including Eden Espinosa & Will Chase, left, by Linda Lenzi) made for an evening to remember - and the place was packed to the walls with family, friends and enthusiastic fans! Come back soon, Scott!
The following Cast Party was filled with regulars like Jenna & Fortune Esposito, Lodi Carr, Aaron Weinstein, Steve Sorokoff, Rob Langeder,Joan Crowe, Ray Jessell, and William Blake, among many others. We were thrilled to hear Tinuke Oyefule for the first time, and can't wait for her return visit! Poor Baby Bree, whom everyone in town has been raving about, finally made it in, and we're excited to see more of her antique waif persona! Marilyn Maye thrilled everyone with a slew of Johnny Mercer tunes, since it's his 100th birthday. I was also so happy to see my old Dallas pal Tony Hakim, a brilliant singer/guitarist, and he favored us all with a jazzy “All I Ever Need Is You,” clearly celebrating the Chastity/Chaz Bono news. Then…Liz Mikel took the stage (left, thanks to Cal Mackenzie). And when I say 'took,' I mean stormed! Another Dallas nightclub/theater mainstay, this gorgeous glamazon killed everyone with her “When You're Good To Mama…” from Chicago. Someone get that girl a Broadway show!
I missed the first part of the Birdland evening, because I was downtown singing more Johnny Mercer songs with my friends Christine Ebersole,Klea Blackhurst, Billy Stritch (left) and Aaron Weinstein, all to benefit the Greenwich House Music School. The show, at the historic Cherry Lane Theatre, went over like gangbusters, and we just might try to do it for you, the viewing public, in the not-so-distant future
This coming Monday, I want you to join Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and me at Cast Party. First of all, it'll be a spectacular night of talent, as always. Secondly, we'll be celebrating the 80th birthday of someone I've known almost my whole life…my mother! Come sing for her!! She'll be nice to you and clap and cheer and everything. And something tells me there will be a cake. You like cake, I know. Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE APPEARANCE OF BROADWAY'S SHOSHANA BEAN in “FLIPPED!” on Monday, June 22 at 7pm. The evening is part of the award-winningBroadway at Birdland concert series.
“Flipped” will celebrate Shoshana's musical influences, which include Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Michael Jackson. Their R&B classics will be rearranged and 'flipped' into a new acoustic jazz sensibility, befitting the historic Birdland site! James Sampliner will act as Musical Director and Billy Porter will make a special musical appearance! Best known for her roles in the Broadway smash hits Wicked, Hairsprayand a stellar performance alongside Brian McKnight on the “Soul Train: Lady Of Soul Awards,” Shoshana Bean recently released her debut solo album SUPERHERO. In it's first week of sales, SUPERHERO reached #5 on the itunes R&B charts, making it the only independent album in the top 100. Raised in Portland, Oregon and a graduate of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Shoshana made her Broadway debut in the original cast of the Tony Award-winning production of Hairspray and went on to be the first replacement for the famed green-skinned witch Elphaba in the Broadway sensation Wicked. During her time in Wicked, she made appearances on “The Today Show,” “Good Morning America,” “Martha Stewart,” “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” MTV's “Made,” and “The Soul Train Christmas Starfest.” She teamed up with Grammy Award nominee Brian McKnight to honor Aretha Franklin on the “Soul Train: Ladu of Soul Awards.” The duo performed Franklin's classic "Ain't No Way" on the nationally broadcast show, prompting a live audience to erupt into a standing ovation before the song was over. Shoshana has been a back-up singer for an endless list of superstars including Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, Destiny's Child, Usher, N'Sync, Ray Charles, Britney Spears and Michael Jackson at KTU's “Miracle on 34th Street” and “Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration,” both at Madison Square Garden. Her work as a singer/songwriter has been featured on MTV's The Hills and her debut single, "Superhero," was used to promote NBC's Monday night line-up. SHOSHANA BEAN: "FLIPPED!" WHEN: Monday, June 22nd at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $25 General; $40 Premium; plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... June 29 - Ron Abel June 25, 2009
OH, THAT SHOSHANA BEAN! We've been yearning to have her in theBroadway at Birdland series for years, and we finally got our wish on Monday night. She certainly didn't disappoint - and between her jaw-dropping voice, casual and funny patter, fabulous material and some of the best musicians/tappers/beat-boxers on Earth, the sold-out crowd was jumping up and down for more standing ovations than we've seen in a long time! Her director, the esteemed Billy Porter, even joined Sho for a dazzling duet. After, she stuck around for a bit, meeting fans and autographing CDs. The next morning, she jetted to Las Vegas to open and star in Jerry Mitchell's new extravaganza, Peep Show. We can't wait to have her back!
Martin Short!
Then…Cast Party happened. I've said it 'afore, and I'll say it ag'in, but it was one for the books, kids! One of my all-time comedy heros, Martin Short, decided it'd be fun to work out some material with his accompanist, who happens to be “Late Night” superstar Paul Shaffer. That's right. After a hilarious conversation (left, thanks to Derek Storm), Marty hoisted himself onto the Bosendorfer and crooned a haunting “Summer Makes Me Want To Cheat On My Wife.” You won't see THAT at any old open-mic, now, will you? Then, our old friend Paul stuck around and played for his pal Susan Collins, who rocked the house with “Be My Baby.” Her sonTucker Caploe killed everyone with his original tune, and we hope he'll be back really, really soon! Kristine W, who has fourteen #1 Dance Hits on the Billboard charts, sang from her upcoming jazz album - and we can't wait to hear much more from her! Pop/gospel duo Jason & DeMarcomade a long-awaited return to the Cast Party stage with a gorgeous arrangement of “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Therese Genecco belted out a swingin' tune with her horn section (a first at Cast Party!). Marilyn Maye sang Mercer her way - and “Blues In The Night” has never been blusier. As if all that wasn't enough, our Tony Nominated pal Jeff Danielsserenaded everyone with his guitar and an original tune that had the packed house howling. There were many beloved regulars like Hilary Kole, Aaron Weinstein, Sean Harkness, Jason Maniscalco, Ray Jessell, Natalie Douglas, and newcomers like Jerry Sharell and Harold Allen.
The whole evening was especially happy, thanks to the 80th birthday celebration of my mom, Pat Caruso (left, with Eda Sorokoff, thanks toStephen Sorokoff). Lots of her pals showed up with prezzies and fun, and she had a complete ball. And she got a kiss from Martin Short.
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT RON ABEL, one of New York's hottest theatrical composer/arrangers, in a return engagement to the Broadway at Birdland series. This very special concert will take place on Monday, June 29 at 7pm. Joining Ron will be some of his fabulously talented friends (Lucie Arnaz and Valarie Pettiford) for a fun “raising the roof” evening of entertainment. Abel is hosting this gala for longtime close friend, Richard Aborn, who is running for the office of District Attorney for Manhattan. (Richard is a leading advocate for the gun control movement, police brutality, and many other important issues.)
Ron has written, produced, arranged, orchestrated and/or conducted for vocalists from pop diva Taylor Dayne to opera diva and Kennedy Center Honoree Jessye Norman. His recent sold out shows of his original songs at the world famous jazz club Birdland in New York City had the NEW YORK POST'S columnist Liz Smith writing, “Go! Then you can say you knew him when! This season, The Actor's Fund of America held a sold out star-studded tribute of Ron's music in the historic Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles. He recently produced and arranged new albums for Deborah Gibson (Colored Lights: The Broadway Album) and Valarie Pettiford (Hear My Soul). Arranging, producing, and song writing by Ron can also be heard on Petula Clark, Lucie Arnaz, Helen Reddy and Dorian Harewood's albums among many others. Currently Ron is composing the musical score for Broadway's newest musical Bricktop, for producers Paul Lambert, Jonas Neilson and Whoopi Goldberg. Bricktop will prove to be an historic show in that it will have both classic songs from The Great American Songbook, as well as Ron's original music with lyrics by his partner, lyricist Chuck Steffan. RON ABEL WHEN: Monday, June 22nd at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $30 General, $50 Preferred, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... July 6: Dominick Farinacci, July 13: Stephanie J. Block, July 20: "The Marcy & Zina Show" July 2, 2009
RON ABEL, ONCE AGAIN, BROUGHT A RIP-ROARIN' SHOW, a full house and some fantastic guest stars to his Broadway at Birdlandextravaganza. Between his highly original songs, great band, Lucie Arnaz(left), Valarie Pettiford and Michael Amante, the crowd loved every second of the concert - and was left screaming for more. They'll get more, too, because Mr. Abel is part of the Birdland family, and we're always proud to have him on our stage! You can see lots more great photos byStephen Sorokoff, if you click on Flickr. What would we do without Mr. Sorokoff's photographic artistry!?
And then Cast Party happened. It was characters aplenty at our weekly musical soiree, and the laughs and zippy tunes just kept a'comin' until the wee hours. We were so happy to see our old friend Kirsten Gray (left), who always has a new song to show off, along with the most gorgeous voice and spectacular guitar-playing. We were delighted to see and hear Perri Payne and Michael Rice showing off their swell musical stuff, too.
Then there was the Cast Party debut of Joyce Aimée (left)! She strutted across the stage (avec boa) absolutely captivating everyone, which she's been doing since Josephine Baker dubbed her “La Chanteuse Dangereuse” during her six-year engagement at the Hotel Pierre here in NYC in the late 1940's. I sure hope that Ms. Aimée becomes a regular - she's our kinda gal, and that's the truth. On the other side of the spectrum, the extremely young Charlie Puth proved that age has no bearing on showbiz savvy! This 17 year-old jazz pianist dazzled us all with his chops, but also garnered the biggest laugh of the evening, when discussing his fan base. “Thirteen year-old girls…and…um…older men,” he quipped cautiously. Add the Cast Party crew to that mix! Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle, our house pianist and bass player, worked their fingers to the bone, helping everyone sound brilliant with their extraordinary playing. They're the (sometimes) unsung heros of the most extreme open-mic in the world, but I'm here to belt out their praises! You have to join us and see what all the fuss is about! Cast Party takes place, whether you want it to or not, every single Monday at 9:30pm. Come this next week - it'll be our 341st in a row! And they said it wouldn't last…!
Broadway at Birdland!
CELEBRATING HIS RECENT RELEASE, "LOVERS, TALES & DANCES," trumpeter Dominick Farinacci presents music from Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Jacques Brel, Astor Piazzolla, and others in concert at Birdland on Monday, July 6 at 7pm. Dominick continues to make waves with some of the most influential names in jazz. Released this February, the album is winning over insiders and media alike, prompting Gary Walker of WBGO to dub it “One of the most gorgeous, passionate and haunting recordings to cross my desk in some time,” and Metro Santa Cruz to say “Serious chops for serious jazz fans, this kid is making waves and he's barely out of the kiddie pool.” Produced by the legendary Russ Titelman (Eric Clapton, James Taylor, etc), "Lovers, Tales & Dances" features some of the greatest players in jazz, including Kenny Barron, James Genus, Marc Johnson, Lewis Nash, Jamey Haddad, Joe Lovano, and Joe Locke, with guest vocalist Hilary Kole, and string arrangements by Rich Derosa.
DOMINICK FARINACCI WHEN: Monday, July 6th at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC CHARGE: $25 cover, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN...July 13: Stephanie J. Block, July 20: "The Marcy & Zina Show" July 16, 2009
IT WASN'T JUST YOUR REGULAR BLOCK PARTY. There were no actual fireworks, but we witnessed plenty of flash and dazzle when Stephanie J. Block (left, thanks to Walter McBride) stormed the Birdland stage on Monday night. Between her beloved Blockheads, family and friends, there wasn't a seat to be had, which we've come to expect from Ms. Block. She put on quite a show, too, in order to celebrate the release of her brand new CD, “This Place I Know.”
Lots of the composers responsible for the great songs on the recording were present, and some even took a seat at the piano to re-create their recorded performances, including (left) Scott Alan, Amanda Yesnowitz,Paul Loessel, Steve Marzullo, Stephen Flaherty & Lynn Ahrens. Our pal Andrew Lippa was there to play his song, and the Block Band was without peer, under the musical direction of Domenick Amendum. We're in talks to bring Stephanie back to the Broadway at Birdland series very soon - but you can catch her on the Rialto singing, dancing and being generally hilarious in 9 to 5!
The following Cast Party was equally packed and fun and crazy, what with performances by the legendary jazz superstar Jon Hendricks, Michael Feinstein, Tom Postilio, Mickey Conlon, Sharon McKnight, Chris DiCristo & Chelsey Keding (left), lots of regulars and loads of newcomers! Lucie Arnaz was there, adding color commentary! Click on our FLICKR site to see all the gorgeous photos of the evening! To think we do it all again this coming Monday, with David Budway and Steve Doyleas the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra! You better be there!
July 23, 2009
MARCY HEISLER AND ZINA GOLDRICH DID IT AGAIN. They packedBirdland to the rafters with screaming fans for the umpteenth time! And it's no wonder. Their highly original songs appeal to all ages and all types of music-lovers! It doesn't hurt to have a few spectacular singers performing said material, like TV's Clinton Kelly (“What Not To Wear”), Jill Abramovitz (9 To 5) and Jeff Blumenkrantz (Tony-nominated composer and spectacular singer), all of whom can be seen at the left. M&Z already have plans to return to the Broadway at Birdland series in November…they'll be celebrating their new CD release, produced by our pal and brilliant percussionist Mike Croiter. We can't wait to have everyone back to toast the new recording!
I was super-jazzed to see my old pals Susie Mosher and Steve Gunderson sauntering into Birdland on Monday. They've been in LA working like crazy on the smash-hit revue, Back to Bacharach and Davidat the Music Box Theatre. Steve co-created the show with Kathy Najimy, and did all the arrangements for the piece, while Susie sang her ever-lovin' face off - to rave reviews. Susie, recently of the Broadway production ofHairspray, thrilled the Cast Party crowd with one of the most hilarious, manic and wacked-out performances we've seen…ever. (left, thanks toStephen Sorokoff) Please come back soon, Susie…don't make us beg! There were lots more fab moments, with many thanks to talented folks like LA's Wayne Moore (of “Wayne & Brenda!”), Kristen Sergeant, Klea Blackhurst (currently doing her brilliant Merman show at the Snapple Theatre), Lisa Gary (a newcomer - and spectacular jazzer!), Victoria Shaw and daughter Ruby Locknar, Scott Meeds (swinging “Feelin' Good”), Jonathan Shew, and Jason Maniscalco with his uke. The event was watched over by Austin Cabaret Theatre's own Stuart Moulton, who always makes us happy! Can you believe that we enjoy this kind of craziness every Monday night? It's true! This coming Monday (our 344th in a row!) Cast Party have the distinction of another performance by the hauntingly beautiful and dazzlingly musical Miranda Sings! Everytime she shows up, insanity rules, so you might not want to miss the fun! Haters, back off!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT BROADWAY'STituss Burgess in concert with his Tight-Ass Band, on Monday, July 27 at 7pm, as part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Tituss Burgess & The Tight-Ass Band will offer an evening of genre-hopping! The evening will be a stroll through both new music and familiar standards as the audience enjoys the way Tituss hears them! Tituss Burgess recently starred as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in the Broadway Revival of Guys and Dolls. Past credits on Broadway: The Little Mermaid, Jersey Boys and Good Vibrations. His solo album, "Here's to You" is available on itunes. Tituss was born and raised in Athens, Georgia where he grew up in the church and sang around the city with his mama! TITUSS BURGESS & THE TIGHT-ASS BAND: "How I Hear It" WHEN: Monday, July 27 at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 General, $35 Premium, $10 Food/Drink Minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com July 30, 2009
YOU CAN'T SAY WE DON'T HAVE FUN. Between Monday's Tituss Burgess concert, Cast Party and Tuesday's Marilyn Maye show, a bunch of very lucky music fans started their week out in high style! Tituss wore us OUT with his amazing tenor voice and shockingly fresh arrangements, thanks to James Sampliner. And the room was jammed with Broadway kids, bff's, and lots of screaming super-fans! Tituss' performance of “Guess Who I Saw Today” is still in my brain - and that's a good thing! We can't wait for his return! The photo (left) is by Stephen Sorokoff. Click on BroadwayWorld.com for more pix!
Cast Party was as packed as I've seen it in a long, long time! And what talent we were treated to! One of the stars of Jason Robert Brown's Broadway musical 13, Ariana Grande, sang so great, so it was a complete shock that voice teacher extraordinaire, Miranda Sings (left, with me), decided she needed a bit of on-stage coaching. But being the genius Ms. Sings is, Ariana was filled with gratitude with the notes. Miranda then sang a…memorable…rendition of “Dance: Ten, Looks: Three,” substituting the words 'chest' and 'butt' for the more racey terms. (We're just thrilled to tell you that La Diva Insana will be performing in the Broadway at Birdland concert series on September 14, so reserve early and often!) We were also thrilled by visits from Marilyn Maye, Hilary Kole, Jersey Boys'Russell Fischer, Clifford Gaschler & Ruby Rakos, Marissa Rosanno &Emily McVicker, Emily Drennan, Scott Meeds, Klea Blackhurst, Carrie Jackson, Terese Genecco, Shawn Ryan, Chris Dilley, Ruby & Ava Locknar…on and on and on! Many newcomers and lots of beloved regulars rounded out a very full Party - and we wouldn't have it any other way! Again, check out the photos on BroadwayWorld! Many thanks toTedd Firth and Steve Doyle for their continued musical brilliance! How lucky are we to have THEM? This next week, Las Vegas superstar Clint Holmes will be paying us a visit, as well as humorist Ron Kanfi, who has written a new book called “Saint Misbehavin' - Modern Day Saints You've Never Heard Of!” The irreverent spoof will provide absolution for the guilt ridden, and just might be the answer to your prayers! And yes, there will be giveaways!
On Tuesday, Marilyn Maye stormed the Birdland stage for her debut concert. Wow. If you wanna see how it's done, come see Marilyn. Nobody commands a stage like she does, and the sold-out house gave so many standing O's, I lost track (photo at left by Stephen Sorokoff). If you click on BroadwayWorld, you'll see even more gorgeous pix of the event, thanks to Derek Storm. Lots of great faces in the audience, too! Phyllis Newman, Lucie Arnaz and daughter Kate Luckinbill, Klea Blackhurst,Robert Richards, Randy Jones, Aaron Weinstein…they were all there to watch and learn from the best! We were so proud!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT the newly formed band, LIMBSAKIMBO in “What's Going On,” at Birdland on Monday, August 3 at 7pm. The concert will be part of the award-winning series Broadway at Birdland.
LIMBSAKIMBO is Lindsay Mendez, Mike Aarons, and Chris Fenwick, whose creative energy and musical restlessness marked their work together on the Broadway revival of Grease. Their excitement steers them into new territory as the group recreates, reassembles, and reinvents the classic Marvin Gaye album “What's Going On” in it's entirety. Lead singer Lindsay Mendez was an original cast member of the most recent Broadway revival of Grease, playing the role of Jan. She also served as a "Mennonette" to Sherie Rene Scott in the critically acclaimedEveryday Rapture at 2nd Stage Theater this past spring. She can currently be seen as Betty Jean in The Marvelous Wonderettes at the Westside Theater. Lead guitarist and arranger Michael Aarons has worked with Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, Michael McDonald, James Ingram, Liza Minnelli, and Elton John. He has played in countless Broadway pits, and originated the guitar chairs at Grease, High Fidelity, Next To Normal (guitar arrangements), and most recently, 9 to 5, where he currently plays. As a composer, Michael's music has been featured on Lifetime, Style Network and MTV. Pianist and arranger Chris Fenwick has musical directed productions on Broadway, off-Broadway, and across the country. He has also accompanied and conducted numerous artists in concert including Patti LuPone, Elaine Stritch, and Audra McDonald. His most recent project was the world premiere of Michael John LaChiusa's Giant. LIMBSAKIMBO: "WHAT'S GOING ON" WHEN: Monday, August 3rd at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... August 10th: Under the Covers with Victoria Shaw! August 13, 2009
VICTORIA SHAW IS A HOOT'N A HALF! Not only does she write chart-topping country and pop tunes, have a dazzling voice, and perform mom duties to two of the most talented kids around…but she can put on one hell of a show. We keep having her back at Birdland for that very reason. This time, instead of a cast of dozens, it was just Vic Unplugged - although her two good friends Mark Hudson and Desmond Child joined her on a few tunes to show off some of their biggest hits. Mark sang his Aerosmith hit, “Livin' on The Edge,” and Desmond reminisced about his first Hanson hit, “Weird.” If you wanna really be impressed, Google them. You'll see why we were over-the-moon when they joined us!
The fabulous Locknar Sistersstormed the stage, too…Ava and Ruby have never been better…or cuter. Victoria sang all the good stuff we love, including her all-time gi-normous hit, “The River.” And yes…she'll be back, y'all! 
The following Cast Party was an absolute blast, with many thanks to The Cast Party Symphony Orchestra - Tedd Firth and guest-bassist Tom Hubbard. It was fun to celebrate Ruby Rakos' good news - she was just cast in the Broadway company of Billy Elliott! Then, she sang (left) and showed everyone why she's so successful at such an early age! Patrick Oliver Jones was a scream on “Leading Men Don't Dance,” Tabitha Fairrocked, Brooks Wood strummed and sang, Aaron Weinstein mandolin-ed, Jared Poulan crooned, and Sarah de Revere sang a great Cy Coleman/David Zippel tune. Matt Birdsong turned 20 right in front of us. There were loads of newcomers, bunches of beloved regulars, and a few questionable types…just like we like! Check out Stephen Sorokoff's photos on our FLICKR site! And come next week! I'll be in Paris, France, Europe singing Johnny Mercer with Christine Ebersole, Klea Blackhurst,Billy Stritch, Aaron Weinstein and Steve Doyle (with Matt Berman as Mr. Tech!), so the hauntingly floral Scott Siegel will be guest-hosting. You know he always brings a slew of spectacular Broadway types when he comes - so it should be yet another fun-filled Cast Party!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT BROADWAY FAVORITE Nick Adams in his solo cabaret debut at Birdland on August 17 at 7pm. This event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.James Sampliner will serve as musical director for the concert event.
Nick Adams was last seen on Broadway as 'Liver Lips Louie' in the recent revival of Guys & Dolls. He is currently featured on the cover of the July/August 2009 issue of Dance Spirit magazine. He also headlined the debut edition of the sexy dance production “Erotic Broadway” at the Triad Theatre in June. Adams is perhaps best known for his role as Larry in the recent Broadway revival of A Chorus Line opposite Mario Lopez. He also appeared on Broadway in Chicago and The Pirate Queen. Later this year, he will be seen in the film, "An Englishman in New York," starring John Hurt and Cynthia Nixon. NICK ADAMS WHEN: Monday, August 17 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 General, $35 Premium Seating, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... August 24th: Sally Mayes, August 31st: The Darmon Meader Quartet; Sept. 6th: Monday Off August 20, 2009
HI PEOPLE! As you may or may not know, I'm in Provence singing the extraordinary songs of Johnny Mercer, along with my equally extraordinary pals Christine Ebersole, Klea Blackhurst, Billy Stritch, Aaron Weinstein and Steve Doyle. Old pal and tech genius Matt Berman will be on sound and lights, so you know we'll be in good hands! Then, I'll be spending 4 days in Paree (which is French for Paris) - just sitting in cafes...smoking, looking moody, wearing a beret and horizontal striped tshirts. Because of that, and because Kate Botello, our champion web-diva, is on a well-deserved vacay, this edition of the Cast Party Newsletter is being written several decades ago. We'll try to fool you into making it sound like it's au curant, but you'll know better. Anyway, happy reading!
Last week's Nick Adams concert was jam-packed with family, friends and fans of the Broadway boy! All kinds of really fancy showbiz types were there to see and hear one of our fave singer/dancers make his concert debut! If you go to BroadwayWorld.com, you'll see Linda Lenzi's gorgeous shots from the night. You know we'll be inviting him back, so watch this newsletter for his next Broadway at Birdland appearance! 
The following Cast Party was hosted by the effervescent Scott Siegel, whom you probably know as the producer/host of some of the most exciting evenings at Town Hall, which celebrate Broadway, cabaret and nightlife in general. A favorite guest host, he did his usual blessing over the wine, had some really, really talented friends sing their faces off, and wore shockingly colorful pants. Wife Barbara was seen swooping around, expediting the evening, and giving helpful critiques to Scott. Of course, they're one of our favorite showbiz couples...not since the Lunts have two people worked harder and been more supportive to the arts...and we thank them from the bottom of our open-mic hearts.
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT SALLY MAYES in concert at Birdland on Monday, September 24 at 7pm. This event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, which showcases the brightest performers and songwriters from The Great White Way.
Broadway's Sally Mayes will be showcasing her awesome vocals in a wacky, fun filled, and emotional trek down Memory Lane as she celebrates a big birthday! Joining her will be friends and costars from some of her favorite theatrical moments over the years, including Patrick Brady, Jim Caruso, George Dvorsky, Lina Koutrakos, Sharon Montgomery, Billy Stritch, Lynne Wintersteller, and Jessica Wright. Sally Mayes is known for her Broadway and Off-Broadway performances, including She Loves Me (Tony nomination), Welcome To The Club, Closer Than Ever, Das Barbeque, Pete N' Keely, and Urban Cowboy. Most recently, she was part of the all-star cast of The Best Is Yet To Come: The Music of Cy Coleman at the Rubicon Theatre in Venture, CA. She won raves for her performance as Mae West in the National tour of Dirty Blonde, and her nightclub and concert appearances have resulted in four solo albums. SALLY MAYES WHEN: Monday, August 24 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 Cover, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com THEN... August 31st: The Darmon Meader Quartet; Sept. 6th: Monday Off August 27, 2010
IT REALLY WAS A NIGHT TO REMEMBER! Sally Mayes decided to throw a party and concert to celebrate her Big Birthday. I don't know howshe got to be a big age, because we used to be contemporaries, and I'm only 27. Regardless, calls were placed to some of her favorite co-stars and singing partners through the years, and a show was born! To hear the big duet from Closer Than Ever with Lynne Wintersteller was a real thrill, as was the re-uniting of Pete 'n Keely (with George Dvorskey). It was a whompin' big trip down memory lane when Sally was joined by Sharon Montgomery and Billy Stritch - her old buddies from Houston, Texas days (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff). Their re-creations of three Montgomery, Mayes & Stritch arrangements were at once hilarious, dazzling and musically inspiring. Why aren't there any tight-harmony vocal groups anymore? I was so inspired by them in the 1980's, that I created my own group, Wiseguys, which propelled me to moderate fame and absolutely no fortune. It just might be time for an MMS reunion concert - and I just might be the one to present it. Stay tuned…there might have to be some cajoling and begging, but it'd be worth it! Many thanks to Sally's cast - which also included Patrick Brady, Lena Koutrakos, Jessica Wright and hubby/bassist Bob Renino.
The following Cast Party (and how many times have I typed that phrase?) was packed with some extreme talent, that's for sure. There were loads of regulars, and some swell newcomers, including pop/rock dude Ben Daniels (left), gorgeous jazzy chick Kay Matsukawa, and Michael Mott, who sang from a new musical about the Wright Brothers called Flyer (whichTedd Firth mistakenly thought was an ode to Scott and Barbara Siegel). Semi-regulars Tony DeSare, Kevin Dozier and Harmony Keeney showed just how to swing, Malynda Hale belted her face off, and and youngCharlie Puth made every experienced jazz pianist in the house question their career choice. He's that good. At 17. Truly annoying. Look him up on the YouTube. Mr. Firth was never better at the piano, and it was fun for bass-man Steve Doyle and me to reminisce about our French escapade. (Ask him about the sidewalk flower salesman…it's a pretty story.) We'll be doing it all again next Monday - same open-mic time, same open-mic station. Be there or be all kinds of square.
September 10, 2009
IT WAS A LABOR DAY WEEKEND FULL OF GREAT MUSIC AT BIRDLAND – Sunday’s Monday Off concert (left, thanks to Graham Rowat) was a swingin’, singin’ smash of a success, and Monday’s NAMT Songwriter Showcase was super-spectacular! It’s so thrilling to be able to serve up such great talent, and between the Monday Off cast, and talened folks like Kate Baldwin, Jenn Colella, Kerry O’Malley, Charlie Pollock,Steve Rosen, Sarah Stiles, Wesley Taylor and Josh Young singing songs by NAMT Songwriters Dan Lipton & David Rossmer, Brad Alexander & Adam Mathias…how lucky can we get?!
Monday night’s Cast Party was extraordinarily fun, too. The talented/tunny folks were out and about, and were happy to show their stuff at Birdland! We started the fun with Aisha De Haas (left, by Stephen Sorokoff). You know her from the Broadway productions of Rent and Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, as well as Road Show and Saving Aimee. We love her voice, and it looks good for a Broadway at Birdland booking this winter! Watch this newsletter for details, of course. There were more dazzling performances, too. Alex Getlin may be young, but she sure is a fantastic talent, what with her strong voice and dynamic personality. Her pal Gabby Gross was equally adorable, and her performance of “Be A Lion” was sensational. Zachary James, who will be playing Lurch in Andrew Lippa’s upcoming Broadway production of The Addams Family, stopped the Party with his performance. This guy just HAS to become a regular. Theater kids like Todd Adamson, Vince Oddo, Scott Meeds, Kristen Licata andMarissa McInerney strutted their musical stuff to great advantage, and regulars Vin Martin, Jim Malloy, Aaron Weinstein, Jenna Esposito,Nate Birkey, William Blake, and Perri Balin proved why the folks keep packing into Cast Party every Monday for the past (gulp) seven years!
This coming Monday, our old pal Billy Stritch will be at the piano, along with Steve Doyle on bass. We can’t wait to hear about Billy's recent travels – and you know there might be some bad Sonny & Cher impressions on the horizon. Alert the media! Broadway at Birdland!
WELL...IT JUST HAD TO HAPPEN. Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is thrilled and mildly nervous to present YouTube sensation MIRANDA SINGS in concert on Monday, September 14 at 7pm. The event will be part of the award-winning concert series, Broadway at Birdland.
In her New York City concert debut, Miranda will be performing with some of Broadway’s biggest stars, and give a lucky celebrity guest one of her much-discussed and sought-after voice lessons. You will not want to miss this lipstick-wearing, epileptic-eyebrowed, crooked-smiling beauty as she performs her magic at Birdland for one night only! Miranda Sings is an internet character created by California-based theatre student Colleen Ballinger, and proliferated via YouTube. The character is a satire of increasingly common YouTube videos featuring mediocre or even bad singers who film themselves singing as a form of self-promotion. Miranda is supposedly from Tacoma, Washington, sings comically off-key, and, when confronted by viewers who take the videos seriously, uses the catchphrase "Haters back off!" The characterization includes facial tics, unusually active eyebrows and a crooked smile. She also wears lipstick drawn beyond all natural borders and often dances stiffly to the music she is performing. Ms. Ballinger's character has enjoyed widespread popularity, particularly among musical theatre fans, and has recently appeared as Miranda Sings at live club and theater venues in New York (The Minskoff Theatre, Jim Caruso’s Cast Party), Los Angeles and London (Ambassador Theatre). MIRANDA SINGS WHEN: Monday, September 14 at 7:00 pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 General Admission, $35 Premium, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com September 17, 2009
IT WAS ONE OF THE BUSIEST NIGHTS IN OUR HISTORY! The ultimate diva herself, Miranda Sings (left, prettying herself for the evening), made her New York City concert debut at Birdland, and the fans flocked to celebrate the event! It seem that there isn’t an age range that isn’t blown away by her unique vocal abilities, shocking choreographic talent and absolutely hilarious way with a story. There were surprise guests aplenty, too! Mamma Mia’s Frankie James Grande, his gorgeous sister Ariana Grande (from 13), Rent’s Adam Kantor, Shrek’s Marissa O’Donnell andLeah Greenhaus, and songwriter/singer Jason Maniscalco all joined the onstage fun.
Then…as if that weren't enough…fourteen talented kids from the Broadway production of Billy Elliot subjected themselves to public harassment by Ms. Sings (left). Even ‘Billy’ himself, Tony-winner David Bologna, learned some dance moves, and just how to deliver a line The Miranda Way. Good Lord, it was all so fun. She’ll be back…and don’t forget…haters…back off!
And then…there was Cast Party. People…it was huge. It’s like we were giving away free “I Hate Kanye” t-shirts or something. There were lots of regulars, and newcomers like Oakley Boycott, Lisa Jason, Jennifer Sheehan, and sax player Mitch Marcus. There were friends we haven’t seen for a while like Gay Marshall, Eric Millegan and Vegas phenomenonErich M. Bergen (left). Colleen Ballinger, BFF to the above-mentioned Miranda, sang her heart out with Ariana Grande. My mother even performed a Gershwin tune for all the nice people.
Everyone was really wonderful…but for sheer volume and size, the Cast Party award goes to my Norwegian pal Hanne Krogh, who brought her 25-person, TV reality show-winning choir to sing a few songs for us (left)! They sang gospel. They sang classical. They sang in Norwegian. They were fabulous. It was a kick to have Billy Stritch back at the piano for one-night-only, and Steve Doyle kicked all kinds of bass-tuchas. How lucky we are to have such brilliant musicians to play with every Monday!
This coming Monday, I’ll be in Las Vegas, doing 7 shows with Liza Minnelli at the MGM Grand. We’re even filming for PBS! While I’m away, I’m so happy to tell you that Scott Siegel, producer/host/smart guy will be hosting in my absence. Go see him. If you’re really good, you’ll end up in one of his extraordinary extravaganzas at Town Hall. (I can’t guarantee that, by the way.) What I can guarantee is that he always brings in a batch of Broadway superstars to sing, so you’ll have a complete ball. Tedd Firthand Steve Doyle will be the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra…so how bad could it be? I can’t believe I’ll miss all the fun! September 24, 2009
THE MONDAY NIGHT BURKELL/LOESEL CONCERT BROUGHT A JAM-PACKED HOUSE to the Broadway at Birdland stage – and why not? These two brilliant songwriters showed off their treasure trove of songs with a cast of first-rate Broadway stars! That’s our musical team Scott and Paul (left), with Stephanie J. Block, Jason Danieley, Marin Mazzie,Sebastian Arcelus, Lisa Howard, and Allison Seidner (missing from the pix: Kate Baldwin and Daniel Reichard). We were proud to have so much talent on display, and even prouder to showcase Burkel and Loesel’s songs.
Come back soon, guys! Check out BroadwayWorld.com for more fantastic photos by our very own Stephen Sorokoff, who generously gave us the photos for this newsletter! 
Where do they come from? Every Monday, someone (or many someone's) comes through the Birdland door for Cast Party for the first time and knocks everyone's socks off. (So much trouble sorting the socks after that, but it is soooo worth it.) On Monday night, with Mr. Funny Pants (Scott) Siegel guest-hosting in my stead, in came Mark Watson who only sang at Carnegie Hall earlier this year. Big voice. Even bigger applause. Our old friend Mark Aaron James (left) visited us all the way from London, England, Europe to serve up a great tune. Jazz singer Shari Pine dropped in for the first time, too, and what a set of pipes that girl's got. A handful of young, talented performers from Scott's Rising Stars concert at Town Hall showed up and galvanized the audience, but the heart of the evening was the parade of loyal regulars like Aaron Weinstein, Fred Barton, Scott Coulter, Sue Matsuki, Janet Fanale, and the multi-voiced Christine Pedithat made the night so much fun. Where would we be without our regulars? So thanks to the new folks for showing up and thanks to the loyal core. I'm still in Vegas, working with Liza, so Scott (with or without his funny pants.. ) will be joining Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle to give it another go. So go!
October 1, 2009
WE (OKAY, THAT MEANS ME) TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN THE WIDE VARIETY OF MUSICAL STYLES that get up on the Birdland stage every Monday night for Cast Party. Last Monday was especially off-the-wall eclectic -- and really good, too, which is not always the case. My guest-host, critic/producer Scott Siegel, who went wild with the clothing choices (more on that in a minute), really brought in a ton of talented people to entertain the masses. One of the show-stopping moments of the evening was the Cast Party debut of thirteen-year-old Beka Goschiashvilla (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) who was the youngest winner ever of some sort of mind-blowing jazz competition. If you weren't told that he was thirteen, you might have thought he was ten, but this kid played like George Shearing. Scott tells me he's coming back next Monday so we (now I mean you and me) are really excited to hear that. Another Cast Party debut, Carole Bufford, a beautiful young slip of a girl, sang Folsom Prison Blues and brought the house down. She's a particular Siegel find. Then there was the UK/European star who last year became a New York Nightclub sensation, Barb Jungr, who came to Cast Party for the first time. Kristin Dausch, who just returned to New York from Dallas with the kind of reviews performers die for for her performance there of Fanny Brice in Funny Girl, also made her Cast Party debut. She sang "I'm the Greatest Star" and apparently she is! She was one of Scott's Rising Stars in a concert at Town Hall last July. So many great new people with such interesting names like Sigali Hamberger, Sierra Rein, and Nadine Zahr. Heard they were all fantastic. Great to have the incomparable Ray Jesselback, who turns 80 this month and has a great song to commemorate his birthday. Oh, and of course he sang the weiner song, too. How could he not? Back also was Mark Watson, you know, the Carnegie Hall guy from last week? Well, this week he sang unplugged (no mike, folks) and wowed everybody with that great big, gorgeous voice. Speaking of loud, there was guest host Scott with an ever-changing array of purple and orange pants and eye-popping shirts (I promised his wife, Barbara, that I wouldn't call them blouses). And to top it off, he joined Ray Jessel in birthday-land, announcing at midnight that it was his birthday, too. And he, happily (no offense, Ray), is not eighty. Yet. Happy Birthday, Scott. Heard only great things about the evening and these are just some of them.
I'll see you all next Monday when I get back from Las Vegas and my time with Liza. Oh, will I have stories to tell...like spending the evening with Liza and Cher at the same time. I don't mean that we saw that show of impersonators called "Legends." I'm talking about the real, honest-to-goodness Cher and Liza in the same room as honest-to-goodness me. And I went to the Las Vegas Denny's with Miranda Sings. And I shared a post-show calzone with Michele Lee. And I saw Jerry Mitchell's gorgeous and sexy extravaganza, "Peep Show." And I got to perform for Renee Zelwegger, Barry Manilow and Kathy Griffin, among others. It's all fodder for Cast Party chat, so do me a favor and come see us on Monday! Maybe I'll bring you something nice from Vegas. But probably not. Come anyway. I'll have the brilliant Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle acting as theCast Party Symphony Orchestra, so you know the music will be good, even if my stories aren't!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT STEVEN BRINBERG as SIMPLY BARBRA in “Love is the Answer...But What Was the Question?” Brinberg celebrates Streisand's latest recording and last week's historic appearance at the Village Vanguard in his return to Birdland. He will feature songs from the album as well as some of the 800 songs recorded but not used! Brinberg, who was chosen by the diva herself to sing at Donna Karan's birthday bash..will also duet with some very special guest stars, including South Pacific's Andrew Samonsky.
Steven Brinberg writes and stars as Simply Barbra which is updated annually as he travels the globe with the show. This year he appears with Marvin Hamlisch and the Symphony Orchestras of Dallas, Milwaukee, Buffalo and Norfolk. Prior appearances with Mr. Hamlisch include one with Barbara Cook and the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center and another at Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh. He recently narrated the New York City Gay Men's Chorus concert at Avery Fisher Hall, written especially for him by Terrence McNally. Mr. Brinberg has performed at Stephen Sondheim's birthday concert at the Library of Congress; at Carnegie Hall with Uptown Express; and on Broadway in the concert version of Funny Girl with Whoopi Goldberg. Simply Barbra has twice toured Australia, New Zealand, and England, last year ending in a West End run at the Arts and Playhouse Theatres. The show has also played Singapore; Hong Kong; Sag Harbor (Bay Street Theatre); Philadelphia (Walnut Street Theatre), San Francisco (New Conservatory Theatre), Los Angeles (Cinegrill); Sun Valley (Bruce Willis' Liberty Theatre), Atlantic City (Taj Mahal), Windsor, Ontario (Windsor Casino); Provincetown (Town Hall); Miami Beach (Colony Theatre): Houston (Theater Lab Houston); Albany (Empire Center); Arlington (Signature Theater); St. Louis (Sheldon Concert Hall); Chicago (Davenport's); and 3 sold out turns at The Mohegan Sun Casino. A two time Mac and Bistro award winner, Mr. Brinberg's CD Simply Barbra Live in London is available on Jay Records. STEVEN BRINBERG AS SIMPLY BARBRA: “Love is the Answer...But What Was the Question?” WHEN: Monday, October 5 at 7:00 pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 General Admission, $35 Premium, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com Then…coming up on Monday, October 12, the triumphant return ofMIRANDA SINGS! October 8, 2009
WITH ALL THE HOOP-LA SURROUNDING BARBRA'S ONE-NIGHT-ONLY PERFORMANCE at The Village Vanguard, it seemed only fair that we received our share of Her Divinity! Monday’s Simply Barbra concert was simply great, as Steven Brinberg turned Birdland into Streis-land. As extra-special guest, Andrew Samonsky, Lt. Cable in South Pacific, soloed and duetted beautifully and took time to pose for our cameras after receiving some modeling tips (left). The whole affair was, as you might guess, like buttah…you know what I mean?
The following Cast Party was jammed to the rafters, with lots of brilliant newcomers, some talented regulars, and a few folks who defy allcategories. The cast of Mo Faya came all the way from Kenya to sing for us (OK…they’re doing a show here in town for NYMF…), San Francisco’sBarry Lloyd gave us a taste of his Bobby Short tribute, Ray Jessell sang of the joys of turning 80 (which we can hardly believe), 13-year old jazz pianist Beka Gochiachvili stunned everyone with his technique, Lucy Shropshire sang spectacularly (left), The Sullivans crowded the stage with musicality and lots of blonde beauty, and a smooth crooner namedEdward Lovett dazzled us with his period sound and style. Tedd Firth andSteve Doyle were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, as they will be this coming Monday, and OH, I’m looking forward to it! Why don’t you dust off your party song, get those fall clothes out of mothballs, and join us?
October 15, 2009
"BROADWAY LEGEND CHITA RIVERA IS IN TOP FORM AT BIRDLAND!" That’s what the pages of Variety screamed the day after she opened at Birdland! Chita is celebrating the release of her new solo album, "And Now I Swing," from new indie label Yellowsound. Onstage, she says that she’s been on Broadway since 1950, which means she's now entering her 60th year on the boards. That’s right…she’s 76, but you’d never know it from the high-energy razzle-dazzle she serves up in her 90-minute show. She has five more – and I think you better call the box office now (212.581.3080), unless you want to miss one of the best nightclub performances of the year. You’ll hear some fantastic material, including "Sweet Happy Life," Vincent Youmans' "More Than You Know," Jacques Brel's "Carousel," Carol Hall's "Circle of Friends," and three from Kander and Ebb, as well as medlies from "Bye Bye Birdie," "West Side Story" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman." Opening night was a Who’s Who of Showbiz Royalty, as evidenced by Steve Sorokoff’s photo (left). That’s Michael Douglas with Catherine Zeta Jones, whom Chita loved in “Chicago,” the movie. “You can keep the Oscar…I’ll keep my vamp,” she camped as the band bumped us all into “All That Jazz.” Musical-theater honor roll in the house included names like John Kander, Terrence McNally, Bebe Neuwirth, Alan Cumming, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Lucie Arnaz, George Dvorsky, Stephanie J. Block, Colleen Ballinger, David Hyde-Pierce,Lin-Manuel Miranda, Harvey Fierstein and Tommy Tune -- and those were only the ringside tables. It was a night none of us will ever forget.
Internet sensation, singer and vocal coach Miranda Sings made another triumphant appearance at the Broadway at Birdland concert series on Monday, October 12. Joining Ms. Sings onstage were Broadway'sShoshana Bean (left, thanks to Mr. Sorokoff), who subjected herself to an onstage critique, and radio host/comic Seth Rudetsky, who helped define Miranda's unique style with a vocal deconstruction. Cast members from Broadway's Bye Bye Birdie (Allie Trim, Danny Quadrino, Deanna Cipolla, Kevin Shotwell, Riley Costello, Paul Pilcz and Catherine Blades) performed "It's A Hard Knock Life" from Annie, with Sings essaying the role she was born to play, Miss Hannagan. Joey Goldberg, the happy winner of an online singing contest from the Miranda site, sang in person for the diva, and I was lucky enough to perform "Anything You Can Do..." with the golden-throated, raven-haired beauty. (Cross that dream off the list…) The evening ended with a re-creation of Miranda's first music video "Single Ladies,” wardrobe malfunction and all!
The following Cast Party was super-sized – with more singers and a bigger, hotter audience than we’ve seen for ages! We even had a pre-wedding party in the house, enjoying the sounds of talented folks like 13 year-old jazz pianist Beka Gochiacvilli, Paul Iacono from the movie “Fame,” Blair Taylor, Lars Sorensen (left, doing a brilliant, “Adolpho,” all the way from Denmark), Maureen Taylor, Jeff Siegel, Jonathan Shew,Brenda Braxton, Kevin Early (singing a great song from the upcomingSeeing Stars), and the marvelous Marilyn Maye! Tedd Firth and guest bassist Paul Gill sounded fantastic – and helped everyone sing their best! We do it all again next Monday – so be there or be ridiculously square!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY, IN ASSOCIATION WITH AMY BIRNBAUM, IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE that the Broadway community will pay musical tribute to the late, great Michael Jackson in DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH, on Monday, October 19 at 7pm at Birdland. The event will be part of the ongoing, award-winning Broadway at Birdland concert series. DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH will feature an 8 piece band and the vocal stylings of Broadway stars includingNorm Lewis, Capathia Jenkins, Darius De Haas, Destan Owens, Anwar Robinson, Kendrick Jones, Sophia Stephens, Kenny Williams,Jasmine Walker, Crystal Monee Hall, Asmeret Ghebermichael, Badia Fahra, Chasten Harmon, Emma Hunton and Harry Thompson. (Cast subject to change.) Musical Director is Jesse Vargas. DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH is a proud supporter of VH1 Save The Music - a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring instrumental music education in American public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child's complete education.
DON'T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH: Broadway Salutes the King of Pop WHEN: Monday, October 19 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 General, $40 Preferred, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com October 22, 2009
IT WAS A RAZZLE-DAZZLING WEEK AT BIRDLAND! To have Chita Rivera, an American theatre icon, singing and dancing on our stage for six shows, was as thrilling for us as it was for the throngs of fans who jammed the house. As you can see (left), John Stamos, currently starring in Bye Bye Birdie, came to pay homage to the original Rosie. Chita commented, “Yesterday, I walked down Broadway and saw a poster for Bye Bye Birdie. Then I saw a bus emblazoned with West Side Story. Then I saw a huge billboard with a girl in a short skirt advertising Chicago. I thought…shouldn’t I have somewhere to be at 8pm?!” We were proud to be that place!
Monday’s tribute to Michael Jackson, “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough,” was another spectacular extravaganza brought to us by Amy Birnbaum. Backed by an extraordinary eight-piece band, Broadway performers likeDestan Owens, Anwar Robinson, Kendrick Jones, Sophia Stephens,Kenny Williams, Jasmine Walker, Crystal Monee Hall, Asmeret Ghebermichael, Badia Fahra, Chasten Harmon, Emma Hunton andHarry Thompson wailed, spun and moonwalked all over the club! Songwriter Larry Grossman told of his experiences with the King of Pop, then Darius de Haas sang Larry’s gorgeous “Gone Too Soon.”
Our new bff Corbin Blue (left), who has starred in all three “High School Musical” films showed up to watch, and was cajoled into joining tapper extraordinaire Kendrick Jones in a dance-off. Then, Capathia Jenkinsstopped the unstoppable show with a blazing “Wanna Be Starting Something,” proving that the brilliance of MJ will never be stopped! 
If all of that couldn’t be topped, the following Cast Party jazzed on into the wee hours, with many thanks to Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle on piano and bass! Our old pal Brian Nash got a standing ovation from none other than Chita Rivera (enjoying her night off back at the club). His “Les Mis” impressions had the entire room flipping out, and we can’t wait to hear who and what he skewers next!
Marilyn Maye killed with more Johnny Mercer, Natalie Douglas snapped a delicious “Fever,” William Blake has never been more thrilling, Alex Getlinwas pure showbiz, and Olof Valsdottir favored us with a Russian Tango (one of the first on our stage, I’m sure). But it was newcomer Matthew Robinson (left) who stole the show with a completely hilarious original song called “Boy Band.” This Australian import is a triple threat – singing, dancing and composing. He’ll be back over the next few weeks – so you have to come see him and all the rest of our crazy Cast Party family. There’s nothing like it in the world!
Check out all the fun on our FLICKR site – every week, we add more photos! Many thanks to Stephen Sorokoff for all the pictures in this week’s newsletter! You can’t say we don’t document this stuff! Broadway at Birdland!
ANDY SANDBERG (TONY AWARD WINNING PRODUCER OF HAIR) AND JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY are excited to present WING atBIRDLAND, a limited, two-night engagement of this international recording and internet sensation at New York’s premier concert venue.
The Hong-Kong native and ‘Asian Sensation’ will make her triumphant return to New York as part of the Broadway at Birdland series on October 25th and 26th at 7:00PM. The Broadway cast of Hair will join Wing in an onstage performance of one of the show’s most beloved songs! Wing made her New York debut last year at Birdland in a one-night-only concert, where she received standing ovations from a sold-out audience that included the likes of Michael Feinstein, as well as Blake Lively and Penn Badgley of “Gossip Girl” fame. This fall will mark Wing’s third visit to the United States, and who knows what celebrities will be in attendance this time? She will be performing some of her most popular favorites, including the first live performances of songs from her newly released Michael Jackson/Celine Dion album entitled “Beat It.” Wing achieved cult status through her unique vocal stylings, mastering hit songs by Michael Jackson, Andrew Lloyd Webber, ABBA, the Beatles, Elvis Presley, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Mariah Carey, AC/DC, and so many more! With millions of fans worldwide, she has taken the globe by storm. Wing has been compared to Florence Foster Jenkins, who raised alternative singing into an art form. Before “American Idol” even hit the air, Wing was already a worldwide phenomenon, outshining the success of “Idol” star William Hung and putting Clay Aiken to shame with her eighteen hit CDs. Recently, she was immortalized with her very own episode of “South Park,” the animated series. Join the festivities at Birdland in what is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as this goddess among men, who’s making the trip from her home in New Zealand especially for the occasion, takes the Big Apple by storm and gives ‘alternative music’ a whole new meaning. Sponsored by Affinia Hotels. WING WHEN: Sunday, October 25th, 2009, at 7:00PM Monday, October 26th, 2009, at 7:00PMWHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 General, $40 Preferred, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com October 29, 2009
HAPPY HALLO-WING EVERYONE! We had quite a Sunday/Monday extravaganza this past week, as the New Zealand diva herself, Wing, came to our shores to entertain the masses. This internet sensation, with many thanks to producer Andy Sandberg, brought with her a slew of hits, including the always popular “Dancing Queen,” “Phantom of the Opera,” and her tribute to the King of Pop, “Man In The Mirror.” She was even joined onstage by Jim Rado, one of the creators of Hair, and some of his more daring cast members (left, with Wing herself), to sing a rousing “Aquarius!” You don’t see that every day. Really. It was a hilarious way to kick off the scary season!
The following Cast Party had it's share of Halloween frights and musical goblins! Christine Lavin sang an original song about fireflies, enlisting Ray Jessell and Aaron Weinstein to join in her antics, complete with wings, antennae and glow sticks (left). Jerry Fishman brought two finalists from his Take 2 musical competition, Joan Crowe sang “Spooky,” Uptown Express crooned in 4-part harmony, Marilyn Maye kicked up her heels and a lot of musical butt, there were some swell newcomers and a buncha beloved regulars. We even got to celebrate our own resident photographer,Steve Sorokoff, who graced us with a birthday song at the piano!
Then, the Birdland doors opened and we were sent scrambling for a table for 66 people. No lie. Dozens of young musicians from Derby, England entered the scene with instruments and loads of energy, and we were thrilled to learn that they wanted to join in the musical fun! On a jazz crawl through Manhattan, the Hothouse Music School performed a rip-roaring version of “LOVE,” with audience participatory choreography (left). We had an absolute blast with them, and hope to see them again and again! Of course, Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle were kept busy accompanying the masses in the most spectacular way, just as they will next week! Will we see YOU there?
November 5, 2009
NINE! That’s how many times I’ve been able to present The Marcy & Zina Show in the Broadway at Birdland series over the years. Each and every time, they’ve delighted us with witty, charming and touching material, a talented cast and a packed house. This last Monday was no exception, that’s for sure. They even stepped up their game a bit, with a string section and a few Broadway superstars thrown in for fun! Alan Cumming (left, in a photo by Stephen Sorokoff) whispered his way through “Taylor, The Latte Boy,” giving the well-known story-song a whole new twist…as if he had a sexy secret. Stephanie J. Block camped and vamped “Fifteen Pounds Away From Your Love,” from her new CD. Scott Coulter, Jill Abramovitz, and Elena Shaddow all sang a few from the M&Z ouevre to brilliant and enthusiastic response. There was even one mega-director in the house, taking in all the talent. Trevor Nunn, who directed a few unknown West End shows like Cats and Phantom, sat at the bar and reveled in Marcy-and-Zina-dom all night! Go girls…and congrats on the fabulous new CD on the Yellow Sound Label!
The following Cast Party was equally exciting…just ask any of the 200-some folks who were there! I was thrilled to introduce Sam Tsui (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), whom I discovered on YouTube, along with (literally) 2.2 million other people, when he posted a sextet arrangement of a Michael Jackson medley…except all six guys happen to be Sam. I wrote him immediately, and he made the schlep from Yale to entertain us on Monday! What a spectacular voice and talent he is…his performance of Jason Robert Brown’s “King of the World” was breathtaking, and his solo tribute to the King of Pop was dazzling to hear. We all hope Sam will be a Cast Party regular!
Another dazzle-ment was the appearance of Nonsequitor (left; photo:Stephen Sorokoff), a 14-person acapella group from Columbia University. Their voices, hip arrangements and complete joy in performing won the jaded crowd in about two bars, and OMG we look forward to many more nights with them! There were lots of other contestants in the Mr/Miss Cast Party pageant…Patrick Oliver Jones & Chris Evans sang “You’re Nothing Without Me” with great success, Alissa Stahler sang a swinging ditty,Erich Lou Bergen was really funny then sang an illegal ballad but we like him anyway, Matthew Robinson killed one last time before going back home to Australia, Jonathan Shew showed off his amazing chops, andGregory Generet absolutely stopped the show, swinging and singing with the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Tedd Firth and Sadi Zain withAaron Weinstein on violin)! And guess what? We do it all again this coming Monday, and I certainly hope you’ll do the done thing and join us!
November 12, 2009
MONDAY NIGHT SEEMED LIKE FAMILY NIGHT AT BIRDLAND! At the early concert, our old pal Patrick DeGennaro celebrated his new brand CD for and with his family, friends and throngs of fans. I’ve known Patrick since our ‘salad days’ at a wonderful club in the Village called “Eighty-Eights.” It was the hub of cabaret activity in the late 80’s and 90’s, and he was one of the go-to piano men, who also happened to sing like a bird. Those talents only increased, and now, he’s singing, playing, writing and performing with a spectacular band and some swell singers (left) in some pretty hot spots, including the Broadway at Birdland series! Thanks, Patrick, for yet another wonderful evening of pop/rock razzle-dazzle!
Even though there were some extremely talented newcomers to the Cast Party scene, like Hairspray’s Carly Jibson (left), who sang with Darren Ledbetter, most of the room was packed. Guitar man David Goldman, Connie Francis afficianado Jenna Esposito (below, left) , the hilarious Ray Jessell, superstar folkie Christine Lavin, Marvelous Marilyn Maye, swinging Sean Harkness and Doug Acosta, and my “Liza’s At The Palace” brother Johnny Rodgers all brought their many talents to the Party. Aaron Weinstein fiddled in red socks, Maureen Taylor sang Jule Styne, Patrick Oliver Jones baritoned, Jonathan Shue tenored, Abbystunned, Eric Millegan charmed, Edward Lovett swang*, Jenny Lynn Stewart trilled, and William Blake, once again, stopped the show! Thirteen year-old Russian jazzer Beka proved why he’s already studying at Juilliard,Natalie Douglas gave us a taste of her upcoming Lena Horne show, and West End star Rachel Izen made a thrilling New York City debut! ith beloved regulars, who took turns showing off on the Birdland stage!
The list went on and on…but we don’t want to forget David Coss, Brittany Beaudry and Carol Bufford, who were beyond fantastic. Of course,Stephen Sorokoff was there photographing the whole night, and you can check out the proof on our FLICKR site! There were dozens more talented singers, and we hope they return to the fun soon! Of course, our fingers are crossed that YOU join in the musical madness soon! This coming Monday,Tedd Firth and Paul Gill will be the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra – so you know it’ll be great! I hope to see you there…or we'll suspect that you're a little bit square!
* I know swang isn’t particularly a word. So sue me. Edward swang. Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT Steve Marzullo& Friends at Birdland (315 West 44th Street, NYC) on Monday, November 16 at 7pm. This event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, featuring top Broadway performers and songwriters at the legendary music room.
The Birdland concert will include performances of Marzullo’s compositions by Broadway singers Kate Baldwin, Andrea McArdle, Terri Klausner,Judy Blazer, Rachel Ulanet, Matt Zarley, Stephanie Card, Chiarra Navarra, Yolande Bavan, Ric Ryder, Michael Winther and Craig Gilmore, with a special appearance by cellist Sebastian Stoger Demayo. Steve Marzullo's songs have been recorded and/or sung by Audra McDonald, Rebecca Luker, Stephanie J. Block and Liz Callaway. He has contributed songs for The Audience (Drama Desk Nomination for Best Musical), Songs From An Unmade Bed (New York Theater Workshop), andThe Seven Deadly Sins for Audra McDonald (Carnegie Hall commission). He has worked on Broadway as a Musical Director, Conductor and Pianist for the last 25 years, and is currently the Assistant Conductor for Mamma Mia! STEVE MARZULLO & FRIENDS WHEN: Monday, November 16th at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25.00 General, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com November 19, 2009
STEVE MARZULLO DID IT AGAIN! Once a year, he brings us an exciting, beautifully produced reviews of his songs with an impressive cast of thousands! Monday night’s show was no exception, with Andrea McArdle,Terri Klausner, Judy Blazer, Rachel Ulanet, Matt Zarley, Stephanie Card, Chiarra Navarra, Yolande Bavan, Ric Ryder, Michael WInther andCraig Gilmore singing his songs and praises. But it was 11-year old cellistSebastian Stogner Demayo (left - in a photo by Stephen Sorokoff) who stole everyone’s heart with a brilliant performance of Steve’s piano/cello composition. Look at that face! He helped create a magical moment on theBroadway at Birdland stage. We’re excited to watch this little dude’s career…we predict great things, and can’t thank Steve enough for introducing him – and the rest of his great cast – to us! Watch for more Marzullo nights – he’ll be back!
And then there was Cast Party. So many regulars, and tons of newcomers stormed the stage – just the way we like it. Natalie Douglas (left - thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) showed why her upcoming Lena Horne show is gonna be the hit of the season! Jonathan Shue sang a new Jeffrey Thompson/Jordan Mann song – we look forward to hearing many more! San Francisco’s Paula West gave us a taste of her Algonquin show, Klea Blackhurst served up some Merman from her successful Off-Broadway show (see ad below), we heard swingin’ Adam James, jazzy Vanessa Trouble, and marvelous Marilyn Maye! Funny girl Barbara Minkus sang a Fanny Brice hit, Aaron Weinstein fiddled around, and Michael Winthercrooned. Everyone from 12-year old jazz pianist Beka to Abby performed for us…so many talented types. Of course, none of this could happen without our maestro Tedd Firth (below left - thanks again, Stephen Sorokoff) at the piano. Together with bass-guy Paul Gill, he created musical magic like he does week after week…and we got to celebrate his birthday! Many happy returns to Mr. Firth!
This next Monday, we’re excited to celebrate the book release of Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain. Creator Gerard Alessandrini will be performing along with Nora Mae Lyng, the show's other original cast member; as well as some of FB stalwarts Michael West, Christina Bianco, and Gina Kreiezmar, with longtime pianist David Caldwell.Forbidden Broadway: Behind the Mylar Curtain, written by Alessandrini withMichael Portantiere, is receiving wonderful reviews. The loving, hilarious, no-holds-barred history of the award-winning musical revue has delighted critics and audiences in New York City, Los Angeles, London, and all around the world for three decades, spoofing shows from Broadway – the hits, the mediocre and flops and stars from the legends to the new wanta-be’s.
Broadway at Birdland!
ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22 AT 6:30 PM, THE BROADWAY BOYS return to their home at Birdland to kick off the holiday season with a bang! They’ll be joined by Broadway belter Shoshana Bean. This concert is presented by Jim Caruso’s Cast Party, and is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
The Broadway Boys are a collection of the hottest tenor voices currently working on the New York stage. Representing shows such as Wicked,Rent, Hair, Jersey Boys, Altar Boyz, Billy Elliott, Mary Poppins, andMemphis, the Boys infuse elements of pop/gospel/funk/jazz to a traditional Broadway repertoire, creating an evening that has been called "a symphony of sound." By redefining the musical theater sound for audiences, the Boys are able to present showtune listeners with familiar music in a fresh way, while introducing non-theater listeners to an amazing genre of music in musical styles to which they are accustomed. "If you love musical theatre, you need to see the Broadway Boys. If you think you don't like musical theatre (and we know who you are), you needto see the Broadway Boys.” - Elizabeth Maupin, Orlando Sentinel, May '08 The Broadway Boys have performed sold out concerts at Birdland in NYC, on Rosie O'Donnell's FAMILY CRUISE, and are touring the entire United States, having just recently performed at the Weston Playhouse in VT, The Mad Cow Theater in Orlando, FL, and at MusikFest in Bethlehem, PA (in a lineup including American Idol's David Cook, The B52's, Joan Jett, Rufus Wainwright, and many more). THE BROADWAY BOYS with SHOSHANA BEAN WHEN: Sunday, November 22nd at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $40 plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com November 26, 2009
SHOWBUSINESS IS MY LIFE. In case you had any doubts, on Sunday night, I was proud to present The Broadway Boys with special guestShoshana Bean (left) in the Broadway at Birdland series. The Boys have never sounded better, and the addition of Ms. Bean was inspired! Her poppy, riffy, dazzling belt was showcased perfectly by their creamy vocals. It’s been so fun to watch the growth of this audio and visual treat of a vocal group – and we are already in talks for their next appearance! If you haven’t caught this act, for crying out loud – join us next time!
Then...Natalie Douglas (left) appeared onstage the following night in what we are pretty sure was her billionth time on our stage. And oh, we were delighted to have her again! Ms. Douglas brought us a brand new show, “To Lena: A Tribute To A Lady And Her Music.’ That can only mean Lena Horne – so the music and stories were gorgeous, funny and touching. Mark Hartman’s arrangements were suitably affecting, and the band kicked mucho ass. This act should only be as successful as Natalie’s Nina Simone tribute, which has taken the country by storm and spawned a brilliant recording. Nina, Lena…who’s next? Tina Turner? Dina Merrill? Gina Lollobrigida?
Then…there was Cast Party. By all accounts, it was one of the best ones in our seven years. That’s saying something, too. We were over the moon to celebrate Michael Portantiere and Gerard Allesendrini’s new book about Forbidden Broadway with past stars of the long-running hit. Folks likeRon Bohmer (Ragtime), Nora Mae Lyng, Christina Bianco, Gina Kreizmar, Michael West, James Donegan, and Roxie Lucas all did signature numbers from the show, as well as Mr. Allesandrini himself! Bohmer, who is currently knocking ‘em dead as Father in Ragtime, did a dead-on impersonation of Robert Goulet (left). It was creepy and hilarious and perfect!
Broadway, television and movie folks like Stephanie J. Block (9 To 5),Jen Cody (On The Town), Hunter Foster (Ordinary Days), Michael Winther (33 Variations), Manu Narayan (Bombay Dreams), Jason Graae(LA’s Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks), Erich Bergen (“Gossip Girl”),Klea Blackhurst (Everything The Traffic Will Allow), Annaleen Beachy(West End Wicked), Christine Pedi (Newsical The Musical), Michael Leon Wooley (“The Princess & The Frog”), Peter Bartlett (“The Princess & The Frog”) all showed up to sing and/or watch the fun…even Village Voice columnist Michael Musto showed up to survey the Cast Party antics.
Another musical highlight was Christine Lavin’s performance of “Viva La Compagnie,” (left) in which she recruited a few dozen regulars to sing a thank you to the fabulous Birdland staff! 
If you know me, (and why shouldn’t you?) you know who Kay Thompsonis. If you don’t, she was the vocal arranger at MGM in the 40’s, coached everyone from Lena Horne to Judy Garland, had the hippest nightclub act on the planet, and wrote “Eloise.” That’s the nutshell version. Well…Sam Irvin and Michael Feinstein have put together an astonishing 3-cd 75-track collection of Kay’s material (left), and we’re celebrating it this coming Monday at Cast Party. SO many of her fans will be there to literally sing her praises, including Ruth Williamson (White Christmas), Dee Hoty (Bye Bye Birdie), John “Lypsinka” Epperson, Dori Legg and Peter Mintun. Coming to take part in the celebration will be Kay’s pals Hilary Knight(illustrator of “Eloise”), playwright Mart Crowley (Boys In The Band), Marti Stevens (MGM movies aplenty), and playright/performer Charles Busch! There will be prizes and hoopla galore – so you better come see! Holla, holla, it’s Jubilee Time, y’all!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE thatSTEPHANIE J. BLOCK will be returning to her musical home, Birdland, to kick off the holiday season with two concerts on Sunday and Monday, November 29 and 30. These concerts are part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, highlighting performers and composers from the Great White Way.
Stephanie J. Block will bring her warmth, a bubbly sense of humor and her celebrated voice to the renowned music room for the fifth time, performing a selection of holiday standards (“Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” Streisand’s “Jingle Bells?”) and seasonal favorites (“I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm,” “We Can Be Kind”) in a show called XOXO Xmas.Domenic Amendum, who musical directed Block’s recent debut CD, will lead the four-piece band. Stephanie J. Block recently starred as Judy Bernley in the Broadway production of 9 to 5: The Musical. Before that, she played the role of Elphaba in the Broadway Company of Wicked. Broadway audiences also know her for her dazzling portrayals of Grace O’Malley in The Pirate Queen and Liza Minnelli opposite Hugh Jackman in The Boy From Oz. Stephanie also starred in the First National Touring Company of Wicked as Elphaba, for which she won the 2006 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Actress. She recently celebrated the release of her debut solo album, “This Place I Know,” released by PS Classics. STEPHANIE J. BLOCK: XOXO XMAS! WHEN: Sunday, November 29 at 6:30pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $35, $50, with a $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com And....
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE RETURN Tony Award-winning actress/singer CHRISTINE EBERSOLE and Grammy Award-winning composer/pianist/singer BILLY STRITCH in A TOWN & COUNTRY CHRISTMAS from December 2 through 5 with shows at 8:30 and 11pm.
A Town & Country Christmas will celebrate the holidays with seasonal material from the duo’s past shows, plus new songs like “Tennessee Christmas” and “The Man With The Bag.” Fans have packed the yearly Christmas concert, enjoying Ebersole and Stritch’s signature tight harmonies, luxurious vocals and snappy conversation. Christine Ebersole recently starred on Broadway in Blithe Spirit, and is a two-time Tony-Award winner for Grey Gardens and 42nd Street. The New York Times called her recent performance in the dual roles of Edith Bouvier Beale and "Little" Edie Beale in Grey Gardens as, "one of the most gorgeous performances ever to grace a musical." She has also garnered universal critical acclaim for her interpretation of beloved classics and standards in nightclubs across the country. In addition to stage, Christine Ebersole has delighted audiences with roles in films such as "Tootsie" and "Amadeus," and her television career includes cast roles in “Royal Pains,” "Saturday Night Live" and "One Life to Live." Billy Stritch has arranged for, produced and performed onstage with Liza Minnelli, Christine Ebersole, Marilyn Maye and Charles Aznavour, and was guest conductor for “The Rosie O’Donnell Show.” As a composer, Stritch co-penned the 1994 Grammy Award-winning country song, “Does He Love You?,” recorded by Reba McIntire and Linda Davis, which has sold over four million copies nationwide. The song was named one of the Top Ten Country Songs of 1994. Stritch has headlined in every famed nightspot in Manhattan, including Rainbow and Stars, The Algonquin Hotel’s Oak Room, The Russian Tea Room, The Blue Note and Birdland. In Los Angeles, he’s played The Cinegrill, The Gardenia and Jazz Bakery; in London, The Ritz Hotel and Pizza On The Park. He is the winner of the Nashville Music City News Award, a BMI Song of the Year Award and four awards from the Manhattan Association of Clubs and Cabarets. CHRISTINE EBERSOLE & BILLY STRITCH: A TOWN AND COUNTRY CHRISTMAS WHEN: Monday, December 2-5 at 8:30 and 11pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $40 Side Seating, $50 Center Seating, $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com December 3, 2009
STEPHANIE J. BLOCK. This funny girl took New York City by storm from the second she blew into town eight years ago - first appearing on Broadway opposite Hugh Jackman as Liza Minnelli in The Boy From Oz, then touring the planet as that green gal in Wicked, taking that role to Broadway, then starring as The Pirate Queen, and recently appearing as Judy in the closed-too-soon 9 To 5. She made her nightclub debut a few years ago at Birdland, and has continued to dazzle her beloved Block-heads (fans) at the club ever since. Well...on Sunday and Monday nights this past week, Ms. Block brought the holiday spirit onto our stage in a big way, with a wonderful hour of music, stories and her trademark spectacular vocal fireworks. If you were there, you'll understand why we hope this is a yearly event, like the Rockefeller tree lighting! And check out the gorgeous photos that Stephen Sorokoff took (left), on our Flickr site!
At Jim Caruso’s Cast Party at Birdland on Monday night, there was an on-and-off-stage celebration for the late, great Kay Thompson’s 100th birthday. The event was built around a new 3-CD box set collection called “Think Pink! A Kay Thompson Party” that I keep hawking. Friends and fans of the former MGM vocal coach/nightclub singer/”Eloise” author gathered to sing her songs and praises. Birdland was packed with music aficionados like Michael Feinstein and Sam Irvin (co-producers of the CD set), “Eloise” illustrator Hilary Knight (autographing books!), Boys In The Bandplaywright and KT bff Mart Crowley, and performances by Ruth Williamson (left, with Billy Stritch, Clarke Thorell, Erich Bergen & mesinging backup), John “Lypsinka” Epperson, Dori Legg, Peter Mintun,Billy Stritch and Clarke Thorell. There were also performances by Broadway’s Marc Kudisch and Jeffry Denman, folk music superstarChristine Lavin, legendary composer Ervin Drake, trumpet-man Domenic Farinacci and jazz guitarist Sean Harkness. (Speaking of Kay Thompson, the CD of "Liza's At The Palace," in which I play the semi-pivotal role of Dick Williams, has been nominated for a Grammy! Holla, holla, it's Jubilee Time again!)
In case all this wasn't enough to feed our showbiz appetite, last night 2-time Tony winner Christine Ebersole and Grammy/MAC pianist/singer/arranger Billy Stritch (left) opened their week-long run of "A Town And Country Christmas" at Birdland. There aren't enough superlatives to explain this show - so you just have to come see it for yourself. Gorgeous arrangements, gorgeous vocals and the duo's smart-as-a-whip chatter make this the show to see if you want to get into the Christmas mode. There are two shows a night through Saturday - at 8:30 and 11pm.
December 10, 2009
PLEASE NOTE! The upcoming Cast Party will start at a later time this next week (December 14). Due to the (sold out!) 9pm Jason Robert Brown concert, we plan on getting the Open Mic ball rolling around 11pm. Be there!
In case the eight packed houses for last week’s Christine Ebersole/Billy Stritch shows weren’t enough to get our holiday mojo flowing, composerScott Alan (left - thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) had fans hanging from the walls on Monday night! He’s known for his wonderful songs, dazzling arrangements and filling our stage with some of the most talented singers from the Great White Way, and this time was no exception. We’re dee-lighted that he’s part of our Broadway at Birdland family, and look forward to his next concert! 
The following Cast Party started out with a bang, thanks to Scott Siegel, who guest-hosted the first hour for me. Big-time Broadway star Daniel Reichard (left, photo by Stephen Sorokoff) crooned and hawked his upcoming concert. The way funny Lea DeLaria sang, swang and scatted.Bye Bye Birdie’s Paul Pilcz showed his musical stuff, and Nicolas Kingkilled with a standard. We were so happy to meet “Ugly Betty” regularDavid Rasche, and hear his great voice and piano technique! Angela Bingham and I sickened everyone with our Donny & Marie ditty. Erich Bergen walked in Memphis. There were guitars and mandolins and violins and two cellos. And a partridge in a pear tree. All of the fun was accompanied by maestro Tedd Firth, bass-guy Steve Doyle and drum-dude Dustin Jensen. We do it all over again this coming Monday – but don’t forget that we’ll be starting at 11pm – just this one week, we promise! Be there!
Also, if you missed Liza’s At The Palace live and in person, you can catch it tonight (Thursday) in New York on New Jersey Public TV. (Channel 15 with RCN and 165 with Time Warner Cable) at 9:30pm In LA, it will be on KVCR at 6:30pm on Saturday and 8:30pm on Sunday. It’s still Jubilee Time! December 17, 2009
TWO BRENT BARRETT CONCERTS, ONE JASON ROBERT BROWN SHOW, one packed Cast Party…FIVE GOLDEN RINGS…! Wait – that’s not right. But you get the idea. It was showbiz aplenty this past week atBirdland. What a thrill to have one of Broadway’s favorite leading men singing on our stage Sunday and Monday (left - all photos by Stephen Sorokoff). Brent’s “Christmas Mornings” holiday CD is so beautiful, so it only made sense that the subsequent show of the same name was pretty great. The arrangements, players, a gorgeous duet with Lucas Steele and smart chat were all top-notch, but then there was that VOICE! I saw some actual swooning in the packed houses, which included Larry Gatlin, Julie Wilson (twice!), Karen Ziemba, David Zippell and so many more. We look forward to lots of great singing from BB in the future!
Jason Robert Brown
We added a last-minute Jason Robert Brown concert because he was in town for the holidays, and the Birdland phones lit up before we could even make the announcement! It was a sell-out in a matter of nano-seconds, so the room was buzzing even before the first note! Of course Jason didn’t disappoint (left), and brought a great solo show – although he brought two brilliant ‘belting freaks’ with him – Shoshana Bean and Tituss Burgess. (We love those two!) If you missed it – not to worry! He’ll be back for a week this spring. Just watch the Broadway at Birdland schedule!
The following Cast Party started a little later than usual – but that that didn’t inhibit some amazing talent from showing up! Two of our favorite Broadway boys, Marc Kudisch and Jeffry Denman (left) came to promote their upcoming holiday shows, “Ugly Betty” star David Rasche charmed the crowd, The Bobs showed what acapella is all about, Michael Winther(see ad below) has never been better, Edward Lovett’s group, Figgy Pudding, brought some Christmas cheer, and Elena Bennett & Fred Barton surprised us with an appearance! Designer Malan Breton torched it up, William Blake wailed, and newcomer Kelly Carey made a memorable Cast Party debut – in the best way! There were lots of regulars like Jennaand Joan and Aaron and David and Carolyn and Danielle – with Teddand Steve on piano and bass. Rocky did our lights and sound, with Gianniand the gorgeous Birdland staff making sure everything went smoothly. Who’s luckier than us?! And we do it all again this coming Monday at 9:30. Wear your holiday finery and join us for the next-to-last last Cast Party of 2009!
December 24, 2009
IT WAS A FA LA LA LA-CAST PARTY ON MONDAY NIGHT, with merry holiday performances by lots of beloved regulars, like our own Jenna Esposito (left, by Stephen Sorokoff), Janet Fanale, Aaron Weinstein,Hilary Kole, Aisha de Haas, Abby, Caroline Ohlbaum, Tony DeSare,Christine Lavin, David Rasche, Rudy Martinez, Patrick Oliver Jones,Ruby Rakos, Kristen Sargeant, and the Family Shaw (including Victoria,Carol and those fabulous Locknar Sisters)! We were happy to greet some newcomers, too, like Michael Fairbairn, Erin Boheme, Sarah DiLeo, Sam Broverman, Alegra Phemmen, and the way-beyond Gene Vieve! The Cast Party Symphony Orchestra was made up of the brilliantTedd Firth on piano, bass-genius Steve Doyle and the hippest, most subtle drummer on the face of the Earth, Dustin Jensen! We are so lucky to have these amazing musicians playing our little dog-and-pony show every week! A crazy round of applause and bravi to them!
Here's hoping that you are enjoying a wonderful, music-filled and peaceful holiday with friends and loved ones! You will find us back at Birdland on Monday, December 28, with the afore-mentioned music-makers. Bring your sheet music, accordion, tap shoes, autoharp, and fire-batons and entertain us, for Pete's sake! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE that Broadway’s AISHA DE HAAS will be making her solo concert debut at Birdland on Monday, December 28 at 7pm. This concert will be part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series.
After thrilling Broadway audiences in such shows as Rent and Caroline, Or Change, Aisha de Haas comes to Birdland singing the music that underscored her childhood. Some of her favorite standards came right off the Broadway stage and screen: included in the show will be “If I Were A Bell,” “The Man I Love,” and “The Trolly Song,” along with newer tunes like “Some Cats Know,” and “The Next Best Thing To Love.” Aisha de Haas recently performed in Road Show at the Public Theater. She was also seen on Broadway in Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me; Caroline Or Change; Rent, and Bring In Da Noise, Bring In Da Funk.Television includes “Law And Order,” “L&O: SVU,” “Third Watch” “Ed,” “The Today Show”and in the movies“Across The Universe,” “Rent,” “The Secret Lives Of Dentists” and “Marci X.”She has toured the U.S. and Europe inDreamgirls, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Little Shop Of Horrors and as a backing vocalist for Oleta Adams. Other appearances include The York Theater, The Goodman Theater, The Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Orchestra Hall, Town Hall and several performances with the Broadway Inspirational Voices. AISA DE HAAS in "JAZZER AT HEART" WHEN: Monday, December 28th at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35, with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com And after that...
Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is delighted to present The Aaron Weinstein Trio to the Broadway at Birdland concert series on Monday, January 4 at 7pm. Tony Bennett calls him “the Groucho of the violin!” Aaron Weinstein and his violin have been making waves in the jazz world since the age of sixteen, when he started touring with guitarist/singer John Pizzarelli. In his Birdland concert debut, he will perform songs from the Great American Songbook, including “Somebody Loves Me,” “Jeepers Creepers,” “I Won't Dance,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “Last Night When We Were Young” and “A Sleepin Bee.” Aaron’s very special guest will be singer Janis Siegel, of The Manhattan Transfer. Named a “rising star violinist” by Downbeat Magazine, Aaron Weinstein is quickly earned a reputation as one of the finest jazz violinists of his generation. As a featured soloist, Aaron has performed at Lincoln Center, Wolftrap for the Performing Arts, Chicago’s Orchestra Hall, the JVC Jazz Festival, Birdland, Iridium and Django Reinhardt festivals in France, Iceland and New York City. Aaron has performed and recorded with an array of jazz masters including Howard Alden, Gene Bertoncini, Al Caiola, Scott Hamilton, Dick Hyman, Les Paul, Houston Person, Bucky Pizzarelli, John Pizzarelli, Annie Ross, Warren Cache, Frank Vignola and Claude “Fiddler” Williams as well as legendary rock guitarist Jay Geils, and New York Pops founder/conductor Skitch Henderson. He’s a recent graduate of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he was awarded a full four-year talent-based scholarship. While still in high school, he founded New Trier High School’s Stephane Grappelli Tribute Trio, voted as the nation’s Best High School Instrumental Jazz Group by Downbeat Magazine. With the release of Aaron’s Arbors Records debut, “A Handful of Stars,” (called “the rebirth of the hot jazz violin” by Nat Hentoff), Aaron has become the youngest jazz musician to record as leader for this prestigious traditional jazz record label.THE AARON WEINSTEIN TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUEST JANIS SIEGEL WHEN: Monday, January 4th at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35, with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com December 31, 2009
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