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January 7, 2010 (*scroll down to read all 2010 Newspapers!)
ON MONDAY NIGHT, JAZZ VIOLINIST/COMEDIAN/PAL AARON WEINSTEIN made his New York City solo debut on the Broadway at Birdland stage. Joining Aaron were two of the most revered performers in the history of jazz vocal music: Janis Siegel from The Manhattan Transfer, and the legendary "King of Vocalese," Jon Hendricks. Each had a solo or two with Aaron and his band (Tedd Firth on piano and Steve LaSpina on bass), then everyone joined in for a thoroughly swinging "Jeepers Creepers." In the house were fans from the Broadway scene (Christine Ebersole, Klea Blackhurst, Billy Stritch, Ted Sperling), television (Zach Braff, left), folk (Christine Lavin) and film (Alan Rickman). Check out more photos by Stephen Sorokoff on the Flickrsite! There’s even a really grainy video of “Jeepers Creepers” that will blow your socks off! (Many thanks to me for the rotten footage. Someone bring a better video camera, please.) 
The following Cast Party continued it’s long tradition of entertaining the masses in style. (We’ve been at this for seven years, kids!) Lots of the afore-mentioned Aaron fans stuck around, so he just had to grace the stage again, as did cabaret types like Karen Oberlin (left), Jenna Esposito, Sue Matsuki, Barbara Porteus, Gabrielle Taryn, Doug Anderson, Jenny Lynn Stewart, Stephen McGee, Michelle Colleary andDylan Johnston. Folk-star Neal Schulman borrowed Christine Lavin’s guitar and charmed the crowd, Klea Blackhurst was her usual sparkling self, David Rasche (Mr. Sledge Hammer himself!) was witty as hell,Courtney Beebe returned after way too long, Hilary Kole was jazz-tastic,George Stella played his horn, and Kate Awesome was our very first classical pianist/mime.
Ben Cassara thought it only right to grease the palm of the Cast Party host (me) with a present, which is always encouraged, of course. That gift…the original Donny & Marie dolls! Now really, what says “Get me on stage before 4am” better than Barbie-sized replicas of America’s (still) favorite brother/sister act (in the original boxes)? Many thanks, Ben…you are always invited back! And you can sing, too!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS DELIGHTED TO WELCOME INTERNATIONAL STAR OF STAGE AND SCREEN Caroline O’Connorto the Broadway at Birdland series on January 17 at 6pm.
Hailed by the New York Post as “a major discovery for New York theatergoers,” Caroline will bring her intoxicating blend of rich vocals and bewitching tales to the Birdland stage in this rare, intimate night of unforgettable cabaret. This special evening will feature musical theatre classics by Kander and Ebb, Jerry Herman, Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein, and pay homage to some of Caroline’s inspirational ladies of song - Judy Garland, Edith Piaf, Ethel Merman and more. As Nini in Baz Luhrmann's Oscar-winning film “Moulin Rouge,” and Ethel Merman in the Cole Porter bio-pic “De-Lovely,” Caroline came to the attention of audiences all over the world. Having won accolades across three continents for her dramatic and comedic stage performances, Caroline is one of the most sought after musical theatre performers treading the boards of Broadway, the West End, the Royal Albert Hall and Sydney Opera House. Her signature stage roles include Edith Piaf in Piaf, Judy Garland in End of the Rainbow, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Anita inWest Side Story and Mabel in Mack & Mabel. Caroline has released four solo CDs and appeared on numerous cast recordings. The Girl From Oz: An Evening With Caroline O’Connor Musical Director and Arranger: Daniel Edmonds; Bass: Tom Hubbard; Sax & Woodwind: Barrie Shaw; Drums: Ray Marchica WHEN: Sunday, January 17th, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 and $40, with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com January 14, 2010
MONDAY'S CAST PARTY WAS BEYOND THE BEYOND! With extraordinary talent like Johnny Rodgers, Georgie Simon, Omer Shaish,Marissa Mulder, William Blake, David Goldman, David Rasche andGena Viev…how could we lose?! Christine Lavin (left) showed us some of the Ugliest Animals in the Universe, which was certainly a first atBirdland! We’re still laughing, if you must know. There were tons of newcomers and lots of beloved regulars, and the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen) kept everyone swinging and swaying into the wee hours…like we love it!
It’s time we celebrate two people who made it all happen! Stephen Sorokoff took this photo (left) of your convivial host with Hilary Kole andGianni Valente, and I just had to show you. It was all Hilary’s idea forCast Party to make the schlep to Birdland originally, and look how THAT’S turned out! We are incredibly indebted! And Gianni Valente, the club’s esteemed owner, has been nothing short of extraordinary to work with! The success of the Party and the Broadway at Birdland series is due in large part to his uncompromising support, and we couldn’t be prouder to call Birdland our home…for six years! Gianni and Hilary are the best, plus they look good and smell better.
Broadway at Birdland!
CAROLINE O'CONNOR'S SUNDAY, JANUARY 17 SHOW IS SOLD OUT, so we’ve added another show on Monday, January 25! See below for more details!
Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is proud to present “Wordland: A Night Without Ballads. Except For One. Maybe,” celebrating the lyrics of AMANDA YESNOWITZ at Birdland on Monday, January 18 at 7pm. This concert is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series, which highlights performers and composers from the Great White Way at the historic music room. Amanda will be joined by Broadway stars Stephanie J. Block, Chip Zien, Ann Harada, Noah Weisberg, Kate Reinders,Lauren Kennedy, Farah Alvin and Carlos Encinias. Amanda Yesnowitz was the first individual lyricist to win the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award. Her musical By The Numbers(music by Brian Feinstein) earned a Dramatists Guild Fellowship, a slot in the ASCAP Showcase, and an industry reading through TRU’s New Voices Series. Amanda penned lyrics for an adaption of Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle (music by Feinstein), produced by Ithaca’s Hangar Theatre, where local critics agreed that her ‘clever lyrics do Brecht justice.’ Other written works include Building a Wing (Best Musical at 2007 Short Sweet & Song in Sydney, music by Michael Ficocelli), The History of War (music by Deborah Abramson, book by Chip Zien), and While I Wait (music by Abramson), a new song cycle featuring “Other People’s Art,” premiered at NAMT’s 2009 Songwriter Showcase), “Another Day,” (debuted by Lea Michele) and “Gotta Start Small,” (recorded by Stephanie J. Block on her CD, This Place I Know). Regional highlights include “No Loooking Back,” performed by Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops at Symphony Hall. In March of 2009, Amanda’ds KenKen parody lyrics were quoted in Time magazine. When she isn’t rhyming, Amanda teaches full-time at NYC’s Tisch School of the Arts. WORDLAND: A Night Without Ballads. Except For One. Maybe. The Lyrics of AMANDA YESNOWITZ WHEN: Monday, January 18th at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com January 21, 2010
THE AUSSIES STORMED BIRDLAND ON SUNDAY NIGHT, AND WE COULDN'T HAVE BEEN MORE THRILLED! Theatre and movie divaCaroline O’Connor (left, with her Chicago director, Walter Bobbie) proved herself a complete corker with a marvelous show that included all her hits from Chicago, Piaf, “De-Lovely,” “Moulin Rouge” and Mack & Mabel. What a voice! What a presence! What a band! And we’re so excited to tell you that we’ve added another show – this coming Monday at 7pm! (See details below.) You just have to see what all the fuss is about with this extravaganza – Caroline O’Connor’s act is a musical theatre-lover’s dream-come-true!
On Monday, we were delighted to showcase the dazzlingly clever lyrics of one Amanda Yesnowitz, as she turned “Birdland” into “Wordland!” The smart-as-a-whip blonde bombshell (left, enjoying Lauren Kennedy, another talented blonde) brought an amazing cast to sing her songs and praises, including Chip Zien, Ann Harada, Noah Weisberg, Kate Reinders, Ms. Kennedy, Michael Winther, Farah Alvin, Carlos Encinias, Katie Clarkand Courtney Balan. Please check out the gorgeous photos that Stephen Sorokoff took of the event on our FLICKR page – are we lucky to have him recording a visual history of these nights, or what?!
I always tell you that ‘the following Cast Party was hilarious,’ don’t I? Well – for some reason, Monday’s Party was even funnier and rowdier than usual. Not only did the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Tedd Firth,Steve Doyle & Dustin Jensen) provide exemplary musicianship, but their running commentary and witty barbs proved screamingly funny, if not show-stopping! I’m telling you, this one should have been televised. Of course the guest talent on stage was pretty fantastic, too! The above Ms. O’Connor (with Daniel Edmonds) killed with “I Hate Musicals,” Kierstin Gray (with David Duggan) sang a gorgeous original tune, Sammy Goldstein did some “Namedropping,” and Phoebe Kreutz was soooo funny. William Blake (left) sang his heart out, Jamie de Roy was “50 Going On 60,” Peggy Eason sang the blues, Bradley Gale showed off his tenor talents, and Tuey Connell made his debut (and hopefully not his last) Cast Party appearance! There were great moments from Nicole Henry, Shannon Amiry, Didie Caria, Edward Lovett, David Rasche,Gena Viev, Alex Hoff, Shoshana Seid-Green, Abby, Ben Cassara, Ray Jessell, Christine Lavin (and her big book!), Jenna Esposito, Maureen Taylor, Carol Shedlin, Lodi Carr, Arden Kelly, Steve Sorokoff, Sarah Rice, Hilary Kole, David Goldman, Sara DeLeo and Phil Amarante. The whole night came to a conclusion with a killer tune by Sean Harkness, his genius jazz guitar, and the band, which folks are still buzzing about. Needless to say…a good time was had by all!
Just thought you’d like to see that we’ve really made the big-time in a suburb of London. It seems that a bar owner thought the Squigscaracature of Billy Stritch, Steve Doyle and me would be the perfect artwork to publicize his club’s weekly open-mic. And what better place to advertise than in the loo? Many, many thanks to our old pal Mark Aaron James for the photo, who almost fainted when he…looked up.
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE that Natalie Weiss will make her Birdland solo concert debut on Sunday, January 24 at 6pm. This concert is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdlandconcert series.
Although many of Natalie Weiss' performances are just a mouse-click away, audiences will now have the opportunity to see her live and in person. The concert will feature many of Natalie's Youtube hits, classic pop tunes, vocal impersonations, and songs written and accompanied by her favorite contemporary composers. Come celebrate an evening of laughter, heart, and some high belt mixing and riffing! Avenue Q's Mark Hartman will lead the five-piece band and Titus Burgess will direct. Natalie Weiss was in the ensemble and understudied Elphaba in the 2nd National Touring Company of Wicked. She has performed at venues all over New York City including Birdland, the Duplex, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre. Regional appearances include the Kennedy Center, Pittsburgh CLO, and North Shore Music Theatre. Natalie can be heard on the recordings of Scott Alan's "Keys,” Goldrich and Heisler's "Dear Edwina,” and on the BMI songbook podcast. Other collaborators include Jason Robert Brown, Andrew Lippa, John Bucchino, Jeff Blumenkrantz, Jonathan Reid Gealt, Adam Gwon, Katie Thompson, Bobby Cronin, Paul Fujimoto, Jeremy Schonfeld, Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, Michael Kooman & Chris Dimond, and Jeff Thomson & Jordan Mann. Natalie was an American Idol semi-finalist but is most well-known for her YouTube videos. Her top hits ("And I Am Telling You,” "I'm A Star,” "Quiet,” "The Spark of Creation,” and "I Believe In You And Me") have collectively reached over half a million views. NATALIE WEISS IN: "OFFLINE" WHEN: Sunday, January 24 at 6pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com 
Due to overwhelming response, Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is delighted to announce that international star of stage and screen Caroline O’Connorwill be adding another concert to her Broadway at Birdland appearance on Monday, January 25 at 7pm.
Hailed by the New York Post as “a major discovery for New York theatergoers,” Caroline will bring her intoxicating blend of rich vocals and bewitching tales to the Birdland stage in this rare, intimate night of unforgettable cabaret. This special evening will feature musical theatre classics by Kander and Ebb, Jerry Herman, Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein, and pay homage to some of Caroline’s inspirational ladies of song - Judy Garland, Edith Piaf, Ethel Merman and more. As Nini in Baz Luhrmann's Oscar-winning film “Moulin Rouge,” and Ethel Merman in the Cole Porter bio-pic “De-Lovely,” Caroline came to the attention of audiences all over the world. Having won accolades across three continents for her dramatic and comedic stage performances, Caroline is one of the most sought after musical theatre performers treading the boards of Broadway, the West End, the Royal Albert Hall and Sydney Opera House. Her signature stage roles include Edith Piaf in Piaf, Judy Garland in End of the Rainbow, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Anita inWest Side Story and Mabel in Mack & Mabel. Caroline has released four solo CDs and appeared on numerous cast recordings. The Girl From Oz: An Evening With Caroline O’Connor Musical Director and Arranger: Daniel Edmonds Bass: Tom Hubbard; Sax & Woodwind: Barrie Shaw; Drums: Ray Marchica WHEN: Monday, January 25th at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 and $40 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com January 28, 2010
NATALIE WEISS MADE AN AUSPICIOUS DEBUT AT BIRDLAND on Sunday night, that’s for sure! The place was jammed with her friends and fans, the band (led by Mark Hartman) was kicking, and of course Natalie sang her face off! There were lots of swell songs by up-and-coming songwriters, too, including Jonathan Reid Gealt, who was kind enough to take his place behind the Bosendorfer and accompany on his song! The whole night was a smash, and we look forward to Natalie’s upcoming by-popular-demand concert, on February 15! The gorgeous photo (left) of backstage primping was taken by Matthew Murphy, who is amazingly talented, too!
On Monday night, we were thrilled to have Caroline O’Connor back on our stage! Her New York debut concert the prior week was such a success, and so sold-out, that we just HAD to find another date for her! She did us proud, that Aussie Diva, and showed the show-folk just how showbiz should look! What a concert! That's Caroline (left) with her musical directorDaniel Edmonds, Taris Tyler, Marni Lewis and me. Caroline and her dazzling band all won our hearts and we can't wait for their return! Keep reading this newsletter for details - you won't want to miss them! You can also check out all the fab fotos of the evening on our Flickr page!
The following Cast Party was way fun, with many thanks to Maestro Billy Stritch. He hasn’t been with us for quite a while, so it was a real treat to hear his swinging chords and creamy vocals. Plus, nobody I know does such a horrifying Sonny Bono impression to match my gawd-awful Cher. The place was packed with singers and the people who love them, including another Australian super-talent, James Millar (left, thanks toStephen Sorokoff). Not only does he sing like a bird, but the musical drama he’s written, The Hatpin, has been making waves in Sydney and in NYC at The New York Musical Theatre Festival! The good news is that we do it all again at Cast Party this coming Monday – with Stritch, Steve Doyle on bass, and Dustin Jensen on drums. I’m excited just typing it! Come join us!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT the newly-formed band, LIMBSAKIMBO in "Court And Spark," at Birdland on Sunday, January 31st at 6pm. The concert will be part of the award-winning series Broadway at Birdland.
LIMBSAKIMBO follows up it’s summer tribute to Marvin Gaye with an exploration and reevaluation of the poetry, intellect, and mystery of Joni Mitchell. From folk to funk, jazz to soul, Joni Mitchell has reinvented and exploded musical styles, and her work inspires Limbsakimbo to continue their pursuit of stylistic freedom and adventurous music making. LIMBSAKIMBO is Lindsay Mendez, Michael Aarons, and Chris Fenwick, whose creative energy and musical restlessness marked their work together on the recent Broadway revival of Grease. The band will also be joined by Damien Bassman on drums, Mark Vanderpoel on bass, andSummer Boggess on cello. 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. Guitarist and arranger Michael Aarons has worked with Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Barry Manilow, Patti LaBelle, Paul McCartney, Luther Vandross, Michael McDonald, James Ingram, Liza Minnelli, Elton John and others. He originated the guitar chairs at Laugh Whore, High Fidelity, Grease, 9 to 5, and Memphis, where he currently plays. Michael is an arranger on the hit show, Next To Normal. 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. Currently, he can be seen as Associate Musical Director on The Addams Family. LIMBSAKIMBO WHEN: Sunday, January 31 at 6pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com 
Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is proud to present SAM HARRIS in concert on Monday, February 1 at 7pm. This concert is part of the long-runningBroadway at Birdland concert series, which highlights performers and composers from the Great White Way at the historic music room.
Broadway, television and recording star (and brand new father) SAM HARRIS, returns to Birdland for a one-night-only event, bringing his inimitable style to an eclectic array of Broadway hits, standards and pop classics. As always, Todd Schroeder will musically direct. Harris first shot into the public eye as the "Star Search" icon and has found success as a Tony-nominated Broadway star, and a multi-million selling recording artist, selling out venues all over the country, including Carnegie Hall. He has apeared on numerous television shows and series including the CBS sitcom, “The Class,” where he was touted by Liz Smith as "the comedy breakout character of the season." SAM HARRIS IN CONCERT WHEN: Monday, February 1 at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 and $40 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com February 4, 2010
HAPPY POST-GROUNDHOG DAY, EVERYBODY! I’ve been crazy busy taking down the Groundhog Tree and returning a few ill-fitting Groundhog gifts, but am finding time to write a few words about the past week atBirdland! On Sunday night, Limbsakimbo knocked our collective socks off with their Joni Mitchell tribute. This Broadway super-group made their onstage debut with an homage to Marvin Gaye last year, and killed. When I heard that this year’s show was honoring someone so…completelydifferent, my interest was piqued, to say the least. Well – the night was dazzling. Lead singer Lindsay Mendez (left, by the brilliant Matthew Murphy) has a voice that can do most anything, and she proved it. The band’s re-thinking of Mitchell gems and a few rarities was truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to hear what else they have in store for us!
Monday night started with a Big Bang! My brilliantly talented pal Sam Harris literally stormed the Birdland stage (with musical director Todd Schroeder) with his signature vocal fireworks, hilarious stories and general razzle-dazzle. The place was packed with showbiz insiders, including Oscar-winner Frank Langella, Tony-winner David Zippel, Emmy-winnerJudith Light, and two award-winning funny ladies, Julie Halston andSusie Mosier! The cutest couple on the Great White Way, Christopher Fitzgerald and Jessica Stone, were there to cheer Sam. Director and old friend Matt Lenz was in shock and awe over Sam’s talents. Even attorney-to-the-stars Mark Sendroff chose to celebrate his birthday with us! Sam…come back soon!
The following Cast Party boasted a lot of talent, too! As you can see by the cool editorial shot taken by Stephen Sorokoff (left), Billy Stritch andSteve Doyle were my partners-in-crime for the evening. We had a ball meeting and playing with some very talented performers…and other people! A standout was Caroline Amaradio – one of our very own Birdland songbirds – who stunned everyone with her operatic chops! We were also happy to celebrate the birthday of Ronnie Kroell, from TV's "Make Me A Supermodel!" Ronnie brought a table of pals who seemed to love the Cast Party singers almost as much as they adore their birthday boy! (With Fashion Week coming up, you're about to see Ronnie on every runway in town!) You just never know who or what you’re going to hear at Cast Party! Do you remember the night a gypsy band took to the stage? There was a British show choir, an opera-singing violinist who did the splits, a Comden-and-Green-singing Betty Comden...and Abby. Always Abby. If you haven’t visited us in a while, come on back! Cast Party is better and funner than ever…if funner is a word. Next Monday – join Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and I for yet another episode! (Check out our Flickr site for amazing photos by our very own Stephen Sorokoff and Matthew Murphy! And join ourFacebook Fan Page!)
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO'S CAST PARTY IS PROUD TO PRESENT television and Broadway star NICOLE PARKER in Suitcase Full of Lies, a musicale about a fictional television icon-of-sorts, Jillane Jenkins, on SUNDAY, February 7 at 6pm. This event is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series, which highlights performers and composers from the Great White Way at the historic music room.
Jillane Jenkins (played by Nicole Parker) won your heart as the irrepressible Callie Carter in the 1970's sitcom classic, "She's Got a Job!". Now, with her one-woman show, Suitcase Full of Lies, she will win your pity…and she will do it through song and dance! Called a "tour de force!" by her fourth husband, and "...(so) really ...show...(!)", by USA Today,Suitcase takes us on the journey of Jillane's career - from the height of her celebrity, to the dark secret of her father's painful struggle with eczema. If you see only one show this year about a semi-famous celebrity discussing her problems in front of an audience, make sure it's Suitcase Full of Lies! Nicole Parker returns to New York after last year’s run as Elphaba inWicked on Broadway. She also appeared on Broadway in Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me. Other theater credits include Juliet in The Second City's Romeo and Juliet Musical at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and Pamina in The Magic Flute at the Falcon Theater in Los Angeles. For six seasons, Nicole was an actress and contributing writer on Fox TV's “MadTV.” She recently appeared in Judd Apatow's third film, “Funny People.” This summer, she won a Best Actress award for her work in the short film, “Weathered,” at the Damah Film Festival in Washington. Nicole is a proud cast member of Funny or Die's "Prop 8 Musical," written by Marc Shaiman, which received a GLAAD Media Award last year. Before joining “MadTV,” she spent two years in Amsterdam as a writer and performer at Boom Chicago, an American-based sketch and improv theater. While there, she created two new revues, both of which were performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Her other European performances with Boom included Frankfurt, Cannes, London, and Zurich. She is a founding member of the Waterwell Theater, a non-profit company in New York City. With Waterwell, she performed as Laurencia in their adaptation of Fuenteovejuna, and directed an original piece, Stuck. NICOLE PARKER as Julliane Jenkins in: Suitcase Full of Lies WHEN: Sunday, February 7 at 6pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is proud to announce that for the first time in New York, singer/pianist Billy Stritch will join forces with the big band ofMichael Berkowitz, as part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series. Sixteen musicians, led by drummer Michael Berkowitz, will play the arrangements of Mel Torme, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Steve Lawrence and Frank Sinatra for the multi-talented award-winning performer, Billy Stritch. 
Billy Stritch is one of the premier singer-pianists on the New York and national jazz and cabaret scene. His most recent nightclub act “Billy Stritch sings the Mel Tormé Songbook” earned rave reviews from the New York music critics. Stritch has appeared in cabaret venues across the nation as well as concert performances at the London Palladium, NHK Hall in Tokyo and Rio de Janeiro’s Municipale Auditorium. In New York, he has performed at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall and completed 688 performances as Oscar the rehearsal pianist in the 2001 Broadway revival of 42nd Street which starred Christine Ebersole. It was in this production that Billy and Christine initially met, laying the groundwork for a happy and mutually rewarding musical collaboration. Their CD release “In Your Dreams” is available on Ghostlight Records. Billy is also a songwriter and arranger, and his composition “Does He Love You” was recorded by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis. The single reached the number one spot on the Billboard Country chart, winning a Grammy Award and selling over five million copies along the way. Billy has also written music for theater and for The Radio City Christmas Spectacular. He has arranged for many top performers and is a frequent collaborator with Liza Minnelli, having written the arrangements for Minnelli On Minnelli at the Palace Theater, Liza’s Christmas at Town Hall, and was musical supervisor and pianist for the Tony Award-winning, Liza’s At The Palace. Billy has played and sung on numerous television shows including “The Rosie O’Donnell Show,” “Oprah,” “The CBS Morning Show,” “The Today Show” and “Inside The Actor’s Studio”. He has three CDs to his credit and his latest “Jazz Live,” recorded at The Jazz Standard in New York, was recently released on Fynsworth Alley Records. 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.
Michael Berkowitz is the Music Director/Conductor for Liza Minnelli, working with her on the Tony Award Winning, Liza's At The Palace on Broadway and in concerts around the world. Michael will be seen on PBS stations all over the country as Liza's Conductor/Drummer this December, when "Liza's at the Palace" is aired. Michael is currently the Principal Pops Conductor of the Santa Rosa Symphony in Santa Rosa, Ca. Previous posts have included the Carolina Pops in Greensboro, NC and the Paducah Pops. He served as Marvin Hamlisch's Music Director for 9 years, appearing with him at the White House, the London Symphony and the Academy Awards as well as virtually every Symphony in the US. Michael also had a 13-year working relationship with arranger Nelson Riddle, as his Drummer, Assistant Conductor and Musical Contractor. Michael worked closely with Riddle on projects with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Linda Ronstadt, television specials and recordings. On Broadway, Michael has collaborated with theatre legends such as Harold Prince, Stephen Sondheim, Jule Styne, Michael Bennett, Bob Fosse, Jerome Robbins and Michael Kidd. Jerome Robbins requested Michael for the Premiere of hisWest Side Story Suite for the New York City Ballet. Michael performed this Ballet with the NYCB over 50 times, including two tours to Japan and the Kennedy Center. His recordings include the Original Cast Albums ofJerome Robbins Broadway, Liza's At The Palace, Follies with the NY Philharmonic, My Favorite Broadway, Anyone Can Whistle, Betty Buckley at Carnegie Hall, Tribute To Stephen Sondheim at Carnegie Hall, Route 66with the Cincinnati Pops and many more. In addition to Ms. Minnelli, Michael has appeared with Elaine Paige, Michael Crawford, Beyonce, Harry Connick Jr., Steve Lawrence, Helen Reddy, Jon Bon Jovi, Chuck Berry, Ringo Starr, Roger Daltrey, Hal Linden, Sting, and Billy Joel, to name a few. Symphony Orchestra appearances include The London Symphony,The New York Philharmonic, The Naples Symphony, The Lexington Symphony, The New Mexico Symphony, The Virginia Symphony, The Colorado Symphony, The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, The Symphony Orchestra of Guatemala, The Elgin Symphony, Santa Rosa Symphony, The Hartford Symphony as well as orchestras throughout Italy, France, Sweden and Germany. Michael's creative Pops programs include everything from Broadway to Hollywood, Garland to Sinatra, Motown to John Denver and the Beatles, most with the original arrangements! His acclaimed conducting technique as well as his comfortable and humorous manner on the Podium, have made him a favorite of audiences and Orchestras throughout the US and abroad.
BILLY STRITCH WITH THE MICHAEL BERKOWITZ BIG BAND WHEN: Monday, February 8 at 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 and $40 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com February 11, 2010
THIS PAST SUNDAY AND MONDAY NIGHTS, THE BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND CONCERT SERIES WAS IN FULL SWING, showcasing two completely different, yet wildly entertaining acts! On Sunday, Nicole Parker (from MAD-TV, Wicked and Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me) took on the persona of Jilane Jenkins (left), a semi-washed up sit-com star, in the faux-autobiographical "Suitcase Full of Lies." The show was completely hilarious, integrating improv with brilliantly scripted material – including a haunting ballad about…eczema.
The Birdland audience included Nicole’s old Wicked co-star Adam Fleming, as well as Brooks Ashmanskas(currently in Present Laughter), John Tartaglia (Imaginocean) and big-time TV producer/writer Alan Zweibel (SNL, Curb Your Enthusiasm). 
The following night, our own singer/pianist/arranger Billy Stritch (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) was singing and swinging with the 17-pieceMichael Berkowitz Big Band, thrilling the packed house with arrangements originally performed by Sinatra, Mel Tormé, Steve Lawrence and Dean Martin. As always, Stritch had a starry audience, which includedMichele Lee, Julie Halston, Julie Budd and Marilyn Sokol!
Jim Caruso's Cast Party followed the Stritch concert, with special surprise performances by Ricki Lake (left, in a photo by Stephen Sorokoff, sang a lovely song from They’re Playing Our Song as well as a Hairspray swinger with Carly Jibson), Lance Horn, Yair Evnine, Matt Beilis, Zach Berger,Jody Shelton, Dorothy Bishop as Sarah Palin, and 13-year old Julliard student/jazz pianist Beka Gochiashvili, who recently won the Montreaux Jazz Festival. Talk about variety! Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle portrayedThe Cast Party Symphony Orchestra with such conviction; you’da thought they WERE The Cast Party Symphony Orchestra! It all happens again next week, so be there!
February 18, 2010
NATALIE WEISS MADE A QUICK RETURN TO BIRDLAND THIS PAST WEEK, bringing back a great show of contemporary theater gems, along with some of the most hilarious and dead-on impressions we’ve heard in a long time! Ms. Weiss, along with musical director Mark Hartman (left, byStephen Sorokoff) and a top-notch band, packed the place as per usual, and had the crowd cheering and stomping for more. It didn’t hurt that she had two swell composers, Jonathan Reid Gealt and Jeff Blumenkrantz, sitting in with her on their songs. The night was a success, that’s for sure!
The following Cast Party was a veritable fol-de-rol of hoop-la. (Who writes this crap?) Zak Resnick (left) really outdid himself with a Michael Buble stunner. Anya Turner and Robert Grusecki sang their very funny “Opening,” warning us all to turn off our cell phones and pagers. Thirteen year-old Ruby Rakos joined us direct from her Billy Elliott gig to warm the crowd with “Sunny Side of the Street.” Colleen McHugh was gorgeous and hilarious. Broadway’s Michael Winther showed everyone why he’s Broadway’s Michael Winther.
Colleen Ballinger and Malynda Hale sang a very funny song from I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Our ownNatalie Douglas sang her face off as always. Phoebe Kreutz was never funnier. There were lots of regulars and a few dazzling newcomers – andTedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen were the perfect Cast Party Symphony Orchestra. I mean…what could be better than all of that?? We do it all over again this coming Monday, and we think you might should be there. February 25, 2010
HAPPY SNOW, EVERYONE! If you’re in the path of this crazy ‘snowicane,’ I hope you are safe and snug watching the white stuff come down!
The dazzling, the defiant Miranda Sings made another appearance in ourBroadway at Birdland concert series on Sunday night – absolutely killing everyone with her hilarious stories, hate mail readings and unique musical abilities! Here she is (left) with Kevin Burrows and Broadway superstar guest Christopher Sieber, who was thrilled to get some on-stage vocal coaching from the diva. Look at those happy smiles! 
The following night, songwriter Katie Thompson (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) brought an insanely talented cast of Broadway babies to sing her pop and blues-tinged theatrical songs. Those folks included Dee Roscioli(Wicked), Matt Doyle (Spring Awakening), Tom Lenk (Rock of Ages),Marriand Torres (Giant), Anne Fraser Thomas (The Grinch) and Erik Sisco (Sing What I Wanna Sing). You can check out all the photos on ourFlickr page to see all the fun and pretty faces!
Cast Party proved, once again, that it is the most extreme open mic on the planet. Where else can you hear a top-notch barbershop quartet like Voce(left) AND two performers from an Australian punk rock band called “The On Fires?” It was also great to hear the always-chic Vanessa Trouble,Terese Genecco, Marcus Simeone, Shaynee Rainbolt and the Brazilian guitar of Jeremy Bass. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, and they kept the music playing well into the wee hours. We do it all again this coming Monday! Will we see you?
Broadway at Birdland!
CELEBRATED CABARET PERFORMER Jamie deRoy presents a special evening of her Multi-MAC Award-winning variety show, Jamie de Roy & Friends on Sunday, February 28th at 6pm at the famed New York music room Birdland (315 West 44th Street) with an evening of songs from Academy Award®-winning Films.
Joining Jamie onstage will be: Grammy-winning singer Larry Gatlin,pianist/musical director John McDaniel, Terri White (Finian’s Rainbow),cellist Peter Sachon, Drama Desk Winner and four-time Tony-nomineeGregg Edelman (1776, Into the Woods, Anna Karenina, City of Angels), London’s beloved triple-threat performer Bonnie Langford (Chicago-NYC and London companies), and Drama Desk Award-nominee Christina Bianco (Newsical, Forbidden Broadway Goes to Rehab). Award-winning director Barry Kleinbort will direct and Lanny Meyers will serve as musical director. (Program subject to change.) The colorful cabaret series, which has been thrilling New York City audiences for the past 16 years and serves as the basis for deRoy's award-winning cable television show, spotlights a wide variety of well-known entertainers and newcomers lighting up the cabaret, theater, and comedy worlds. JAMIE DEROY & FRIENDS: THE OSCAR SHOW WHEN: Sunday, February 28 at 6pm 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...
Jim Caruso is proud to present Larson Award-winning songwriters Kait Kerrigan and Brian Lowdermilk in concert at Birdland on Monday, March 1 at 7pm. The event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, which showcases performers and songwriters from the Great White Way.
“Kerrigan & Lowdermilk: Under the Influence” will feature songs from a variety of Kerrigan-Lowdermilk shows, including The Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown, Tales From The Bad Years and The Woman Upstairs, as well as covers of songs that have influenced their writing. Set to star are Broadway’s Caissie Levy (Hair), Celia Keenan-Bolger(Tony Award nominee for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee),Kacie Sheik (Hair), Morgan Karr (Spring Awakening), Annaleigh Ashford(Legally Blonde, Wicked), Jenni Barber (Spelling Bee), Lisa Brescia(Wicked, Aida, Ordinary Days), Matt Doyle (Bye Bye Birdie, Spring Awakening), Katie Thompson (R.R.R.E.D.), Meghann Fahy (Next to Normal) and Jay A. Johnson (Hair), as well as popular indie musiciansVienna Teng and The Spring Standards. (Cast subject to change.) The concert will be directed by Daniel Goldstein with music direction byVadim Feichtner and is being presented by Jim Caruso’s Broadway at Birdland in partnership with Katie Riegel as part of Sh-K-Boom/Ghostlight Records’ ongoing concert series. Kait Kerrigan and Brian Lowdermilk made their Off-Broadway debut withHenry And Mudge, now on its sixth national tour. Their original musicalThe Unauthorized Autobiography of Samantha Brown had in a developmental production at the Orange County Performing Arts Center in the spring of 2009 (producers Beth Williams and Broadway Across America). Other musicals include Tales From The Bad Years(Theatreworks New Works Festival 2009), The Woman Upstairs (NYMF 2004), Wrong Number (NYMF 2005) and The Freshman Experiment. Their songs have been recorded and performed internationally including “Say the Word,” which was performed by Miss New York in the 2009 Miss America Pageant live broadcast. Their work has been developed by the ASCAP/Disney Workshop, Goodspeed New Works, La Jolla Playhouse, the Lark Theatre Company, NAMT, Perry-Mansfield New Works, Primary Stages, Theatreworks and others. Among them, Kerrigan and Lowdermilk have been awarded the 2006 Jonathan Larson Award, a 2004-2005 Dramatists Guild Fellowship, and a Richard Rodgers Award. Most recently, Kerrigan was the recipient of the 2009 Kleban Award for Most Promising Librettist. KERRIGAN & LOWDERMILK: UNDER THE INFLUENCE WHEN: Monday, March 1 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 March 4, 2010
IT WAS OSCAR NIGHT AT BIRDLAND THIS PAST SUNDAY, although I didn’t notice Joan Rivers shrieking ‘Who are you wearing?’ as the excited crowds entered the building. The occasion was Jamie deRoy’s very special Oscar Show, which celebrated Academy Award-winning songs and movies. Jamie gathered quite an award-winning crew to sing the Hollywood ditties, including John McDaniel, Peter Sachon, Terri White,Gregg Edelman, Bonnie Langford, Christina Bianco and…one of my all-time fave singers, Mr. Larry Gatlin (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff). Larry, an occasional Cast Party-er sang two songs…“I’m Easy” from “Nashville” and this year’s nominee from “Crazy Heart,” “The Weary Kind.”
He’s one of the most naturally gifted singers on the scene, with one foot in contemporary country music and one foot in good, old-fashioned showbiz – with all the appropriate schtick. Go to iTunes right now and buy his “I’ve Done Enough Dying Today,” and you’ll hear one of the purest voices on earth. Do it now. I'll wait… 
On Monday night, we were excited to have Kait Kerrigan and Brian Lowdermilk on our stage, showcasing their stupendous songbook with singers like Lisa Brescia (left, thanks to Monica Simoes), Caissie Levy,Jay A. Johnson & Kacie Sheik from Hair, Celia Keenan-Bolger (Spelling Bee), Morgan Karr (Spring Awakening), Annaleigh Ashford (Legally Blonde, Wicked), Jenni Barber (Spelling Bee), Matt Doyle (Bye Bye Birdie), Katie Thompson (R.R.R.E.D.), Meghann Fahy (Next to Normal), as well as popular indie musicians Vienna Teng and The Spring Standards.
The talent was shockingly brilliant, and we can’t wait for the next Kerrigan/Lowdermilk outing with Broadway at Birdland! Thanks toKatie Riegal at Sh-K-Boom Records for pulling the whole, gorgeous evening together! Check out more of Monica's wonderful photos on ourFlickr page! 
The following Cast Party was one of my all-time favorites! In an evening boasting world-class talent like 13-year old Juilliard genius Beka Gochiashvili, 90-something songwriter Ervin Drake (singing his hit, “It Was A Very Good Year”), Nick Dalton & Abbie Mueller (the two talented stars of Romance, Romance), my old friends The Tonics, leading man extraordinaire Charles West, and Marvelous Marilyn Maye – the grand finale was Miss Julie Wilson (left, by Sorokoff!), who closed the show with a heartfelt and perfectly poignant performance of “But Beautiful.” It doesn’t get any better than that – and the fans, friends, and tourists who made up the Cast Party audience got a rare treat and a lesson in musical simplicity. A standing ovation goes to the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen). They make everyone sound and feel like superstars. Boy, are we lucky to have them!
Broadway at Birdland!
KATE BALDWIN, THE STAR OF BROADWAY'S RECENT Finians Rainbow, will sing songs from her bestselling PS Classics release "Let's See What Happens" in concert at Birdland on Monday, March 8 at 7pm. This concert is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series, presented by Jim Caruso. Material will include “Moments Like This,” “Come Back To Me,” and “How Are Things In Glocca Morra?”
Kate Baldwin is a veteran of Broadway and national stages alike. Her starring role in the recent revival of Yip Harburg's and Burton Lane's classic musical, Finian's Rainbow has proved her to be in the same league as Broadway's finest. The New York Times says of her work, "The show's first moment of magic arrives shortly after Ms. Baldwin's Sharon McLonergan descends the hills of Missitucky. Ms. Baldwin's cool, pure soprano gently rides the crests of the undulant melody, tugging at each question in the lyric with a sensitivity that perfectly expresses the song's tender, yearning essence”. Kate’s debut album on PS Classics entitled "Let's See What Happens" features Lane and Harburg songs from both stage and feature films. Her interpretation of these melodic masterpieces has earned her the respect and praise from some of the leading names in the business. Houston Chronicle critic Everett Evans says, "One need only hear a few measures of Baldwin applying her flair, intelligence, vivacity, acting skill and vocal gift to realize that she is every bit the discovery critics claim her to be". Steven Suskin's review of her CD on Playbill.com says, "Ms. Baldwin sparkles throughout." Kate has appeared in the Broadway casts of The Full Monty, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Wonderful Town. She starred in the national tour of Irving Berlin's White Christmas, Henry V at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, She Loves Me at the Willliamstown Theatre Festival, and South Pacific at Arena Stage, earning a Helen Hayes Award nomination. Kate's concert work includes several appearances with Stephen Sondheim as a featured performer in his critically acclaimed evening, "A Conversation with Stephen Sondheim." She has appeared at the Chicago Humanities Festival, sung with the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, DC, the Portland Symphony Orchestra and with Broadway conductor Rob Fisher as part of Lincoln Center's prestigious American Songbook series. KATE BALDWIN: LET'S SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN: Monday, March 8 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 March 11, 2010
BROADWAY LEADING LADY KATE BALDWIN (left, by Stephen Sorokoff) showed off her glorious voice and superstar qualities in a ravishing Broadway at Birdland concert on Monday night. There were loads of cast members from Finian’s Rainbow in the house cheering her on, including Kevin Ligon, Steve Schepis, Leslie Flasner, and Grasan Kingsberry, and it only added to the excitement of the evening. One show highlight was a performance of “The Rhythm of Life,” from Sweet Charity, complete with Finian’s folk including Devin Richards, James Stovall andBernard Dotson. Many thanks to Kate, musical director Rob Berman and company for a magical, Glocca Mora evening!
The night continued with yet another wild, wacky and wonderful Cast Party. The legendary Chita Rivera thrilled the crowd with a quick Chita-Drive-By. As I was onstage yammering on about something or someone, the front door opened, and a razzle-dazzling Rivera ran into the room, up onto the stage – kissed me on the cheek – and ran back out. She had come from a star-studded evening celebrating composer John Kander, was walking home, and had to say hi! It just goes to prove that you never know WHO will show up at Cast Party! (And isn't that what a really good soiree is all about?) The on-stage entertainment was pretty spectacular, let me tell you.Clare Burt and Nigel Lilly came all the way from London to serenade us, a very swinging Martha Capone showed up from Rome, Trevor McQueen Eaton and John Michael Weiss made fabulous CP debuts, andMarvelous Marilyn Maye proved she was worthy of a recent New York Times rave for her Feinstein’s gig! Gregory Nalbone served us a little Billy Joel, Maia and Arrielle Fromm showed why they’re “Popular,” and Cameron Thompkins (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff - see our Flickrpage for more great Cast Party pics!) played a great sax. There were oodles of beloved regulars, many newcomers and Tedd Firth, Steve Doyleand Steve Bakunas kicked musical ass as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra. The good news is that we do it all again this coming Monday, with the extra-added fun of Mr. Billy Stritch at the piano! You’re coming, right?
If you read further, you’ll find out all about this next week’s Broadway at Birdland concerts (including Meredith Patterson and Jason Robert Brown). You can also click here to see fantastic footage of JRB, shot by our pal Ken Kleiber and hosted by Music Theatre International! Check out their MTI ShowSpace if you’re a musical theatre fan – you will have found a new cyber-home, believe me! THANKS, MTI!
Broadway at Birdland!
TONY-WINNING COMPOSER JASON ROBERT BROWN AND GORGEOUS LEADING LADY Meredith Patterson on our stage all in one week?! Read on, faithful reader!
Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is once again proud to present composerJASON ROBERT BROWN in concert for four nights on Sunday, March 14 at 7pm and Tuesday through Thursday at 7pm. These concerts are part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series, which highlights performers and composers from the Great White Way on the stage of the historic music room. Pianist, singer and Tony Award-winning composer JASON ROBERT BROWN will be featuring brand new material in addition to songs from his shows, including The Last Five Years, Songs for a New World, Parade, and 13, as well as his solo album “Wearing Someone Else’s Clothes.” This is a very rare up-close-and-personal evening with JRB – no band, no hype, just one guy at a piano sharing his art and his music. JASON ROBERT BROWN WHEN: Sunday, March 14 at 7pm and Tuesday – Thursday, March 16 – 18 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 and $40 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com And....
Broadway’s Meredith Patterson, Emmy nominated Musical Director Rob Berman, and celebrated jazz pianist Ross Patterson have all collaborated on Sweet Old Fashioned Girl, which promises to be a fresh and exciting evening of jazz standards. Drawing from childhood memories with her jazz percussionist father Bill Patterson (who studied with the great Bob Sodor), Meredith will bring together her musical theatre with and jazz roots. Sweet Old Fashioned Girl contains a 14 song set, musical directed & arranged by the Emmy nominated Rob Berman & and co-arranged by the gifted jazz pianist Ross Patterson.
Meredith Patterson has established herself as one of Broadway's most sought after triple threats. Recently, Ms. Patterson made her soap opera debut as Francesca on ABC's “All My Children,” was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary “Every Little Step,” and originated the role of Judy Haynes on Broadway in Irving Berlin's White Christmas. She made her hilarious primetime television debut as Missy Tiggs, opposite Tom Selleck & Candace Bergen on ABC’s “Boston Legal,” garnered glowing reviews as Polly Browne in The Boy Friend under the direction of the legendary Julie Andrews, and received critical acclaim in her Los Angeles theater debut starring in Steve Martin’s play The Underpants. Ms. Patterson is best known in the theater world for her amazing life imitating art story of being plucked out of the chorus to star as Peggy Sawyer in her first Broadway musical, 2001’s Tony Award winning revival of 42nd Street. MEREDITH PATTERSON in SWEET OLD FASHIONED GIRL WHEN: Monday, March 15 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 March 18, 2010
OH, PEOPLE. It was quite a week at Birdland. In case you didn’t read Page Six or see all the incredible photos on BroadwayWorldand Playbill, we celebrated Liza Minnelli’s birthday at Monday night’s Cast Party, and what a swell party it was! You can’t believe who showed up to cheer and serenade her…Michael Feinstein(who opens on Broadway tonight in All About Me), her “Cabaret” co-star Joel Grey, “Ugly Betty” star Judith Light, sax-man Dave Koz,Corbin Bleu (direct from In The Heights), author Rock Brynner, the Prince of Chintz Mario Buatta, Colleen Ballinger and her galpalMiranda Sings, Mercedes Ellington and one of the funniest woman on film, Parker Posey!
There were spectacular Liza-themed cupcakes by Rody Gonzales, and everyone got to sing “Happy Birthday” to our sequinned, bedazzled girl. Then, Liza stormed the stage (left), giving thanks to everyone by crooning “You Fascinate Me So,” along with the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, Billy Stritch, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas. 
And there were presents! I was proud to oprah some DVDs of “Liza’s At The Palace” to some lucky folks who were up on their Minnelli trivia, including Parker Posey (left) who was so excited that she joined downtown diva Lady Rizo onstage in a memorable interpretive dance! There were lots of fantastic singers taking their turn on the stage, including a bunch of musical theater students from Oklahoma City who couldn’t believe their good luck to hit an open mic on such an extraordinary occasion! Check out our FLICKR page to see for yourself!
We’ve been in absolute heaven having Jason Robert Brown, Anika Noni Rose (left) and The Caucasian Rhythm Kings (with brass)at Birdland all week! Jason, happily, is a regular in our Broadway series, but it’s been a real thrill having Anika (Tony-winner forCaroline Or Change, Lorrelle in the “Dreamgirls” movie and the voice of the Princess Tiana in Disney’s “Princess and the Frog”) with us. Their last show is tonight at 7pm, and trust me when I say you should call the club right now and snag one of the few remaining tickets!
We were also thrilled with Meredith Patterson’s gorgeous concert, “Sweet Old Fashioned Girl.” This Broadway leading lady switched gears and showed a packed house that she can swing! It was a delight to have her dad Bill on drums, too. He’s a terrific percussionist, and instilled Meredith with her love of jazz. The father/daughter teaming was a family dream-come-true, and we were a happy bunch to witness the fun!
Photo Credits: Liza, Anika and Meredith by Stephen Sorokoff, Parker by Joe Marzullo Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT JOHN EPPERSON will be in concert at Birdland on Sunday, March 21 at 6pm. This event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, showcasing stars and composers from the Great White Way.
In a rare New York appearance, John Epperson (The Artist Principally Known As Lypsinka) appears as himself – without ladies’ finery – at the piano, singing in his own voice, and sharing an anecdotal interview with host Jim Caruso. The evening promises to be a combination of a Victor Borge presentation, crossed with a whimsical “Inside The Actors Studio” discussion. Epperson will share with the audience some of his favorite songs from the worlds of theatre, movies and pop. If you miss this show, you’ll have to answer to Lypsinka! JOHN EPPERSON was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, a long way from the exciting worlds in which LYPSINKA travels: movies (Witch Hunt with Dennis Hopper, Wigstock: The Movie, Angels In America, Kinsey, Another Gay Movie, Another Gay Sequel); television (HBO specials Sandra After Dark with Sandra Bernhard, and Dragtime; George Michael’s video Too Funky, PBS’s The United States Of Poetry and special features on the Mommie Dearest and Whatever Happened To Baby Jane? DVDs); fashion (appearing in the Paris, Tokyo and Los Angeles shows of haute couture designer Thierry Mugler, modeling for Valentino, Pauline Trigere, Barneys New York, and launching lines of cosmetics for Prescriptives, MAC, and Isabella Rossellini); advertisements (The Gap, LA Eyeworks, Naya Spring Water, Ilford Film); theater including I Could Go On Lip-Synching!, The Fabulous Lypsinka Show, Lypsinka! Now It Can Be Lip-Synched, Lypsinka! A Day In The Life (New York Theater Workshop, two Drama Desk nominations, including Most Unique Theatrical Experience; revived in 1993 Off Broadway at The Cherry Lane Theate), Lypsinka! As I Lay Lip-Synching, Lypsinka Must Be Destroyed!, Lypsinka IS Harriet Craig!, Lypsinka! The Boxed Set(2001 Drama Desk nomination, Washington, D.C. Helen Hayes Award win for Outstanding Non-Resident Production / Outstanding Lead Actor nomination, wins for Los Angeles Drama Critics’ Circle Award, Best Sound Design and L.A. Weekly Theatre Award for Best Solo Performance); and special events (such as Doin’ What Comes Natur’lly, on Broadway with Bette Midler, Elaine Stritch and Patti LuPone, and London’s Meltdown Festival curated by Morrissey). Formerly a rehearsal pianist at American Ballet Theater, Mr. Epperson’s theatrical career was launched in the mid-1980s when he wrote the book, lyrics and music of Ballet Of The Dolls and Dial “M” For Model at La Mama ETC. 1999 brought Epperson’s dramatic stage debut in Messages For Gary at The New York Fringe Festival. In 2004 Mr. Epperson appeared Off Broadway in The Roaring Girlewith The Foundry Theatre. The same year he was the subject of a stage festival at DC’s Studio Theatre, which included his autobiographical piece John Epperson: Show Trash, As I Lay Lip-Synching, and his play, My Deah, the Medea tale set in The New South. Also in 2004 Epperson played The Stepmother in the New York City Opera production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’sCinderella at Lincoln Center’s New York State Theater. The play My Deah opened in an Obie Award-winning production Off Broadway in October 2006 and is now published and licensed by Samuel French. His acclaimed Off Broadway show The Passion of the Crawford, a fantasia on the personality of Joan Crawford, toured to California and Washington, D.C. Lypsinka launched the 2007 Spring collection of MAC Cosmetics centered around the Barbie doll.Epperson and Lypsinka are the subjects of an Emmy-winning television documentary for PBS. He provided the preface for the Rizzoli photo book Persona, and is the author of a new screenplayHappy Everything. Mr. Epperson has also written for The Guardian(U.K.), The New York Times, The Washington Post and Interview. The sequel to My Deah is in the works. JOHN EPPERSON IN CONCERT: An Evening with Lypsinka's Maid WHEN: Sunday, March 21 at 6pm and Tuesday WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 and $35 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com Then....
Beka Gochiashvili, the youngest winner of the Montreux Jazz Piano Competition, the first and the only student in the pre-college jazz division of the Juilliard School will perform his first New York City concert at Birdland on Monday, March 22 at 7pm.
Beka, born in Tbilisi, Georgia on March 11, 1996, was just two and a half years old when Valeri, his father told him he would give him back his pacifier if he could play some of Scott Joplin’s Ragtime tunes. Beka’s response was a sad and confused look in return. Valeri took the pacifier and went into another room to run some errands. Just minutes later, he heard the sounds of the requested tunes being played on the piano. Valeri ran back to the room, and he could not believe what was happening. Remarkably, it was Beka, who then got his pacifier back as a reward. A few months later, his rubber pacifier was quickly replaced by a much more calming toy for him, a piano. Beka was three years old when he watched Standards II by Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock and Jack DeJohnette - the video recording that triggered his devotion and passion for this sophisticated trio and their performance style. By age four, Beka was playing several piano compositions. In 2002 Valeri took him to Zurab Ramishvili, the most prominent jazz piano professor in Georgia. The child’s ability to play a few complicated jazz compositions impressed him. He advised them to enroll Beka in classical music classes at a school headed by Tengiz Chitaishvili. By age eight, Beka had won a competition at the Schwaigern Classical Music Festival in Germany, where he performed pieces by Ravel, Mozart and Handel. By age nine, Beka began jazz studies under the direction of Zurab Ramishvili. A year later, he was already playing at various jazz clubs in Tbilisi. In 2007, Beka participated in Saulkrasti Jazz Festival in Latvia where his performance skills were highly assessed by Lenny White and Victor Bailey. In the same year he played at the 10th International Festival “Georgians Play Jazz” held in the great hall of Tbilisi State Conservatory. In April 2008, the US Embassy in Tbilisi hosted two State Department sponsored cultural envoys – jazz pianist Dan Tepfer and Joel Harrison, Artistic Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Pianists Association, who performed with Beka. Both of them highly praised Beka’s unique talent. “Beka is one of the best jazz pianists I’ve heard anywhere,” said Condoleezza Rice, then Secretary of State and an accomplished pianist herself, in her remarks at the conclusion of her visit to Georgia in July 2008. By the efforts of Ms. Rice, Mr. Harrison and John Teft, former US Ambassador in Georgia, Beka and Mr. Ramishvili travelled to New York in 2008 to participate in auditions at the Juilliard School and at the Manhattan School of Music. Not surprisingly, he was accepted in both schools. In July 2009, Beka became the youngest winner of the Montreux Jazz Piano Competition, Switzerland. Numerous diplomas were awarded to Beka including diploma for participation in Georgian-German Festival for Young Musicians-Performers Tbilisi-2003, diploma for participation in a concert (Children’s Album) dedicated to 165th anniversary of Pyotr Tchaikovsky, diploma for participation in an international festival held in Germany in 2004. In 2009, the Development and Reforms Fund of Georgia awarded Beka a full scholarship for studies at the pre-college division of the Juilliard School, where he takes jazz piano classes with Frank Kimbrough and classical piano classes with Victoria Mushkatkol. Concurrently he attends the Professional Performing Arts School in New York, NY. BEKA GOCHIASHVILI WHEN: Monday, March 22 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30 with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com March 25, 2010
OH PEOPLE...we had such fun at Birdland this past week! John Epperson (left, surrounded by Mark Waldrop and pal) brought us a rather magical, unique and very special show on Sunday. The icon dropped hisLypsinka drag for the very first time and told wonderful stories and sang some charming songs, showing off his pianistic skills. If you were afraid you'd miss his lipsynching capabilities - never fear! He had the packed house in stitches with a priceless performance of recorded voice mail messages from the likes of Liza, Feinstein, Julie Newmar and Sylvia Miles. So much fun!
The following Cast Party boasted some spectacular talent, too! Jenna Esposito (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), joined us after her Feinstein’s at the Regency debut – and sang one of her favorite ditties with an Italian flair! William Blake brought an entourage direct from his Carnegie Hall debut, which I was privelaged to see! He sang his guts out, along with musical director James Sampliner. Edward Lovett crooned a tune with his guitar, Victoria Shaw gave us a sampling of her upcoming “Under The Covers” show at Birdland, TV’s Paige Davis belted out “Maybe This Time,” and Terese Genecco and Sean Harkness had the good sense to swing some Elvis! There were some newcomers and lots of beloved regulars, and the brilliant Andy Ezerin, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen kept the music playing till the wee small hours! We do it all over again this coming Monday, with Tedd Firth, Mr. Doyle and Steve Bakunas…so you better make plans to join us now!
April 1, 2010
THE SPARKLING, CONSTANTLY DELIGHTFUL AND OCCASIONALLY EFFERVESCENT Miranda Sings outdid herself on Monday night with a variety show of the first degree. Her guests included Broadway’s Jarrod Spector (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), Domenic Nolfi, and John Tartaglia, singer Sam Tsui (direct from “Oprah!”), and jazzer extraordinaireAnn Hampton Callaway!
There were several highlights, including anAvenue Q duet with Tartaglia (complete with sock puppets pulled directly from Miranda’s feet) and an on-the-spot improv song about penguins, accordions and Chicken McNuggets sung with Callaway! Click HERE to see some hilarious footage. Ms. Sings will be back on our stage on Sunday, April 25 at 6pm, with new songs, fabulous guests and some snarky critiques for all to enjoy. 
The following Cast Party was one of the most upbeat, fun crowds we’ve had in a long, long time! Either they were very easy to please, or we had some shockingly brilliant talent. You and I both know it’s the latter…with performances by Cedric Neal (left), Liz Mikel, Ilene Graff, the afore-mentioned Ms. Callaway, William Blake, Jeff Kinman & Adam Wright,Wes Hart (from West Side Story, promoting the Broadway Beauty Pageant!), Aaron Weinstein…on and on and on! The evening ended up with lots of swell singers from Dallas wailing on our stage…they sure grow them talented down there! Sometimes I leave Cast Party completely pooped. On this night, I left on a cloud…completely jazzed by all the fun we get to have week after week! Who is luckier than ME to oversee all this insanity?! Thank goodness for the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra.Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas make it look soooo easy…but a visit to any other club will show you that it’s not. These guys are the absolute top of the musical heap, and I’m so proud to share the stage with them!
As you read this, I’ll be in Los Angeles with Billy Stritch getting ready for our very first Cast Party – Hollywood-style! The Magic Castle has been kind enough to invite us to do our open-mic thing, so do it, we will! The LA Times gave us an entire page with 4 gorgeous color photos…so we sold out in record time! Stay tuned for photos and stories about our West Coast Adventure!
April 8, 2010
ARE YOU KIDDING ME WITH VICTORIA SHAW'S RECENT UNDER THE COVERS CONCERT? The multi-trillion selling singer/songwriter/producer once again brought a bevy of Nashville talent to our stage (left, byStephen Sorokoff) , telling the stories behind the famous songs they’ve written, and singing spectacularly gorgeous acoustic renditions! BetweenGary Burr, who wrote my all-time favorite Wynonna song, “To Be Loved By You,” Julie Gold, who performed a touching “From A Distance,” Mark Hudson, who did his best Steve Tyler on “Livin’ On The Edge,” and the extraordinary Bryan White who played and sang with great humor through an allergy attack - the show was a crazy hit. Of course, Ms. Shaw sang some new songs, along with her biggest hit, “The River.” We’re thrilled that she’s up for yet another ACM Award for her work on Lady Antebellum’s debut CD. The place was packed with music fans, including one Lance Bass, who knows a little something about selling records! (‘N Sync sold more than 56 million records worldwide!) The Under The Covers series has been one of our favorites for seven years, and you know Vic will make a return visit soon! Be there, or be all kinds of square!
The following Cast Party had the extra-added excitement of CNN cameras recording all the fun. (They’re doing a piece on the all-time best New York City events to catch, and we’re proud to be on the list!) The talent poured in to sing their hearts out, including Broadway’s own Tituss Burgess (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), Natalie Douglas, Aaron Weinstein,Edward Lovett, Jeremy Bass, Hilary Kole (fresh from her Tokyo Tour!),Jenny Lynn Stewart, David Goldman, and so many more regulars and a few newcomers!
The CPSO (Cast Party Symphony Orchestra for the uninitiated)…Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen…outdid themselves accompanying everyone in the most dazzling, upbeat and perky way! Good Lord, we have fun every Monday! 
In case you think we only do this stuff in Manhattan, you might want to think again. Last Thursday, Billy Stritch and I took our Cast Party-selves to Hollywood! The Magic Castle was the place to be on Thursday night, with performances by the likes of one of my favorite singers in the world,Melissa Manchester (left, by Brian Putnam), Cybill Sheperd, Joely Fisher, JoAnne Worley and some old-time regulars like Julie Garnye andErich Bergen. Matt Patton has created an amazing music room at the Castle, which heretofore was a members-only place to see magic. A bajillion thanks to Matt and his staff for hosting us with such style, to Allie Mac Kay for inviting us to perform (for 3 hours!) on the KTLA Morning Show, and Josh Getlin for the unbelievable full-page, four color-photo feature in the Sunday LA Times! The place was super-packed with talent, and they had to turn away over 100 hopefuls. They’ll get their chance on Wednesday, May 26, when Billy and I make The Great Schlep back to California to do it again!
April 15, 2010
“JULIE HALSTON IS THE FUNNIEST WOMAN ON THE PLANET." That’s what Rex Reed said, when he finally caught his breath from laughing at the Broadway and television actress. Halston’s brand new show, “The Cocktail Hour: A Reality Show,” which she debuted at Birdland on Sunday, was a complete smash – with a packed-to-the-walls sell-out crowd, brilliant new stories, a new Joan Crawford reading, and special guest star Alison Fraser. This is one reality show that SHOULD be on television. It has charm, loads of humor, and at it’s core, an actress who happens to be one of the best story-tellers of our time. Just ask smart folks like the New York Times’ Cintra Williams and actor Mike Doyle (with Julie, left), actor Peter Bartlett, playwright Charles Busch, and director Carl Andress, who all left Birdland hoarse from screaming for ‘more!’ La Halston will return!
Monday’s Scott Alan concert was a madhouse of talented folks and fans! Songwriter Alan writes wonderful pop-infused theatrical compositions, and this time, he chose some of the hottest up-and-coming Broadway boys to sing them. (There he is in the photo on the left, with “American Idol”’s RJ Helton and Broadway diva Carly Jibson - see our Flickr page for more of the fun.) It was exciting to see two leading men from the TV/theater world,Neil Patrick Harris and Gregory Harrison, both enjoying the music and the scene! We hope they make a return soon, and we know Scott Alan will be back on our stage soon!
The following Cast Party took all the great energy from Scott’s show and continued it into the wee hours of the night! With a packed house that included Broadway and tv supah-star Linda Lavin (opening in Collected Stories any minute), there were spectacular performances by Birdland Songbird Caroline Amaradio (left, by Stephen Sorokoff), Rob Langeder,Aleks Pevek, Annamarie Smith-Butz, Daniel Banks, John Thomas Oaks, Charles West, Shaina Farr, Zach Berger, Jane Schecter, and a barbershop quartet hilariously called, um, The Eight Balls. (I know.) The night ended with a completely impromptu performance of “Respect,” sung brilliantly by Jason Paige, with The Extremely Caucasian Backup Singers,Hilary Kole, Jenna Esposito, Rob Langeder and me. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas kept the music swinging, as they’ll do this coming Monday, when we expect to see YOU at Cast Party!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT BROADWAY/TELEVISION VETERAN ILENE GRAFF will be performing her concert, “First You Dream” at Birdland on Monday, April 19 at 7pm. This concert will be part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland series, showcasing performers and composers from the Great White Way.
Accompanied by her Musical Director-husband Ben Lanzarone, Graff will perform material ranging from Harold Arlen to the Beatles, the Bergmans to Sondheim, all with unique interpretations and arrangements. Ilene Graff is best known to audiences as Marsha Owens, the mom on the long running ABC comedy “Mr. Belvedere.” She made her professional Broadway debut years earlier on the musical stage in Promises Promises, the Neil Simon, Bacharach/David hit, where she understudied the leading lady and sang backups from the orchestra pit. She performed the role of Fran Kubelik in New York before starring in the National Tour. One of her biggest Broadway triumphs was creating the role of Cleo in the Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart musical comedy hit I Love My Wife, directed by Tony Award winner Gene Saks. She can be heard on the show's Original Cast Album. Other theatre credits include: Charley's Aunt with Charles Grodin, Cabaret as Sally Bowles, Annie Get Your Gun as Annie Oakley, and Over Here directed by Mr. Belvedere himself, Christopher Hewett. Ilene created the role of Donna in the world premiere of composer/arranger/producer husband Ben Lanzarone's musical, You and Me, with book and lyrics by Lloyd J. Schwartz; she won the Artistic Directors' Award of the Valley Theatre League for her performance. She had the thrill of performing the role of Mama Rose in a Los Angeles revival of Gypsy as well as entertaining Jerry Herman himself at a performance ofJerry's Girls and is very proud to have co-starred in ABC/Disney's film version of “South Pacific,” working with Glenn Close and Harry Connick, Jr. ILENE GRAFF: FIRST YOU DREAM WHEN: Monday, April 19 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 cover with $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com COMING UP: Miranda Sings! (4/25); The Marcy & Zina Show (4/26) April 22, 2010
ON MONDAY NIGHT, ILENE GRAFF MADE A DELIGHTFUL BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND DEBUT with the concert, First You Dream. Accompanied by her musical director/husband Ben Lanzarone and singing a duet with daughter Nikka Lanzarone (who thrilled us in the Vegas production of Peepshow), Graff performed songs ranging from Harold Arlen to the Beatles, the Bergmans to Sondheim, all with gorgeous interpretations and arrangements. Family, friends and fans packed the place, including Ilene's cousin Randy Graff, Joanna Gleason, composerSteve Marzullo, showbiz attorney Mark Sendroff, new Cagelle Nick Adams, Lori Tan Chinn (TV’s “Bloody Mary”) and New York fire chief Dan Daly. Daly called Ilene, "The quintessential sweetheart!" and we couldn’t agree more!
Was it the CNN-International feature on Cast Party that brought in so many folks from across the pond? We’re not sure. But it sure was fun to meet and hear so many talented foreign folks! Singers from Germany and Italy stormed the stage, along with regulars like Sarah Rice, Fortune Esposito, Ray Jessell, Baby Jane Dexter and Vanessa Trouble. We were too, too delighted to see our pal Zach James (left), who happens to be starring as “Lurch” in The Addams Family on Broadway!
Not only did he sing beautifully for us, but he let us in on just how he got his current gig! It seems that he shocked the Addams creators by singing “My Funny Valentine” several octaves lower than usual! Truly hilarious! You can see more photos by Stephen Sorokoff if you click on the FLICKR site. You can’t say we’re not a well-documented Open Mic Night, can you? Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle, Steve Bakunas and I will be back this coming Monday night to do it all over again! Join us, won’t you? 
I’m really essited to tell you that Billy Stritch and I will be bringing our Cast Party-selves back to Hollywood! That’s right, we’re returning to The Magic Castle on Wednesday, May 26 at 8pm! It seems we’ve found a West Coast home and the spooky mansion, so call 323-851-3313 x 434 if you’d like more information! Last time, the place was packed with singers like Melissa Manchester, Cybill Shepherd, JoAnne Worley and dozens more! You just never know who will show up – but we hope YOU’RE there!
April 29, 2010
MIRANDA SINGS CERTAINLY OUTDID HERSELF ON SUNDAY NIGHT, which is saying a lot. Her concert was jammed with shrieking fans, plus a few Broadway stars like Stephanie J. Block and Megan Hilty (left), who know a little something about fans. They belted together as green and pink witches in Wicked, then as harried secretaries in 9 to 5. At Miranda’s show – they were just required to laugh – and laugh they did at our quirky, lipsticked diva! Miranda’s onstage guests included Annaleigh Ashford(currently in Hair, but a Wicked-witch alum herself!), Joshua David Evans,Frankie James Grande, Ariana Grande and VOCE, a brilliant barbershop quartet who were thrilled to receive instructions on blending and vibrato control. It was all too, too silly and way too much fun. Plus, now that MAC Cosmetics is sponsoring Miranda, everyone left with a sample of her signature color! She packed five concerts for us over the past few months, and we look forward to the return of Miranda Sings with baited breath!
Speaking of packing the room, The Marcy & Zina Show proved that, once again, they have some of the most loyal fans on the planet! We were dragging chairs from the dressing room to accommodate everyone! The duo’s quirky, funny, charming and beautifully-crafted songs were sung by some extremely talented folks like TV’s Clinton Kelly (“What Not To Wear”) (left, in a photo by Stephen Sorokoff), Jill Abramovitz, Scott Coulter, Nathan Klau and Jonathan Room. It was a dazzling evening of clever lyrics, gorgeous melodies, beautiful arrangements, and spectacular voices. Who could ask for more?
The following Cast Party kept the talent mojo flowing! We were delighted to see Eve Plumb walk through the door (left - thanks to Stephen Sorokoff). A lot of us feel like she’s family, since she played Jan Brady on “The Brady Bunch” all those years. Well she can sing, too, and gave us a dry and very funny “Why Do The Wrong People Travel?” Jessica Hitchcockcame all the way from Australia to entertain us, as did composer/singerMatthew Robinson! (What IS it about those Aussies? They’re sooo talented!) Marilyn Maye showed up and serenaded my old pal Bob Mackiewith a special lyric, and both Jack Donahue and Billy Stritch gave previews of their upcoming concerts (see below)! Tedd Firth, Tom Hubbard and Steve Bakunas were on piano, bass and drums, respectively, and Saadi Zain sat in on bass occasionally. We DO have the best band in the history of open-mics…I hope you know that. Why else do the celebs (and the people who love them) flock to sing a ditty or two when they’re in town?!
May 6, 2010
JACK DONAHUE (left, from Stephen Sorokoff) sang his heart out on the Birdland stage, once again! His Sunday spectacular was a great showcase for his jazzy, vibey vocals, wonderful musicians and swinging arrangements of American standards. Plus, he’s one of the funniest guys on the jazz scene, and every word out of his mouth is a quotable quote. You may quote me.
Monday’s Billy Stritch concert (left, by Sorokoff), was a veritable mosh-pit of excitement, too. The place was packed with Stritch fans, including the newly-TONY-nominated Linda Lavin (go see her in Collected Stories!),drummiste Steve Bakunas, Erich M. Bergen and his mom Allison (AKAKrafts With Katy), stylist-to-the-stars Casey Paul, glama-diva Natalie Douglas, Sondheim on Sondheim conductor/pianist Mark Hartman, TV dude David Rasche, and iconic TV producer Gary Smith! Billy, Dave Ratajczak and David Finck put on a swell show of standards, thus the title, “I’ve Got My Standards.” Something tells me they’ll be back! 
And then came Cast Party. It was like CP All-Stars for the first two hours, that’s for sure – with performances by Marilyn Maye, Hilary Kole, Jane Scheckter, William Blake, Eve Plumb, Ray Jessell, Erich Bergen,Jenna Esposito, Joan Crowe, Caroline Amaradio, David Rasche,Jamie DeRoy, Aaron Weinstein and so many more! We were also thrilled to have Broadway’s Alex Gemignani showing off some of his compositions, sung by the hilarious and fabulous Tori Ross! It was great to see Monsieur Lionel Casseroux, too, who was our very first Cast Party presenter waaaay too many years ago! Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle andDustin Jensen were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra de la nuit, and couldn’t have made better music. We do it all over again this coming Monday. You’ll be there, right?
You have to check out the Music Theatre International site! They’re the world’s leading dramatic licensing agencies, and issue scripts, scores and all kind of great resources to schools, amateur and professional theatres across the globe. ANYway, they’ve been kind enough to start a link with our beloved Broadway at Birdland concert series, interviewing some of our most interesting and talented composers and performers from the Birdland dressing room! Look what Marcy & Zina had to say! And a huge THANK YOU to MTI! We love you!! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE that multi-award-winning singer/songwriter Patrick DeGennaro will be returning to Birdland once again to to rock the house! The concert, part of the Broadway at Birdlandseries, will take place on Monday, May 10 at 7pm.
DeGennaro’s last four Birdland appearances were sold out, high-energy smash hits! His debut concert, "The Bacharach Songbook" earned him the 2007 MAC Award for Outstanding Male Vocalist, and the following show saw the premier of his original song, “Friend,” which was nominated for a 2008 MAC nomination for Song Of The Year. Often compared to Billy Joel and Elton John for his classic pop/rock style and piano playing, DeGennaro’s vocals are in a league of their own. The singer is know for a satisfying mix of hard-edged pop/rock, gospel, funk and silky-smooth R&B. DeGennaro and his band (Alec Berlin on guitar, Randy Landau on bass, Brian Wolfe on drums, Jorgen Kjaer on keyboards, with Lonna Marie, Jen Heaney, Alisa Schiff on backup vocals) have new original songs planned, plus favorites from the newly released UNBROKEN. PATRICK DeGENNARO WHEN: Monday, May 10 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: Cover $25 or $35, plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com 
THEN...Jim Caruso is proud to announce that Broadway’s Meredith Patterson, Emmy nominated Musical Director Rob Berman, and jazz pianist Ross Patterson are returning to Birdland with their collaboration, Sweet Old Fashioned Girl. The concert is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Recently, Ms. Patterson made her soap opera debut as Francesca on ABC's “All My Children,” was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary “Every Little Step,” and originated the role of Judy Haynes on Broadway in Irving Berlin's White Christmas. She made her primetime television debut as Missy Tiggs, opposite Tom Selleck & Candace Bergen on ABC’s “Boston Legal,” garnered glowing reviews as Polly Browne in The Boy Friend under the direction of the legendary Julie Andrews, and received critical acclaim in her Los Angeles debut, The Underpants. Ms. Patterson is best known in the theater world for her amazing life imitating art story of being plucked out of the chorus to star as Peggy Sawyer in her first Broadway musical, 2001’s Tony Award winning revival of 42nd Street. MEREDITH PATTERSON: SWEET OLD FASHIONED GIRL WHEN: Sunday, May 16 at 6pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 or $35 cover plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com May 20, 2010
IT WAS A WEEK OF REALLY GORGEOUS CONCERTS FOR THE BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND SERIES! On Sunday, Meredith Pattersonbrought her jazz-infused show of standards back to our stage, tapping her way into our hearts once again! The place was packed with theater-folk who absolutely loved Meredith and her concert, “Sweet Old Fashioned Girl!” Monday night was Natalie Douglas’ tribute to Lena Horne (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff). The show had been booked for months, but the recent passing of the late, extremely great Ms. Horne made the show an extra-special evening to remember. Natalie remarked that since she’s celebrated Nina Simone, and now Lena Horne, she only sings songs by women whose first names rhyme. Gina Lollobrigida is next, and we are frozen in anticipation! Who else could there be? Sheena Easton? Tina Louise?
The following Cast Party was packed with performers and the people who love them! We sure loved Brian Nash’s insane impersonation of Stuey from “Family Guy” (left). Stuey sang…what else…Beyonce’s ”Single Ladies.” The place went wild! Come back soon, Brian! We were thrilled to see London cabaret supah-star Barb Jungr, who, along with musical director Simon Wallace, favored us with a fabulous performance.
There were lots of regulars and quite a few newcomers…just the way we like it!Andy Ezrin, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jenson were dazzling as the CP Symphony Orchestra. Next week Tedd Firth will be back at the piano with the afore-mentioned Steve/Dustin combo on bass and drums. 
I’m writing this newsletter from the swingin’ city of Austin, Texas, whereBilly Stritch and I will be hosting Cast Party tonight (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday)! The Austin Cabaret Theatre is once again home to our favorite showbiz soiree, and we can’t wait to enjoy the local talent – which abounds in this cool place. I hear rumour that some old friends from Dallas might be making the schlep to sing for us – and I can’t wait for our reunion! Next Wednesday, I’m happy to tell you that we’ll be bringing Cast Party back to The Magic Castle in Hollywood! You’re not gonna believe who will be showing up to sing for us there! It’s always a star-studded affair, and we’re so proud to be making our return visit! If you’re in NYC, Austin or LA, come join in on the fun! We can’t wait to see YOU! (Photo by Bill Westmoreland)
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT television and Broadway starNICOLE PARKER in Suitcase Full of Lies, a musicale about a fictional television icon-of-sorts, Jillane Jenkins, on Monday, May 24 at 7pm. This event is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series, which highlights performers and composers from the Great White Way at the historic music room.
Jillane Jenkins (played by Nicole Parker) won your heart as the irrepressible Callie Carter in the 1970's sitcom classic, "She's Got a Job!". Now, with her one-woman show, Suitcase Full of Lies, she will win your pity...and she will do it through song and dance! Called a "tour de force!" by her fourth husband, and "...(so) really ...show...(!)", by USA Today, Suitcase takes us on the journey of Jillane's career - from the height of her celebrity, to the dark secret of her father's painful struggle with eczema. If you see only one show this year about a semi-famous celebrity discussing her problems in front of an audience, make sure it's Suitcase Full of Lies! Nicole Parker returns to New York after last year's run as Elphaba inWicked on Broadway. She is currently appearing as Rosemary opposite Ed Asner in the Reprise Theatre Company’s LA production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying at UCLA’s Freud Playhouse, directed and choreographed by Marcia Milgrom Dodge. She also appeared on Broadway in Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me. Currently, she is preparing to appear as Rosemary in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying at Reprise in Los Angeles. Other theater credits include Juliet in The Second City's Romeo and Juliet Musical at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and Pamina in The Magic Flute at the Falcon Theater in Los Angeles. For six seasons, Nicole was an actress and contributing writer on Fox TV's "MadTV." She recently appeared in Judd Apatow's third film, "Funny People." This summer, she won a Best Actress award for her work in the short film, "Weathered," at the Damah Film Festival in Washington. Nicole is a proud cast member of Funny or Die's "Prop 8 Musical," written by Marc Shaiman, which received a GLAAD Media Award last year. Before joining "MadTV," she spent two years in Amsterdam as a writer and performer at Boom Chicago, an American-based sketch and improv theater. While there, she created two new revues, both of which were performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Her other European performances with Boom included Frankfurt, Cannes, London, and Zurich. She is a founding member of the Waterwell Theater, a non-profit company in New York City. With Waterwell, she performed as Laurencia in their adaptation of Fuenteovejuna, and directed an original piece, Stuck. NICOLE PARKER: A Suitcase Full of Lies WHEN: Monday, May 24 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 or $35 cover plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com May 27, 2010
NICOLE PARKER AS 'JILLIANE JENKINS'...was on the Birdland stage once again this past Monday. Are you kidding? This show is one of the cleverest, most hysterical things to come along the cabaret pike in many a year. ‘Jillane,’ a washed-up sit-com star desperate to make a comeback, is at once annoying and loveable in her one-woman extravaganza. She’s every single one of us, really…just trying to catch a break. Maybe that’s why it’s so compelling – we’ve all been there! ‘Jillane’ is a hack, but Nicole is a genius sketch actress, impressionist and improv artist. Perhaps you saw her as a krajillion characters on “MadTV.” Maybe you roared your way through Martin Short’s Broadway show, Fame Becomes Me – where she chewed the scenery as Ellen Degeneres, among others. You could have even seen her as ‘Elphaba,’ the mean green belting witch in Wicked. Boy, do we love having that kind of brilliance on our stage! She’ll be back!
The following Cast Party was a marvelous one. We were thrilled to see our old pal Mark Aaron James (left, photo by Stephen Sorokoff), who just moved back to our land from London, England, Europe! It was great to see him, and even better to hear his distinctive voice and fabulous guitar! His presence was a weekly treat for years and we’ve really missed him! There were dozens of newcomers strutting their musical stuff for us, and of course a bunch of beloved regulars! Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen portrayed the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, and we couldn’t have been more proud. They’re three of the best musicians on the planet Earth. What did we do to deserve them?! It’s Open Mic heaven when those guys are onstage!
I’m writing this magillah from The Magic Castle Hotel in Los Angeles, California, where Billy Stritch and I are ‘vacationing’ for a few days. Actually, last night we hosted our second-ever edition of Cast Party: Hollywood! To say that the talent was shockingly brilliant would be an understatement. It was three hours of show-stopping performances by folks like Debby Boone (left, photo by Brian Putnam), Daisy Egan,Taylor Dayne, Shoshana Bean, Sam Harris, Von Smith, Ilene Graff &Ben Lanzarone, Jason Graae, Valarie Pettiford, Ron Abel, Michael Orland, The Tonics, Sharon McKnight, Helen Slater, Anne Fraser Thomas, Tracie Thoms, Julie Garnye, Victoria Oscar, Melissa Baily,The Lovely Carol, Marvin Matthews, Brittany Beaudry, Lesli Margherita, Rachel Wolfe, and Ray Jessel, among others. The fabulous club, which usually holds 150 people, was filled to the brim with 208 talented souls and the people who love them! Many thanks to Matt Pattonand the staff for making us feel like movie stars – and it looks like we’ll be back in July. Hooray for Hollywood!
June 3, 2010
TOM WOPAT (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) IS QUITE A SWINGER. Of course you know him from his days as Luke Duke on TV’s “Dukes of Hazzard,” or from his spectacular Broadway career (including his currentSondheim On Sondheim stint), but on Monday night, he had Birdlandjumpin’ and jivin’ with a celebration of his newest recording, “Consider It Swung.” The place was packed with other TV/Broadway hyphenates likeLinda Lavin and Larry Gatlin, all of whom were blown away by Wopat’s innate sense of musicality. I mean – the guy is really brilliant. He crooned songs like “That’s Life” and “But Not For Me,” as well as more contemporary fare (Steely Dan’s “Deacon Blues” and Frishberg’s “I Would Rather Have The Blues”) with unaffected charm. Our own Tedd Firth was musical director for the evening, as well as the beautifully produced recording. Get the CD - you’ll love it.
The following Cast Party was not for the faint-of-heart. There were performances by regulars like Tony DeSare (left), Jamie deRoy, David Goldman, William Blake, Steve Sorokoff and Jenna Esposito, newcomers like Liane Marie Dobbs, Sharon Matthews, Vanessa Smith,Fredrick Levore, Cassie McIver, and Yvonne Reyes. Everyone was good, everyone was funny and everyone seemed to be at Birdland for the right reason…to share their music with an audience who loved them! Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Steve Bakunas were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, and once again, proved that not only are they the hardest working men in showbusiness, but the most talented! We do the whole thing again this coming Monday. Are you gonna show up to see what happens? This craziness has been going on for seven years, and we’ve loved every second of it!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE DYNAMIC VOCAL SUPER-GROUP, “JaLaLa” in a one-night-only concert at Birdland (315 West 44 Street, NYC) Monday, June 7 at 7pm. This event is part of the long-running concert series, Broadway at Birdland.
Janis Siegel and Laurel Massé, founding members of the vocal groupThe Manhattan Transfer, have long shared a love of the great girl groups of American pop music like the Boswell Sisters, the Ronettes, and Goldie and the Gingerbreads. They have recently joined forces with New York Voices' Lauren Kinhan to create “JaLaLa,” a vocal super-group! With the Transfer, the Voices, and Massé actively touring, it seemed that there might never be a moment when the three women would all be available at the same time to perform together…but the time has come, with this June 7 booking! "JaLaLa" (for Janis, Laurel and Lauren) recently released a CD of Johnny Mercer tunes called “That Old Mercer Magic,” through Dare Records/Ryko/WEA Distribution (a Warner Music Group Company). JALALA WHEN: Monday, June 7, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 or $35 cover plus $10 food/drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com June 10, 2010
JALALA = Janis Siegel, Laurel Masse and Lauren Kinhan…three gals who know from vocal groups. Janis has been with the Manhattan Transfer since the beginning. Laurel was part of the original Transfer. Lauren is one of the New York Voices. Happily, they have joined forces for this fabulous vocal klatch called JaLaLa. They sold-out Birdland on Monday night, showing off with their signature harmonies and gorgeous solo vocals, but a dazzling highlight came during the encore. The trio had planned a re-interpretation of the Lambert, Hendricks & Ross masterpiece, “It’s Sand, Man,” but Janis had spied the song’s creater and King of Vocalese, Mr. Jon Hendricks, sneak into the club to catch the act. They invited him onstage (left) to add some extra-special hip to the scene, making it one of the more historic moments we’ve witnessed! Thanks, Ja, La, and La for an amazing night!
We have no idea why the following Cast Party had a line of about a hundred people waiting to join us for the first hour! It was very ‘behind the velvet ropes.’ But each person who came into Birdland was privy to one of the most unique and eccentric evenings we’ve been part of for a long, long time! We were so thrilled to celebrate Christine Lavin’s brand new book,Cold Pizza For Breakfast…A Mem-Wha?? She took to the stage to perform a reading from the in-depth chapter about Cast Party, then in true Christine fashion, surprised everyone in the room with their own copy of the book! It was one of the more Oprah-type moments in our history! A brigade of Cast Party regulars doled out stacks of books to the excited group, then Christine performed “It’s A Good Thing He Can’t Read My Mind” with the hilarious Don White. We were delighted to witness 92-year old composerErvin Drake sing his mega-hit “It Was A Very Good Year,” with some updated lyrics. Tony-nominee (be watching this Sunday!) Linda Lavintreated us all to a swingin’ “Deed I Do,” and announced her upcoming October 11 Birdland concert with Billy Stritch. Then, a teen-aged Ai Kago, a Japanese pop superstar, showed up with a film crew and a few crazed groupies in tow, so that she could show off her new jazz chops at the Jazz Corner of the World!
Then…Rudi Macaggi happened. This ‘one-man circus’ came to us via Milan, Italy. His mind-blowing handbalancing acrobatics (with gorgeous partner, Lea McGowan, left) and stand-up schtick is all the rage at The Slipper Room downtown, so we were thrilled he ventured uptown for a visit. It’s the first time Cirque de Soleil and Birdland have ever been mistaken for each other, and we couldn’t have been happier! Everyone was blown away, including one Betty Buckley, who was taking in the scene for the first time. By the way, she told us that in between performances in the Off-Broadway hit comedy, White’s Lies, she’s offering her celebrated “Song and Monologue Interpretation Workshop” to participants on June 29 – July 2 at The Jason Bennett Actor’s Workshop here in NYC. I can’t imagine a more spectacular teacher – and hope that you’ll call 212-777-7603 to sign up for these four sessions of her theatrical wisdom!
Two great highlights to share with you this week. First, check out this amazing new Cabaret Blog all the way from Australia! MANY THANKS toMatthew Carey for including Cast Party! Please subscribe to this...he's doing amazing work! Then, watch our smashing new video reel - thanks to the prodigious skills of Jill Sapenoff! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE RETURN of Tony Award-winning actress/singer CHRISTINE EBERSOLE in concert on Monday, June 21 at 7pm. This evening is a continuation of the award-winning series, Broadway at Birdland. Ebersole has just announced that jazz violin virtuoso Aaron Weinstein will be joining the show as special guest.
In this outing, called “Garage Band Fantasy,” Ms. Ebersole joins forces with musical director/pianist Bette Sussman (Bette Midler/8 years, Whitney Houston/11 years) to celebrate and re-live her favorite pop songs of all time, composed by female composers and/or covered by girl groups of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. With an all-star band that includes Wilbur Bascomb on bass, Clint DeGannon on drums, Larry Saltzman on guitar and Tabitha Fair on background vocals, the evening is sure to rock the socks off of Christine's Broadway fans, yet still employ Ebersole's vast talents as an actor/singer. Songs to be included: “Up On The Roof,” “Gonna Take A Miracle,” “I Know You By Heart,” Dolly Parton’s “The Grass Is Blue,” and Bonnie Raitt’s “Home.” This is the second "Garage Band Fantasy" the company will perform at Birdland; the first took place at Birdland in front of a sold-out house in May of 2009. Christine Ebersole most recently starred on Broadway in Blithe Spirit, and is a two-time Tony-Award winner for Grey Gardens and 42nd Street. She has also garnered universal critical acclaim for her interpretatiosn of beloved classics and standards in nightclubs. 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." 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 "Saturday Night Live" and "One Life to Live." Named a “rising star violinist” by Downbeat Magazine, Aaron Weinstein is quickly earning a reputation as one of the finest jazz violinists of his generation. As a featured soloist, Aaron has performed at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Wolftrap Center for the Performing Arts, Chicago's Orchestra Hall, the JVC Jazz Festival, Blue Note, Iridium, Birdland, and at music festivals in France, England, Iceland, Switzerland, Israel, and China. Aaron has performed and recorded with an array of music icons including: Les Paul, Skitch Henderson, Bucky Pizzarelli, John Pizzarelli, Annie Ross, and Dick Hyaman. He is a recent graduate of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where he was awarded a full four-year talent-based scholarship. With the release of Aaron’s Arbors Records debut, “A Handful of Stars,” (called “the rebirth of the hot jazz violin” by famed journalist, Nat Hentoff) Aaron has become the youngest jazz musician to have recorded as leader for this prestigious traditional jazz record label. Aaron’s latest Arbors Records release is a duo with John Pizzarelli titled "Blue Too." For this special one-night-only engagement, Christine Ebersole will be joined by Emmy award-winning composer/singer/songwriter/producer/pianist and musical director Bette Sussman. Sussman has worked with artists such as Whitney Houston, Tim Curry, Aretha Franklin, and many more. She most recently musical directed “The Showgirl Must Go On,” Bette Midler's extravaganza at the 4200-seat Coliseum at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. CHRISTINE EBERSOLE: GARAGE BAND FANTASY WHEN: Monday, June 21, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $40 General Admission, $50 Premium/$10 food/drink RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com June 17, 2010
OH, HOW WE LOVE CHRISTINE EBERSOLE. Every time she returns to the Broadway at Birdland stage, we adore her just a little bit more, too. Her concert on Monday was a reprise of last year’s spectacular “Garage Band Fantasy,” in which she recalls her fave music growing up – all written by some of the most prolific female songwriters in the business, including Carly Simon, Joni Mitchell, and Bonnie Raitt. Bette Sussman returned as Christine’s musical director for the event, along with an extraordinary band and Tabitha Fair on backup vocals. Aaron Weinstein made a few appearances with his swinging violin, too. It was all way too good, and we promise you they’ll all be back again, and soon. As you can see (left), Christine’s bff Rosie O’Donnell showed up to cheer, along with actressNatasha Lyonne! Thanks to Stephen Sorokoff, as always, for the great photos. You can click on our FLICKR site to see more!
The following Cast Party was a continuation of the fun! We were stunned and awed by “Die Roten Punkte” (which means “The Red Dots” in German), the cult-hit music and comedy show that stars a dysfunctional German sibling act! They sang. They danced (left). They played a cowbell. They’re currently enjoying a successful run at the Barrow Street Theater, and we’re pretty sure you better go see them, because there’s nothing in the world quite like “Die Roten Punkte!”
We were also dee-lighted to see our old pal…you know him, you love him, you can’t live without him – Mr. Paul Shaffer (left). He sang a rock and roll classic, then accompanied his pal Susan Collins, who blew us away with her bluesy chops! Young composer Tucker Caploe sang one of his tunes, delighting everyone (including a few tables of groupies)! Former “Seinfeld” writer and story editor Tom Leopold did a great original piece, Mark Aaron James sang a new tune that was inspired by the Cast Party-ers called, “And Other People,” Charlie Puth made a long-awaited return, and Randi Driscoll & Noah Heldman showed why they’re one of the top college concert draws in the country. Do I even need to tell you that the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra was dazzling, as usual? No, I didn’t think so. We do it all again this coming Monday, and you just better be there!
July 1, 2010
DEAREST READERS! It’s Thursday, and you know what that means…another Cast Party Newsletter has found it’s way into your mailbox! What a week of fabulous entertainment! Monday’s Broadway at Birdland concert featured the debut concert appearance of Dee Roscioli, who has, of late, been greening up as Elphaba in Wicked on the Broadway stage.
We were thrilled to see her pas vert, (which is French for ‘not green’), and singing her gorgeous head off for a slew of fans, friends and family! Stephen Sorokoff outdid himself taking photos of Dee, and we’re pretty sure you should check out FLICKR site to see more. The show was so fun, with a very special appearance by Wicked’s Glinda, Erin Mackey. We look forward to many more decidedly Dee evenings! 
The following Cast Party was yet another varied, talent-filled soiree! One of the young and dazzling stars of Billy Elliott, Ruby Rakos, sang and re-enacted her pose currently gracing busses all over town! (left, thanks toStephen Sorokoff). Linda Lavin sang, swang and scatted along with 15-year old violinist Jonathan Russell and the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra (Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle & Steve Bakunas). There were divas aplenty, too, as Carrie Jackson, Shana Farr, Malou Vouvoir, Caroline Morgan, Jamie DeRoy, Christina Bianco, Liz O’Donnell, and Cynthia Holiday joined divos Mark Aaron James, Laurent Pernod, a newly shornRob Langeder, JP Hartman, and many, many other beloved regulars and newcomers! Many thanks to EVERYONE who performed, watched and clapped! We do it all over again this coming Monday…will you be there? I will!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT "SINGIN' IN THE SHOWER: Songs from Behind the Bathroom Door," starring Diana DeGarmo,Miranda Sings, Travis Nesbitt, Kenny Holcomb, Elizabeth Jones,Jessalyn Gliebe, Jermaine Miles and hosted by Bradley d. Gale. This event is part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
"Singin' in the Shower” is a behind-the-scenes look into the one place where stage fright doesn't exist and clothing isn't required. Join us as we pull the shower curtain back to reveal the stage where today's entertainers debuted their talents: The Shower. Broadway, television, nightlife and the internet's past, present and future stars will align for one night only to sport their best bathroom attire and sing their favorite shower show tunes all to raise money for the Nashville Flood relief effort. Hosted by professional bathtub belter and dinnertainment's Bradley d. Gale, “Songs from Behind the Bathroom Door” will feature Broadway and “American Idol” alumna Diana DeGarmo, internet sensation Miranda Sings, Altar Boyz’ Travis Nesbitt, Nightlife'sKenny Holcomb, Elizabeth Jones from "The Most Interesting Show in the World,” Jessalyn Gliebe, and Jermaine Miles. Musical direction by Carnegie Mellon's Dan Radzikowski. SINGIN' IN THE SHOWER WHEN: Monday, July 5, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com COMING UP: Annaleigh Ashford (July 12), Amanda Green & Friends(July 19), Rebecca Spencer & Philip Fortenberry (July 26). July 8, 2010
HAPPY POST-INDEPENDENCE DAY, EVERYONE! Hope you enjoyed a firework or two, and aren’t melting in the swealter-fest! This past Monday was a hot night at Birdland, as always. The Broadway series featured a hilarious and musically superb evening called “Singin’ In The Shower,” and cast members sang their favorite tunes in full bath-gear, which included towels, robes and a rubber ducky or two! That’s Diana DeGarmo (left, thanks to Jill Sapenoff), who you know from “American Idol,” the cast ofHair and Hairspray! She, along with a fabulous cast, helped raise a lot of money and awareness for victims of the Nashville flood. Many thanks toBradley d. Gale for bringing us such a fun event!
The following Cast Party showcased an embarassment of talented riches! Our young super-violinist, Jonathan Russell, brought in his pal Nat Wolff, who is one-half of the “Naked Brothers Band,” formerly on the Nickolodeon Network, and currently headlining all over the place. Not only did they perform “Violin Boy” together, but each dude performed solo for the sold-out crowd. It was great to see Nat’s parents, the crazily-talented actress Polly Draper and the swingin’ jazz pianist Michael Wolff. I’ve known them for years – and remember when Nat and his brother Alex were crawling around. Who knew they were future superstars?!
The Party was loaded with amazing singers, including my old Dallas palsMollie Welch (left, by Jill Sapenoff), Donna Bullock, Lindsay Holloway, and Cayman Mitchell, Carrie Jackson and Gil Benson, Alexa Aron,Sarah Rice, Samia Mounts, Leah Finnie and Harmony Keeney. There were, as always, lots of beloved regulars and some spectacular newcomers. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen kicked all kinds of ass as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, as usual. We do the whole thing again this coming Monday. Dust off your upbeat ditties and join us! And...did you see the great New York Times piece about where performers hang out in their off-hours? Erik Pieppenberg wrote some great stuff about Cast Party, and included 11 (eleven!) gorgeous photos from the Cast Party archives! Thanks, Erik, and thanks, as always, to Stephen Sorokoff and Mark Rupp for the photos! Click HERE to read all about it! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS DELIGHTED TO ANNOUCE the return of ANNALEIGH ASHFORD to the stage of Birdland on Monday, July 12 at 7pm. This event is part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series. Musical director and arranger for the show will be JAMES SAMPLINER. Fresh from her Broadway run of Hair, Annaleigh Ashford returns to Birdland, after her previous sold out performance. With the musical magic of James Sampliner, she will story-tell through popular classics by everyone from Doris Day to Janis Joplin. With an emphasis on the sounds of the 60’s and 70’s, Ashford and Sampliner will pay homage to songs like “Mona Lisa’s and Mad Hatters”, “Beautiful”, “When I’m 64”, and many more. Annaleigh Ashford is best known for her work on Broadway: Legally Blonde; The Musical - original cast (Margot), Wicked (Glinda), and Hair(Jeannie); Chicago: Wicked (Glinda); Workshops/Readings: Bring It On(Campbell), Banana Shpeel: Cirque du Soleil, Catch Me If You Can(Brenda), Pal Joey, Black Suits (Megan), MCC. National tour: Wicked(Glinda u/s). New York: Feeling Electric (Natalie), New York Musical Theatre Festival ’05. Feature Films: “Sex & the City,” “Rachel Getting Married.” Television: “Law & Order,” “Legally Blonde; The Musical” on MTV. Annaleigh is a graduate of Marymount Manhattan College. James Sampliners' Broadway credits include The Wedding Singer, Brooklyn: The Musical, Never Gonna Dance. Off-B’way: The Mistress Cycle (NYMF), Ghetto Superstar (music supervisor/orchestrator), Radiant Baby (NYSF). Williamstown: Cabaret & Main, The Threepenny Opera, Where’s Charley?, Tonight at 8:30, Quark Victory, The Mistress Cycle, and the late-night cabaret series. Regional credits include Mixed Company(NYS&F), Most Wanted (Sundance) Ghetto Superstar (City Theater, Pittsburgh). Recordings include The Wedding Singer, Brooklyn: The Musical: Live!, Billy Porter : At the Corner of Broadway and Soul. As an arranger and co-writer, he has co-written a new African-American revue of Stephen Sondheim’s music entitled Being Alive with Mr. Porter that has had two productions in Westport and Philadelphia. The two then worked on an all African-American revue of Richard Rodgers’ material entitled The Soul Of Rodgers for the Reprise Theater Company in Los Angeles. Today, Mr. Sampliner is now the music supervisor of the national tour of Legally Blonde and works regularly with Mr. Porter, Shoshana Bean and other theater performers. Mr. Sampliner will be next seen in Atlanta’s Alliance Theater conducting and playing for the new production of Twist directed and choreographed by the legendary Debbie Allen. ANNALEIGH ASHFORD WHEN: Monday, July 12, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25, $35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com COMING UP: Amanda Green & Friends (July 19), Rebecca Spencer & Philip Fortenberry (July 26). July 15, 2010
I'M GONNA SAY IT. Annaleigh Ashford is one of our favorites. We met her when she was a shy college girl trying out some material at Cast Party. In what seemed like seconds, she was starring in some of the biggest, splashiest Broadway shows in history, with a slew of fans desperate to cheer her every word and movement. We agree with those folks – Annaleigh is pretty special, as evidenced by her Monday Broadway at Birdland concert. Armed with musical director James Sampliner and director Craig Jessup (left, by Stephen Sorokoff), she put together a show of magical material, unique arrangements and wonderful stories. It’s thrilling to watch someone so talented and deserving have success in the biz of show, and we can’t wait for the next time! (Check out PLAYBILL for some gorgeous photos of the show, thanks to Krissie Fullerton, as well as BROADWAYWORLD.com, thanks to the lens of Mr. Sorokoff!)
The following Cast Party (how many times have I started this second paragraph with that phrase?) continued the magical mojo with a cast of thousands! At least it seemed that way…the place was packed to the rafters with talented people and their fans! The First Lady of the British Musical Theatre, Elaine Paige, surprised us, wanting to see what all the fuss was about! She was greeted by her number one fan and former Village People cowboy, Randy Jones (left, thanks to Derek Storm). That’s a duo you won’t see every day! They both cheered and stomped for performers like Billy Elliott’s Ruby Rakos, “Naked Brothers Band” memberNat Wolff, extremely young jazz violinist Jonathan Russell, Miss Christine Lavin (who gave away her brand new biography to a lucky trivia winner who happened to be the afore-mentioned Ms. Paige), Croonsuperstar Todd Murray, the very funny Colleen McHugh, and the swingin’Zak Resnick. There were newcomers, too, like Neil Shulman, Dave Tull, and Chris Zurich, among many others. We were delighted, as always, to spy artist extraordinaire Robert Richards, Colleen “Miranda Sings” Ballinger and Broadway leading man Douglas Sills cast party-ing into the night and enjoying the fun. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensenwere on hand as The Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, so you know the music was smooth, sassy and swingin’! Next week, we’re happy to announce that Andy Ezrin will be at the piano, along with the Misters Doyle and Jensen. You better be there!
Did we tell you about the very fresh and exciting new blog, Cabaret Confidential? Check it out! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE RETURN OF AWARD-WINNING Broadway songwriter/performer AMANDA GREEN back to theBroadway at Birdland concert series. The event will take place on Monday, July 19 at 7pm at Birdland (315 West 44 Street, NYC).
Award-wining Broadway Songwriter/Performer AMANDA GREEN and Broadway stars JENN COLELLA, ANN HARADA, ANDY KARL andHOWARD MCGILLIN will perform an evening of Green’s witty, wise and hilarious songs, backed by an awesome band of Broadway musicians, led by MATT GALLAGHER. Amanda wrote the lyrics for High Fidelity on Broadway, and is currently co-writing lyrics for Bring It On, collaborating with TOM KITT and LIN MANUEL MIRANDA, and the score for Hands On A Hardbody, collaborating with DOUG WRIGHT. She is also writing songs with TREY ANASTASIO for his bands PHISH and TAB. The concert will feature songs from Amanda’s exciting new projects, as well as one or two old favorites. “I laughed so hard I thought I’d split a rib.” – Terry Teachout, THE WALL STREET JOURNAL AMANDA GREEN & FRIENDS WHEN: Monday, July 19, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30, $40 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com COMING UP: Rebecca Spencer & Philip Fortenberry (July 26). July 22, 2010
AMANDA GREEN & FRIENDS. This ever-changing revue been a constant in the Broadway at Birdland series for six years now, which is a little hard to believe, considering the young Ms. Green is but a babe in the woods. But few composer/performer types make puttin’ on a show look easier than Amanda, and this past Monday’s concert was no exception. With a cast of Broadway dazzlers like Jenn Colella, Ann Harada, Andy Karl andHoward McGillin, she almost couldn’t go wrong. But the combination of her briliant lyrics and the stunning performances made it yet another night to remember. The sold-out house got a very special surprise when Trey Anastasio, (left, with Amanda, thanks to Joe Marzullo/Playbill.com) who is rock ‘n roll royalty and a new Amanda-collaborator stormed the stage to sing and play his historically-spectacular guitar! The crowd, as you might guess, went bonkers!
The following Cast Party was swell, too! Our Tony-nominated palStephanie D’Abruzzo (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff!) jumped to the stage to sing a Funny Girl staple, which delighted us all! Victoria Shawsang her trajillion-selling Garth Brooks hit, “The River,” her two talented girls, Ava and Ruby Locknar killed with wonderful songs, and a newcomer named Katie Smith blew us all away with her big, bluesy wailing! There were tons of newcomers and lots of extremely-beloved regulars! Andy Ezrin, Saadi Zain/Steve Doyle and Dustin Jensen kept the music swinging into the wee hours!
Tonight, Billy Stritch and I are bringing our je ne sais quois to The Magic Castle in Hollywood! Cast Party has taken off in a big way here, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! You just won’t believe who will be joining us on stage! If you’re in town, call the Castle at 323-851-3313 x 434! Broadway at Birdland!JIM CARUSO IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE BIRDLAND DEBUT ofRebecca Spencer and Philip Fortenberry on Monday, July 26 at 7pm. This event will be part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Rebecca Spencer & Philip Fortenberry perform as solo artists and as a duo with symphonies and in major concert hall and performing arts center engagements nationally. Each performer has Broadway, Las Vegas and Hollywood credits, and their collaboration is a magical exchange that stimulates the mind and enriches the soul. In their Birdland debut, these two remarkable artists will perform music by Keith Thompson (Kooky Tunes), highlights from their award-winning CD, “Wide Awake and Dreaming,’ and their other celebrated CD collaboration entitled, “Fair Warning.” 
Rebecca Spencer recently co-starred in Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular, where she created the role of Madame Giry in the new $35 million dollar production under the direction of Harold Prince. She is an original Broadway cast member of Jekyll and Hyde, in which she played the principal roles of Lady Beaconsfield and Guenivere. Her additional performances in the role of Emma Carew completed a circle that had begun eight years earlier when she created the role at the 1990 Alley Theatre world premiere. She was also in the final Toronto workshop ofRagtime, directed by Frank Galati, and can be heard on the first cast recording. In New York, Rebecca has been featured at Lyrics and Lyricists and as well as the Ira Gershwin Centennial at Carnegie Hall, recorded for PBS, and marked her fifth ENCORES! concert at the City Center in March of 2004. She was featured at the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s 2004 and 2005 NYC Cabaret Conventions and is a 2004 Bistro Award Winner.
Philip Fortenberry has numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway shows to his credit and can be heard playing on several original Broadway Cast recordings. In addition, he has recorded nine solo albums, including his most recent solo recording entitled “Broadway My Way” which is now available online and in music stores. Philip holds a Master of Music degree in classical piano performance, and has performed in concert nationwide at prestigious venues from Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center to the White House. Philip is the featured Artist-in-Residence at the Liberace Museum’s Cabaret Showroom in Las Vegas, where he regularly performs his critically acclaimed one-man show, Liberace and Me. In addition to his concert and recording career, Philip is currently the associate conductor for the Las Vegas production of the hit musical, Jersey Boys.
REBECCA SPENCER & PHILIP FORTENBERRY WHEN: Monday, July 26, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com July 29, 2010
BILLY STRITCH AND I HAD THE BEST TIME HOSTING CAST PARTY: HOLLYWOOD last week at The Magic Castle! You just can’t believe who shows up to warble with us! We were thrilled, thrilled, thrilled to seeMelissa Manchester and her talented daughter, Hannah, Sally Kellerman, Cybill Shepherd, Tony winners Daisy Eagan and John Lloyd Young, Michael Feinstein, Chad Doreck, Miranda Sings, 80’s pop divaTiffany, along with NY pals Julie Garnyé, Erich Bergen, Ray Jessell,Bernardo DePaulo, Ilene Graff, The Tonics, some dazzling newcomers like Lindon Warren, Ali Handal, Griffith Frank, Three Men & A Baby Grand, Wayne & Brenda and a magician named Andrew Goldenhersh, who did things with straightjackets and chickens that you can’t imagine! Looks like our next appearance at The Castle will be October 6th and 7th. Please join us if you’re in the neighborhood!
Monday’s Rebecca Spencer/Phillip Fortenberry concert was absolutely divine – gorgeous singing, lovely stories and spectacular pianistic showmanship! Lots of folks stuck around for one of the all-time most hilarious Cast Partys – which had an emphasis on talented kids, for some reason! Between Jonathan Russell and his violin, Rocco Fiorentino at the piano, and Marie Pruitt, Ruby & Ava Locknar singing and cracking wise, the under-16 crowd was kicking all kinds of open-mic butt. Also, the young-but-not-AS-young Henry Koperski (left) killed with his accordian…who knew it could sound that hip?! We elderly folk were pretty good, too, as evidenced by performances by the wonderful Julie Reyburn, Sam Port, Sue Matsuki, Kyle Husledt, Meredith Fryrear, Joan Crowe, Greg Generette, JP Hartman and the Celine Dion of Birdland, Christina Bianco! Of course, some of our fave regulars were there, too, along with some freakishly talented newcomers. Tedd Firth, Steve Doyle andDustin Jensen were terrific, as always, as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra. Jeez – it’s fun doing what we do!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE RETURN OF BROADWAY'S Cady Huffman to the Birdland stage on Monday, August 2 at 7pm in “The Tree Of Life.” This event will be part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Cady Huffman (Tony winner for The Producers), along with renowned saxophonist Michael Hashim, celebrate, challenge and sometimes twist into oblivion traditional jazz with their musical collaboration, “The Tree Of Life” is a tribute to the loves, lives and losses that have shaped their love of music. Joining Huffman and Hashim on stage will be Ed MacCeachenon guitar, Kelly Freisen on bass and Willard Dyson on drums. In 2001, Cady played the role of Ulla in the Broadway musical TheProducers, and received the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical. She later appeared as herself in several guest spots on the television show “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Ms. Huffman made her film debut in the 1992 film “Hero” which stars Dustin Hoffman, Geena Davis, and Andy Garcia. She was seen in the 2005 film “Romance & Cigarettes” starring James Gandolfini, Susan Sarandon, Christopher Walken, Kate Winslet, and Mandy Moore, and was seen as Dr. Paige Miller on “One Life to Live.” CADY HUFFMAN: THE TREE OF LIFE WHEN: Monday, August 2, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25/$35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com August 5, 2010
CADY HUFFMAN'S BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND CONCERT was a jazzy, swingin’ seventy-five minutes of pure fun! The place was packed with family, friends, and fanatical accolytes of the Tony-winning Ms. H, and she gifted them all with a unique and varied song list backed up by a swell band that included Michael Hashim, Ed MacCeachen, Kelly Freisen andWillard Dyson. Check out all the gorgeous photos by Stephen Sorokoffthat ended up on BroadwayWorld.com!
The following Cast Party was jammed to the rafters, too. Our LA rocker-chick friend, Ali Handal (left), sang a powerful “Woman In The Moon,’ byPaul Williams, that had everyone stomping and screaming! The Ben Daniels Band gave us a taste of their upcoming concert at The Living Room, adding to the pop/rock/folk vibe of the night! We were delighted to see the return of Lady Rizo, a brilliant performance on violin, piano AND vocal by David Shenton, TV’s Paige Davis and her Broadway hubbyPatrick Page, Michael Garin & Mardie Millet, and our new fave accordianist/humorist, Henry Koperski! Does that sound varied enough for you? It was fun to celebrate our pal Stuart Moulton and the 10th Anniversary of his Austin Cabaret Theatre, too! Tedd Firth, Steve Doyleand Dustin Jensen have never been better as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra – and they’ll be doing the same thing next week! You’ll be joining them, right?
August 12, 2010
GENTLE NEWSLETTER READERS -
A week ago today, I underwent some minor surgery. OK...it was open-heart surgery, but who’s counting? For quite some time, I have been happily co-habitating with a mitrol valve in drastic need of repair, so I finally decided to bite the bullet (literally) and have it fixed. Even though I’ve spent my entire life in show business, I’m constantly shocked at what the human body can sustain. Exactly seven days after this massive surgery, I sit at my desk feeling pretty much great, typing my weekly missive to you, our beloved readers, fellow performers, friends and fans! Now that I’ve gone through this personal dramedy, I feel like I can distribute sage advice like a modern-day Grampa Walton, so here goes: Kiss your good health every single day. Hug it, even. And when things go wrong, and you have to make scary decisions, remember what an AMAZING nurse said to me: “I know you’re anxious and frightened about all of this, but let me tell you…it’s surprisingly un-dramatic when you’re in the middle of it.” Those words meant so much to me, normalized the situation, got me through this mishegas, and just might help one or two of you! Brainy medical types have told me to take it easy over the next few weeks, so I’ll be handing over the Golden Mic to the extraordinarily gifted Klea Blackhurst, who is the Hostess With The Mostess, and that’s no lie. Here’s what she said about this past Monday’s Cast Party: 
“Everything’s Coming Up Birdland!” That's how I opened this week's Cast Party. Sprinkled with the stardust of Hilary Kole’s thrilling lead in… we were able to add her drummer, Carmen Intorre to our Symphony Orchestra, egging Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle on to ever-exuberant heights! They definitely set the bar high, and we were treated to one performance after another that rose to the occasion. Since I’m a redhead, I decided to let them rule for a while with Perry Balin, Carly Ozard, Lynn Loosier and the fab Joelle Lurie! Darling Nicolas King (left, thanks toStephen Sorokoff) not only brought the legendary pianist Mike Renzi to the stage, but also his grandmother, Angela Bacari, for a duet that tore the place apart. (I can’t imagine Thanksgiving at their house!) We had Rubyand Ava Locknar winning hearts, just like they always do…Jonathan Russell keeping the jazz violin exciting and David Shenton and HIS violin unpredictability entertaining. David is on his way to the Edinburgh Fringe… we’d like him to hurry back. Lots of regulars and newcomers provided a swingin’, funny and fast night. I thank them all. Hosting Cast Party is perhaps the greatest seat in the house and the best gig in show business! What a joy. I’m coming back next week. You should seriously consider joining me!
August 19, 2010
THE BROADWAY BOYS (left, by Derek Storm) packed the Birdlandhouse with fans and friends, and jammed the stage with some pretty spectacular talent! We love these guys. If you don’t know, The Broadway Boys is a collection of the hottest tenor voices currently working on The Great White Way. Representing shows such as Wicked, Rent, Hair, Jersey Boys, Billy Elliott, Mary Poppins, Memphis, and many more, 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." There were some showbiz heavy-hitters in the house cheering them on, too, including Billy Porter and Gerard McCullough. Feel free to check out the gorgeous photos on Playbill.com!
This week’s Cast Party was jam-packed with birthdays and anniversaries and the return of the ever-popular “Trivit Pursuit” – wherein I make up trivial questions and the audience answers in pursuit of a…trivit. Well, it makes ME happy! Brand new New Yorker, Sean Patrick Murtagh seemed very happy to take home the tile! Congratulations! We had jazzy regulars, likeHilary Kole, Phil Amarante and Abby. We had Jenna Esposito makingItalian look like the most fun nationality to claim as your own…so we were doubly excited when Federico Florio and I bridged a language barrier and he sang "Viaggio Sulla Luna" - his very own composition – it was gorgeous and had something, I gather, to do with a Journey On The Moon. Joshua Dixon sang “Mama A Rainbow” in celebration of his mama’s birthday and we all ended up in tears. Philadelphia’s legendary Eddie Bruce came in and blew me away. Special thanks to piano man Alex Rybeck. KudosTedd Firth and Steve Doyle, our Symphony Orchestra. To Colleen McHugh who always makes me laugh and to Alexander Cowings (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff) for demonstrating what Cast Party is really all about: you don’t have to sing to swing. Just come in and do your thing! In Alexander’s case we dug out a nice piece of plywood, he put on his tap shoes and quite simply, made magic. I can’t wait to see who’ll surprise me next week!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE RETURN OF SINGERNatalie Weiss in “Deja-New: A Fresh Take on the Familiar.” The event will take place on Monday, August 23 at 7pm, as part of the long-runningBroadway at Birdland concert series.
Natalie Weiss will perform musical theatre classics and favorite pop songs with the help of musical director, Darren Ledbetter. Natalie’s program will include favorites such as “Someone To Watch Over Me,” “The Story Goes On,” “The Music That Makes Me Dance,” Al Green's "Let's Stay Together,” Stevie Wonder’s "If You Really Love Me," Mariah Carey and Brian Mcknight’s "Whenever You Call", and Celine Dion’s "Its All Coming Back To Me Now.” Natalie Weiss recently made her Broadway debut in Sherie Rene Scott'sEveryday Rapture as understudy of the Menonettes, and performed in the ensemble and understudied Elphaba in the 2nd National Touring Company of Wicked. She is thrilled be returning to Birdland after performing to a sold out crowd 6 months ago in her first one woman show, “Offline.” She has had the privilege of collaborating with many talented writers such as Scott Alan, Andrew Lippa, Jason Robert Brown, Jeff Blumenkrantz, Zina Goldrich, and Marcy Heisler. She is involved with the Broadway Inspirational Voices choir under the direction of Michael McElroy. Regional appearances include the Kennedy Center in D.C, the Pittsburgh CLO, and North Shore Music Theatre in Massachusetts. Natalie can be heard on the recordings of Scott Alan's Keys, Goldrich and Heisler's Dear Edwina, and on the BMI songbook podcast. Natalie was an “American Idol” Season 4 semi-finalist but is most well-known for her YouTube videos. She has gained an international following through her top hits, ("And I Am Telling You,” "I'm A Star,” "Quiet,” "The Spark of Creation,” and "I Believe In You And Me"), which have gotten over 100,000 views. Natalie is currently in the beginning of stages of working on her debut solo album. NATALIE WEISS WHEN: Monday, August 23, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25/$35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com August 26, 2010
Before Klea's missive about Monday's Cast Party, may I ask if you've noticed anything different about our Newsletter? It's gotten a facelift, thanks to the snappy graphics of Todd Alan Johnson and the technical genius of Kate Botello! And if you think THAT'S fancy, click onwww.CastPartyNYC.com to see the brand spankin' new website! I may not be hosting Cast Party during these few weeks, but my mind is working overtime on how to make the CP experience more fun for you, the viewing public! Enjoy! JC
CAST PARTY NEVER FAILS TO SURPRISE ME! We really did have some of the most talented people in show business waltzing through the door on Monday night. We also had some folks brand new to Cast Partywho simply must return. They will become the stars we love to welcome back! Ann Hampton Callaway (left) is one of the most thrilling performers I know. Her total command of the stage and the joy she brings to a song are rare gifts, and boy, did she stand up and prove that once again! Actually it was the audience who stood up and proved that once again! Her rendition of “At Last,” for friends celebrating their anniversary, was thrilling. 
She also brought some pals along who were pretty damn good: Tony DeSare swung, lovable songwriter John Bucchino absolutely delighted with a Richard Rodgers tune played in his own style, and Ann introduced us to YouTube Sensation Von Smith (left). Blew me away! I felt like P.T. Barnum when I made them sing together; It really wasn’t rocket science, he was there, she was there, but I am quite bright. With the help of ourSymphony Orchestra, Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle, it’s fair to say the mighty Boesendorfer actually levitated… it was spectacular! Speaking of that piano, Mark Janus celebrated the 200th anniversary of Chopin’s birth with a classical tour de force. Jazz violinist Jonathan Russell sawed, newsman Bud Mishkin strummed, Colleen McHugh loped, Julie Reyburn strutted, Mark Aaron James transported and Gretchen Reinhagen absolutely delivered the comedy. Thanks to everybody who sang, laughed and played Trivit Pursuit, and congratulations to winnerGordon Nash! This stuff happens every Monday night. I know, I can’t believe it either. See you next week! (Both photos by Stephen Sorokoff.)
September 2, 2010
SO HAPPY TO TELL YOU THAT KATE DAWSON'S BIRDLAND DEBUT was a jam-packed success! Her show, THE A**HOLE IN MY HEAD, is one of the most unique acts we’ve seen in a long, long time! She turns her worst enemy (herself!) into a hilarious, unseen character, and the two battle it out through song and hilarious banter! No wonder David Noh of Gay City News shouted that it was one of the Top Ten best live performances of the year! Many thanks to Kate (left, photo by Laura Boyd), and we can’t wait to welcome her (and the voices in her head!) back on our stage soon!
I had so much fun on Monday, I really don’t know where to begin. I suppose I could start by telling you that this week’s Cast Party will forever live in my heart as The Idol Edition! We had Florida’s Senior Idol winner,Judy Lanier, showing off her winning entry, which was a stellar “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Signature Theater in Washington, DC held an Idol contest and their winner, Gabriel Lopez stopped by to give us hope in America’s youth! And ‘30’s Idol winner Danielle Grabianowskiproved that everything old really can be new again! It just emerged as a theme and I was very happy to have them all in the house. New to New Yorkers, Michael Valentine and Devon Yates were fabulous, as were visitors from Italy, Ilaria Murredu and Jonathan DeStradis! It’s thrilling to experience newcomers in the spotlight at Cast Party! Directly from Tokyo via JFK, I was thrilled to welcome jazz pianist, Sonoda! He should have been exhausted, but he’s too brilliant for that. Thanks to Jenna Esposito(left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), Janet Fanale, Hilary Kole, Chris Dillyand William Blake for raising the temperature a bit now and then. YouTube phenom, impressionist Carly Sakalov sent in the clowns, with the help of every diva known to man. Terese Genecco provided some frisky, retro fun. Steven Strafford made us laugh out loud. Jeanne Graffprovided a fabulous One Note Samba and Shaynee Rainbolt sang a jazzy number with a lot of words… my favorite kind! Speaking of jazz, once Roy Meriwether had played every note on the mighty Boesendorfer, we were able to call it a night.
Hosting Cast Party is like being shot out of a cannon, flying through the air and landing in the center ring at the circus - where you may be asked to juggle scarves while tap dancing. It’s time for the genius that is Jim Caruso to stop resting and get back to work. Everyone has missed you, Jim, but I’ve probably missed you most of all. You are the very best and you make this hosting thing look so easy! It's time to welcome you back. So that'll be me sitting ringside, eating the peach cobbler and cheering you on! September 9, 2010
IT CAME AS NO SURPRISE THAT WILLIAM BLAKE'S NEW YORK NIGHTCLUB DEBUT was a smashing success. I’ve been screaming his name to everyone within ear-shot since he arrived on the Manhattan scene three years ago. But to witness such a sophisticated and beautifully put together show with brand-new arrangements and a brand-new (and fantastic) band was nothing short of inspiring. Of course, William’s voice is extraordinary. Michael Feinstein said it best (when he was introducing WB at Carnegie Hall): “His low notes are higher than my high notes!” But to find a singer with that crazy range and dexterity, who also has the sense to sing with great taste and a love of wonderful r&b material from the 60’s and 70’s, is a complete joy. The place was jam-packed with family, friends and fans, including some familiar faces. We spied Annie Golden, Michael Winther, Natalie Douglas, Hilary Kole, Jamie deRoy, Joan Crowe,Jenna Esposito, Michael Katsobashvili, and many more in the house! And we can’t wait until the next concert!
Jim Caruso’s Cast Party is always one giant surprise…except for the part where you can count on it being an awesome night of First Class, Top Flight Entertainment!! After William Blake’s sublime New York debut, we were full up with talent on Monday. There were regulars and lots of newbies…just the right mix. From Jenna Esposito to Jared Philippe; established on our stage or making a debut - they were all terrific. Michael Winther (left, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), KT Sullivan, Jonathan Russell, and Billy Elliott’s Ruby Rakos brought the house down with “Orange Colored Sky.” This kid is amazing! I was thrilled by her diction. She is exactly the caliber of talent I love to know is working on Broadway! Thanks to Jim Brochu and Steve Schalchlin for a wonderful duet. Bistro Award winner, Richard Eisenberg sang his very own “Good Old American Hamburger,” complete with his BBQ apron. Well, it WAS Labor Day, after all! Jeff Jordan debuted a new composition, as did Abby! All of this gave the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra an opportunity to show off their rock ‘n roll chops, their Sousa style, and their country western two-step in 5/4.Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle adapted to every chart and every key laid before them… with smiles and unparalleled skill. I love them! A very special thanks goes to Billy Stritch. I saw him come through the Birdlanddoor and immediately put him to work singing a duet with me! “In The Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening,” you can tell ‘em we’ll be there… that kind of genius waltzing through the door is what Cast Part is all about!
September 16, 2010
IT'S EASY TO SEE WHY TWO-TIME TONY NOMINEE CHRISTOPHER FITZGERALD has taken the theatrical world by storm time and time again! First of all, his rangey tenor voice can do almost anything – from touching ballads like “When I’m Not Near The Girl I Love” to wildly crazy character pieces like “Josephina, Please No Lean-a on The Bell!” On Monday night, he covered songs from everyone from Ben Folds and Cole Porter to…um…Gonzo! Special mention must go to musical director/pianist/bff David Turner.
Turner lists actor and singer on his resume before pianist, but we must admit we’ve rarely heard such wonderful arrangements and keyboard talents. These two boys have a wonderful rapoire onstage, which is completely infectious, expecially on the bizarre “Frankfurter Sandwiches.” (If you’ve never heard this 20’s gem, click here to see the foppish Harry Rose aka “The Broadway Jester!”) Watch for Chris and David to return to the Broadway at Birdland concert series soon! 
And then…Cast Party happened. I was excited to make my post-valve-surgery return to the stage, and was even more thrilled when friends likeRandy Jones, Lucie Arnaz, Michael Feinstein (left, thanks to Derek Storm), TV Guide Channel’s Lawrence Zarian, ShopNBC’s Charlie Lapson, and many more showed up to celebrate and cheer. There was a lot of talent to cheer for, too. “America’s Got Talent” star Rudi Macaggiswallowed three feet of balloon (that’s right…), Colleen McHugh created a song on the spot about weird animals, Jonathan Shew showed off his gorgeous voice, Aaron Weinstein fiddled around with a Jack Benny hit,Griffith Frank crooned something from his upcoming London concert, andRay Jessell knocked one of his original tunes out of the park.
One of my all-time fave sax-men, 6-time Grammy nominee Dave Koz, made an appearance, playing and singing “This Guy’s In Love With You” from his upcoming CD. Stephen Sorokoff’s photo (left) is gorgeous, but I wish we had a photo of the Cast Party crowd swooning during Dave’s performance. He’s the absolute best, and you can hear his syndicated radio show, now in it’s 15th year, if you click here! Needless to say, we love it when Dave joins us at Cast Party! Tedd Firth and Steve Doylehave never sounded better – and we’ll ALL be repeating the fun this coming Monday around 9:30. Join us, won’t you?
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS DELIGHTED TO PRESENT JAY ARMSTRONG JOHNSON in his solo concert debut as part of the Broadway at Birdlandseries. The event will take place on Monday, September 20 at 7pm.
After Broadway performances playing a pool boy, a hippie and a dancer on the line, Jay Armstrong Johnson will be making his solo New York City concert debut. The soaring tenor explores a collection of old and new songs that capture his spirit of peace, love & rock ‘n roll. From classic rock greats to the music of Ryan Scott Oliver, Jay will share his innate R&B sensibility, Texas roots and Broadway background. This show will be an eclectic mix showcasing the talent, humor and heart of this rising star. Jay Armstrong Johnson has performed on Broadway in Hair (Claude u/s), First National Tour: A Chorus Line (Mark). In regional theater he has starred in Pool Boy (Nick) World premiere at Barrington Stage, Hairspray(Link) at the Weston Playhouse, and Godspell (Jefrey) at Casa Manana. He won the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts Merit Award Winner in Spoken/Musical Theatre, was the Recipient of Music Talent Scholarship at NYU, and the New York City Dance Alliance Senior Outstanding Dancer and Triple Threat Award. JAY ARMSTRONG JOHNSON WHEN: Monday, September 20, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com September 23, 2010
ON MONDAY NIGHT, JAY ARMSTRONG JOHNSON MADE HIS SOLO CONCERT DEBUT as part of the Broadway at Birdland series. Boy, can that dude sing! With charm to spare, it wasn’t surprising that the house was packed with friends and Broadway heavy hitters, including Hair co-author James Rado (left, with Jay, thanks to Stephen Sorokoff), Sara Gettelfinger, Todrick Hall, Jason Michael Snow and Alex Brightman. Jay created an extremely eclectic show, showcasing his gorgeous tenor voice with material like an accoustic version of Michael Jackson's "The Way You Make Me Feel," Reba McIntire's "Why Haven't I Heard From You?," and Jacques Brel's "If We Only Have Love," dedicated to his Hairtribe. It’s always thrilling to be part of a debut act, especially when it’s so thoughtfully put together (with help from director Annaleigh Ashford), and beautifully performed!
The word ‘eclectic’ would be a massive understatement when referring to the following Cast Party. As you can see (left, by Stephen Sorokoff), we were visited by a lovely couple who were inexplicably dressed as rabbits, complete with matching dresses, floppy ears and puffy tails. They enjoyed wonderful singers like Coby Getzug (also in the photo), who will be starring in the upcoming National Tour of Spring Awakening, the witty Tom Leopold, the swinging Sean Harkness & Mark Miller, the multi-talented (violin AND piano at the same time) David Shenton, the rocking Fortune Esposito, and our own Kaitlin Westfall (with Adam Rosenwachaccompanying her)! The afore-mentioned bunnies hopped onto the stage, too, and we found out that they were Michael Holt and Kath, two very funny and unique performers! It was also fun to celebrate our pal Heidi Evans’ Daily News feature about Jenna Esposito and Ernie Rossi!
Their performance of “Fa L'Amore Con Te'’ was absolutely charming, and was just performed live on LX-TV and at the San Gennaro Festival! Congratulazioni a voi tutte! Cast Party will take place next Monday, as it has for the past eight years (yikes!), around 9:30 at Birdland! Come seeTedd Firth on piano, Steve Doyle on bass, and me on your every nerve. We can’t wait!
By the way, I'd love it if you'd come visit me when I once again host the Celebrity Table at the Broadway Flea Market on Sunday, September 26 from 11am to 3pm on the Junior’s deck on 45th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue. The Celebrity Autograph Table and Photo Booth is where Broadway, dance and television stars sign autographs and pose for photos in exchange for donations to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Scheduled to appear are Chita Rivera, Sean Hayes, Kristen Chenoweth,Bebe Neuwirth, Patrick Wilson, and dozens more. (A complete schedule is available on the BroadwayCares.org website.) I sure love the artwork (left) our pal Squigs did for the Flea Market...can you find my mug in there? September 30, 2010
SO MUCH ENTERTAINMENT...SO LITTLE TIME! Monday night started out with a gigantic bang, when we were happy to present belting divas Kate Pazakis and Megan Reinking (left, by Stephen Sorokoff) as part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series! There was much rocking, rolling, cheering, stomping and dancing on the stage and in the house – just the way we like it! Many thanks to all involved for a high-energy and exciting extravaganza!
The following Cast Party started with a gift from the gods! Our extremely musical pal, Rudy Martinez, brought us a care-package of his famous cupcakes (left)! His company, Man Bakes Cake, is going great guns, and we can certainly see (and taste) why. They’re much more subtle than those honkin’ grostesque, icky-sweet cupcakes that are bombarding the nuvo-bakeries of New York. His flavors are unique, the colors are vibrant, and we see no reason why Rudy can’t take over the world with these little delicacies.
The music at Cast Party was wonderful and varied, as per usual! It’s always nice to have a Tony-winner in the house, so we were delighted when Tovah Feldshuh (left/Sorokoff) took to the stage and sang a spectacular Gershwin medley, accompanied by our pal Alex Rybeck! Not to be outdone, Lucie Arnaz joined the show with a ravishing Marvin Hamlisch song that she’ll be performing at the fund-raiser you can read about below in the Sponsor section. Ron Abel was there to accompany Lucie, as he did for the fab Kate Luckinbill, who sang a very touching David Friedman tune! Todd Murray gave us a taste of his “Croon” show, melting hearts and a few Birdland signature cocktails! John Thomas Oaks took the prize for the most unique performance, when he played a spirited piano with light-up fingers. His dad was there with a full-length mirror, so that the whole room could join in on the visual in true Busby Berkeley-fashion! There were loads of talented types, including newcomersChristiana Blain & Nick Atkinson, Aaron Davis, Sasha Boutros, and our own Birdland songbird Kaitlin Westfall, who killed with her mini-band,Adam Rosenwach and Jake Cohen. Of course, Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle accompanied the majority of the performances in extremely high style. Where would we be without them??
Next week, we’ll do it all again, with the afore-mentioned Firth & Doyle providing the best musical backup possible! We’ll also be celebrating a brand new book called The Broadway Musical Quiz Book, by Laura Frankos, with a forward by Peter Filichia. There will be prizes and books for sale (never too early for Christmas shopping), and I’m excited that Mr. Filichia will be on hand to autograph your copy! Bone up on your Great White Way trivia, dust off your upbeat ditty and join us!
Broadway at Birdland!JIM CARUSO IS THRILLED TO WELCOME YOUTUBE SENSATIONMIRANDA SINGS back to the Broadway at Birdland concert series on Monday, October 4 at 7pm. The evening will be a celebration of all things Halloween, with dazzling costumes and a Miranda lookalike contest.
Special guests will include Todrick Hall (“American Idol”, Memphis),Michael Buckley (“What The Buck”), and Tituss Burgess (Little Mermaid, Guys & Dolls). The character of Miranda Sings, brought to us by actress Colleen Ballinger, is a satire of increasingly common YouTube videos featuring mediocre or even bad, but egotistical, singers who film themselves singing as a form of self-promotion, and who ignore the realistic or cruel comments of "haters" commenting on their videos. "Miranda" lives with her mother in Tacoma, Washington, sings comically off-key, uses spoonerisms, is self-absorbed and has a sassy attitude. The Times describes the character as "self-obsessed and immune to criticism.” She responds to viewers who take the videos seriously with the catchphrase "Haters back off!" telling her critics that they are "just jealous" and that "haters make me famous". The character includes facial tics, unusually active eyebrows, a crooked smile, her head cocked to one side and bizarre pronunciation quirks. In place of lyrics that she cannot remember, the character "scat" sings. She also wears lipstick drawn beyond the borders of her lips, dresses in mismatched and out-of-style clothing and dances stiffly to the music she is performing. Beginning in the summer of 2009, in addition to her internet videos, Miranda Sings has also performed a cabaret act at sold-out cabaret spaces and theatres in New York, London, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, cities in Australia and elsewhere. In 1999, BroadwayWorld.com called her "the hottest, freshest and oddest breakout star in the musical theatre/cabaret scene". Typically, in her cabaret act, Miranda sings several songs from the musical theatre repertory or popular songs that are featured in her videos; gives "voice lessons" to Broadway or West End stars, such as Shoshana Bean and to the Broadway casts of shows such as Bye Bye Birdie, Mamma Mia, Shrek, Billy Elliot (to which cast she also gave dance and acting "lessons") and Rock of Ages. She critiques the stars' performances, sings duets with established musical theatre singers, reads "hate mail" that she has received on her YouTube channel, and improvises a song based on audience suggestions. MIRANDA SINGS CELEBRATES HALLOWEEN WHEN: Monday, October 4, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25/$35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com October 7, 2010
GREETINGS FROM RAINY, FREEZING HOLLYWOOD! As I sit guzzling coffee in my glamorous hotel suite, staring bleary-eyed at the laptop screen, it’s a little hard to believe that last night really happened. Our fourth installment of Cast Party/Hollywood at The Magic Castle was triumphant, showcasing a cast that was not-to-be-believed.
Where else can you seeMelissa Manchester and Barry Williams (left, thanks to Brian Putnam),Dave Koz, Jim Brickman, Sharon McKnight, Coco Peru (with me and Koz, below pic left) , James Barbour, Monica Mancini, Kate Linder, Randi Driscoll & Noah Heldman all on one stage…performing for the fun of it?! We also loved the Dueling Fiddlers, who beat the hell out of their instruments performing rock standards. We were thrilled by Oliver Richman, the youngest and tiniest guy to deliver “Defying Gravity” in history. 
The afore-mentioned Ms. Manchester and her way-talented daughter Hannah belted a duet of “Everything’s Coming Up Roses.” Koz (who recently got his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame just outside) crooned and saxed-up “This Guy’s In Love,” then accompanied piano superstar Brickman and the divine Monica Mancini on their performances. The room was filled with iconic showbiz muckety-mucks, like the producer of all the Garland and Streisand specials (Gary Smith) and the Executive Producer of a little show called "Glee" (Dante Diorio)! Billy Stritch and I were in a constant state of amaze-balls. We do it again tonight, with another all-star cast of characters, including Miss Carol Channing, who is going to do a monologue and song from Hello Dolly! I couldn’t make this up if you paid me!
Monday’s Miranda Sings concert felt like a religious experience, thanks to the throngs of fans packing Birdland. Dozens dressed as the Unexpected Diva, and one lucky faux-Miranda (who came all the way from Montreal), went home with a swell grand prize! There was production, too, with a Halloween-inspired “Thriller” opening number (left, rehearsing backstage), an amazing Altar Boyz performance, and much musical help from Broadway’s Tituss Burgess, Todrick Hall, Michael “What The Buck” Buckley and superstar singer/sword brandisher Josh Evans! Check out the FLICKR site for some hilarious photos of the event, with many thanks to Allison Schultz!
The following Cast Party boasted crazy amounts of talent, including the very Australian Hugh Sheridan (left, by Michael Babrowski), who is performing his Anthony Newley tribute at The Snapple Theater here in NYC. Hugh is a TV superstar in his homeland, and we see no reason why he shouldn’t stay in NYC to become a US legend, too! David Shenton did the impossible and played the piano AND violin. At the same time. Avery Summers, one of the best Mama Mortons from Broadway’s Chicago, sang her gorgeous head off. Natalie Douglas gave us a taste of her upcoming Nat King Cole show. There was a “Calamata Jane” moment that we won’t soon forget! Tanner Bollinger made a spectacular Cast Party debut.Barry Lloyd demonstrated why he’s a San Francisco cabaret legend.
Valerie Holiday (left), from The Three Degrees (who sang lead on “When Will I See You Again”) promoted her Irridium show with a swell performance. Broadway’s own Lurch, Zachary James, sang the most extraordinary Rachmaninov piece, whetting our appetite for his upcomingBirdland concert. The whole night ended with Michael Andrew singing and swinging, proving he’ll be the best Nutty Professor, when his Jerry Lewis-sanctioned musical finally comes to Broadway! Tedd Firth and Tom Hubbard absolutely shone as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra. Would we have it any other way? I don’t think so!
October 14, 2010
FIRST OF ALL, I INVITE YOU TO CHECK OUT THE WALL STREET JOURNAL'S in-depth report on New York City Open Mic Nights. Many thanks to Will Friedwald, who called us “the gold standard” of the species! Five gorgeous photos from Daniele Zalcman (like the one at left) accompanied the piece, and we couldn’t have been more thrilled!
Last week, I composed this newsletter from California, where Billy Stritchand I were doing two Cast Party nights at The Magic Castle. I told you all about our Wednesday night show, but I had no idea that the following evening would be the crazy, star-studded affair that it was! I had been hearing rumours that an iconic Broadway superstar was on her way in…and finally, there she was, a blur of hair, arms, lashes and that famous smile!Carol Channing had come to Cast Party! (Photo, left, by Brian Putnam) She happily stormed the stage with stories and wisecracks, then delighted us all with the “Ephraim, let me go…” monologue from Hello Dolly, which led into her inimitable “Before The Parade Passes By.” There wasn’t a dry eye in the house, including Stritch’s or mine. We’ll never forget the moment, and I’m pretty sure crazily talented folks like Sam Harris, Sally Kellerman, Sharon McKnight, Cortes Alexander, Ilene Graff & Ben Lanzarone, Julie Garnyé, Spelling Bee’s Deborah S. Craig & Todd Buonopane, “NCIS-LA” supah-star Barrett Foa, Christopher Youngsman, 9 to 5’s Megan Hilty, Jason Graae, Todd Schroder, “American Idol” MD Michael Orland, Rita McKenzie, Rena Strober,Legally Blonde composer Larry O’Keefe, Avenue Q co-creator Jeff Marxwill either! (We'll return to The Magic Castle on December 8 and 9!)
Coming home to New York was a joy, especially since I had a wonderful Monday to look forward to! The Broadway at Birdland series continued with one of our faves, Miss Natalie Douglas, with her tribute to Nat King Cole (left, by Stephen Sorokoff). “Nat Sings Nat” might just be one of the best concerts she’s done, what with the haunting material, perfect arrangements and beautiful vocals. All the Cole favorites were included in the show, plus some little-known songs that are sure to become standards in the Natalie songbook! Special mention must go to the completely hilarious performance of “LOVE,” which was performed in French, Spanish, German and Japanese. Yeah…our Nat can do a lot of things, but her Japanese is just bad, and we love her all the more for it!
The following Cast Party started out with a crowded bang! The entire cast of Wallenberg, The Musical (left, by Sorokoff), which is running at the White Plains Performing Arts Center, came to serenade us. What a thrill to have so many great voices singing the final anthem by the 2006 Kleban Award-winning team of Laurence Holzman & Felicia Needleman, and music by Benjamin Rosenbluth! Many thanks to my pal Eric Ulloa, one of the cast members, for putting us all together! Of course there were also swell performances by Ruby Rakos, Vanessa Trouble, Scott Davis &Joshua Dixon, Elena Bennett & Fred Barton, Carolyn Amaradio,William Blake, Jarrod Philippe, Ray Jessell, Abby, Jenna Esposito,Carrie Jackson, Harmony Keeney, Jonathan Shue, Tanner Bollinger,Jonathan Russell, Will & Anthony Nunziata, Avery Summers, andMarvelous Marilyn Maye! Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle were never better as The Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, and we’ll all be back again next week…looking for you!
On Wednesday, October 20th, we hope you’ll tune in to PBS to check out the third part of “Michael Feinstein’s American Songbook.” You’ll see our friend Michael, the most passionate preservationist of American popular music, paying a visit to your favorite Monday night hang, Cast Party! This amazing, in-depth documentary series follows him as he performs, collects, travels and celebrates the music we love so much! You’ll get to join Michael on stage and backstage, into personal archives, attics and flea markets, and inside the private world of a gifted and hard-working artist. A million thanks to MF, his producer/director Amber Edwards and Executive Producer Ken Bloom for including us in the series!
Broadway at Birdland!
BROADWAY'S ZACHARY JAMES (LURCH IN THE ADDAMS FAMILY) brings his hit solo show IMBÉCILE D'AMOUR to Birdland as part of Jim Caruso’s BROADWAY AT BIRDLAND series. The event will take place on Monday, October 18 at 7pm.
ÉCILE D'AMOUR is back by popular demand, after a sold-out engagement in NYC and a celebrated turn in Chicago. BroadwayWorld deemed the show a "dark, music hall through-line of love, loss, moving on, and the consequences in between,” "startlingly beautiful" and "baritonal bliss.” The one-night-only performance will feature Jonathan Rose on piano, Kiersten Cunningham on Violin, Allison Seidner on Cello, Fred Poholek on Guitar, with Shadow Puppetry by Ceili Clemens and special musical arrangements by Larry Lees. Zachary James is currently starring as Lurch in The Addams Family on Broadway. He has also been seen in South Pacific, Coram Boy, Kristin Hevner’s Il Sogno (Oberon), and Bryan Putnam’s The Toymaker (Petr). Regional theatre/opera/concert appearances include Sweeney Todd(Sweeney Todd), A Funny Thing…Forum (Miles Gloriosus), La Bohème(Colline), Madama Butterfly (Bonzo), Don Giovanni (Commendatore),Carmina Burana (baritone soloist) and appeared on “30 Rock” as Carl. The Florida native and graduate of Ithaca College is a Kurt Weill Foundation Lotte Lenya Competition winner and founding director of NYC’s Metropolis Opera Project. ZACHARY JAMES in IMBÉCILE D'AMOUR WHEN: Monday, October 18, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com October 21, 2010
EIGHT SHOWS A WEEK, ZACHARY JAMES (left, photo by Kevin Thomas Garcia) lurks around the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre as Lurch, the morose and extremely bass-ey butler in The Addams Family. During hisBroadway at Birdland concert on Monday, though, he was given free reign to show off his extraordinary range and sense of humor in Imbécile d’Amour, which was a dark, music hall telling of love, loss and moving on, complete with some of the most amazing shadow puppets I’ve ever seen. (This might be the first time puppets have been used on the Birdlandstage!) The result was a completely thrilling evening of baritonial bliss resulting in cheers from the star-studded crowd. Check out more photos onBroadwayWorld.com! Many thanks to Zach for bringing us one of the most unique extravaganzas we’ve seen!
The following Cast Party, as always, gave the word unique a workout! That jazzy and cool drink of water, Miss Harmony Keeney (left, by Michael Babrowski) delighted everyone with her stylings. Desmond Hurt made a hilarious debut, Deborah Tranelli and Joshua Dixon sang a gorgeousScott Davis song, Charles West showed off his leading man chops, Eric Dean Davis dazzled us with a tune, and Brett Boyd, Phil Crosby, Jr., and their Wild Cat Dixie Band pumped Birdland with wild energy! We were thrilled to see (and hear!) Ilene Graff and Ben Lanzarone, who hit town to catch their diva-daughter Nikka open on Broadway in Women On The Verge…! Andrea Balducci came all the way from Italy to serenade us,Edward Lovett reminded everyone of those swell 30’s crooners, Julie Garnyé belted her head off, and Jeremy bass sang a soft Brazilian bossa.Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle were brilliant as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra – just like they’ll be next week when we do it all over again. And we can’t wait to see YOU!
Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT JOHNNY RODGERS will be performing in concert at Birdland on Monday, October 25 at 7pm. The event will be part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series.
Johnny and the Johnny Rodgers Band dazzle audiences with their enthusiastic musical mélange of Americana featuring original songs and classic favorites which celebrate the roots of jazz, blues, soul, country, rock and pop. Rodgers will perform on piano and lead vocals, and the Band includes Brian Glassman on bass, Danny Mallon on drums/vocals, andJoe Ravo on guitar. Johnny Rodgers Band invites you to celebrate a grand “Bon Voyage” as they embark on the famed Rhythm Road international tour for the entire month of November through Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, sponsored by Jazz at Lincoln Center and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs. These music ambassadors will share their “American Roots” music with embassies, the local children and musicians in a cross-cultural exchange. Johnny has won the Billboard, The Great American Song Contests and the ASCAP Foundation Award for his songwriting. He has earned Nightlife, Bistro, and MAC Awards for his outstanding performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Oak Room at the Algonquin Hotel, The Royal Room at The Colony Hotel Palm Beach, Feinstein’s at Loews Regency, Birdland, Joe’s Pub and other premiere New York City clubs. He has also taken his performances to the Los Angeles Ford Amphitheatre, Arturo Sandoval’s, Festival Miami at the University of Miami, and to a 3000-seat sold-out audience at the historic Deering Estate in Miami. Johnny also performed for Billy Joel and Judy Collins at Lincoln Center’s ASCAP Foundation Awards. Liza Minnelli recognized Johnny’s talent and brought him on as her pianist and guest performer for her world tours. He performed as one of The Williams Brothers with Liza on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning Liza’s At The Palace, which now appears on PBS television. Johnny co-wrote the featured song “I Would Never Leave You” and is included on the show’s DVD release as well as the Grammy-nominated CD. JOHNNY RODGERS BAND WHEN: Monday, October 25, 2010 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com October 28, 2010
BETWEEN THE FANTASTIC JOHNNY RODGERS BON VOYAGE CONCERT and the following Cast Party with Billy Stritch at the piano,Birdland was filled with a plethora of super-swinging entertainment on Monday night! It’s hard to believe that we’ve been doing all this for eight years! Time flies when you’re having a ball, and that’s exactly what we had! Some of our favorites showed up to serenade the packed house, including Mark Aaron James, Erin Quill and Edward Lovett (left), Eddie Bruce, Jeremy Bass, Ray Jessell, Jenna Esposito, Ron Abel, Eric Dean Davis, Charles West, Janice Hall, Danielle Grabienowski, Joan Crowe, Brett Boyd, Andrea Balducci, Collen McHugh, Vanessa Trouble, and Lodi Carr! Gabi Epstein, Marcus Terrell, Adri Lyons and an Avenue Q alum named Carmen Ruby Floyd were four newcomers who really blew us away…and we hope they return to the Birdland stage soon!Michael Feinstein, fresh from his PBS American Songbook series, was seen surveying the scene, along with movie and supperclub diva Marti Stevens. You just never know who will be at Cast Party! Of course the afore-mentioned Mr. Stritch and bassist Tom Hubbard kept the music fresh and lively for the folks. In fact, Billy will be at the Bosendorfer this next week, too, so you better make your plans to join us!
Chita Returns! We’re thrilled to announce that Broadway superstar Chita Rivera will be dazzling Birdland audiences for four very special concerts on Friday and Saturday, November 26 and 27! What a Thanksgiving weekend we’ll have with this American treasure! The recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Kennedy Center honor, as well as two Tony Awards, will bring her spectacular nightclub act to our stage for the third time, and trust me, you do not want to miss it! These shows will sell-out, so call Birdland now at 212-581-3080 or go towww.BirdlandJazz.com. (Many thanks to our graphic guru, Todd Alan Johnson for the amazing poster art, left.)
November 4, 2010
OH MY STARS, GAVIN CREEL (left, by Monica Simoes) is one of the most musical fellows I’ve ever had the opportunity to enjoy on a stage! His Monday night Broadway at Birdland debut was an absolutely thrilling affair, with a stellar band, gorgeous original material, some exciting special guests, and that VOICE! Two of his fellow Hair tribe-members, Caissie Levy and Steel Burkhardt, joined him on a touching song about his favorite ‘flower children,’ many of whom were in the house. Also seen cheering were Laura Benanti (Women On The Verge…), Steven Pasquale(“Rescue Me”), Brian Lane Green, and Celia Keenan-Bolger. The good news is you can catch Gavin for two more Mondays at Birdland! The bad news is that the shows are extremely close to being sold out, so call the club now to snag a seat! (212-581-3080) Click BroadwayWorld.com andPlaybill.com to see more fabulous fotos!
The following Cast Party was it’s usual strange and wonderful self! Hilary Kole and Billy Stritch (left, by Stephen Sorokoff) showed off their swingin’ chops, Emily Shoolin (who I loved in Enter Laughing at The York) was funny and adorable, Marvin Parks gave us a touch of R&B, Nancy Harmswas jazz-a-licious, Carrie Jackson and Gil Benson were never better. There were lots of newcomers and faithful regulars, and the afore-mentioned Mr. Stritch and Steve Doyle kept the sizzling accompaniment pumping all night!
This coming week, we’re excited to celebrate Sam Irvin’s unbelievably well-researched and thoroughly entertaining biography of my all-time favorite mentor, Kay Thompson! His book (left) hits the stores this week, and is garnering loads of praise, and we couldn’t be happier! Because of that, a few very special Kay afficianados are preparing to sing their favorite Kay songs, and we welcome you to do the same! Sing something from “Funny Face,” or if you’re really energetic, from Kay’s history-making nightclub act! Check her out on iTunes, or listen to our tribute on the Liza’s At The Palace CD! We’re excited that Sam is bringing loads of books to sign, and a few lucky folks will win swag! In the words of the late, great KT, “It’s Jubilee Time!”
Broadway at Birdland!JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT TONY® NOMINATEDGAVIN CREEL will be performing three concerts at Birdland on Mondays,November 1, 8 and 15 at 7pm. These events will be part of the long-running Broadway at Birdland concert series.
These three very special evenings will mark Gavin’s return to the US after his triumphant run starring as Claude in the West End production of Hair. During his time in London over the past six months, Creel has written new material and is very excited to perform with friends and special guests during his Birdland residency. Gavin will also be celebrating the release and performing songs from his new EP, “Quiet”. As a follow-up to his debut album, "GOODTIMENATION," "Quiet" is an intimate collection of six original acoustic session songs, including fan favorite, "Hot Ohio," a song Creel describes as, "a simple ode to the kid out there with big-time dreams, trapped in a small town...with no air conditioning." Gavin Creel was nominated for the 2009 TONY® Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical and also received a 2009 Distinguished Performance Award nomination by the Drama League for his star turn as Claude in the hit Broadway Revival of Hair. Creel garnered his first Tony® nomination for Thoroughly Modern Millie in 2002. Gavin is an alumnus of the University of Michigan Musical Theatre Department and is also an accomplished singer-songwriter with his own concert and recording career. Creel was raised in a small city in Ohio and spent his childhood studying classical music, while obsessively listening to Top 40 radio. He developed a unique roster of childhood musical heroes that included Billy Joel, Whitney Houston, George Michael, and Harry Connick Jr. After graduating high school, he took his passion for music and performing to the University of Michigan. It was during his collegiate years, with sights set firmly on the New York Stage, that Creel started writing and developing his own songs, creating a unique sound that blended his love for both pop and theatre music. Once he hit New York City, Creel broke out with his first Best Actor Tony® nomination in his Broadway debut as Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie. Since then, he has solidified his reputation as one of the business’ top performers. For more than 10 years, Gavin has worked consistently as a actor to great acclaim. He starred as Bert in the West End production ofMary Poppins and as Jean-Michel in the Tony® Award winning revival ofLa Cage Aux Folles in 2004-2005. He has appeared in the world premiere of Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman’s Bounce (Dir. Hal Prince), Bat Boy (Off-Broadway), Honk! (American Premiere), The Mystery Plays(Second Stage / Yale Rep.) and can also be seen alongside Julie Andrews as “Bill” in the television movies ELOISE AT THE PLAZA and ELOISE AT CHRISTMASTIME. He can be heard on numerous recordings such as the Grammy-nominatedHair (2009), Bright Lights, Big City, Thoroughly Modern Millie, It’s Only Life, The Actors’ Fund Benefit recording of Hair, Find and Dandy, andFame. In tandem with his success as an actor, Creel has garnered a mainstream following playing his own sold-out shows at famed London venues such as The Pigalle Club and Ronnie Scott’s, as well as New York’s Symphony Space, Joe’s Pub, and Arlene’s Grocery. GAVIN CREEL: BACK TO NEW YORK WHEN: Mondays, November 1, 8 and 15 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25/$35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com November 11, 2010
ON MONDAY NIGHT, GAVIN CREEL (left, by Monica Simoes) continued his run at Birdland with another concert of gorgeous original music. We’ve seldom seen such a turn-out at the club – the jammed-to-the-walls crowd included Broadway Hall of Famer Linda Lavin, The Book of Mormon starAndrew Rannells, dancer/choreographer Denis Jones, Mary Poppins starAndrew Keenan-Bolger and his sister, the fab actress/singer Celia Keenan-Bolger, Miranda Sings’ bff Colleen Ballinger, and tenor extraordinaire Jonathan Hawkins. The audience couldn’t get enough of Gavin and his amazing band, so we’re thrilled that he’ll be back this coming Monday at 7pm for another concert. Call the club to snag one of the few remaining seats! (212-581-3080)
Cast Party continues to be one of the most varied talent showcases on the planet, if you ask me. There was much to celebrate this past week, what with Sam Irvin’s new Kay Thompson bio (that’s Sam, left, with Kay afficianado Charles Busch and me, thanks to Derek Storm), a newChristine Lavin holiday CD, and the entire cast and crew of the new Beatles Broadway musical Rain! The afore-mentioned Thompson hootenanny included swinging performances by John Epperson, Billy Stritch, Dori Legg, Greg Konay, Christopher Spaulding and Klea Blackhurst. Klea, by the way, was hanging with her upcoming Onion TV co-star, Suzanne Sena. (We predict huge things from this wry take on television news!) Christine Lavin’s “Just One Angel” CD was given to the entire crowd, with performances by David Rasche, Sue Matsuki, and of course, Christine herself! Jazzer Tammy McCann came all the way from Chicago to show off her swingin’ chops! Zoe Lewis always dazzles the crowd, and Therese Curatolo made a spectacular NYC debut (and she better come back soon!). The Dueling Fiddlers were as brilliant here in Manhattan as they were when we met at The Magic Castle in LA! AndMarcus Monroe gave us all a taste of his insane and very extreme juggling skills! (Can’t wait to see his show at the 47th Street Theater this weekend!!) Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle were the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, just like they will be this coming Monday! Be there or be extremely square!
November 18, 2010
THE THIRD AND FINAL GAVIN CREEL CONCERT WAS A BITTERSWEET AFFAIR – we were thrilled to enjoy the show again, but so sorry to end all the fun. And boy, did the folks turn out to cheer Gavin, guitarist Robbie Roth (left, by Monica Simoes), and the rest of the band. Birdland was packed with fans and friends flipping out over the great original tunes and brilliant musicianship. We can’t wait for the next time! Thank you, Gavin!
The following Cast Party was packed with some amazing musicians, too! We were delighted that our favorite tapping, trombone-playing crooner,Todd Londagin made a return to our stage. He brought Daniel Glass, who you might know as the drummer for the swing phenomenon Royal Crown Revue. These two guys, plus our bassist Steve Doyle and piano-man Tedd Firth (all left), helped to make one of the best nights of music we’ve ever heard! And there were some extraordinary singers, too! Denise Reis came all the way from Brazil to knock our socks off with her dazzling voice, swell guitar and vocalise talents. Allison Maldonadoperformed one of my favorite Kander & Ebb tunes, Darcy Monet showed off her belting capabilities, and hilarious songwriter John Forster (who penned my fave “Tone Deaf”) absolutely killed. Boy, we have fun every Monday night. We’re doing it all over again this coming week – with Billy Stritch and Steve Doyle acting as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra. You’ll be there, right?
Broadway at Birdland!
The Broadway at Birdland concert series is proud to announce the return of composer Ron Abel, who will be joined by lyricist Chuck Steffan in “Who The F*#! Are These Guys,” celebrating songs from their newest musicals. The event will take place on Monday, November 22 at 7pm at Birdland (315 West 44 Street, NYC).
Composer, arranger, orchestrator and producer Ron Abel, lyricist Chuck Steffan, and friends will take to the Birdland stage once again to perform some crowd-favorites, and to premiere songs never heard before from five of their new musicals. Joining them will be Lucie Arnaz, Valarie Pettiford, Nancy Opel and Andrew Samonsky. Among the writing duo’s new shows are: Bombshell, the story of Hollywood love goddess Cleo Moore, the Queen of the B-Movie Bad Girls; Presenting Laurette Bishop, celebrating the return of one of the greatest jazz singers you never knew; and undressed, a new and raw telling of the novel “Camille” by Alexander Dumas fils. “Who The F*#! Are These Guys,” The Songs of Ron Abel & Chuck Steffan WHEN: Monday, November 22 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $30/$40 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com November 25, 2010
WHAT A NIGHT OF EXTRAORDINARY ENTERTAINMENT WE HAD AT Birdland on Monday night! The cast of “Who The F*#! Are These Guys” (left), which celebrated the songs of Rob Abel and Chuck Steffan, included (l-r) Valarie Pettiford, Andrew Samonsky, Lucie Arnaz, Mr. Abel, Kate Dawson, and Nancy Opel. Many thanks to Stephen Sorokofffor his gorgeous photos! (You can see more if you click on FLICKR!) The show was great, the songs were spectacular, and as you can see, the cast was beautiful and talented! Many thanks to Ron and Chuck for yet another evening of musical fun!
The following Cast Party was just as entertaining, what with some musical geniuses like Marilyn Maye (left), Aaron Weinstein, Brazilian bombshellDenise Reis, Deb Berman & Sean Harkness, Ruby Rakos, Steven Min,Jonathan Shew, London’s Louise Stagg, Jonathan Russell & Sarah Rice, Therese Curatolo, and Eddie Bruce. Tedd Firth and Steve Doylewere the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, so you know everyonesounded fantastic! We sure hope to see you this coming week, when Billy Stritch will be at the Bosendorfer, along with Mr. Doyle on bass!
As I sit here watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade from high atop my Upper West Side roost, I’m wishing all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving! (There sure were a lot of Cast Party/Birdland regulars performing in the Parade this year!) I’m so grateful for all the talent gracing our stage, and for the cheering throngs who make it so worthwhile! Happy Holidays to you and yours! Broadway at Birdland!
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE RETURN OF CHITA RIVERA to the Broadway at Birdland concert series. There will be four performances Friday/Saturday, November 26/27 at 8:30 and 11pm.Universally regarded as an American national treasure, Chita Rivera is Broadway's most accomplished and versatile dancer/actress/singer. A recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Center honor, presented by the President of the United States, Chita has won two Tony Awards as Best Leading Actress in a Musical and has received six additional Tony Award nominations. Broadway history was made when Chita’s electric performance as Anita in the 1957 premier of Broadway’s West Side Storybrought her international stardom. Chita is also well known for her starring roles in Bye Bye Birdie, Born Yesterday, The Rose Tattoo, Call Me Madam, Threepenny Opera, Sweet Charity, Kiss Me Kate, and Zorba. She most recently appeared on Broadway in Chita Rivera: the Dancer's Life, the story of her own life in the theater. Her most recent Broadway appearance previous to this was in the Tony Award winning revival of Nine, starring Antonio Banderas. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this legendary Broadway star in an intimate setting!
CHITA RIVERA WHEN: Friday/Saturday, November 26/27 at 8:30 & 11pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $40 Side Seating; $50 Center/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com 
AND THIS COMING MONDAY…….
Broadway at Birdland is happy to announce that composer/writer Bobby Cronin, along with many Broadway performers, will perform a concert of his original music on Monday, November 29 at 7pm. The concert will feature Cronin at the piano, along with his talented friends, Allison Case, Andrew Samonsky, Kate Pazakis, Andrew Kober, Gerard Canonico, Jenn Furman, Autumn Hurlbert and Katrina Rose Diderickson. The band will feature Josh Samuels on drums, Danny Stone on bass and Chris Lane on guitar. Bobby is the conceiver and co-writer of That’s Andy, a new musical about a boy who dreams of playing Annie. He's directed two NYC readings starring Tony Winner Beth Leavel, Burke Moses, Laura Bell Bundy, and Lauren Kennedy. Also, Bobby's well-reviewed contemporary musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol written with Angelyn Benson, has been seen at numerous regional theatres. He wrote the unique "revusical" From This Day Forward: A Schwartz Journey, arranged by Avenue Q musical director Mark Hartman, with support and guidance from Stephen Schwartz, which uses over 100 Schwartz songs to tell a brand new, plot-driven musical about four twenty-somethings living and loving in NYC. Bobby also directed and wrote a new book for the 2000 NYC revival of Personalswith musical direction by Charlie Alterman, and the approval of original writers and "Friends" creators Marta Kaufman and David Crane. Bobby has had many sold-out concerts throughout NYC including headlining the Songbook Series at Lincoln Center. He made his Los Angeles debut in May 2010 with a concert at Show At Barre, featuring a mix of Broadway, pop, and rock performers. He made his European debut in London with members of the Hair tribe in August 2010. Bobby Cronin is a graduate of Yale University where he was awarded the prestigious Michael P. Manzella Award for Excellence in Arts, Scholastics and Character. Bobby Cronin and Friends in: “The Roads I’m Taking” WHEN: Monday, November 29 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com December 2, 2010
THERE WAS A WHOLE LOT OF SHOW BUSINESS GOING ON ATBIRDLAND this past week, with four very special Chita Rivera concerts that were definitely evenings to remember. This national treasure (and Presidential Medal of Freedom-recipient) stormed our stage with such razzle-dazzle, glamor and humor, we almost forgot that she was singing songs from the Great American Songbook that were written for her! Chita gave us material from West Side Story, Chicago, The Rink, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, as well as some new standards-in-the-making. The capacity crowds included showbiz glitteratti like Cherry Jones, Tommy Tune,Phyllis Newman, Stephanie J. Block, John McDaniel, Laura Benanti,Justin Guarini, Hunter Ryan Herdlicka, Erich Marie Bergen, Billy Stritch, Gerald McCullouch, Ron Abel & Chuck Steffan, Valarie Pettiford, Harvey Evans, and oh – so many more! Many thanks toMatthew Murphy for the beautiful photo (left), as well as Walter McBrideand Derek Storm for their photographic genius, which you can see on ourFlickr site! We Love Chita!
The Monday night Bobby Cronin concert was awash in talent, too! Bobby not only brought a wonderful band to accompany him in showing off his wonderful songs, but a cast-of-thousands! It was great to see (and hear!)Andrew Samonsky (photo, left, by Kevin Thomas Garcia), Carrie Manolakos and Tituss Burgess, among others, singing their hearts out on our stage, and the great addition of Bobby’s material made it a very special evening!
The following Cast Party proved, once again, that our open mic is extreme, unique and always fun! The afore-mentioned Tituss Burgess was joined onstge by Nikki Renee Daniels, giving us a taste of their upcoming Christmas Concert (left, in a photo by Derek Storm). My old friend Gary Floyd sang a gorgeous song from his OutVoice Award-winning new CD.Erich Delilah Bergen performed a medley of New York songs. NewcomerDerek Klena made an auspicious Cast Party debut, and we look forward to many more performances! Baby Jane Dexter sang the blues, Jonathan Lovitz was hilarious, Daniele D’Ercole sang the fastest Brazilian ditty we’ve ever heard, there were newcomers and many, many beloved regulars. Billy Stritch and Steve Doyle were brilliant as the Cast Party Symphony Orchestra, and we all had a ball!
At this next week’s Cast Party, we’ll be celebrating a brand new theater trivia-based game called “Be A Broadway Star!” It’s kind of like the game of “Life,” but instead of collecting “Doctor” and “Lawyer” cards, you collect “Audition” and “Tony Award” cards! Come armed with all your knowledge and you just might leave with a very special present!
December 9, 2010
AS I SIT HERE IN MY MAGIC CASTLE HOTEL ROOM, BLEARILY STARING AT THE COMPUTER SCREEN, I’m astonished that I get to do what I do for a living. Is anyone luckier than me, to be able to throw parties and celebrate world-class talent all over the place? Last night’s Cast Party– Hollywood-style – was another jam-packed, dragging-chairs-in-from-the-dressing-room hootenanny. To have one of the best theater singers in the world, Karen Morrow (left, thanks to Bryan Putnam) sitting in the front row whooping it up didn’t hurt my feelings one bit. Tony-winner Michele Lee was there, too, and sang “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” just like she did on “Knott’s Landing” years ago! There was also a great performance of “Popular” by adorable Romi Dames, who plays snooty Tracy Van Horn on “Hannah Montana.’ Lots of old pals showed up to warble, like Julie Garnye, Erich Bergen, Jake Simpson, Jen Malenke,Ryan Brahams, Ali Handal, Marvin Matthews, and Todd Buonopane. There were brilliant jazzers Pinky Winters and Kurt Reichenbach and great theater types like Zachary Ford, Daniel Tatar, Camille Saviola, andJessica Keenan Wynn (who made us laugh even more than her great grandfather, Ed Wynn did, if possible)! Billy Stritch and I do it all over again tonight, and rumor has it that another Tony winner and an iconic singing brother will be attending!
It was great to have Patrick DeGennaro and his band back on theBirdland stage Monday night! He always brings a spectacular show, filled with his original rockin’ pop material, mind-blowing vocals, great musicians and dynamic stage presence! This phab photo (left) was taken by our ownStephen Sorokoff, who we thank profusely for always being there to capture the fun and excitement at the Broadway at Birdland events!
The following Cast Party showcased one super-performance after another! My pal Luke Hawkins (left, by Sorokoff) tapped his feet off on a 2’ x 2’ piece of wood, leaving the audience absolutely besotted! Lewis Bradleyand Stevie Tate-Bauer, both from the London company of Wicked, blew us all away with their gorgeous vocals. Kevin Fitzsimmons, another Londoner, showed his musical stuff in a swell Birdland debut. The scene was watched over by the glamorous 93-year-old Marsha Hunt, who made her first movie in 1935. She’s a film icon, and we were thrilled to meet her!Kate Ferber sang a thrilling piece from her Laura Nyro show. Christine Lavin was hilarious and adorable as always. Tony DeSare showed why he’s a constant musical presence at The Carlyle Hotel. Sean Harknesswas never better, dazzling us with his swingin’ guitar and vocals. Colleen McHugh did Barbra’s “Jingle Bells?” faster and funnier than Barbra. Dan Micciche let us sample his gorgeous tenor voice. Marilyn Maye was…well…Marilyn Maye! Tedd Firth and Steve Doyle accompanied the regulars and the newcomers with precision and care, and we hope, if you missed it, you soon will be there! (I will also try desperately to never rhyme again.)
Check out this wonderful piece about Cast Party in the Huffington Post, written by Lesleyann Coker! December 16, 2010
DEAR GENTLE READER,
When we last left off, Billy Stritch and I were in sunny Los Angeles hosting Cast Party at The Magic Castle. The Wednesday Party had gone swimmingly, what with a packed house and brilliant performances. I’m happy to tell you that the Thursday Party was more of the same! We were both thrilled to see the Dick Williams in the house. You see, I spent three years AS Dick Williams in what became “Liza’s At The Palace.” He was one-fourth of the spectacular vocal group The Williams Brothers – he and his brothers Andy, Don and Bob toured the world singing and dancing with the legendary Kay Thompson, and turning the nightclub world on its ear! Since Cortes Alexander (left, with Billy, Dick and me, thanks to Brian Putnam) of The Tonics was also at the Castle with us, and had toured in the Liza show, we thought it only right that we re-create one of those crazy Williams Brothers arrangements with Dick Williams himself, so we sang “Hello, Hello” for the nice people! It was a complete thrill for us, and Dick remembered every single word and note! The crowd went wild – and it was a damn talented bunch! 
Also joining us were dazzling Donna McKechnie (beaming beautifully atleft, thanks again to Brian Putnam), Erin Quill, Ilene Graff, Erich Bergen, Julie Garnye, magician/dove guy Joel Ward, Rene Ruiz and theMixed Company Carolers (with handbells!), Broadway’s James Snyder,Jerry Sharell, Glee’s Chris Mann, composer Georgia Stitt and producer/director Richard Jay-Alexander, among many others! A huge THANK YOU to The Magic Castle for yet another thrilling Hollywood evening!
We loved having Broadway leading man James Barbour (left, thanks toGenevieve Rafter Keddy) singing his holiday heart out at Birdland on Sunday and Monday! Goodness, the guy can sing the phone book – and almost proved it with a hilarious “Twelve Days of Christmas” that had the sold-out houses screaming! What a joy to hear his booming baritone on our stage. He certainly put us in the Christmas spirit with wonderful material and funny stories. Merry Christmas, Jim, and thanks for all the fun!
The following Cast Party was filled with more talented people raring to entertain each other at the Bosendorfer! It was great to finally hearBenjamin Ross, that clever Canadian who has been our t-shirt model for quite a few years (scroll down to see him)! Gary Novikoff performed a truly funny song, David Rasche was his wry, clever self, and jazz star Roseana Vitro was right at home on the Birdland stage. Sam Port showed why he works non-stop in the theater, and we were delighted that so many Birdland songbirds decided to partake in the fun, including William Blake, Caitlin Westfall and Cate Cox! Hilary Kole, Billy Stritch, Aaron Weinstein and I were excited to give the folks a taste of our upcoming holiday show, “A Swingin’ Birdland Christmas,” (read all about it below), so we ended the night with a massive “Jingle Bells” mashup! We do this every Monday, you know…so please come see what all the fuss is about! This week, Billy Stritch will be at the piano all night – so you know the vibe will be swinging! December 23, 2010
HAPPY HOLIDAYS, EVERYONE!
What an exciting week it’s been on the Cast Party/Birdland scene! Do I even need to tell you that Sunday's two Christine Ebersole/Billy Stritchextravaganzas were out-of-this-world? Our favorite harmonizing dynamic duo outdid themselves in their annual holiday show. The place was packed with family, friends and fans rarin' to get into the spirit, and of course Chris and Billy didn't let them down. Their "Snowfall" alone was worth the price of admission. Watch this space for info on NEXT year's Christmas show! 
Our “Swinging Birdland Christmas” opened with a bang on Monday night, with a packed house that included Liza Minnelli, Linda Lavin, Rex Reed, and our very special musical guest star Christine Ebersole.
Me and my pals Hilary Kole, Billy Stritch (top left, in a photo by Derek Storm), Aaron Weinstein (below left, in a photo by Stephen Sorokoff) and our brilliant band Tony Tedesco and Paul Gill...are having an absolute ball on stage, and we have been thrilled at the response! (Read all about it in Total Theater, BroadwayWorld, TheaterMania and Cabaret Hotline Online.) Tuesday and Wednesday brought special musical guestsStephanie J. Block and Klea Blackhurst. Boy, we know how to pick ‘em, too. Their performances were extraordinary and their participation made us very, very merry! 
On Tuesday night, my longtime dream being an Osmond Brother came true, at least momentarily. As we were onstage singing our opening number, Kay Thompson’s cheerful “Holiday Season,” Donny Osmond (at left, thanks to Todd Forman) surprised us all by leaping onto the stage! He grabbed my microphone, took a chorus, then helped us finish the tune with a gigantic bang! Of course, the crowd went wild. As the applause peaked, our new BFF flew off the stage, grabbed his coat and headed out the door, late for his half-hour call at the Marquis Theatre, where he andMarie are knocking ‘em dead with their own Christmas extravaganza. Oh, what fun!
All of us at Cast Party and Birdland hope that you and yours are enjoying a spectacular season. Here’s to health, happiness, peace and joy to all of you – and we can’t wait to see you in the New Year! December 30, 2012
JIM CARUSO IS PROUD TO PRESENT "AN EVENING WITH KLEA BLACKHURST," as part of the Broadway at Birdland concert series, spotlighting performers and writers from the Great White Way. The event will take place on Monday, January 10 at 7pm.
“An Evening with Klea Blackhurst!” will be a delightful evening, as Klea romps through her favorite selections from the great American songbook, Broadway, and contemporary pop. From her “Star Search” audition to her adoration of Donny Osmond, from “A Cockeyed Optimist” to “The Yodeling Muchacha,” this evening is certain to dispel those post-holiday doldrums and kick the New Year off with a skip in your step! KLEA BLACKHURST is best known for her award-winning solo shows: Everything The Traffic Will Allow, her acclaimed tribute to Ethel Merman; and, Autumn in New York: Vernon Duke's Broadway. She can currently be seen as pundit Shelby Cross on the IFC Comedy Series "The Onion News Network." Her most recent show teaming with Billy Stritch, Dreaming of a Song: The Music of Hoagy Carmichael, received a 2009 MAC Award. Klea’s concert appearances include the London Palladium, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, ten Mabel Mercer Foundation Cabaret Conventions, Carnegie Hall with Michael Feinstein, Oklahoma! at London’s Royal Albert Hall, and New York’s 92nd Street Y Lyrics & Lyricists (Leo Robin & Cole Porter). Klea’s theatre credits include: In New York - Bingo, By Jupiter, Radio Gals, Oil City Symphony; Regional - Chicago, The Great American Trailer Park Musical, Red Hot and Blue, Anything Goes. TV and radio: “Law and Order: SVU,” “The Rosie O'Donnell Show,” “Sesame Street,” “A Prairie Home Companion.” AN EVENING WITH KLEA BLACKHURST! WHEN: Monday, January 10 at 7pm WHERE: Birdland, 315 West 44 Street, NYC TICKETS: $25 or $35 Cover/$10 food and drink minimum RESERVATIONS: 212.581.3080 or BirdlandJazz.com |
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