Don’t Tell Mama, NYC, December 7, 2018
Reviewed by Alix Cohen for Cabaret Scenes
Marnie Klar is a tall, attractive drink of water. Her freshness adds to the authenticity of this show. When the vocalist tells us about her subject’s independent, inherently feminist life, she speaks with passion. Biographical material is, alas, predominantly factual rather than anecdotal/colorful and loaded in at the top of the showinstead of alternating with the music.
The performer has a fine, clear, beautifully controlled instrument. Here, she aptly employs keychanges by slip/sliding between keys and adding some southern color. Duets with and back-up by music director/pianist Steven Ray Watkins, a self-avowed countryboy, add color and texture. (Musicianship tonight is solid.) Gentry is a goodchoice.