A cabaret artist in a debut performance needs to display confidence so the audience can be put at ease. From her opening, exuberant "Night and Day" to closing encore "Smile," newcomer Ariana Savalas had it under control, so no worries there. Her second number, "Peel Me a Grape," found this beautiful young singer roaming through the Gardenia coquettishly in search of male prey. Ariana used her impeccable French (garnered in a convent education) to great effect in "La Vie en Rose," her take on Parisian love, followed by her view of L.A. amore - "Down With Love." Other material included the Beatles song, "The Night Before," with Ariana taking over at the piano from Jeff Lass. Director Corky Hale sat behind the 88s providing graceful accompaniment on the Smile encore. A little more experience will add some polish to this emerging gem. The gorgeous voice is already in place.

Les Traub
Cabaret Scenes
April 12, 2007
www.cabaretscenes.org