Previewing her new show, the usually unflappable Marcovicci was uncharacteristically nervous -- deciding to read from a prepared script and fumbling a few lyrics. First night jitters aside, she is a master of her niche as a musical historian, and one gets the point that she has done her homework and is more than adequately prepared to hold class on the music of Rodgers and Hart.

Employing her idiosyncratic speech-song delivery, Marcovicci connects with the audience with a genuine sincerity that belies her diva-like appearance and stage mannerisms. Accompanied by longtime collaborator Shelly Markham on piano and local bassist Daniel Fabricant, the musical selections covered the songwriting team's career from flops to successes), lows to highs ("Ten Cents a Dance," "I Didn't Know What Time It Was," "This Can't Be Love," "Thou Swell") and became a loving tribute to Lorenz Hart, a tragic figure who drank himself to death. Marcovicci's fragile delivery of his ballads ("Falling in Love with Love," "It Never Entered My Mind") lent them an intentional sadness and melancholy.

More than just a collection of songs, Marcovicci attempts more with this scripted show, but not too much more than her adoring fans can handle. Andrea is like the cherished music teacher they remember who opened their eyes to the back story behind the music, who challenged their minds and now rekindles their memories.

Andrea Marcovicci continues at the Empire Plush Room through July 29.

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
July 10, 2007
www.cabaretscenes.org