Julie Rogelstad proved herself a pro at the second of four shows this month at the Metropolitan Room when a large table of patrons in front of her talked loudly (!) throughout her entire show. While chattering away as if in their living rooms and getting up and down to answer their cell phones multiple times, Rogelstad never flinched. Instead, she performed beautifully - singing with a powerhouse voice that was impressive as her composure.

Backed by a superb trio led by Steven Ray Watkins, Rogelstad's vocal style combines equal parts pop, folk and Broadway in an instrument notable for its range as well as its beauty. Material as disparate as Andrew Lippa's difficult "The Life of the Party" from his Wild Party, Cy Coleman's "I'm Leaving You" from his under-appreciated score of The Life and Karen Mack's elegantly crafted "I Am Home" each received expert treatment from Rogelstad. Under Lennie Watts's understated direction, she blends snippets of conversational patter about people watching, her phobias and her parents' latest housing accommodations into her show with an ease that belies her experience. Rogelstad's still a shade nervous, keeping her gaze just above the eye-level of her audience, but that will undoubtedly relax itself as she continues performing and perfecting her style. Besides, anyone who can work a bit of baton twirling (brilliantly, I may add) while sitting on a piano singing Amanda McBroom's sultry "Hot in Here", then conclude with an amazing version of Carly Simon's anthem to working girls everywhere, "Let the River Run," is okay in my book. Actually, Rogelstad's better than okay; she's terrific!

Julie Rogelstad remaining performances at the Metropolitan Room are Friday, June 15th and Saturday, June 23rd both at 10:30 p.m. The Metropolitan Room is located at 34 West 22nd Street and reservations can be made at 212-206-0440.

David Hurst
Cabaret Scenes
June 7, 2007
www.cabaretscenes.org