Known in the New York area as host of the At The Ritz radio show, DiMenna proved herself, once again, to be a gracious and appealing cabaret performer as well.  This second elucidation of DiMennaMania! was a combination variety show and showcase for DiMenna’s guests as well as for DiMenna herself, providing a touch of everything from opera to Be Bop.

Co-host Laura Slutsky’s songs and patter provided much of the evening’s guffaws, topped only briefly by surprise guest, radio icon Joe Franklin, who cracked, “I’ve been in show business so long, that when I started, the Dead Sea was only sick.”  Anthony Santelmo, Jr., was a charmer with his Italophile numbers, "Papa Niccolini" and "Pastafazool," coming back on stage to create the trio with DiMenna and Slutsky for "Mambo Italiano" and "Papa Loves Mambo."

Lovely Anna Bergman was both a true diva with "Non ti Scodar di Me" and revealed a comedic bent as well with Francesca Blumenthal’s city-wise and pick-up wise "Museum".

John Leone possesses a fine voice.  Like many Broadway actors, however, he seemed oblivious to his Laurie Beechman Theater audience and sang to the spotlight.  Only when he duetted Berlin’s "You’re Just in Love" with DiMenna did he reveal the personality that won him his current role in the Broadway hit, Jersey Boys.

DiMenna displayed an adept light touch with Goldrich and Heisler’s "15lbs Away from My Love", and even tap danced while singing "A Little Jive is Good For You"." Contemplating the pleasures of DiMemmaMania!, one wishes it was scheduled on a far more frequent basis. Linda Amiel Burns directed.

Peter Leavy
Cabaret Scenes
November 18, 2007
www.cabaretscenes.com