Host/director Rob Dorn’s lifelong obsession with Barbra Streisand begat Bab Fab, a remarkabe showcase celebrating “Bab’s” 66th birthday. Performers included the “Barbra-Shop Quartet,” consisting of Dorn, Erik Carlson, John Eskola and Jason Paul Smith. It combined beautifully executed harmonies with a fun medley and an ending that never stopped—to audience cheers. The ten singers individually and collectively connected to the enthusiastic Bab Fab audience and honoree. Laura Freeman was a standout as Miss Marmelstein, the pestered, yet to be flirted with secretary. Yours truly was delighted to reprise “My Man” from my own tribute to Fanny Brice. Elizabeth Dowling can belt with the best of ‘em, but found the child’s silly, tender perspective in “Sweet Zoo.” Amy Cole’s quick-time “Lover Come Back to Me” reflected the energy of Bab Fab. Fab raised a healthy sum for Season of Concern. It didn’t rain on this parade!

Carla Gordon
Cabaret Scenes
April 24, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org