Broadway’s “Annie” added San Francisco’s newest cabaret venue to her long list of credits with an enjoyable evening of her favorite show tunes and insider dish. McArdle has been a very busy performer since her Tony-nominated turn as everyone’s favorite orphan in 1977. Her set featured material from Beauty and the Beast”(title song), Les Miserables”("I Dreamed a Dream"), "Married" from Cabaret (a touching tribute to gay marriages) and of course, "Tomorrow" from Annie” all sung with her feisty, ever youthful energy. At 45, McArdle is a seasoned Broadway veteran who still obsesses over parts to come. She shone on Sondheim’s "Everybody Says Don’t" from the obscure “nyone Can Whistle as well as "You Could Drive a Person Crazy" from Company” And of course who wouldn’t want to play Mama Rose in Gypsy ("Some People").

McArdle was accompanied by good friend pianist Seth Rudetsky, who spurred on the showbiz banter and sang duet on a few numbers and introduced her daughter Alexis to sing "On My Own" from Les Miserable. McArdle couldn’t help from beaming with pride over her talented daughter sharing the stage and beginning her own Broadway career. The show ended with two Garland numbers, "Trolley Song" and "Over the Rainbow," a nod to McArdle’s plum role as a young Judy in Rainbow.  McArdle’s show is a Broadway fan’s dream. She’s effervescent, experienced and knows how to sell a show tune.

Steve Murray
Cabaret Scenes
une 26, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org