It’s really just this simple: when Dwayne Britton opens his mouth to sing, he also opens up his heart.  A willingness to honestly reveal feelings and struggles did not wander into self-indulgent or self-pitying territory in his May 26 show at The Duplex (superb James Followell on piano; video clips on Youtube.com).  A truly disarming manner, optimism, and bubbly enthusiasm for the songs were endearing.  Dwayne’s  focused, intent, nuanced interpretations of lyrics revealed a thoughtful, convincing actor who can find the intimate cabaret communication quotient in a pop song.  Comic relief leavened things.   The focus: selections from his exquisite self-titled CD (label: LML Music) — songs like “Why” (wow!) and “Pure Imagination” (his sweetly unspoiled sense of awe could make you believe in Santa Claus — or even true love).  He and guest Lee Lessack did a powerful duet of Wicked’s “For Good.”  The mix: down-to-earth personality and heavenly voice: ideal!

Rob Lester
Cabaret Scenes
May 26, 2008
www.cabaretscenes.org