Irina Maleeva
Illusions
Hudson Mainstage Theatre, Hollywood, CA, November 23, 2014
Reviewed by Les Traub for Cabaret Scenes
In a biographical show, it certainly helps if there is drama, suspense, an international flavor, and some humor in one’s life. Irina Maleeva can and does call on all of those elements in her show, Illusions. Born in Bulgaria, the daughter of a major theatrical actress and an anti-Nazi political prisoner, Maleeva became a child actress in Bulgaria, moved to Italy to study at one of the world’s best film schools, and went on to a successful acting career that eventually brought her to America.
Touching, informative stories involving a cast of characters including Orson Welles, Visconti, Yves Montand and Federico Fellini added spice to the story.
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Maleeva paired “Illusions” (Hollander/Lerner) with Jerry Herman’s “I Don’t Want to Know” for her effective opening. While not possessing a powerful voice, she nevertheless brought a powerful intensity to the material.
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All of the dozen numbers in the show artfully moved the story along. Particularly appropriate and well-delivered were Amanda McBroom’s “Crimes of the Heart” followed by “Games Are Everywhere” (Brourman/Rae). The contrast of her successful career (illustrated with clips on a video screen) with her journey to establish an emotional connection with her parents provided an emotional intensity to the show.
Director Randy Johnson paced the show well and Musical Director Ed Martel provided solid support.
