Sandra Bargman
The Edge of Everyday
The Duplex, NYC, January 30, 2015
Reviewed by Rob Lester for Cabaret Scenes
Guess what kind of a show a self-proclaimed “Queen Bee” (Loose translation: cabaret diva) who’s an ordained Interfaith minister with strong, sultry singing does? While two-drink minimums offer different kinds of spirits, spirited entertainer Sandra Bargman added to mixed drinks offerings her mixed bag. Contents: thoughts about the human Spirit, soul-searching, mixed with fervent songs, sass, and, thank the Holy Spirit, humor. Director: another whose résumé boasts Interfaith ministry with cabaret, Shawn Moninger.
One moment she’s addressing Life’s true meaning or human inhibitions, the next she’s encouraging shedding ’em (sitting on ringsider’s lap, pulling patrons on stage to dance), then we’re asked to focus on our breath and visualize while closing our eyes.
Quite an eye-opener it is, although Edge of Everyday—despite her self-written, imploring “Lean In, Edgy Ones”—didn’t quite keep me on the edge of my seat throughout. Barnstorming Bargman pontificates pluckily or ever-earnestly. But it’s food for (deep) thought in bite-size nuggets (“It hurts to be free”). Sensational pianist Ian Herman lead a trio, whose show-ending dazzler made me wish they’d had more instrumental breaks throughout. Music from all genres generally entertained and energized: “Change the World”; “Crazy Eyes”; “Be My Little Baby Bumblebee.
” OK, now exhale.
Sandra Bargman will return faithfully to The Duplex on February 15.
