Rosemary Loar
When Harry Met the Duke
Don’t Tell Mama, NYC, June 3, 2018
Reviewed by Bart Greenberg for Cabaret Scenes
Rosemary Loar revived her wonderful show When Harry Met the Duke and it was terrific to have both the delightful jazz vocalist and her carefully researched show back. This tribute show of two major and influential composers, Harold Arlen and Duke Ellington, is as smooth and easy to take as the craftsmen’s work.
online pharmacy https://www.arborvita.com/wp-content/themes/spacious/inc/new/ivermectin.html no prescription drugstore
Whether these two artisans ever actually met, their lives crisscrossed constantly over the years, as Loar explained in her illuminating patter. The two men were, at different times, the house pianists for the fabled Cotton Club, which both shaped their style and helped them to set it for those who followed them.
The singer, clad in a gorgeous 1920s-style gown, is that rare combination of jazz vocalist and dramatic actress.
online pharmacy https://www.arborvita.com/wp-content/themes/spacious/inc/new/wellbutrin.html no prescription drugstore
She can sing and scat, but she also delivers the lyrics of the selections with a delicate probing of the emotions within. She can even create a musical arrangement for an original (in both senses of the word) piece linking the men, “Between the A Train and the Rainbow.” Most of the songs were arranged by music director Frank Ponzio, with some contributions by Don Rebic and Daryl Kojak. Trumpeter Waldron Ricks was also present to add electric support.
Some of the highlights of the evening included a flawless in its simplicity “Stormy Weather” (Arlen/Ted Koehler) paired with Ellington’s “Caravan.” Another infectious combination of the two heroes of the hour was “Do Nothin’ Till You Hear from Me” (Ellington/Bob Russell) with “Let’s Fall in Love” (Arlen/Koehler). There was also pleasure in hearing some lesser-known works such as “Rockin’ in Rhythm” (Ellington) and “I Had Myself a True Love” (Arlen/Johnny Mercer). But pretty much every number landed beautifully, and the combination of Loar, Arlen, and Ellington were a winning parlay indeed.
