Marilyn Maye: In Love Again
Marilyn Maye
In Love Again
Birdland, NYC, February 10,2015
Reviewed by Ron Forman for Cabaret Scenes
What can I say about a vocalist whom I have called today’s best female cabaret artist, after having seeing her more than a dozen times? Marilyn Maye still amazes me! Maye opened by making the audience laugh by saying she would do 29 love songs. Amazingly, including her encore, she seamlessly performed 30 numbers. The ageless Maye was in exceptionally good voice, but it is her great energy and confidence that set her apart from the crowd. Every show is a love fest between Maye and her audience, so there is no one better able to do a Valentine show, In Love Again.
Standout numbers included her classic “Too Late Now,” “Hey There”—showing off her ability as an actress—a hilarious “Makin’ Whoopee” and a booming “Just for a Thrill.” Maye combined with musical director Billy Stritch for five delightful duets, including Cole Porter’s “I’m in Love Again.” She ended the 90-minute show, seemingly having more energy than at the start, with “What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?,” “I Could Write a Book” and “All of You.” The encore, a request from the audience, was an exciting and very up-tempo “That Old Black Magic.”
Marilyn continues at Birdland through Feb. 14.
Category: Cabaret Reviews, New York City, New York City Cabaret Reviews
