Here's To the Ladies is an inspiring, saucy, melodic, and entertaining experience. Playwright Joanne Schmoll truly captured the struggle and spirit of women songwriters of the 1940's. The audience is transported into a 1940's cabaret by set designer Terry Tennesen's bold transformation of the entire theater space. Karen Anderson (light designer) heightens the cabaret experience with her warm and ambient lighting. The costume design of Colleen Dobbin was reserved and subtle yet fully effective in evoking the soul of tin pan alley. I enjoyed Linda Dowdell's arrangement of the songs with her clever harmonies and the two piece bass (Kia Armstrong) and Piano ( Linda Dowdell) band was awesome. I really enjoyed the way they were incorporated in to the fabric of the show.
Marlette Buchanan, as Dot, brought in the sass, with her rich and soulful singing. She ignited the classic torch song with her smoldering rendition of "God Bless the Child." I also enjoyed the bittersweet vocal styling of Heather Dudley Nollette, as Dorie, which infused the narrative qualities of her songs. Not to be outdone by the Divas, Lee Harwell (Mister) delivers a well matched and wonderful performance as well.
Sitting at a tiny cabaret table, listening to the amazing songs, I felt as though I'd gone back in time. Tin pan alley is more then just a play. It offers the audience a unique, and complete sensory experience. I definitely recommend it. Ever since I saw Tin Pan Alley I've been bugging my mom nonstop to let me download Billie Holiday songs on my Ipod and I’ve discovered a love for a whole new genre of music.
by Tanner Matthew, I.C.E Theater and Arts
Correspondant
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