The Cabaret Chronicles: Tony DeSare, Cast Party, and More!

Ah, yes!  Another Saturday, which means another Cabaret Chronicles!  I've had a lovely week of Manhattan nightlife, which was kicked off by the fabulously talented Tony DeSare at Bemelmans Bar.  I headed to Bemelmans with a few friends on Sunday evening and had a terrific time, as always.  Now, Tony's performances are always top-notch, but this past Sunday's show had a little extra "oomph!" thanks to a couple of legendary performers, namely Bucky Pizzarelli and Betty Buckley!  Mr. Pizzarelli was filling in for Ed Decker (Tony's regular guitarist) this week, and it was a true treat to hear him play, especially in such an intimate setting.  And Ms. Buckley, who had come in to enjoy the music, was coaxed up to the mic to deliver a fantastic "You Made Me Love You (I Didn't Want To Do It)".  It was one of those magical musical moments that can only be created with spontaneity, heart, and incredible talent all the way around!  Special guests aside, it would have been a wonderful evening in any case, because of the remarkable talent of Tony DeSare.  In addition to his smooth, easy voice, he is one of the most talented pianists I've ever had the pleasure of hearing...mix in his charming personality and excellent song selection, and you've got a truly amazing musical experience!  Joined by the aforementioned Bucky Pizzarelli on guitar and Steve Doyle on bass, Tony wound his way through standards like "Fly Me To The Moon," "Just In Time," "Moon River," and "Route 66," while mixing in more modern tunes such as Prince's "Kiss."  It was a supremely entertaining night, and I hope to make it back again for another show this month - Tony will be at Bemelmans Bar every Sunday in June! 

On Monday night, it was off to Birdland (as usual!) for Jim Caruso's Cast Party.  Now, I've been going to Cast Party almost every Monday for the past five years, and I can't recall it EVER being quite so crowded!  When I arrived, there were over 100 people lined up on the sidewalk, waiting to get in!  There was a waiting list for around the first hour, and finally, everyone managed to squeeze in, whether they stood at the bar or along the back wall of the club.  With such a huge crowd, the energy in the room was just incredible, and it made for a really fun night!  In addition to the "usual suspects," there were a couple of VIPs there that night, such as Japanese pop superstar Ai Kago, who arrived (film crew in tow) to treat the crowd to "How High The Moon."  Then there was folk diva Christine Lavin, who was celebrating the release of her new book, Cold Pizza For Breakfast...A Mem-Wha??.  Not only did she perform one of her most well-loved songs, "It's A Good Thing He Can't Read My Mind," but she also gave out copies of the book to everyone in the audience!  It was "Oprah meets Cast Party" in the best possible way!  The legendary Ervin Drake took the mic to sing his famous song, "It Was A Very Good Year," for which he'd written two brand new verses, television and stage star Linda Lavin brought the house down with a fab "Deed I Do," and regulars like jazz vocalist Hilary Kole, violinist extraordinaire Aaron Weinstein, and Birdland songbird William Blake kept the level of talent  for the night extremely high.  It was a wonderful night, and I, for one, can't wait to go back next week!

Thursday evening found me at the legendary Friars Club for their Café Thursdays open mic night.  With Marty Silver on the keyboard, Bobby Sher on the drums, and Stan Gilbert hosting, it was a ready-made musical party.  Tom D'Angelo, Joe Bachana, Matt Macis, Dorothy Z., and Stan Gilbert himself all took the mic, and it was a fun, laid-back, highly entertaining evening! 

That's about all for this week, but check back next week for a new article! 

Where I'm Going This Week...

TONIGHT: Saturday, June 12^th: Tom D'Angelo Presents: Spotlight at the Iguana Starring Adrienne Hindmarsh.  This entertaining monthly variety show hosted by the ever-charming Tom D'Angelo hearkens back to the good ol' days of silliness and revelry a la Dean Martin.  This month's "spotlighted guest" is the lovely and talented Adrienne Hindmarsh.  Show starts at 8:30 p.m.  

Monday, April 26^th: Jim Caruso's Cast Party at Birdland.  This fantastic weekly open mic runs from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. but make sure to arrive early to sign up if you want to sing! 

 Pictured: Tony DeSare