Metropolitan Room Welcomes Fortenberry & Brinberg, 1/8-11

The Metropolitan Room hosts a showdown of stunning proportions on Saturday January 8 as Philip Fortenberry tickles the ivories in the early show (at 7pm) and Steven Brinberg grabs the spotlight as Barbra in the late show (at 9:30pm).  The one-two punch of Fortenberry, the concert pianist and Broadway conductor, and Brinberg, the embodiment of haute divadom in his latest edition of the mega-popular "Simply Barbra" comes courtesy of KMP Artists, as part of the APAP artists and presenters conference January 8 through 11.

Both shows feature Franc D'Ambrosio ("Phantom of the Opera" title role in the San Francisco run, "Godfather III") as guest vocalist.

In his new concert Fortenberry offers his regards to the composers, directors and performers who work on the Great White Way.  Peppered with stories of his youth in the Deep South playing church concerts, all the way to conducting Broadway and Las Vegas productions, Fortenberry is developing a signature style that blends musical virtuosity with his affable, engaging stage persona.

In his long-awaited return to the Metropolitan Room, Steven Brinberg premieres the latest edition of "Simply Barbra," the long-running series.  This time Brinberg celebrates Barbra's Grammy-nominated album, "Love is the Answer," her return to the big screen in "Little Fockers," and the release of her first book "My Passion for Design."

In concerts around the globe from London's West End to Hong Kong, and from Canada down to Mexico, with Marvin Hamlisch, and in appearances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Brinberg channels the legendary Barbra Streisand. In addition to his two acclaimed CD's, he is most proud of being hired by Miss Streisand's management to perform at her best friend Donna Karan's birthday party!

Saturday January 8, at 7pm (Philip Fortenberry) & 9:30pm ("Simply Barbra") is simply the place to be.  The cover charge for both shows is $25, with a two-drink minimum. For reservations call The Metropolitan Room, 34 West 22nd Street, at 212/206-0440 or to order online visit www.metropolitanroom.com

Photo Credit: Craig Brockman