Review: The Talented MICHAEL LONGORIA Truly Connects With His Biographical Cabaret

MICHAEL LONGORIA/written by Michael Longoria & Taylor James/directed by Taylor James/musical direction by Danny Lincoln/Rockwell Table & Stage

On June 7, the Rockwell Table & Stage featured the stunning vocals of Michael Longoria, one of the original Broadway cast of JERSEY BOYS. Backed by a kick-ass, seven-man band; Longoria recounted his life journey from being his Grandma Juanita's precious little gift, through his hurdles in attaining his Broadway career, to his present state of grateful satisfaction. Smartly written by Longoria and his director Taylor James, Broadway standards received re-imagined, re-purposed raison-d'être in advancing Longoria's fascinating narrative. His verbal accounts (serving as song intros) gave fresh, innovative meanings to his show tune classics selections.

Longoria endearingly emphasized his Latin roots presenting a Mariachi-tinged version of "The Sound of Music" with some verses sung in Spanish. Nice preview of Jeffrey Lesser's smoking musical arrangements to come.

"Maria" from WEST SIDE STORY segued from his first viewing of the film WSS on Grandma's television. Longoria made full use of his high register here and in "Corner of the Sky" from PIPPIN.

Of course, compulsory (and good for the appreciative audience) to include a song from his first starring role as Frankie Valli in JERSEY BOYS, Longoria nailed "Can't Take My Eyes Off You." Longoria started in JERSEY BOYS as Joey before taking over the lead.

Longoria brought an amazingly new perspective (and a few tears) to one of my all-time favorite Broadway gems, "Being Alive" from COMPANY. And I've heard many sing the hell of out this song! Brava, Michael Longoria!

Danny Lincoln (on piano) led the incredible band performing Jesse Vargas' slick orchestrations. "Tell Me on a Sunday" from SONG AND DANCE provided a perfect showcase for Ray Reinebach on violin and Mathias Minquet on guitar. Stephan Cardenas' woodwinds extraordinaire got his sax workout in "Being Alive" and his flute expertise displayed in "Music & the Mirror" from A CHORUS LINE. Also, providing sturdy musical support - Jordan Lamoureux on bass, Ryan O'Connell on keyboards and David Lamoureux on drums.

Clever, subtle, yet efficient costume changes designed by Malan Breton. And kudos to Rockwell's sound system balancing the instruments to support, rather than compete with Longoria's vocals.

Check out rest of Longoria's tour dates @ www.michaellongoria.com