Joanne Beretta at Danny's Skylight Room

As cabaret venues go, Danny's Skylight Room is rather more spacious than most, creating a comfortable atmosphere in which one can relax while enjoying the music. Yet despite the excess of space, it was near impossible to find a seat in the room when Joanne Beretta made her return to the cabaret stage after more than 25 years away. As the small, graceful lady demurely poked her head through the curtains to make her entrance, the room exploded into cheers and applause, welcoming back a talent that has clearly been missed for this long quarter of a century.

A star of the San Francisco/> and New York/>/> cabaret scenes during the 1950's and '60's, Ms. Beretta performed at many of the best venues on both coasts, earning a devoted following that clearly has never forgotten her. Yet in the late 1970's, she retired from performing and became a designer for stores and magazines. It was not until Broadway star Kathleen Chalfant provided a press agent and financial backing that a comeback seemed possible for Ms. Beretta.

But come back she has, winsome as ever, proving that she's still got charm and charisma to spare. With a unique style that is simultaneously innovative and reflective, Ms. Beretta manages to recreate the golden days of cabaret while still providing fresh material. There is no Lerner and Loewe here, no Rodgers and Hammerstein, no "Send in the Clowns" or "Stars and the Moon." The song list for this concert is much more eclectic and surprising. Elton John's "Roy Rogers" and Lee Hazelton's "These Boots are Made for Walking" take on new meanings in Ms. Beretta's capable hands, and Bob Dylan's "Just Like A Woman" has never sounded more plaintive. Franklin Underwood's accompaniment is an excellent match for her style, following every nuance in every song.

Ms. Beretta is also an apt storyteller and comedienne, providing anecdotes and quips to ease us into each song. With a dry, droll wit and pitch-perfect comic timing, she keeps the mood light and effervescent whenever a ballad threatens to bring the room down. Unapologetically political, she gleefully rips into the current administration, scoring plenty of bulls-eyes with her well-timed barbs.

While there should rightfully be much rejoicing at Ms. Beretta's return, her years away from the stage and the microphone cannot be ignored. She clearly had opening-night jitters at last week's premiere, and her delicate voice, though full of emotion, seemed tentative at times, or perhaps only weak from disuse. With the welcoming adoration of her many fans, who quickly sold out the initial run at Danny's and forced a much-needed extension, she should well be able to overcome whatever stage fright she may have felt, and make certain that her voice will be frequently exercised.

Joanne Beretta will appear at Danny's Skylight Room (346 West 46th Street) until February 27th. Call 212-265-8133 for reservations.

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