The Cabaret Chronicles: Katharine Luckinbill's Smashing Debut at Don't Tell Mama!

What do you get when you take a great selection of songs, a terrific sense of humor, a lovely voice, serious acting chops, and top-notch delivery?  Answer: One of the most exciting cabaret debut shows in recent memory, courtesy of Katharine Luckinbill in LOVE (or lack thereof), which is being produced by Michael Alden.  Backed by a stellar trio (Dave Ostrem on bass, Sam Lazzara on drums and musical director Lilli Wosk on piano), Katharine wound her way through a voyage of self-discovery via countless failed relationships. 

Sharing personal stories about her exes, Katharine managed to bring the audience in, as though each member was a close friend.  No holds barred, she was brutally (and at times, hysterically!) honest about the ups and downs of her love life, seamlessly intertwining personal stories with songs ranging from "Fallin'" (Marvin Hamlisch and Carol Bayer Sager) to "Bust Your Windows," (Jazmine Sullivan and Salaam Remi) to "Can't Fight This Feeling Anymore" (Kevin Cronin).   In fact, the songs fit so perfectly into the storyline, it seems like they could have been written for the show.  Another highlight was Ms. Luckinbill's spot-on delivery of "The Post-It," a monologue from Sex In The City that describes being dumped over a post-it note.  Also impressive was Ms. Luckinbill's connection to her material.  It is rare, even for a veteran performer, to be so perfectly in touch with their material that they seem to be living the lyrics as they occur, yet Katharine has mastered that technique.  From the highest highs to the lowest lows, she had the audience in the palm of her hand, experiencing the joy and pain with her. 

There are two more performances of LOVE (or lack thereof); if you're able to catch it, I highly encourage you to do so!  Performances are Monday, February 14^th and Monday, February 21^st at 7 p.m. at Don't Tell Mama.  For reservations, call 212-757-0788.

Pictured: Katharine Luckinbill