Review: Cabaret at Merrick Theatre & Center For The Arts

One could possibly say that a production of the Kander and Ebb Tony winning classic Cabaret is a dime a dozen. However, when you have a fascinating production like the one at Merrick Theatre & Center For The Arts, it indeed warrants another look. Excellently directed by Daniel C. Higgins, this superb incarnation runs at the Long Island venue through May 20th boasting a stellar cast.

Set in Berlin in the 1920's, the tale centers on the nightlife at the Kit Kat Klub, a seedy cabaret, focusing on American writer Cliff Bradshaw and his relationship with Sally Bowles, one of the performers at the club. Also highlighted is a romance between German boarding house owner, Fräulein Schneider, and Herr Schultz. And, of course, overseeing the action is the charismatic Emcee of the Kit Kat Klub.

David DiMarzo is a fine Cliff and has a great rapport with Angelica Adams who is terrific as Sally. Indeed an audience favorite is Ms. Adams' rendition of "Maybe This Time" and "Don't Tell Mama" in act one showing fierce and natural talent. Additionally among the remarkable cast is Billy Marengo as the magnetic Emcee. Particularly performing the iconic opening number, "Willkommen", Mr. Marengo displays top-notch theatricality. Truth be told, the entire company is fantastic.

On the clever creative team, Mr. Higgins' set is, per usual, minimal. A staircase remains on the stage at all times and tables, chairs, and other easily moveable items are carried on and off stage by the cast for the respective scenes. This proves to be very effective so you can focus on the talented cast and their on-point execution of the show, but it perhaps take away a little of the "razzle dazzle" of a musical. This is enhanced stunningly by Nicholas Cariello's lighting design and the live orchestra, headed up by Evan Seikel, which is nested above the stage.

And so, Cabaret is certainly another hit for the Merrick Theatre & Canter For The Arts. Even if you have seen it before, this production is well worth another visit. Remember... everything is beautiful at the cabaret!

Cabaret is presented by the Merrick Theatre & Center For The Arts of Merrick, Long Island, through May 20th. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 516-868-6400 or visit www.merrick-theatre.com

Book by Joe Masteroff, Based on the play by John Van Druten & stories by Christopher Isherwood, Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb, Directed by Daniel Higgins, Musical Direction by Evan Seikel, Stage Management by Matthew Rosenberg, Lighting Design by Nicholas Cariello, Sound Design by Chris Damp, Costumes by Thea Sieban

Starring Billy Marengo, Rebecca Vogel, Brittany Mento, Danielle Khoury, Jillian Graziosa, Kristen LoMacchio, Shaina Stroh, Ashanti Graham, Keith Jones, Warren Tierney, Bryce Powell, Anthony Bologna, Angelica Adams, David DiMarzo, Andrew J. Beck, Lynda Gaug, Sarah Berger, and Peter LaSpina,

Photo by Abbey Nash Slawitsky