BWW Reviews: The Broadway Concert Series 'Broadway Journey' at the Engeman Theater

By: Sep. 07, 2011
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WOW! What a fun night at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport on Long Island! When they have a "dark week", they hold their Broadway Concert Series. They invite Broadway stars down for an evening of songs and stories from their careers (hence the theme being "Broadway Journey"). This time they had an incredible line up; Tony Winner Chuck Cooper, Janet Dacal, Matthew Scott, Sarah Litzsinger, and Kissy Simmons.

Chuck Cooper was hilarious as he took the stage as he shared in stories of his vast career. Of his numerous Broadway, off-Broadway, regional, and touring shows he had a lot to choose from. My favorite was his jazz/skat rendition of "Feeling Good". I'm so use of the more modern versions. He is a brilliant performer!

Janet Dacal was incredible! She sang selections from "Wonderland" and "In The Heights" as well as an old Spanish standard. One of her favorite moments, of course, was when her fiancé proposed to her on the last night of Wonderland.

Matthew Scott did a great job as well! He sang selections from "Jersey Boys", "The Light In The Piazza", and "Sondheim on Sondheim" as well as an Kander and Ebb piece. He is very talented; I hope to see him back on the boards soon.

Sarah Litzsinger was so funny and quirky! She sang selections from "Beauty and the Beast" (her being the longest running Belle), Evita, and an old song she did with a company she sang with (random, yes, but it was a great performance!)

And last, but certainly not least, Kissy Simmons. I was thrilled to see her as I saw her in Lion King. She told the audience about her many years in the Lion King on Broadway and then moved to Las Vegas to open the show at the Mandalay Bay resort. She sang one her songs from "Lion King", a song from a show she was part of in her native Florida, and a couple jazz standards.

If you are in the Long Island area, this is a great evening. Of course, the night wasn't complete without a great host, Mr. Stephen DeAngelis, and Music Director, Mr. Eugene Gwozdz. Both of whom are involved in the John W. Engeman Theater. The next date and performers will be announced soon for their next show.



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