Debbie Reynolds is the “real deal.” Her performance with the Seattle Men’s Chorus (Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29) was funny, historical (in terms of movie history) and most importantly, she sang with live music. She brought her accompanist, but also worked with the small band that SMC included for this concert. Nothing canned or pre-recorded for Debbie.
The production was nostalgic for many audience members, some of whom are big “Debbie” fans, and had never seen an SMC performance. So, SMC was able to draw a new audience to see them, and at least one audience member, after hearing of the SWC performances, April 10 and 11, at Meany, said he would take his wife to that performance, as well. That speaks to the wonderful time he had, as he sang along to familiar songs, and laughed at the flying nun, Captain Smartypants in raincoats singing “Keep Your Rubbers Handy,” and Debbie’s impressions of Mae West, Marlena Dietrich, and Kate Hepburn.
The McCaw Hall was packed to the gills both Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, with sold out shows for Debbie. Standing ovations were frequent. Reynolds looked stunning in sparkly red outfits. The first act costume had a huge slit up her leg and she joked that the front row could look up and see “everything.” And then complained that it wouldn’t even matter to them! Reynolds was also extremely gracious to Dennis Coleman, the director, and to the chorus in general, referring to their beautiful singing on multiple occasions.
Overall, it was a lovely concert and Reynolds lived up to the anticipation of the audience. If you were too late to this party, well, I guess you’ll just have to eat yer heart out, cuz this unique opportunity is over.
For more info about Seattle Men’s Chorus visit www.flyinghouse.org.
– Miryam Gordon
