Mon. November 12, 2012
By Danny Bernardo
Bernstein was definitely a prolific composer. While best known for the iconic West Side Story, Bernstein aficionados also count Wonderful Town, On The Town, and Candide as his other masterpieces. True to form, Pazdernik will be digging further into Bernstein's trunk, including songs from the rare musicals 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and Peter Pan in his revue.
"I think Bernstein's music has a level of sophistication that isn't found in other musicals of his era," said Pazdernik. "Since him, we've had Sondheim and Guettel and LaChiusa, but I really do think he was instrumental (like Gershwin before him) in bridging the gap between musical theater and classical music. It's so fulfilling and satisfying, both for singers and audience."
Revue performer Sarah Hayes agrees. "Bernstein's music has a lushness and complexity that you don't always find these days," she states, counting her role as "Paquette" in Porchlight's 2008 production of Bernstein's Candide as one of her favorites. It was that production that first introduced her to Pazdernik, as well as co-star Christin Boulette who, who most recently appeared in Chicago Shakespeare's Beauty and the Beast. Adam Fane of Broadway in Chicago's Rock of Ages rounds out the cast.
"Usually, my cabaret starts with the cast," said Pazdernik, noting Boulette's "phenomenally high soprano" and Hayes' comedic skills. Also noting the complexity of Bernstein's music, Padernik continued: "I knew I needed a music director who was not only great with singers, but also an accomplished pianist to play all that Bernstein and [music director] James Morehead is all that and more."
One Hand, One Heart: The Musicals of Leonard Bernstein is a rare opportunity to experience the full scope of one the greatest American composers in history. One Hand, One Heart runs November 14, 15, 28 & 29, 2012 at Davenport's Piano Bar & Cabaret, 1383 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago. Showtimes are at 8 PM. Tickets are available online or by calling 773-278-1830. Tickets are $13 plus a 2 drink minimum.
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