Page 15, High Gear

"Swing Street" Swings At Cabaret

By Ray Chesnick, Jr.

"Swing Street" is a delightful treat-tasteful and thoroughly enjoyable live entertainment. Conceived and organized by Paul Novosel, "Swing Street" is a nostalgic revue featuring songs from the 30's and 40's and is playing through November 15, 1981 at Cabaret Dinner Theatre (reservations: 237-3220).

It is obvious that the cast of four talented singer-dancers worked closely and cohesively in establishing this revue which opened on July 2. 1981. All have dynamic stage presence, and I am amazed that they are able to accomplish as finely polished an act as this without any apparent upstaging or "egoism.”

All of Donna Davis' selections are powerful, and her rendition of "God Bless The Child" is spine-tingling. She knows how to use her voice and "sell" a song. In "Where Or When" and other songs, Jim Bradford's emotional style is one that will be long-remembered and is not frequently heard. Donna Christe's explosive sound comes across in all of her songs with a clarity and “zing" that is quite impressive, especially in "More Than You Know." The applause during "Mister Five By Five," in which Patrick Loy displays

his tap dancing talents, is overwhelming. The vocal blend in a Gershwin four-part ensemble ("Fascinatin' Rhythm," "Summertime," "I Got Rhythm," and "Our Love Is Here to Stay") is exceptional. The idea of this ensemble is great--I am impressed, to say the least.

In addition to those songs already mentioned, "Swing Street" also includes such marvelous "oldies" as: "Rum And Coca-Cola": "As Time Goes By": "Lush Life"; "Don't Sit Under The Appletree": "Mambo Man"; and many more.

Musically, "Swing Street" could be just another lounge act but with the inspirational guidance of two creative individuals has transcended to a higher level of theatrical media. Donna Davis' staging and choreography is brilliant and complementary to the flow of the revue. Technical Director Doug Morgan must also be lauded for his innovative lighting design. The musical backup is provided by piano, bass, percussion, and trumpet, and adds a pleasant tone to the vocal setting.

After seeing the show, I now know why "Swing Street" was nominated for the 1981 Cleveland Critics' Circle Award for Best Musical. I find "Swing Street," in its entirety, to be a wonderfully exciting revue and plan to see it again.

Donna Christe, Patrick Loy (front), Jim Bradford, and Donna Davis -"Swing Street""'s dynamite quartet.

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