Wednesday, January 7, 2009

At Garbeau's: a tribute to Sinatra



Left to right: Zach Abdallah, Norma-Jean Russell, Jeff Labowitch, Ruth Phillips




Through much of the mid-twentieth century Frank Sinatra was an icon of popular music and symbol of individuality. He now seems to have a growing revival among today’s younger generation.

“My Way,” the current revue at Garbeau’s Dinner Theatre in Rancho Cordova, captures his spirit through savvy staging and a cast of four who deliver 58 of his favorite hits. Conceived by David Grapes and Todd Olson, the revue wisely avoids having an actor trying to portray Sinatra. Instead the action plays out at a minimalist bar, where Zach Abdallah, Norma-Jean Russell, Jeff Labowitch and Ruth Phillips play out scenes with romantic duets embodying the messages in the songs.

They’re backed by the “Rat Pack” trio of Mark Ferreira (leader and piano), Chelsea Gordon (bass), and Alfornzo Portela (drums). Ed Gyles, Jr. directs.

“My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra” runs through February 8 at Garbeau’s Dinner Theatre, 12401 Folsom Blvd. at the Corner of Hazel Ave. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays, with dinner seating at 6 p.m., curtain at 8 p.m.; Sundays, with lunch seating at 12:30 p.m., curtain at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$23.50. Optional entrees are $12-$21.50. Wine and cocktails are also available.

Call (916) 985-6361 or go to http://www.garbeaus.com/. For an extended review, click the title of this post and go to E-16.

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