Review: “Elaine Stritch Still Here” at FringeNYC 2015
David Roberts
“Elaine Stritch Still Here” is a new musical constructed in cabaret format, paying homage to the theatrical paragon, being presented as part of the NY International Fringe Festival. The legendary Ms. Stritch, played marvelously by Jay Malsky, with the accomplished Keith Rubin as Rob Bowman, her friend and musical director at the piano, deserve a much better venue that might help translate the stature of this theatrical icon. This diminutive look into her amazing career, peers into the short time capsule when she is 86 years old and preparing and performing her last cabaret tour. It is a reflection and a celebration, filled with her undeniable talent, appeal, strength and sarcasm laced with sadness, but not withstanding effects of the relentless demon of alcohol and the debilitating affliction of diabetes. What came before this time seems to have been only the preparation for the battle that takes place now, with no regrets for the misguided plan of attack.
Mr. Malsky captures the physical nuance with ease as he morphs into the larger than life character, appearing in her signature garb of black tights and oversized white dress shirt, announcing that “I hate pants.” He attacks the many vocals that can easily be associated with her name, with powerful insistence, reminiscent of the no nonsense style that was part of her charm. What makes this performance soar is the emotional connection Mr. Malsky displays as he digs deep down into the sadness of being alone after her husband dies, the anger at the debilitating disease, and the weakness for the demon that haunts her.
This show is not perfect but most of that is due to limitations of the space. Direction by Zak Sommerfield is spotty, with a wish for better flow and continuity, even musical interludes of familiar tunes. For those that are familiar with Ms. Stritch it is an opportunity to examine a more personal, intimate facet of her incredible journey; for those who are not that familiar, it may open up an entire new avenue of interest into the incredible life of this theatrical legend. Try to catch a performance during this short run.
ELAINE STRITCH STILL HERE
“Elaine Stritch Still Here” is presented by The New York International Fringe Festival at Spectrum, 121 Ludlow Street, 2nd Floor (Rivington and Delancey).
All performances of “Elaine Stritch Still Here” take place at on the following schedule: Monday August 17th at 9:15 p.m.; Friday August 21st at 10:30 p.m.; Monday August 24th at 8:00 p.m.; and Saturday August 29th at 2:45 p.m. Tickets are $18.00 at the door and $15.00 for advance purchase. The running time is 50 minutes. For more information about the show and the cast and creative team, please visit https://www.facebook.com/elainestritchstillhere. For more information about the 19th Annual New York Fringe Festival visit www.FringeNYC.org.