As if a supper club, the cabaret at Florida Studio
Theatre features pop songs from 1948 to 1977. Three men (Eric Collins, Arthur
W. Marks, Jeff Pierce) sing flirtations with Stacey Harris in songs and styles
of the star singers during the three decades. "Walkin' My Baby Back
Home," Eric wins her over. From then on, Stacey no longer flirts via
ditties like "C'mon 'a My House." Later, when she plays less than
innocent ("The Lady Is a Tramp"), it's clear she's just imitating the
likes of "Fever" by such as Peggy Lee. Her clinging red satin gown
adds to the effect.
The men mostly harmonize like well known boys' groups but
each has at least one memorable solo. Jeff is Dean Martin-like on
"Memories Are Made of This" and Arthur makes "Mr.
Bojangles" an outstanding tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. paying a tribute of
his own. Everyone's constantly in motion between songs and often within them,
thanks to director Dennis Courtney's careful choreography.
Jim Prosser does his always right piano accompaniment on
stage. Shawn Watkins' lighting
complements Marcella Beckwith's vivid backdrop and costume designs. The title song as well as "Sh'
Boom" epitomize the happy holiday tone of the show. It lasts an hour and a
half plus a 15 minute break.