With Cirque du Soleil's "IRIS" coming to a close on Saturday, Jan. 19, some people might wonder where else to find that cabaret spirit. (Of course, the cabaret spirit was simply one slice of the show, which boasted a clowning-acrobatic-impish-cinephile spirit, as well.)
But cabaret songs are being crooned nightly from our city's stages, and in all sorts of flavors, too: campy, trampy, or simply that old-style Broadway sound. It isn't a trend that comes back into style; it has made its stake in Southern California, in a real and vibrant way. Here are a few upcoming shows that show the full spectrum of the form.
Caro Emerald: This sultry singer broke some major records in her native Holland. For instance? Oh, her record "Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor" bested Michael Jackson's "Thriller" for number of weeks at the top of the charts. It's an apt album title, since each of her little aural gems sounds as if it hailed straight from a lost '40s potboiler of a film. She makes her much buzzed-about U.S. debut at El Rey on Tuesday, Jan. 22.
Sydney Weisman: She's a favorite at the Original Farmers Market at Third & Fairfax, which should speak vibrant volumes about this chanteuse's vintage cred. Now she's leaving that landmark and performing at the Hoffman Hall in Westwood, to raise funds for the LA Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Greater LA, and the Home for Good. Date's Saturday, Feb. 9 and the theme? "Little Miss Broadway at 70." Gems and standards shine via this petite lady's out-sized pipes.
Vaud and the Villains: Did you catch this huge and spirited collective at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Christmas Eve? The retro-flavored vaudevillians broke out the horns and vibe-layered tunes for the LA County Holiday Celebration. If you're intrigued and need more, take heart: They regularly show at Harvelle's in Long Beach. Upcoming dates include Saturday, Jan. 19 and Sunday, Jan. 20. Hot.
