Sunday, December 4, 2011

GEM Theatre presents "The All Night Strut Holiday Edition"


The All Night Strut Holiday Show (Photo by Santa Fabio)
“Have a Kool Yule” with “The All Night Strut Holiday Show” now through Dec. 31 at the Gem Theatre at 333 Madison in Detroit. The show features singers Jared Joseph (left), Marja Harmon, Lianne Marie Dobbs and Denis Lambert (right).

By Sue Suchyta

            What would the holidays be like without carolers offering the musical gift of the season’s songs?
            The Gem Theatre at 333 Madison in Detroit is making spirits bright with “The All Night Strut Holiday Show.” Featuring songs from the late 1920s to late 1950s, you’ll tap your feet as you enjoy the beat. For tickets or more information call (313) 963-9800 or go to www.gemtheatre.com.

A WINK, SMILE AND CLASSIC STYLE
            The first act offers a time trip sampler of favorite songs, while the second half adds a holiday flavor to the upbeat offerings. The performance is an hour and forty-five minutes long, with one intermission.
            The fantastic foursome of Jared Joseph, Marja Harmon, Lianne Marie Dobbs and Denis Lambert make the vocal music magic happen. They are a treat to hear, light on their feet and easy on the eyes with a wink, smile and the classic styles of the bygone era.

IN THE MOOD
            Every song has its praiseworthy parts. “In the Mood” showcases impressive big band era dancing, with the men performing impressive stunts. “A Fine Romance” showcases their ability to flirt and have fun.

CAFFEINE AND TRILLS 
            “I Love Coffee, I Love Tea” is sung so sensually, it croons like a caffeine orgasm. “Rosie the Riveter” offers remarkable trilling, while “Coming in on a Wing and a Prayer” is a beautiful ballad with amazingly smooth four-part harmony.

KOOL YULE
            Marja Harmon offers a jazzy, gospel-inspired “Operator,” while Jared Joseph offers a unique Beatnik-blend for a “Kool Yule.”

SMOOTH AS SILK
            The quartet’s smooth as silk harmony is showcased again in “Dream,” then the group livens thing ups with some swing dancing to a jazzy bebop Rudolph theme.

MARILYN
            Lianne Marie Dobbs reminds one of Marilyn Monroe with her breathy yet polished rendition of “Have Your Self a Merry Little Christmas.”
            Denis Lambert amuses with his humorous song about a little boy discovering Santa looks a lot like his daddy.         

SWING AND SNOW READY TO GO  
            The tempos change and offer much variety, from the slow and jazzy “What are you doing on New Year’s Eve” to the energetic “It don’t mean a Thing if it don’t got that Swing.”
            They close with a wonderful jazzy rendition of Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas,” complete with swirling stage snow.

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