Loni Ackerman - "Next to Abnormal" at The Metropolitan Room
Loni Ackerman at The Metropolitan Room
Loni Ackerman – “Next to Abnormal” at The Metropolitan Room Reviewed by Joseph Verlezza Theatre Reviews Limited
It was a pleasure to see Loni Ackerman return to The Metropolitan Room for an encore performance of her delightful, somewhat autobiographical show ”Next To Abnormal.” A consummate performer and veteran of the Broadway stage, Ms. Ackerman adds a personal touch to a well structured evening, weaving stories from her childhood in New York City and anecdotes of her show business escapades into the tapestry of thoughtfully chosen songs. She brings what is important in her life now to the stage rather than just recreate the past, which enables her to connect with the material and inspire the audience.
Ms. Ackerman appears stylish, relaxed and sophisticated using every ounce of her petite frame to take us on her version of a “Sentimental Journey” (Les Brown, Ben Homer, and Arthur Green). Never missing the opportunity to use her wit, charm and intelligence, she takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster, but always stays in control. Her long career has taught her to be honest and present, grateful for the past and celebrate what is to come with confidence, not arrogance. Ms. Ackerman is remarkable whether melting your heart with her embracing rendition of “Pink Taffeta Sample, Size 10” (Cy Coleman, Dorothy Fields) or enticing the audience to laugh with her as she recounts her dream of becoming a ballerina and her delivery of “The First Girl in the Second Row” (Hugh Martin, additional lyrics by Barry Kleinbort). Her New York Medley including “Crossword Puzzle” (David Shire, Richard Maltby, Jr.) dazzles and the reminiscent songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber are a treat, assuring the audience she still has that big Broadway belt without losing her emotional connection to the material. This is the mark of a talented performer who has honed their craft and is comfortable enjoying the experience. The radiant, mature Ms. Ackerman is so generous to share her musical gift and afford the audience a glimpse into her personal life. To end the evening, her encore of “The Secret of Life” (James Taylor) is surely something she knows well and certainly embraces.
An added note as to why this show was special to this reviewer: It was 1977. I was a young, enthusiastic thespian with a new Equity card and wandered into the Barbarann on 46th street to see a show called ‘Starting Here, Starting Now.” I was one of the lucky three who made up the entire audience and as far as I was concerned the cast which included Loni Ackerman gave the performance of a lifetime. I learned that evening that the theatre was not a career or a job, it was a passion and the powerful influence of that performance changed my life. Thank you for sharing and keeping the passion alive.
NEXT TO ABNORMAL
Loni Ackerman appears at The Metropolitan Room Sundays in October at 7:00 p.m. (October 14, 21, and 28). Doors open at 6:15 p.m. The Metropolitan Room is located at 34 West 22nd Street in Manhattan. There is a $25.00 per person Music Charge and a Two Drink Minimum with a $5.00 discount for MAC/Industry Members. For further information visit http://metropolitanroom.com/
Permalink | Posted by David Roberts on Thursday, October 11, 2012
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