It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas — thanks to Bruce’s latest Kritzerland at the Gardenia show last night in West Hollywood. The evening was festive, the venue was packed, the performers were marvelous and, by the end of the night, Bruce had us all singing “White Christmas.”
Highlights were many: Jason Graae crooning “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”; Dan Callaway cozying up to Alet Taylor to sing Cy Coleman’s “Lovers on Christmas Eve” from “I Love My Wife”; and Bruce Vilanch cozying up to Jason to sing an uproarious “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Since they didn’t know the second verse, they riffed — on everything from the technical problems dogging the new “Spider-Man” musical to Tallulah Bankhead and Esther Williams. Mr. Vilanch, of course, was decked out in one of his famous T-shirts. In the spirit of the season, the red shirt was emblazoned with this message: “I’m not Santa — but you can still sit on my lap.”
“You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” was a cinch for Callaway, who assailed the mountaintop monster’s heart, soul and smile with spiteful glee. It was a show-stopping moment, yes, but like the Grinch, whose efforts to steal Christmas were derailed by a pint-sized pixie from Whoville, Callaway’s shot at stealing the show was stolen by 8-year-old Lucy Taylor, Alet’s dynamo of a daughter, who belted out “That’s What I Want for Christmas” with the power and assurance of a Broadway vet. Not only did Lucy steal the show, she stole the hearts of everyone in the room.
Our beloved Bruce served up “Turkey Lurkey Time” on a non-musical platter, choosing to recite the words instead of singing them. As Bruce fowled, folks howled and everyone was left feeling very loosey goosey.
Next up in the Kritizerland at the Gardenia series will be an evening of Unsung Sondheim with special guest Millicent Martin and a still-to-be-announced cast. It will take place on the second (not the first) Wednesday in January. For reservations, call the Gardenia at 323-467-7444. The show is highly recommended by the likes of this ne’er-do-well lurker.
