MATUNUCK – “One never knows, do one?”
Legendary musician Fats Waller was famous for his comedic stage personality as much as for his musical ability as a jazz pianist, organist and composer. He was famously fond of saying “one never knows...” But once in a great while, “one do know.”
Know that Theatre by the Sea’s debut offering of the season, “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” a tribute to Waller, is not to be missed. . . except by those who don’t appreciate the unique music contributed by African American artists beginning in the early 1900s.
Everything about this two-hour performance is as close to perfect as live theatre is going to get.
Where to begin?
With the cast. Each of the five singer-dancer-comedians – two men and three women – is sharply defined, memorably outlined. Everyone in the audience will have their own personal favorite performers and numbers. Mine all come in the second act, and it would be impossible to rank them . . . almost.
“The Viper’s Drag,” written by Thomas Fats Waller in 1943, is a masterpiece of theatre as interpreted by David Jennings, who has performed with Stevie Wonder and appeared with Jay Leno. He is so – fluid! His body dissolves from one posture to another, his face from one expression to another, in what appears to be an effortless physical continuum of drama and humor. All the while, lyrics captivate equally. I didn’t want it to be over, ever, and briefly fantasized returning every night for that performance alone.
Rheume Crenshaw’s voice will remind you of someone – and the someone is Judy Garland. This is no imitation; this is a singer whose notes form and float like a skylark’s. It’s a spine-chill when she sings “Mean to Me” – later a Garland number. I love Garland, but this is Crenshaw’s song.
Did you know “Your feet’s too big”?
Reserve a ticket if you’ve never heard this number before, performed on the Matunuck stage by Tony Perry. It’s hilarious, a send-up on the physical perfection we demand of one another – and written in 1936. (Does human nature ever change?)
Humor abounds in many numbers. Perry and Jennings have the audience singing and clapping in “Fat and Greasy,” while Patrice Covington and Jennings are shrewd and sarcastic in “That Ain’t Right.” Rounding out the cast is Starr Domingue, who shows everyone that “Yacht Club Swing” can be a laugh as well as a challenge.
This ensemble is strong individually and strong together. Their voices harmonize; so, too, their personalities (even when they’re engaged in competition for love or attention). The wrenching “Black and Blue,” written in 1929, can’t be topped for its searing insight into the pain of prejudice.
The set is simple: moons of all sizes float in the background, while a strong back-up instrument ensemble is arrayed to the left and right of the stage. Lighting is the key to scene changes, and it is magical in its ever-shifting effects. At center – but always with his back to the audience – is pianist Andrew Smithson, who is also music director. He’s supported by the talent of Mike Sartini on drums, Shawn Farrius, bass; Nick Jemo, trumpet; and Carl Hosbond, reeds.
“Ain’t Misbehavin’” is classic Americana, and is an eternal tribute to the unique and original contributions of blacks to the genre of native music.
The show runs through June 15. For information and tickets, call (401) 782-3800.
As virtually every Rhode Islander knows, the footlights were dark for nearly four years after its owners closed it and put the extensive acreage up for sale in 2003. It was purchased last year in time to produce one show before the end of summer. Now owner Bill Hanney has incorporated it as a not-for-profit, which will help ensure its financial future.
Theatre-goers will also welcome the news that the Sea Horse Grille – now Bistro-by-the-Sea – is also open for dinner or drinks before and after the show. Call (401) 789-3030 for reservations.
