By Anita Raymon
Beari Productions has done it again.
Its presentation of “Magical Musical Moments IV – Juke Box Saturday Nite” is a wonderful, nostalgic, entertaining evening featuring an ensemble cast belting out the golden oldies from the 1950s and '60s.
Linking the songs is the story of a reunion bringing members of Tweedle High School back to the local Walt's Malt Shoppe to reminisce about their high school loves and memories.
Walt's name is really Abe, but who would patronize a malt shop called Abe's? Abe Ber and his girlfriend of 12 years, Jean Ann, welcome the grads back to the shop, famous for its banana splits and its egg creams. – for $1. Those were the days!
The 13 singers showcase their many talents: Michael Dos Santos sings a husky “Misty,” Richard Weyhausen does “Time after Time” and a moving, lyrical duet with the lovely Dolores Voyer, “Time to Say Goodbye.” Raymond Bendana and the Men's Ensemble sing “Mambo No. 5” and “Living La Vida Loca” with verve The Ladies Ensemble reply with “I am W-O-M-A-N” and “It's Raining Men.”
Barrie K. Feuer has performed many roles in musical theater and is a member of a cabaret group, “Music on Tour.” Jean Am Kump was the 1999 winner of the New York Comedy Club's Funniest Queens Resident contest.
Anita Naegili is an actress-singer with an angelic voice and looks to match. She will start studies for a master of fine arts degree in creative writing in the fall. Dolores H. Voyer makes her debut with the company; she has been in “Carousel” and “Once Upon a Mattress.”
Naomi Zeitlin has appeared in the three previous Beari Musical Moments and is also a member of Music on Tour.
Patty Marrs-Woisin, a leader of song at Holy Child Church in Richmond Hill, makes her debut with Beari Productions.
To the delight of the audience, Debbie and Rene Bendana, recently married, duetted with “Let it Be Me.”
The last three performances of “Jukebox Saturday Nite are Friday, June 29 and Saturday, June 30 at 8 p.m., and a special Saturday matinee at 4, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 65-70 Dry Harbor Road, Middle Village. For reservations call 718 736 1263.
Be there or be square!
Reach Qguide writer Anita Raymon by e-mail at Timesledger@ aol.com or call 229-0300, Ext. 139.
