The old song and dance

A Little of What You Fancy… an Authentic British Music Hall

Conceived and created by David Seatter, Judith Jarosz and Jason Wynn
Directed by David Seatter
Musical direction and vocal arrangements by Jason Wynn
Equity showcase (closes May 29)
Theater Ten Ten
Park Avenue Christian Church building
1010 Park Ave. (between 84th & 85th Sts.; 212/288-3246 ext. 3)
Review by Seth Bisen-Hersh

A Little of What You Fancy is a fun evening that takes the audience on an adventure -- back to the days of the British music hall. Complete with a Chairman, silly skits, and many old-style songs, it was an entertaining evening for all.

The show started with the Chairman welcoming the audience; he demanded the audience greet him with a strong “good evening, Mr. Chairman.” What followed were cute period songs from the era. Occasionally, the audience was encouraged to sing along in the choruses. Most of the songs were really cute, some were sweet ballads while others were upbeat comedy songs.

The cast was strong; they all had moments to shine. Jean McCormick and Christina Harrop possessed winning sopranos in their numbers. Kristopher Monroe performed the ballad “If You Were the Last Girl in the World” with sweetness and longing. David Tillistrand and Greg Horton excelled with their brilliant comic timings, especially in “Employment Agency” and “Which Switch?” Tillistrand also had an amusing running gag as a cranky stage manager.

Anthony Morelli’s dazzling energy brought smiles on all his numbers including the American rag, “Dapper Dan.” Cristiane Young had an impressionable stage presence; she was hilarious during her numbers as well as bringing the house down in the tongue-twisted skit entitled “Double Damusk.” Laurrinda Robison had a powerful belt, which she showcased with the brash, funny spoiled brat’s song, “Daddy Wouldn’t Buy Me a Bow Bow.”

Finally, Ben Pologe commanded the scene as the Chairman of the ceremonies, delivering all the puns and one-liners with good comic timing. And last but not least, Jason Wynn provided whimsical accompaniment throughout the evening.

One of the best parts of the show was the jovial choreography by Susan Organic. She enriched the numbers with delightful touches. Seatter’s direction kept the show flowing; there was a good balance of comedy and sweetness.

Lucie Chin’s set design was minimal but worked. Jay Scott’s lights highlighted the musical buttons nicely, dimming at the cadence, and then returning to bright for the next bit. Viviane Galloway’s costumes were colorful and diverse.

Overall, A Little of What You Fancy was a good time for all -- the audience got to be part of a recreation of an old form of entertainment. While it may not appeal to all modern audiences, fans of the genre and style will not be disappointed.

Box Score:

Writing: 2
Directing: 2
Acting: 2
Set: 1
Costumes: 1
Lighting/Sound: 1

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