Amidst the sweltering summer humidity, Signature Theater’s “Sizzlin’ Summer Nights” cabaret series more than lived up to its name with songwriters Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich as they performed their act “The Marcy and Zina Show” at Signature Theatre on July 16, 2016. Joined by bassist Greg Watkins and singer Scott Coulter, they had the audience enthralled with their humor, banter, and fantastic songs.
Marcy Heisler (Author/lyricist) and Zina Goldrich (Composer) are a longtime songwriting team, known for such funny songs as “Taylor the Latte Boy” and “Alto’s Lament.” Their musical version of the film Ever After (which starred Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Houston) is headed for Broadway after a successful premiere at Papermill Playhouse. They have provided original songs for various Disney projects, including The Disney Channel and Disney Theatricals, as well as providing songs for PBS and Nickelodeon. They have toured domestically and internationally, and their songs are performed at cabarets and performances all over the world by various Broadway stars.
The show opened with the appropriately-titled “Make Your Own Party”, as they made it clear that they intended to make the night a party. Their easy, down-to-earth manner on stage contributed to this party atmosphere as they told funny anecdotes about their songs and acted out the more humorous numbers, such as “15 Pounds Away” or “Alto’s Lament.” While Goldrich played the piano, both Goldrich and Heisler sang, with clear, expressive voices perfectly suited to their music.
The audience was treated to a few songs from their new musical Ever After, based on the 1998 film. These songs really showcased their emotional depth and range as songwriters, with one song detailing the love of a father for his daughter, and the other—humorously titled “Who Needs Love”—beginning with a jaunty quick attitude but slowly moving into a more sincere, emotional place. And Heisler sang it beautifully, convincingly transitioning from the comedic beginning to the more earnest later part of the son.
But of course, no show of theirs could be complete without their hit “Taylor the Latte Boy.” Goldrich sang this number with ease, yet still acted the part of an infatuated girl—her bright voice perfectly suited to the comedic song.
The versatility, humor, and musicality of these two talented ladies was more than evident tonight. Between their playful comedy and romantic yet humorous songs, this concert definitely fulfilled the “sizzling” reputation of the concert series.
Running Time: 75 minutes, with no intermission.
Sizzlin’ Summer with Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich: the Marcy and Zina Show is part of Signature Theatre’s Sizzlin Summer Nights cabaret series that plays through Friday, July 22, 2016 at Signature Theatre – 4200 Campbell Avenue, in Arlington, VA. For tickets, call (703) 820-9771, or purchase them online.
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