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Writing for CurtainUp
Ghetto Superstar (THE MAN THAT I AM)
By Jenny Sandman
Billy Porter
(Photo: Michal Daniel) |
Born in Pittsburgh, Porter realized his homosexuality-and his love of theatre, dance and song-at an early age. He danced his way through a troubled home life and a religious family, finally achieving some limited success as an actor and singer. But his self-denial prevented him from moving forward and nearly cost him his career when he lost his voice due to stress. Only after he was finally able to accept himself was he able to fulfill his dreams.
Despite the familiar story, Porter makes it feel new to us. The magic of the show lies in his music. The songs about his life are very nearly show tunes but are infused with a funk/soul beat and a hint of gospel. There are the obligatory torch songs, but most of them are fast and fierce, full of power and confidence. He can belt them out, too, especially rollicking numbers like "Black Broadway Bitch." In fact, the show is best when he's singing. His energy doesn't translate to narrative, and so the forward momentum of the evening falters when the music stops. Fortunately, this isn't often.
Somewhere between a solo musical and a cabaret act, Ghetto Superstar is funny and full of attitude. Porter quickly enchants the audience as his magnetic presence easily fills the room. What's lacking in story is more than made up for with good music.
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GHETTO SUPERSTAR (THE MAN THAT I AM) Written and performed by Billy Porter Directed by Brad Rouse With Sasha Allen and Brandi Chavonne Massey Costume Design by Miguel Angel Huidor Lighting Design by Chad McArver Running time: One hour and forty-five minutes with no intermission Joe's Pub, the Public Theatre, 425 Lafayette Street; 212-239-6200. From 2/10/05 to 3/27/05; opening 3/06/05. Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday @ 7pm, Saturday @ 2pm & 7pm Tickets, $45. Reviewed by Jenny Sandman based on March 15th performance |
Easy-on-the budget super gift for yourself and your musical loving friends. Tons of gorgeous pictures.
Retold by Tina Packer of Shakespeare & Co.
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Our Review
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6, 500 Comparative Phrases including 800 Shakespearean Metaphors by CurtainUp's editor.
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