While I don't usually seek out single-performer "special" concerts, this little gem is worth your time for several reasons. The band is excellent, the backup singers know their stuff and how to make a solo artist shine, the musical director knows how to make his performer shine, and Andrew Rannells is just plain fun in addition to being a terrific singer and actor. From the very first number (Andrew Golds' "Lonely Boy"), you know you've going to have fun. And it's not all going to be Broadway and American standards, although for a one-hour set, it is jam-packed with Broadways, pop and a little rock and roll. There's Bruce Springsteen, Peter Gabriel, k.d. lang, George Michael, William Finn, Jacques Brel, and more. Included is a beautiful ballad written by the night's musical director Todd Almond, Moon Over Nebraska. And a sly wink to Vicki Carr with "It Must Be Him" reminds us that little Andy Rannells was a gay kid from the midwest who found his footing and is hitting his stride.
Throughout the set, you get a taste of Andrew Rannells' acting chops, and although he doesn't have a great deal of banter, his song performances are singular and exciting from beginning to end. I watch it from time to time when I'm flipping through shows on the streaming services, and each time I'm reminded of how good this little concert was -- every single number. Andrew Rannells starts the show saying he hopes that the audience will enjoy it, but even if they don't, it's only an hour. I could have done with two or three hours. Here's hoping he does some more of these before he gets too busy with acting.
Throughout the set, you get a taste of Andrew Rannells' acting chops, and although he doesn't have a great deal of banter, his song performances are singular and exciting from beginning to end. I watch it from time to time when I'm flipping through shows on the streaming services, and each time I'm reminded of how good this little concert was -- every single number. Andrew Rannells starts the show saying he hopes that the audience will enjoy it, but even if they don't, it's only an hour. I could have done with two or three hours. Here's hoping he does some more of these before he gets too busy with acting.
