Marilyn Lester reviews for Nite Life Exchange. Excerpts follow, read the full reviews here https://nitelifeexchange.com/jason-hendersons-getting-to-noel-you-at-dont-tell-mama-were-mad-about-the-boy/
“It’s probably safe to say that Noël Coward (1899-1973) was the Stephen Sondheim of his day. Of course he was quite, quite English, yet also accessible to appreciative Americans (listen to Steve Ross’ “Mrs. Worthington,” for example, to understand why). Coward, certifiably a genius, wrote music and plays and more. Notable for his keen observations and sharp wit, like Sondheim, Sir Noël isn’t necessarily easy to perform. Jason Henderson, in Getting To Noël You at Don’t Tell Mama, possibly channeling the man himself, made it look easy, guided by the direction of Barry Kleinbort.
…
But perhaps more than “a talent to amuse” as Coward had self-described, Henderson matched the master in drollery and badinage, and with perfect timing. His narrative was brilliantly constructed—clever, witty, literate and funny as can be. Yet, lurking beneath the surface were layers of seriousness about striving, home and leaving home, forging ahead, setting goals, creating a new life reality and more.
…
“He ended with a beautiful and evocative rendition of one of Coward’s most magnificent ballads (too little known and too little performed), “Come the Wild, Wild Weather.” Its final lyric, “For wherever we chance to go/we shall always be friends” reveals the depth and pleasure of a remarkable evening, tied with a marvelous bow.”
read the full reviews here https://nitelifeexchange.com/jason-hendersons-getting-to-noel-you-at-dont-tell-mama-were-mad-about-the-boy/