Karen Akers Performs Kander and Ebb Show at the Oak Room, April 4-May 13

Theatre and cabaret chanteuse Karen Akers will celebrate the music of Kander and Ebb from April 4th through May 13th at the Algonquin Hotel's posh Oak Room (59 W. 44th Street).

First You Dream: The Songs of Kander & Ebb will feature an array of favorite songs by the legendary writers of Cabaret, Chicago, Kiss of the Spider Woman and many other shows--including "Maybe This Time," "Married," "The Happy Time," "I Don't Remember You," "Yes," "Coffee in a Cardboard Cup," "There When I Need Him," "My Own Space," "Arthur in the Afternoon," "City Lights," "We Can Make It," "Not Enough Magic," "Familiar Things," "Colored Lights" and "First You Dream."

The cabaret will feature musical direction and piano accompaniment by Don Rebic and direction by Richard Niles; Brian Glassman will be on bass.

Akers created the role of Luisa in the original Broadway production of Nine; she received a Tony Award nomination for her performance. She was also featured in another Maury Yeston/Tommy Tune musical--Grand Hotel. Her film credits include Heartburn and Woody Allen's The Purple Rose of Cairo, while she has been seen on TV in "Cheers." Known for her cabaret interpretations of musical theatre songs, standards and French chanson, Akers has released eight CDs, including Presenting Karen Akers and If We Only Have Love.

While Fred Ebb passed away on September 11th, 2004, Curtains will be the first new Kander and Ebb musical to be staged since the lyricist's death. The Broadway-bound musical--starring David Hyde Pierce, Karen Ziemba, Debra Monk and others--will be seen at L.A.'s Ahmanson Theatre this summer.

The performance schedule is Tuesdays-Thursdays at 9 PM with two shows Fridays and Saturdays at 9 and 11:30 PM. There is a $60 cover charge plus a food/drink minimum. Call (212) 419-9931 for reservations, or visit www.thealgonquin.net for more information.