Fans of the raucous burlesque vaudeville show, "The Girly Show," have been waiting with baited breath for creators Justin Van Pelt and Daniel Lincoln to announce a new location after word came that they were relocating from Port 41 Bar. When he announced that "The Girly Show" would now be presented at Bartini Ultralounge in Hells Kitchen, Lincoln added another surprise, stating "[Bartini] will demand a total reinvention of the style and feel of ‘The Girly Show.' Get ready for a new sound, a new look... a totally new experience."
The fans who packed into Bartini Ultralounge on Sunday night - some referring to themselves as "Glitter Kiddies" - were not disappointed as Van Pelt (as "Valentine") and Lincoln took the stage. What was once a gritty and dark vaudeville show has become a sleek, chic "Glam Rock" party. Van Pelt's "Valentine" character fits perfectly in the new venue, and his performance has grown noticeably stronger since the show's premiere earlier this year. His vocals were as impressive as ever, and his interaction with the crowd was delightful.
A particular treat was the chance to see Lincoln assume a fuller role as co-host. He no longer appears behind a piano; the show is now sung to tracks. His "look" has become more sophisticated, showing off his delicious physique, and he commands the room with a titillating blend of masculine magnetism and boyish charm performing his own original rock songs.
Van Pelt and Lincoln were joined by Broadway's
Marty Thomas (Xanadu, Wicked, The Secret Garden),
Sal Sabella (Godspell Nat'l Tour), "Tuesday's Got Talent" competitor Vicky Modica, and nightlife diva
Emily McNamara. Dancer Tony Guerrero (West Side Story, Internat'l Tour) also made a surprise appearance in an incredibly steamy number with Van Pelt.
It was exciting to see Van Pelt and Lincoln extend their show beyond cabaret and musical theater into the world of rock and pop, an artistic gap that is often difficult to bridge. But an audience is in good hands with Van Pelt and Lincoln at the helm, and the new "Girly Show" is just as thrilling as ever. This Sunday's performance stands as testimony to the versatility and popularity of this impressive nightlife duo.
Lincoln
Valentine
Valentine and Lincoln
