Review: Cabaret Artist JEANNE PAGE Heats Up the Federal

One thing you may be sure of in attending a Jeanne Page concert: you will have a good time. The lady is a dynamic singer, giving it everything she's got and really enjoys doing it. She has such fun

that her spirit crosses the footlights, changing the entire ambiance for the better. Sunday June 24 at Sterling's Upstairs at the Federal was no exception. She told a delightful story about why she called her new show Naked With a Stranger and pulled her audience right in, setting the tone for the entire 75 minute set.

It seems that this senior citizen goes to the gym regularly - she's in great form - and while complimenting a little 85 year-old friend on doing aerobics so well for her age, the friend replied, "Yeah, but I can't get naked with a stranger any more". Page took the phrase to the next level, that of sharing one's emotional self with others, and for an actor/singer/artist, it makes perfect sense. As a singer onstage, she exposes her inner being for all to see and that sharing creates a whole new relationship of warmth and trust. It is easy to see why this affable lady fared so well in Vegas and why this was her eighth consecutive year performing at Sterling's Upstairs at the Federal. Audiences adore her and keep coming back for more.

With expert musical director Charlie Harrison at the keys, Dan Sawyer on sax and guitar, Freddy Johnson on bass and Henry Newmark on drums, JeAnne Page performed a glorious evening of both new and old songs. Her close rapport with these fabulous musicians is obvious from the top. They make a loving combo.

Highlights included: a marvelous Jim Croce medley with "Bad, Bad Lee Roy Brown", "Say You Love Me in a Song" and "Time in a Bottle"; a magnificently arranged "California Dreamin'"; a cute dog medley with "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?", "Where Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone?" and "Hound Dog"; a sizzling Ray Charles double header: "Georgia" and "Hallelujah"; a rousing "Sweet Georgia Brown" and Gershwin's "S'Wonderful". Page closed with "If You Believe" - it should be her mantra - and a lovely tribute to Natalie Cole who left us in December of last year. The Cole medley included "Mr. Paganini" and "You'll Have to Swing It". Page explained how the songs are associated with Ella Fitzgerald but that Cole's rendition of them on Ella's 90th birthday celebration knocked her socks off. She was dismayed when at the Grammy Awards Cole's photo merely flashed on and off the screen, hardly a fitting tribute for such a fine artist.

Talk about artists! JeAnne Page is an artist of the highest calibre. If you ever get a chance to see this lady, naked with a stranger or not, run don't walk, as she will captivate you with her charm, vivacity and consummate singing. She truly does believe in herself and in giving the gift of song to everyone around her. Brava!

Don't forget to purchase JeAnne Page's CD Reboot which features classics such as "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out". With Page's great belt and the band's terrific arrangements, this one's a surefire winner! Look for JeAnne Page on FB to order copies!

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