BWW Reviews: SHAWN RYAN'S Merry Little Christmas

Shawn Ryan sparkles onstage just by being himself. Of course, he exaggerates a tad. Every actor/comedian does. But, it is Ryan's genuine likability that makes him shine. He is self-deprecating, willing to go all the way with a joke or gag, and within the boundaries that he creates, his four-letter words and raw sex talk seem almost as sweet and endearing as apple pie. Honestly, I never heard him curse, it all sounded so natural, as he raised the roof off of Rockwell Table and Stage Thursday night.

Ryan has a pleasant vocal instrument that he utilizes exceedingly well, by choosing material that suits his style. He loves to make his audience laugh, and is not afraid to switch a lyric here and there to create a comic effect. Take for example the highlight of Shawn Ryan's Merry Little XMas. He comes out dressed as a gaily decorated Christmas Tree (pictured below) with his angelic face protruding from the top and sings "Who Put the Stump?" up my rump.a.bump.a.bump, who put the bush up my tush... the complete effect of which creates gales of laughter and brings down the house. We are reminded of comedy greats who have gone over the top to grab you...and it works.

Shelley Goldstein, who has written funny lyrics for Shawn and many other cabaret performers, was on hand for her own special cutup "Christmas for the Jews" dressed as, by her own description, a Chanukah elf. The queen of cabaret Andrea Marcovicci was also on hand to sing a lovely "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and to duet with Ryan on "Baby It's Cold Outside".

Other highlights of the 90 minute set included: a campy "Santa Baby", "Santa Lost a Ho", "Surabaya Santa" and a couple of new ones including "Egg Nog Song" about an acid trip at Christmas and a sinfully funny "All I Want For Christmas" as only Shawn Ryan can imagine it.

Accompanying Ryan throughout were terrific musicians Kelly Park at the piano, Jordan Richards on bass and Tom Bowe on drums.

Shawn Ryan takes his act to Feinstein's in San Francisco tonight and tomorrow Saturday December 6, so don't miss him if you're in town. He is a deliciously refreshing talent who brings out the nice in naughty, making your holiday season even gayer.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRA2GGL-CHY

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