Review: Signature's Lighthearted MAKE 'EM LAUGH

After the events of the last few days, it feels cathartic to be in a theatre and laughing again. Thankfully there's Signature Theatre and the sensational duo of Tracy Lynn Olivera and Happy McPartlin in their new cabaret Make 'em Laugh.

Anyone who has seen a musical in DC knows the vocally talented, always hilarious Olivera. Having just moved to the area in the last year, McPartlin is a bit of an unknown. However, I'm thrilled to report that together Olivera and McPartlin have a "Lucy and Ethel" caliber stage presence that will bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes.

Make 'em Laugh has one mission and starts off on a strong, sly note. Clad in a black onesie, and dimly lit, Olivera gives a dramatic rendition of the Black Eyed Peas "My Humps." Slowly she's joined by McPartlin, in a matching outfit belting it out like an eighties power ballad. Each "my humps" increasing with a funny dramatic inflection.

They then transition to an updated version of "Show Off" from the 2006 hit musical The Drowsy Chaperone. Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison's lyrics have been changed to be a bit saltier and Olivera and McPartlin's dry delivery gave them an added punch.

Throughout the evening Olivera does a fantastic job of introducing McPartlin to the audience, and giving us a chance to get better acquainted. Not only are they wonderfully charismatic together, they also have a genuine sense of affection for each other. Their goofiness radiates from the stage, winning over the audience.

Together with Director Walter Ware and Musical Director Marc Bryan Lilley, they've constructed an evening that flows effortlessly. The best example was Olivera riffing about Signature's upcoming production of Titanic only to have McPartlin think she was mentioning the 1997 movie and begin performing "My Heart Will Go On." Not to be outdone, Olivera provided the musical accompaniment on her recorder - yes, the same instrument we all played in elementary school - tambourine and maracas.

Make 'em Laugh features a mix of pop music and musical comedy selections. While each shines individually, the evening's highlights were the duets. This included a soulfully comedic rendition of The Wild Party's "An Old-Fashioned Love Story" and their diva-tag rendition of Funny Girl's "Don't Rain On My Parade" which ended in fits of laughter both on and off stage. And if you're unfamiliar with the musical theatre game that is diva-tag, it's another reason to take in this cabaret.

As with every good comedy, there's a need for a straight-man. That role is played by Lilley who's a fantastic sport at the piano. Ware also uses Kelly Rudolph's lighting design to heighten some of the evening's funniest lyrics by using different color gels.

The evening ended on a high note with Olivera and McPartlin indulging the inner musical theatre geeks, performing "One Day More." This was no ordinary rendition, with both women singing every role featured in the epic anthem and concluding with the raising of the Rainbow Flag. It was a poignant touch that ended the evening on a triumphant note.

Make 'em Laugh plays thru June 18th at Signature Theatre - 4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA 22206. For tickets please call (703) 820-9771 or click here.

Photo: Tracy Lynn Olivera. Credit: Signature Theatre

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