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Written by Harry Cherkinian, WiG Contributing Writer
Jan 14, 2010
Don Linke, Roz White and William Knowles in “Pearl Bailey … By Request” at The Rep in Milwaukee – Photo: Jay Westhauser
She was sassy. She was sexual. Yet, she could be very serious at the uptick of her feather boa. And all with an attitude that was as forceful as it was playful.
Pearl Bailey was an all-around entertainer for many of her 72 years, starring on stage (where she was best known for her turn as Dolly Levi in an all-black version of “Hello Dolly”) as well as screen and television. And now the woman dubbed America’s “Ambassador of Love” takes to the stage once again in “Pearl Bailey…By Request,” which opened in The Rep’s Stackner Cabaret last weekend.
The 75-minute tribute features 15 of Bailey’s most requested songs of jazz, swing and Broadway tunes set against childhood stories and show business anecdotes. Co-written by the show’s star Roz White and director Thomas W. Jones II, the show made its debut in Washington, D.C., in 2008. At last week’s opening, “Pearl Bailey” was as energetic and vibrant as the multi-colored costumes and flamboyant hats and shoes that were among Bailey’s trademarks.
White captured many of Bailey’s signature moves and sounds, from the deep, throaty voice to the sexual innuendo and take-no-prisoners directness for which the star was known.
Bailey was a diva before the term was coined, yet she could move easily within a range of emotions, allowing her vulnerability to bubble up from beneath her tough exterior. White deftly showcased this range, jumping from the take-charge “A Woman’s Prerogative” to the ballad of “Frankie and Johnny,” a story of doomed love that had the audience in the palm of her hands. “When love don’t work, Smith and Wesson will,” White quipped after the song.
Bailey was known for audience participation, and this show also literally pulls in — make that pulls up — men onto their feet to dance with the performer. At the heart of this production’s strength is the talented trio of local veteran musicians backing White: music director and pianist William Knowles, bassist Don Linke and drummer Dave Bayles.
“Just tell me how you like my personality,” cooed White early on, while settling in with the crowd.
The response? Just fine, Pearly Mae. Just fine.
“Pearl Bailey… By Request” runs through Feb. 28 in The Rep’s Stackner Cabaret located in the Patty & Jay Baker Theater Complex in Milwaukee. For more information, call 414-224-9490 or visit www.milwaukeerep.com.
