My View: Steven Reineke & The New York Pops Have A Great Musical Gift For The Holiday Audiences…Jessica Vosk

If you want to witness an extraordinary explosion of laughter, love and some of the best singing you will ever hear, be sure not to miss NORM LEWIS: THE BEST OF CHRISTMAS. The Broadway star is in full holiday and party mode, as he celebrates his 10th Anniversary at the legendary 54 Below in the heart of New York City and delivering Christmas miracles. “Dressed to the nines” and bringing his dazzling smile and persona, it was one song after another, sharing stories and really communicating with the audience, all with a disarming honesty that is almost too much to bear. Then, there is a voice that defies definition or description. This beautiful man is known to be a world-class bass baritone and then, magically, out of nowhere jumps octaves, not to show off, but to illuminate arrangements, lyric content and messaging. It’s just surreal. In addition, being a fine actor, he keeps us in his spell throughout whatever song he is performing. It’s a witches brew, for sure, of Lewis’s collaboration, all these years, with his longtime friend, Musical Director Joseph Joubert (who eats that piano with his hands) and his other longtime artistic muse, Director Richard Jay-Alexander. Add some of the greatest musicians in town – Perry Cavari on percussion (with him for these 10 years) and Dylan Shamat on bass, and what sounds we hear can only be described as thoroughly intoxicating. The musical choices are diabolically simple and classic, yet tug at your heartstrings and make your heart flutter. The crowd went absolutely wild and there were multiple (and well deserved) standing ovations. Norm also brought along an unannounced guest to share the stage, and that was Michael McElroy, who also dazzled and is a huge part of Broadway history. This show was firmly planted at the corner of Broadway and Christmas, and, honestly, Eda and I could be more than happy living there every day. What a beautiful and magical place to disappear to. Last night became even more special when the show was interrupted by Director Jay-Alexander, in order to present Norm with a 54 Below “dedicated chair” he purchased in the star’s name and read: NORM LEWIS Happy 10th Anniversary “Christmas Lives Here.” I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house and Mr. Lewis was totally overwhelmed, for this is where they began their “little Christmas Show” 10 years ago and gratitude was extended to Richard Frankel, who was in the house, receiving the love for the midtown hotspot of the best performers in our business. If you’re looking to get your spirits lifted, run! If you happen to be BAH, HUMBUGging this year …. Stay Away! WHAT. A. NIGHT.