Although it’s not my favorite sound, I did enjoy Midwest Big Band presents “The Sounds of Sinatra and the Unforgettable Ladies of Song” at Theatre at the Center. My friend Helen, on the other hand, absolutely loved the show.
The Midwest Big Band, an 18-piece orchestra who collectively share a passion for big band jazz. At one point in the show, the band leader complimented the TATC audience for understanding jazz because we applauded stand-up solos on sax, alto sax, trombone, trumpet, drums, etc.
The band was joined by vocalists Jim Bulanda and Mary Kay Steele. Bulanda, a Sinatra tribute artist, mostly stuck to Sinatra hits, while Steele sang mostly songs from Broadway. I did hear a Drifters song at one point, a George Harrison at another. They combined for a duet version of Unforgettable.
Helen thought that Bulanda did his usual great job with Sinatra’s songs, although she said he didn’t move around the stage as much as he usually does. She thought that Steele had a beautiful voice and great stage presence.