“Are We There Yet?” Lynda Gordon

Recommended *** Over the years, covering the “Cabaret scene” has been a true experience. There are several spots, both intimate and large that bring us these special performers who truly are passionate about what they do. And what they do is sing! Lynda Gordon is one of these people. While her business is travel, and from what I hear, she is very passionate about her business, deep down it is singing and entertaining her family and friends that brings true fulfillment to her life.

Tonight ( and this is a one night only show, that may come back again), around 100 people gathers on the second floor of the Pianoforte Shop at 1335 South Michigan Avenue, to view her new performance, “Are We There Yet?” a musical escapade where Ms Gordon takes us on a trip thru memory lane that married her two passions, travel and music. Along with the very personable Bob Moreen, who sings along at times, plays a great piano and manages to keep Ms Gordon in line when she drifts off the pages of the cleverly conceived piece. While it is a two person show, most performers agree that people like Faith Prince and David Edelfelt, lending their expertise, make for a more solid performance. They did a great job working on this one.

The show itself is close to 90 minutes and although there is banter between performer and pianist, most of the show is music. Some of the songs are in their entirety and a number of them have been placed into medleys  (Edelfelt’s specialty). Broadway tunes ( “Camelot”, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”, “Bubbles Bangles, Bright Shiny Beads”) and songs from TV  ( “Sesame Street”, “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood”) and a number of oldies like “Istanbul is Constantinople” and “My  Beautiful Balloon” were highlights. There were a great number of unfamiliar tunes as well, BUT I did notice that many of the other Cabaret performers in the audience were tapping their toes ( so they are more familiar with these numbers).

My understanding is that while Davenports on Milwaukee Avenue is still a hot spot for Cabaret performances, on the south loop, this is the new space to keep an eye on. It is called PianoForte Chicago and the venue is on the second floor of the shop at 1335 South Michigan Avenue in Chicago. The concerts and events are published on their site http://www.pianofortechicago.com/concerts-event/ and they can be reached by calling 1-312- 291-0000 ( great number). Parking can be a little tricky, but check their site and you will find the best spaces.

For those of you unfamiliar with the South Look , it is growing quickly and new dining spots are opening up. We tried a spot that is just blocks away at 1924 S. State Street. Café Bionda (http://www.cafebionda.comfor their menu) and enjoyed a great meal, plenty of atmosphere, portions that will allow sharing and prices that are very friendly. The house salad was tasty and large enough so that two of them  fed five of us. The Gnocchi Romano was delicious and again, a portion that satisfied both Jane and me. I plan on going back and doing a full review as the menu looks great!They have valet parking and we were able to leave our car parked there, hop a cab to the venue and come back and get the car. We had time for a nightcap or dessert, but had other obligations, so next time!

Meanwhile, should you see the name Lynda Gordon on a marquee and you like music and banter, enjoy!