Cabaret performance is not always just the name singers, but some Cabaret performers enjoy bringing legends to the stage. Carol Dunitz has written a script, music and lyrics for her one woman show “Bernhardt on Broadway”, so that we can get a true feel for what this woman was able to achieve back in the 1890’s as a top performer, able to start her own theater company and travel the world performing in French. In order to build this show, Ms Dunitz read over 80 books about her life in both English and French in order to get into her head and be able to become this unique woman. In the show, Bernhardt addresses the audience, talking and singing about her life, both the present and her past. Twelve songs contribute to the story. Dunitz is accompanied by Phil Pennington who also did the arrangements.
Sarah Bernhardt was born Rosie Bernard in 1844 in the Netherlands and moved to Paris with some of her sisters. Her mother, noticing that the well to do in Paris were mostly Catholic, had her baptized so she would fit in. At the age of 13 she entered the drama school of The Paris Conservatoire and by the 1870’s, “The Divine Sarah” was considered the greatest actress of her time. When she started her own company, she travelled the world, each concert being her “farewell tour” in order to increase ticket sales. Bernhardt played over 150 roles in her career and her “Queen Elizabeth” film produced enough revenue for its producer, Adolph Zukor to start Paramount Pictures. She was indeed a superstar!
Now, you can witness this marvelous story in the intimate Nancy Goldberg International Center at Maxim’s located at 24 E. Goethe Street ( at Astor) in our fabulous Gold Coast. Maxim’s was built as a French Restaurant Bistro and over the years has become a favorite for Cabaret performers and audience’s. WGN Radio’s Rick Kogan is a regular at this venue as master of ceremoniy and discussion leader. To learn more about Maxim’s visit www.maximschicago.org
This premiere will take place at Maxim’s on September 23rd, October 7th, October 21st and October 28th. Tickets are $30. To reserve your seats call 312-742-TIXS ( 8497) or visit www.maximschicago.org
This premiere is being presented with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. 
More Stories
“Songs From the Bench”
Bryan Eng at The Jazz Club- Paul Lisnek
“The Elements”, Music of the Baroque reviewed by Julia W. Rath