They are back!
Meghan Murphy, Danni Smith, & Cassie Slater are three giants (literally they’re all 5’10+) in the musical theatre world. After wowing audiences as “Donna and the Dynamos” in the Marriott Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of Mamma Mia, Meghan Murphy, Cassie Slater, and Danni Smith, join forces again to sing about the sweet release of a well -timed belly laugh and the life affirming power of a new -found friendship. These three have become Chicago’s most inseparable musical theatre beltresses. Belter + Actress = Beltress, it’s a thing. Tonight, they brought their particular brand of music to Steppenwolf Theatre’s “Lookout” program in the 1700 “Cabaret ” for an unforgettable evening of hilarious tales, wicked harmonies, and brassy trios.
These are three powerful ladies with vocal ranges that are superior and the warmest of friendships one can imagine. The audience, which was sold out, had a special time , as these ladies created a night filled with memories. Yes, they began the “concert” with a song from “Mamma Mia” which was expected, since it was the music of ABBA ( and fate) that brought these three together! But the mixture of music they have selected to bring to Chicago audiences is not only musicals (although they glow when they present those).
They do pop songs, and since they are a trio, some were done as if they were The Andrew Sisters. A great number of 90’s music in a sweet and brassy medley, along with a rocking version of “Your So Vain” mixed with “Your No Good”. Their version of “You Don’t Own Me” was heart warming to say the least and they finished out their 90 plus minutes with their “Musical Theater Adventure” with three Andrew Lloyd Webber songs blended into a solid medley that had the audience on their feet. What a way for these three beautiful ladies to end the show! They did take their bows and sing a few more, but just hearing their rendition of songs from “Jesus Christ” and Aspects of Love” were meaningful to each and every one of the 80 or so people who filled the room.
These ladies are busy doing other shows, so the only time we can watch them do their “Cabaret” show is on an off night or when they are not working elsewhere ( which is not often), so my advice to you is” If you see an advertisement for “WE THREE”, pay close attention, and order your tickets right away! Bring someone you love! The music of this night is special as are these ladies!
If you see their names elsewhere, and they are performing at one of the area theaters ( Meghan Murphy is a stand-out in “Cabaret” at The Paramount Theatre in Aurora), do not miss them. While they are tremendous as a trio, each one is an actress who can handle a myriad of roles, so do not miss them on any Chicago area stage!
To follow them:
More Stories
“Music of The Baroque :Holiday Brass and Choral Concerts” reviewed by Julia W. Rath
“Holiday Treat at Hey Nonny in Arlington Heights”
“Songs From the Bench”