David Gerard Conjures a Funny, Magical Evening by Kim Waldron Hip, improvisational, non-stop laughter—words not usually associated with a magician and mind reader, are they? But nothing less will do for David Gerard’s current show, “Signs,” at PianoFight in San Francisco. Dressed simply in black, the slim Gerard begins with self-deprecating banter and rope…
Fats Waller and Friends Still Swingin’ and Jivin’ by Kim Waldron Picture two men dressed to the nines, bowler hats to spats, with three women, draped in purple, shimmery green and scarlet dresses. They dance and sing to “Handful of Keys,” Fats Waller’s 1933 love song to the piano. Suddenly, the dapper five line…
Shakespeare Gets Masterful Acting, Stylish Staging by Kim Waldron At Cal Shakes, Director Tyne Rafaeli has staged a “Measure for Measure” for our time. The striking costumes offer a first clue to this play’s modern spirit. Shakespeare’s characters sport ironic regalia: police wear comical uniforms, government officials sport super-stylish “suits,” and nuns float in…
Sherri Rose Offers Advice for an Uncertain World by Kim Waldron Dressed in somber, nondescript slacks and shirt, Sherri Rose works with minimal props in her solo show “How Not to Die.” Initially, she is brightly earnest, a kind of cheerful teacher, referring to studies and research. By the end, passion drives her words….