Judy Kaye in Souvenir

Souvenir was a pleasant way to spend a rainy Friday evening. Mostly, it was watching Judy Kaye march through the role. It wasn't an overtly dramatic or tour de force type role - wasn't an outspoken or over the top type thing. It was just that she completely became the character - almost no evidence of any other character or personality quirk we've ever seen her do. I saw her play Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd over the summer, and it wasn't until my roommate Angela reminded me that it was her that I even remembered that it was one and the same woman. The roles couldn't be more different, and she was an entirely different person both tiems.

This time, she played a woman who believes she is a wonderful singer, even though she is anything but. It's based on a true story, of this woman who became a sold out act when she gave recitals, since people wanted to hear just how bad she was. It was like a comedy act for them. The woman that Kaye portrays is strong minded, following a dream to sing. Ends up being endearing.

Hard to say what to take away from the play thematically. Eh, just a nice evening watching Judy Kaye I guess (one shouldn't overlook her onstage partner for the whole play, Donald Corren). Got comp tickets to this, so it was just a lovely evening.

EDITED TO ADD (10/15): Who was the one who hooked me up with those tickets? Oh yes. J-Dawg O'Neill. Thanks man!!!!

Photo by Carol Rosegg. Judy Kaye and Daniel Corren in Souvenir, from Playbill.com