The Songs of Irving Berlin

You've got until February 10th to see the excellent production of Quality Hill Playhouse's current offering of The Songwriter Series, No Business Like Show Business themed presently honoring The Songs of Irving Berlin. Take it from me. I went, I saw, I came out smiling and feeling very patriotic and proud to be an American.

In contrast to the daily political quagmire we're being forced to sludge our way through with the election debates and each of the candidates, it was truly refreshing and uplifting to be reminded of the huge contribution that American music and songwriters have made to the entire world.

Irving Berlin, creator of words and music for such long-lived musical classics as "Alexander's Ragtime Band" "Puttin' on the Ritz" and "There's No Business Like Show Business" to name but a few, was probably the strongest in aptitude among the other contributors of his Era.

Director, Pianist and Emcee J. Kent Barnhart once again demonstrates his exceptional skill with music and ability to select the finest talent to breathe life and joyous entertainment into each of his shows.

Currently appearing live, on-stage, and wowing grateful audiences are Carole Jo Bradley, Lindsey McKee, D. Brian Cross (fabulous teeth), and Cindy Baker.

The legacy of music by Irving Berlin is elegantly presented and laced with good humor while following the life and times of Berlin through the narrative talent of Emcee, J. Kent Barnhart, who is devoted to his craft and adds just the right touch of levity when hosting to the audience. I have always enjoyed Mr. Barnhart's theatrical expression and it may be too late to mention it now that QHP is slated for major renovation, but I will anyway.

Mister Barnhart, when expressing the fascinating details of a program as you do so well it would be of great help to the audience if you would employ a microphone. I usually sit in the second or third row of the intimate theatre and many times have missed what you've said when your voice drops. Allow me, please, in future productions to hang on your every dulcet word rather than try to put together a sentence I think you may have said by piecing together the words I know I heard. You're a great guy and talented as Hell, but you're no Ethel Merman.

My required words are up. Just do yourself a favor and get some friends together and call 816-421-1700 or log on to www.QualityHillPlayhouse.com
before February 10th for a night of nostalgia laced with patriotism that will make you glad you're an American (or about to become one). I smiled all the way home.