Powerhouse local trio brings to life the story of Ruth Brown
Miss Rhythm – The Legend of Ruth Brown, is a world premiere production currently playing at Garner Galleria as part of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts Cabaret Series. Written by two local powerhouses, Sheryl McCallum, and David Nehls, it is based on the book “Miss Rhythm,” by Ruth Brown and Andrew Yule. On top of everything else, it is helmed by award-winning local director Kenny Moten.
The production is red-hot and bursting at the seams with an amazingly thrilling performance by Sheryl McCallum as the Principal Performer. Recounting the life and times of Ruth Brown, McCallum’s voice is both strong and filled with emotion, treating us to a wide variety of Brown’s hit songs that capitulated her to Queen of Rhythm and Blues stardom. We get the privilege of hearing everything from “Lucky Lips” to “Cabbage Head” to “5-10-15 HOURS,” and finally “Body and Soul” leaving the audience on their feet cheering for more. In between musical numbers, McCallum is a first-rate storyteller. We hear about Brown’s early career, her sometimes tumultuous love life, her Broadway success and winning of a coveted Tony award, and finally her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. And I would be remiss if I did not mention Brown’s foray into the movies with a most memorable role in John Waters’ film Hairspray.
None of this would be possible without the five-piece jazz band neatly situated behind Ms. McCallum under the supreme direction of David Nehls. Nehls is magic on the keyboard as he leads a group of first-rate musicians including William “Skip” Lynch (drums), Dave DeMichelis (guitar), Adon Biggs (bass), and Alex Burse (Ssxophone) along with a handful of substitute musicians at other performances. At times the band members chime in as almost ghost-like voices from Ruth’s past representing her father and various lovers.
Moten delivers a polished production from start to finish. The performance flows beautifully from musical number to musical number with just the right amount of heightened dialogue in between. He directs McCallum with a golden touch allowing her to interact with the enthusiastic audience at times in the newly renamed Club Galleria. Two large video screens on each side of the stage help highlight the action, and Moten delivers a complete package lasting for an all-too-short 75 minutes.
The stage is awash in warm tones and highlighted by the initials “RB.” Scenic designer Lisa M. Orzolek marvelously transforms the space into a special venue for the audience to embrace Brown’s music and story. As designed by Meghan Anderson Doyle, McCallum wears a bright red jumpsuit with a fashionable removable side skirt. The pop of color along with impressive jewelry contributes to the nightclub ambiance. The stage is lit by Charles R. McLeod with subtle nuances that never seem intrusive. Special kudos must go to El Armstrong for the projection design, which is equally well thought-out and executed.
Miss Rhythm – The Legend of Ruth Brown is a musical adventure put together by a trio of impressive local artists — Sheryl McCallum, David Nehls and Kenny Moten. They magically transform Garner Galleria into Club Galleria and exquisitely honor the life of The Queen of Rhythm and Blues, Ruth Brown in memorable fashion.
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