Hidden Treasures VI: Songs of Larry Kerchner The Songs and the Name That Should Be On Every Cabaret Performers List

Larry Kerchner Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Larry Kerchner is a composer, lyricist, arranger, producer and two-time Grammy Award Nominee. He has been recorded by Michael Feinstein, Marilyn Maye, Tex Arnold, Billy Stritch, and Kenny Ascher, among many other prominent artists. He wrote the song “Home”, “If You Believe”  and other songs from The Wiz, yet never got the credit he deserves, as he sold his rights. Charlie Smalls not only got the Tony, but the accolades. Last night producer Sandi Durell presented a fabulous night of entertainment with Hidden Treasures VI: Songs of Larry Kerchner at the Triad Theatre, 158 West 72nd Street.

Klea Blackhurst Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Starting off the night was Klea Blackhurst as the hostess with the mostest. Unfortunately this talented songstress didn’t sing but she added humor to the entire evening.

First up was

T. Oliver Reid Photo by Maryann Lopinto

singing a swinging “Jazz Is What You Make It”. This song was hot and T. Oliver  was smoking. This song is definitely a gem.

Danny Bacher Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Not only was Danny Bacher in the band but he performed two wonderful additions to the night. This reed player knocked it out of the park with “Baby, What a Life!” and later on with “Solid, Jackson!”.

Nina Hennessey Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Nina Hennessey did a nice job on “Stay With Me”.

Debbie Damp Photo by Maryann Lopinto

But Debbie Damp hit the ball out of the park with her fabulous version of “Goodnight, Ms. Calabash”. Hachachachacha!

Charlie Romo Photo by Maryann Lopinto

The adorable Charlie Romo showed off his crooning skills with “Fill The World With Love.”

Marissa Mulder Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Marissa Mulder sang “Drifting”, one of the most poignant songs of the night about Alzheimers. Her second song “You’re Gettin To Me,” was much better suited to her voice and she brought out Kerchner’s lyric.

Kea Chan Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Looking absolutely beautiful Kea Chan, sang a moving “I Will Fly Away”. This moving song and performance was a tribute to Mr. Kerchner’s mother, who passed away.

Tanya Moberly Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Kicking things into high gear was Tanya Moberly singing a rousing Mama’ Was A Woking Girl”.

Jeff Harnar, channeled Noel Coward for “My Dinner With Mrs. Farnworth”. This hysterical song is full of word play and double entendres, which are quite sexual. Mr. Harner proved his star quality.

Marnie Klar Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Marnie Klar sang another of Kerchner’s lovely ballads “The Star On The Right”. Larry has a way of writing ballads that are heartfelt and sentimental without being maudlin.

Sidney Myer Photo by Maryann Lopinto

The one and only Sidney Myer with his deadpan delivery to “Baby It’s You!”

Shana Farr’s clear voice resinated with “And Now” Larry’s song that is being used in the Cy Walter campaign for comfort and healing to all those affected by the madness of gun violence. Shana also sang “Dreams”, another lovely balled.

Joie Bianco Photo by Maryann Lopinto

At 15 Joie Bianco has soul and she proved it wit her rendition of “Christmas Day.” Look for this young artist to make her mark!

Mark Nadler Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Mark Nadler made the most out of “A Jewish Christmas”. This lament, over the holidays should be in every cabaret.

Showing his softer side Nadler, brought the memories of Mr. Kerchner and his wife, Annette to life in “It Was Paris,”

Marieann Meringolo Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Marieann Meringolo knows how to sing a song, as she brought the audience to tears in “It Wasn’t Enough”. Her haunting voice was matched by her connection to lyric.

Nina Hennessey Marieann Meringolo, Shana Farr Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Finishing off the night was “Hot Tambú,” sung by Nina Hennessey Marieann Meringolo and Shana Farr.

Tex Arnold Photo by Maryann Lopinto

Making this night complete was the amazing band with musical director Tex Arnold on piano, Danny Bacher on reeds, Dan Gross on drums, Sean Harkness on guitar and Tom Hubbard on bass.

The songs on Larry Kerchner are relevant and are definitely treasures. His music and name should be on every cabaret performers list.