Friday, July 12, 2002 | 8:48 a.m.
"Tease," in the Blue Note Las Vegas, bills itself as a "naughty musical comedy." It is a notch or two above the growing number of skin shows at various hotels. There is a story line, excellent original music, but unfortunately recorded. There is a fine live percussionist, Joel Richmon, and all of the vocals are live, no lip sync, and extremely well sung.
It tells the story of a so-called gentlemen's club. The entire action takes place during one night shift. There are five strippers: Portia, a veteran; Sue Ann, a virgin, newly employed; Angel waiting for her ideal man to appear; Raven, a sexual predator with a secret; and Pandora Dreams, the weekly star feature act. Each has a story to tell and tells it well.
The occasion is a bachelor party at the Club Tease for Billy Bob, whose impending marriage is a recurring theme. There are two other male characters: Dicky, the Deejay; and Vinny, a ubiquitous busboy, also with a secret. Stewart Daylida, a standout previously in David Cassidy's "At The Copa" at The Rio, is equally effective as Billy Bob, the hapless hero.
Russ Grieves is Dicky, a typical DJ, and Vinnie's nemesis for most of the well-paced 90 minutes. Vinny is New Jersey Italian with a heart as big as his mouth. Steve Connolly, one of the best of the Elvis depictors, scores nicely twice, first as Vinny, a comic relief, and then as Elvis.
Kathryn Arianoff, a thorough pro with worldwide credits, is Portia, "who came with the lease," Judy Lombino is believable but slightly overdone as Sue Ann, making her debut. Robin Berry was just right, in for Treasure Duffy as Angel, looking for and finding her ideal man. Jeanine Zabo's Raven was a most believable predator whose secret was finally revealed.
Jacquelyn Holland was properly star-like as the weekly star feature Pandora Dreams, statuesque, raven-haired and in excellent voice. Also featured are Stacey Linde as Patricia, the Stripper, subject and participant in a very strong number, sung by Billy Bob; Jayme Gies was Brandi at the show I caught. Stacey O completed the attractive and very talented cast.
There are 20 scenes in all. Patricia, The Stripper; "My Boy Friend" and Steve Connolly's Elvis segments are standouts. Kudos to all concerned. It is a noble attempt to give Las Vegas a "naughty musical comedy" that is also a quality production. An easier access to the venue would be a big help.
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