The Mabel Mercer Foundation, Est. 1985
Preserving and promoting the intimate art of Cabaret, its timeless Songbook, and the legacy of Mabel Mercer.
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              Cabaret Spotlight
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                    ![]()  Marilyn MayeLIVE AT 54 BELOW October 26 - November 28 54 Below Back by popular demand! Marilyn Maye makes a shining return to Broadway’s Living Room. A theatrical legend with the power to “melt the heart of the most hardened cynics” (The New York Times), Maye will show audiences why she’s been crowned Manhattan’s Queen of Cabaret. Following her recent sold-out shows, Marilyn returns with an all new show. Her previous engagements at 54 Below have been critically acclaimed, with rave reviews calling her concerts “a master class in singing conducted by a polished pro” (The New York Observer), who bowls audiences over “in the hippest, most swinging way imaginable” (The Wall Street Journal). Put simply, “no entertainer gives you more in terms of great music, great theater, and great comedy” (Opera News). 
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                    ![]()  Ali HarperLIVE AT DON’T TELL MAMA November 1 Don’t Tell Mama Fresh from New Zealand, award-winning entertainer Ali Harper returns to New York with her signature sparkle, warmth, and powerhouse voice. From the breathtaking landscapes of her homeland to career-defining roles and transformative moments, Ali takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the music of Carole King, Dave Dobbyn, Edith Piaf, Doris Day, Burt Bacharach, and more. Winner of Best Actress and Best One Woman Show at New York’s United Solo Festival, Harper has been hailed as “a national treasure… her voice, her warmth, her storytelling—all exquisite” (Theatreview). With Musical Director Matthew Everingham and under the direction of Lina Koutrakos, this 70-minute evening promises brassy charm, heartfelt artistry, and a true celebration of life and song. 
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                    ![]()  Marnie KlarSINGS BOBBIE GENTRY November 3 @ 7:00PM Don’t Tell Mama Bistro Award winner and three-time MAC Award nominee Marnie Klar celebrates the soulful storytelling and unforgettable songs of Bobbie Gentry in a captivating evening of music. She is joined by Steven Ray Watkins on piano, Matt Scharfglass on bass, and Don Kelly on drums, with direction by Tanya Moberly. The evening features a $20 cover charge and a $20 minimum (must include 2 drinks) per person, or a $15 cover charge for MAC members with the same minimum. Cash only. Food menu available. Seating begins at 6:15 PM. Approximate running time: 65 minutes. 
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                    ![]()  The Friends of Alec Wilder40TH ANNUAL CONCERT OF ALEC WILDER’S MUSIC November 8 @ 2:30PM This year, we celebrate Alec Wilder’s popular songs! Come join us for an afternoon of magical music, marvelously performed. Our stellar cast is led by Jed Distler, pianist and music director, and features Steve Ross, pianist and vocalist; and Jeff Harnar and Marissa Mulder, vocalists. Chuck Granata will be our host for the event, and the show’s producer is Mark Walter. The show is from 2:30p.m. to 4:00p.m., with doors opening at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $25. Please note that there is no food or drink minimum, as neither will be served. 
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                    ![]()  Linda PurlTUNES AND TALES: ADVENTURES IN SURVIVAL November 10 @ 7:00PM The Green Room 42 TV, Broadway and cabaret star Linda Purl returns to The Green Room 42 with an unforgettable new show made just for this moment. Tunes and Tales celebrates great jazz and pop standards with Purl’s storyteller’s passion and humor, asking the question, “How can our adventures help us survive?”. Acclaimed Music Director Tedd Firth leads an all-star jazz trio in this fresh, surprising evening. 
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                    ![]()  Karen MasonENCORE-NUCOPIA November 10 @ 7:00PM Birdland Jazz Club Just on the heels of winning yet another award, Broadway, concert, and recording star Karen Mason returns to her favorite musical home, Birdland, with “Encore-Nucopia” — a dazzling celebration of her favorite songs, stories, and laughter-filled moments. Performances will feature showstoppers including “Lorna’s Here/I Wanna Be With You,” “Ring Them Bells,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Karen’s Back in Town” and many more. The evening is directed by Barry Kleinbort, with music direction by Christopher Denny, and Tom Hubbard on bass. 
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                    ![]()  Ari AxelrodA PLACE FOR US: A CELEBRATION OF JEWISH BROADWAY November 12 @ 7:00PM 54 Below A Place For Us is a celebration of Jewish culture, honoring the songs and stories of Jewish composers and their crucial contributions to the American Musical. While there are many stories in the world about Jewish suffering, there are fewer stories about Jewish life and vitality. Our history is not only about how we survived, but also about how we thrived, and A Place for Us highlights this in its exploration of Jewish Broadway. JoinAri Axelrod in celebrating this award-winning show’s brand new album! 
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                    ![]()  Christine Andreas, more!THE BEAT OF A WANDERING HEART: THE SONGS OF MARTY SILVESTRI AND JOEL HIGGINS November 11-15 @ 7:00PM Laurie Beechman Theatre Starring Christine Andreas, George Dvorsky, James Harkness and Casey Borghesi. The Beat of a Wandering Heart - a seventy-five minute theatrical revue, displaying the immense color and range of Silvestri's and Higgins' music and lyric style. It’s a sung-through story of the thrills of being anywhere else, being with anyone else and, eventually, finding peace by coming home. Created and directed by award-winning director Mark Nadler, choreography by James Harkness and musical arrangements by Nadler. 
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                    ![]()  Klea BlackhurstEVERYTHING THE TRAFFIC WILL ALLOW November 16 @ 7:00PM Chelsea Table + Stage The show is Klea Blackhurst's loving tribute to the songs made famous by the quintessential stage personality, Ethel Merman. Rather than a Merman imitation, Klea offers a paean to the great Broadway legend that serves as a potent and happy reminder of Merman's sheer, undeniable importance to both the history of the twentieth century entertainment and the iconic composers like Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin and Jerry Herman, who wrote songs just for her. The engagement is a rare chance to experience Blackhurst's crackling wit and powerful vocals as she performs her brilliant, savvy valentine to one of American theatre's greatest stars. 
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                    ![]()  Steve RossSONDHEIM AND BEFORE November 17 @ 7:00PM Birdland Jazz Club Steve Ross will celebrate the release of his latest recording, “Steve Ross Sings Sondheim With Friends.” Sondheim classics will include “Being Alive,” “Sorry/Grateful,” “Not a Day Goes By,” as well as songs by other composers Sondheim admired, such as Oscar Hammerstein II, Leonard Bernstein, Kurt Weill, and Vernon Duke. Joining Steve will be two guest performers from the recording, pianist Dennis Buck and baritone Benjamn Weil. 
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                    ![]()  Lee Roy ReamsBEHIND THE SCENES OF 42ND STREET November 18 @ 7:00PM 54 Below The New York Times has called Lee Roy “Broadway’s song & dance man non pareil.” His October 18th show is all about his eight year run in the Broadway smash 42nd Street. Lee Roy will regale audiences with songs as well as intimate stories about being there firsthand for the glorious musical that brought audiences “Lullaby of Broadway,” “We’re In The Money,” “Go Into Your Dance,” and so much more. From his initial audition to his rehearsals with Gower Champion and the historic opening night when producer David Merrick announced Gower’s death, Lee Roy will take 54 Below audiences on the full journey of naughty, gaudy, bawdy 42nd Street. The evening will include personal never before seen photos and videos of the production numbers. So come & meet those dancing feet. On the avenue we’re taking you to….42ND STREET! 
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                    ![]()  Melissa ErricoTHE STREISAND EFFECT November 19-22 @ 7:00PM 54 Below Melissa Errico sings Barbra Streisand! A musical marriage made in heaven, surely– The coming together of two pure-bred New Yorkers, one the legendary hamische Jewish-comedienne-chanteuse, the other the intellectual-Italian enchantress who has for so long been inspired by her. The “Streisand Effect” is in part, the power of songs and her example of independent-minded pursuit. It’s no accident that in recent years Melissa has found herself surrounded by many of Streisand’s greatest collaborators, from composer Michel Legrand to the pianist Randy Waldman, and arranger Peter Matz. Musical direction by Barbra Streisand’s own 40-year pianist and conductor Randy Waldman. The quartet will also include Streisand’s longtime guitarist Brian Koonin. Also joined by David Finck on bass and Eric Halvorson on drums. 
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                    ![]()  Richard SkipperRICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES! November 21 @ 7:00PM Laurie Beechman Theatre After 46 years in show business, award-winning entertainer and host Richard Skipper invites you to join him for a one-night-only celebration of life, legacy, and laughter — shaped entirely by the audience. In this unscripted and joyfully unpredictable evening, Richard answers real questions submitted by audience members — live and unrehearsed. Blending heartfelt storytelling, classic showbiz tales, songs, and spontaneous moments, the show is a love letter to live performance and the communities that keep it alive. Whether you’ve followed Richard’s journey for decades or are discovering him for the first time, this is your chance to ask, connect, and celebrate alongside one of cabaret’s most beloved voices. You Never Know Who Might Show Up and What Might Happen! 
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                    ![]()  Dorian WoodruffFOREVER ME IN LOVE November 21 @ 7:00PM Chelsea Table + Stage Woodruff is proud to share this collection of tunes from his many years of working in jazz and cabaret clubs. He honors composers and lyricists such as Michel Legrand, Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Lew Spence, and Leslie Bricusse, Lori Mechem, and Beegie Adair to name a few. With vocals produced by Lina Koutrakos and engineered by Nik Chinboukas and Steve Rizzo, mastering by Roger Lian and arrangements by Tedd Firth, Piano; Lori Mechem, piano; and the late Mike Renzi, piano, and Sean Harkness; guitar, Woodruff has created an album for the ages. Tunes include Nice and Easy; Summer Me, Winter Me; Something to Live For; Fly Away; The Way We Were, and more, filling this album with timeless classics. Woodruff will be joined on stage by amazing musicians: Ron Drotos, piano; Matt Scharfglass, bass; and direction by Lina Koutrakos. 
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                    ![]()  Joie BiancoJOIE BIANCO TRIO November 22 @ 5:30PM Birdland Jazz Club Joie Bianco is a 24-year-old jazz singer, teacher, and arranger from Staten Island, New York. She is known for her sweet yet warm tone, reminiscent of jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Dinah Washington. Joie draws inspiration from across the musical spectrum, from the elegance of Nat King Cole and the swing of Roy Eldridge to the spirit of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and the soul of James Brown. She has appeared in many of NYC's renowned jazz and cabaret clubs, including Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Birdland, and The Django. Joie has also performed at various venues across Texas, such as Monks Jazz, Jazz Texas, and Parker Jazz Club. 
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                    ![]()  Tim Connell‘TIS THE SEASON November 28 & December 27 @ 7:00PM The Green Room 42 2023 Bistro Award Recipient Tim Connell will present his new holiday-themed show, ‘TIS THE SEASON, with his inimitable aesthetic of story and song woven together, to awaken the holiday spirit. In addition to cherished holiday classics, the evening will include funny, irreverent, and not so classic holiday selections, as well as reflections and observations that speak to the meaning of this extraordinary time of year. A Perfect way to kick off “the season”! Musical Director: James Followell, Director: Mark Chmiel, Drums: Ray Marchica, Bass: Sean Conly 
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                    ![]()  Eric Comstock & Barbara FasanoSO NICE TO COME HOME TO November 29 @ 5:30PM Birdland Jazz Club Hailed as “smart, funny, and utterly delightful” and "a hotbed of pleasure" by The New York Times, Eric and Barbara have been on a roll in 2025, releasing an acclaimed CD, PAINTING THE TOWN, and touring the country. They draw from an ever-evolving American Songbook – Jazz and pop classics by Duke Ellington, Harold Arlen, and Cole Porter to singer-songwriters like Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, Carole King, and Bruce Springsteen, plus surprising gems. November 29 is Billy Strayhorn’s 110th birthday and two weeks before Frank Sinatra’s 110th birthday. Their set will include salutes to both these brilliant artists, as well as new tunes and a few favorites. Joining Eric and Barbara will be their longtime collaborators Sean Smith (bass) and Vito Lesczak (drums). 
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                    ![]()  Christine Ebersole & Billy StritchI’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS November 29 - December 6 @ 7:00PM Join legendary two-time Tony Award® winner Christine Ebersole and musical icon Billy Stritch at the piano, as they celebrate the holidays together. I’ll Be Home For Christmas will feature the greatest hits of their twenty year partnership, going all the way back to 42nd Street on Broadway when they first met! Christine Ebersole recently co-starred on Chuck Lorre’s hit sitcom “Bob Hearts Abishola” for CBS. She starred most recently on Broadway in War Paint in her Tony® nominated role as Elizabeth Arden, opposite fellow Tony® nominee Patti LuPone as Helena Rubinstein. She won her second Tony Award® for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, as well as virtually every Off-Broadway award, for her “dual role of a lifetime” as Edith Beale and Little Edie Beale in Grey Gardens. 
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                    ![]()  Ann KittredgeYOU SLEIGH ME December 3 @ 7:00PM Chelsea Table + Stage Not every song over the holiday needs to have sleigh bells (though nice) and choir (also lovely). As usual, Ann expands her vision of celebrating this time of year with a new album, You Sleigh Me, and she’s invited some friends to help her celebrate because THEY sleigh HER! Each special guest has holiday music recorded and available for your seasonal playlist. Come and enjoy a variety of holiday messages sure to make you walk out with a bit of a lilt in your step and warmth in your heart. "Filled with warmth...life affirming." Bart Greenberg 
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                    ![]()  Marieann MeringoloIN THE SPIRIT, 2025! December 6 @ 7:00PM Chelsea Table + Stage Experience the magic of the holiday season with Marieann Meringolo’s In The Spirit, 2025!—a heartwarming, critically acclaimed show in its 19th year that keeps audiences coming back for more! Join Marieann and her stellar trio for an unforgettable evening filled with soulful renditions of classic holiday songs and fresh, original tunes that feel like instant classics. Her award-winning vocals and infectious energy will wrap you in the joy and warmth of the season, creating memories to cherish. Don’t miss this enchanting sleigh ride through a musical Winter Wonderland at Chelsea Table + Stage—grab your tickets now before they’re gone! 
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                    ![]()  Jeff, Stacy, KT & ToddWE LOVE THE WINTER WEATHER December 8 @ 7:00PM Birdland Jazz Club KT Sullivan, Stacy Sullivan, Jeff Harnar, and Todd Murray bring We Love the Winter Weather to the Birdland stage. Joining the singers will be with music director Jon Weber. The group will present an eclectic and entertaining holiday cabaret concert, which will include material by songwriters Irving Berlin, Sammy Cahn, Jule Styne, Carol Hall, Danny Apolinar, David Friedman and Mel Torme. The seasonal spotlight shines musically on traditional favorite as well as “Grandma,” Elvis, Peggy Lee and a “short attention span theater” retelling of the Holiday film classic “White Christmas,” with the quartet donning the roles of Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Vera Ellen and Danny Kaye. 
Upcoming Events
Discover the magic of Mabel Mercer.
Mabel Mercer’s distinctive style was defined by her exquisite phrasing, impeccable diction, and deep emotional nuance. Rather than belting or embellishing with vocal acrobatics, she delivered songs with an intimate, conversational quality, making each lyric feel deeply personal. Her mastery of subtle inflections and pauses gave new depth to lyrics, transforming songs into storytelling experiences. Mercer’s influence extended beyond traditional cabaret, shaping the interpretative styles of legendary singers like Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, and Tony Bennett. Her refined, understated approach made her a revered artist among those who valued the power of lyrical interpretation.
“Mabel Mercer taught me everything I know.”
— Frank Sinatra
 
            
              
            
            
          
              Make a donation.
As we celebrate the forty-year milestone at the Mabel Mercer Foundation, we want to extend our sincere gratitude for your continued generosity and support in preserving the timeless art of Cabaret by keeping great songs alive.
“The Mabel Mercer Foundation, American song’s best friend.”
— Octavio Roca, San Francisco Chronicle
 
          
        
          
          
        
       
          
        
          
          
        
      
 
            
              
            
            
          
             
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                       
                      