Photo, Fascinating Aïda

By John Soltes / Editor in Chief

NEW YORK (Dec. 23, 2009) — The cabaret act of Fascinating Aïda, the British import featuring the songs and comedic one-liners of Dillie Keane, Adèle Anderson and Liza Pulman, is perhaps a strange musical piece to see on the western shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The routines and sense of humor of this rollicking trio feel purely British.

But in their cultural distinctness, they offer New York audiences a picture into another world where this style of entertainment is cherished.

Keane, who founded the group more than 25 years ago, writes most of the songs with Anderson, a veteran member. The songs range from touching ditties about forlorn love to hilarious social commentary on every topic from occupational safety to Wal-Mart to Ben Bernanke.

The lyrics are well-thought-out creations that always have a hint of satire lingering in the background. OK, maybe it's not a hint. These women are blunt, a little crass and overtly hysterical — nothing is off limits, and yet the show seems expertly focused thanks to director Frank Thompson. Some bits are pulled from Aïda's repertoire, while others are written specifically for this New York engagement.

Some of the jokes fall flat — perhaps as a result of American audiences not grasping the humor behind what feels like an inside joke. Most other quips produce smiles, if not guffaws. This is a lounge act that floats in the air, connecting with the audience at different times throughout the two-hour show. Perhaps the act would be more appropriate in a less theatrical setting than 59E59 Theaters — say, in a place where drinks and dinner were served, and a little more ambiance could float with the humor in the air.

Keane, who sits most of the night at the piano, is an adept songwriter and musician. She has a great way to emote the feelings of the songs through inspired facial expressions, and her antics during one number about being German (though Keane is Irish born herself) earn the label of hilarious.

Anderson and Pulman do most of the footwork, dancing and sashaying across the tiny stage while they bring the songs to life. Anderson is a very adroit singer who seems to relish the laughs that emanate from the audience. Pulman is the newest member of the troupe and shines brightest when given a song to belt — and belt she can.

There are many highlights in the show, with the best part being the two offerings of Bulgarian chants (yes, Tiger Woods, Michael Jackson and Madonna make appearances).

This particular show, titled “Absolutely Miraculous!,” is being presented as part of the Brits Off-Broadway Festival, which runs through Jan. 3 at the theater complex. It seems fitting that these three entertainers were part of a British festival, because their style and sensibility are very much from across the pond. It’s refreshing to have an act like this that is, if not groundbreaking, at least entertaining during the New York Christmas season. The women of Fascinating Aïda know how to put on a great show — even if a perfect one may be out of their reach in front of an American audience.

Fascinating Aïda’s “Absolutely Miraculous!” is currently playing 59E59 Theaters at 59 E. 59 St. in New York City. Visit www.59e59.org for more information.