By Sue Matsuki***I have been inspired to come out of my self-imposed retirement as a reviewer and add Dan and Chrissy Pardo to my “Two more going into my ‘Talent Freak o’ Nature’ category!” I have also not been as awed by any show as much as I was with Dreams Don’t Come True in Pennsylvania. 
The pair celebrated the artists, songs and stories from their native greater Philly area to ask “are you willing to leave a place you love to pursue a dream that may not come true?” This sold out, one-night only performance at Chelsea Table + Stage must come back soon. What a night! What a show! What incredible voices. What a band!
Pop, blues, jazz, country, opera (yes, you read correctly), Broadway, comedy, Irish step dancing (!), the flute (Chrissy), a mandolin/guitar (Nate Huvard), a violin (Chrissy’s sister, Eileen Aurelia McHugh ), a bass (Matt Scharfglass), drums (Matt Covey) and back-up singers (Eileen and Kennen Butler, two super-stars unto themselves), all brought together in a wonderfully researched and heartfelt love-hate letter to the greater Philly area. And all of this was directed under the watchful and very smart eye of multi-award winner, James Beaman, who had them start the show in a way I so want to steal—all on stage just 
noodling and singing casually until— they all turned around and actually started the show. If you ever want your audience to feel like they’re in your living room, this is the way to do it.
Many know Dan as a musical director to the stars of both theater and cabaret—and we know how talented he is, but who knew he had such an amazing voice? Well, now I know! My only note is that I would like to hear more of him, especially when he duets with his lovely wife, Chrissy. Add to this a show full of candid comments; comedy club-level delivery of seemingly off-the-cuff patter; vocals that have no top or bottom; an enviable belt all wrapped up in this gorgeous, quirky, wicked funny, ball of energy named Chrissy; and you have an act for the ages. The Pardos are like a modern-day Louis Prima and Keely Smith, only with the roles reversed!
Dreams Don’t Come True in Pennsylvania was the couple’s first solo show ever! It could not have been more skillfully presented or more fun! Philly’s loss is certainly New York’s gain. If they bring this show back DO NOT MISS IT!
Photos courtesy of James Beaman
