By Marilyn Lester***For a few reasons this piece isn’t a review but a reportage that leads to a huge appreciation of Frank Dain‘s magnificent artistry and his journey to the Don’t Tell Mama stage. The key to this saga is in the show’s title: A Celebration (24 years in the making). Frank started his career as an actor (learn about 
that and more here.) But it came to pass that in 2001 he cut an album, I Thought About You. Time passed; editing Cabaret Scenes took center stage (but in 2012, he did put together a solo cabaret show). Flash forward to 2025 and now there’s a new album, I’ve Had a Love, and a beautifully-crafted concert to celebrate not only this release but album number one. In a dazzling presentation, Frank offered 14 songs from both releases, more than making up for gaps in time and space.
In short, A Celebration was a master class in the art form of cabaret, performed to a packed house, in which all the boxes of excellence were ticked. The man himself: looking superbly dapper, relaxed and absolutely at home on stage. Now add a truck load of charisma and that notable million-dollar smile, plus an easy and genuine connection to each and every audience
member. The narrative: smart, heartfelt, meaningful, touching, authentic and delivered in just the right amounts in just the right places. The music: every song jam-packed with personal meaning and universal appeal, hand-picked and curated; each a jewel in an exquisite crown of artistry, interpreted deeply and profoundly. There’s no doubt that Frank was in the zone, taking us all along for the ride—and what a exulting, healing and rare gift we received. Thank you Frank Dain!
At the piano was longtime collaborator Kathleen Landis, with bassist Boots Maleson and guitarist Peter Calo, each a virtuoso who together spun a tapestry of music sublime, so perfectly suited to and supportive of every vocal, bar none. Arrangements were thrilling and included many by late music director, Rick Jensen. Director Lennie Watts had heart and soul in the game too.
Frank is performing the show again at Don’t Tell Mama on Thursday, May 29. DON’T MISS IT!.
Enjoy this photo essay of A Celebration by Conor Weiss:
