By Bart Greenberg***Vocalist Liz Callaway returned to 54 Below to celebrate the release of her newest album, celebrating her long collaboration with the singular composer, Stephen Schwartz. Th
e Wizard and I: Liz Callaway Sings Stephen Schwartz, which had been recorded live at the same location, certainly demonstrated what amutually-rewarding relationship the pair have. This very well thought-out program covered a wide range of the songwriter’s career, allowing the singer a chance to demonstrate her many talents as well. Callaway was backed up by pianist Phil Reno (subbing for ailing music director, Alex Rybeck), with bassist Ritt Henn and drummer Ron Tierno.
Beginning with “The Spark of Creation” (all songs: music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, unless otherwise indicated), a tune that perfectly matches Callaway’s energy, the singer proved a magnetic host. She told charming tales of how the songwriter first came into her life as an unknown creative force, long before they became close friends and tennis partners. Pippinentered when she was still trying to decide who s
he was, trying to find her “Corner in the Sky.” She moved on to the charming “Lion Tamer,” the type of material Callaway does so well with such absolute simplicity and sincerity. She also had great fun delivering “West End Avenue,” which she had included in her very first cabaret act.
A couple of numbers from Godspell, “Bless the Lord” and “Beautiful City,” brought up some back up singers: Ethan Carlson and Cole Watchman. Their youthful energy brought an extra spark to the show, and their vocal talent was unmistakable. Turning to “I’m Not That Girl,” the singer again showed her tremendous talent for stillness and finding power in underplaying a moment. Several of the songs that 
Schwartz wrote in conjunction with Alan Menken were highlighted, including a highly memorable “Out There.”
Callaway, with assistance from her husband, the director Dan Foster, certainly came up with a terrific ending to The Wizard and I. A hits medley began thhe finale, featuring some of the composer’s best known songs, including “Day by Day,” “Magic to Do,” “Popular,” “Colors of the Wind,” “When You Believe” and “Defying Gravity” (with some very funny audience participation). Then, having knowingly kept the audience waiting, she delivered her signature tune, “Meadowlark,” still thrilling after all the performances she’s delivered. And included in this very moving rendition of “For Good” was a projected montage of photos of the two artists together. Their collaboration is indeed a very good thing, for good.
Photos by Bart Greenberg
