NEW CASTLE PLAYHOUSE Stunning Sinatra revue does the show his way

Frank Sinatra's greatest hits are being relived.
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Frank Sinatra has been a part of the American culture since most of us can remember. Almost anyone you ask past age 40 can give you some sort of reminiscence of "Ol' Blue Eyes."
So, with that thought in mind, if you really want to have an enjoyable evening, head on over to the New Castle Playhouse and get a couple of tickets for "My Way -- A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra."
Now, before you get too upset by thinking that "there was only one Sinatra and there is nobody that can do a decent enough imitation to satisfy me," this is not somebody onstage trying to look and sound like Frank. To the contrary, the cast consists of four extremely talented actor/singers who are onstage performing an exquisitely produced and directed tribute to Sinatra.
The production
The show is in a revue format and takes place in a small club. The set alone is worth the visit as the stage has been transformed into a high-class, ritzy, Sinatra-type venue.
With only four people carrying the load of the entire Sinatra song list, they are all very busy people. Neal Edman, a New Castle Playhouse favorite, starts the evening off with his rich velvet tones and sets the tone for the rest of the evening. As the rest of the cast joins in, there is certainly no disappointment.
Cyndi Weichey makes her initial entrance through the back of the house and immediately gets the attention of the audience. Her smooth singing quality and easy delivery make her a joy to watch and listen to throughout the show.
Lesley Gent, better known in the Youngstown theatre area, continues to score points in Pennsylvania as she wins big in this production. A strong voice that can belt a jazzy number or sell a quiet love song, Gent's entire performance, from her energetic vocals to her seductive nuances, leaves the audience wanting more at every turn.
Tyler Brice, a high school student at New Castle Senior High, performs far beyond his years. His vocal ability and stage presence illustrate that he has a bright future in this business.
The songs
The material speaks for itself; it's Sinatra! Almost everything is here. Set into various medleys, the cast does both solo and group renditions of "Summer Wind," "I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry," "Witchcraft," "All the Way," "Fly Me to the Moon," "My Funny Valentine," and, of course, "New York, New York" and "My Way." Those are just a smattering of the great songs rendered in this show. You'll even hear some that most people have seldom, if ever, heard.
Director John Holt can't be praised enough for the first-rate professional cast and production. Add to that some great production value in all technical areas and a three-piece band led by musical director Katie Schultz and you will want to go back again and again. Don't miss this one.