What I liked
I loved everything about this show. It was educational about its subjects and past struggles for equality, while also being filled with joy and hope. Duane did an excellent job honoring all the Black artists who came before him and who inspired his own journey as a musician. I left feeling like Nat King Cole himself would have approved of this show.
What I didn't like
I just wish there were more performances of this show at Hollywood Fringe, because I really want more people to have the chance to experience it.
My overall impression
This show was absolutely incredible. The title would have you reasonably believe this was a show entirely focused on Nat King Cole, which is already a huge draw, but it was so much more. Structured as a tribute to Cole, presented by talented musician Duane Forrest, this show moves seamlessly between the life and times of Nat King Cole as promised, Black history and the struggle for equality, and Forrest’s own personal stories of being a Black musician in Toronto, born to Jamaican parents. Forrest talks about other Black musicians, like Louis Armstrong who inspired Nat King Cole, his contemporary Billie Holiday, Ray Charles, and many more. He showcases his amazing musical talents, weaving his renditions of the songs of Cole and the other musicians he honors throughout the show, with incredible vocal range and a silky smooth voice.
