By Victoria L. Dammer
The commanding voice of actress and singer Samantha Pauly, dressed in a black bolero jacket, bandeau, and flowing pants, filled the holiday-decorated theater at Chelsea Table and Stage (CT+S) during command performances on December 20th and 21st
Pauly played her solo concert debut at CT+S in November during two performances, also available via live stream. She’s well known for her recent appearance as Katherine Howard in SIX on Broadway and London’s West End in the critically acclaimed revival of Evita.
The audience could sense the close-knit bravado between Pauly and her pianist, Adam Cole Klepper, and drummer Jed Feder. Guitar and violin accompanied her as well. In addition, Pauly had a special connection to guest vocalist Sam Cieri, who performed this year on America’s Got Talent and is a founding member of the Nicotine Dolls.
As Pauly sang a mostly vocal rendition of All I Want for Christmas, Klepper showed off his exceptional talent on the keyboards, and Pauly said, “Just let Adam do what he wants to do on the piano,” and that brought laughter to the crowd.
Pauly belted out another tune before entertaining the listeners with Never Fall in Love With An Elf, from Elf, The Broadway Musical. The gathering sounded off with hysterical laughter after this. Next, she sang a heartwarming duet with Cieri of I’ll Be Home For Christmas, and his voice reminded me of Rod Stewart combined with a little Joe Cocker with some higher octaves in the mix.
Pauly sang the heartbreak and redemption song I Could Use a Love Song, with Cieri on guitar, and the room erupted with applause; that’s a Broadway demeanor throwing out a powerful piece. Then, “I’m going to give you my best Mariah Carey,” Pauly said, and she treated the audience to another heart-rending song Miss You Most (At Christmas Time), which many can relate to.
Concertgoer Shepherd Warriner remarked afterward, “I’m in love with that voice,” and anyone in attendance would arguably agree.
Cieri sang his unreleased Nicotine Dolls tune, “30 Something,” and I can’t wait to hear what he releases in the upcoming year. I think Cieri will be a superstar soon, and playing with Pauly can only promote his career further.
Pauly sang some of her favorite seasonal songs like What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve, Merry Christmas to You, and finished her hourlong show with a resounding showstopper Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. Pauly was more than obliging afterward, posing for pictures with an enthusiastic and grateful crowd.
In 2023, Pauly will be in residence once a month at CT+S, and her show should not be missed.
An Evening with Samantha Pauly with special guest star Sam Cieri at Chelsea Table and Stage. With Adam Cole Klepper and Jed Feder. Publicity by Fortune Creative.
Chelsea Table + Stage, 152 West 26th Street, New York City. Tickets available at Chelsea Table + Stage | Fashion District | Unique Venue and … (venuetix.com)
CHELSEA TABLE + STAGE features state-of-the-art sound and lighting, a 10-seat in-theatre bar, lofted VIP mezzanine for private groups, and table seating for the perfect date night. The restaurant’s ever-changing menu and entertainment schedule are sure to please any guest. Director of Operations Frankie Gabriel
