“Each note was delivered with theatrical extravagance… balancing affectionate parody with razor-edge truth”

Forbidden Broadway
Written By Tony Howell & Co.

Natalie Charlé Ellis delivered astonishingly precise vocal send-ups in Forbidden Broadway, capturing Audra McDonald’s lush, overwrought phrasing from Porgy and Bess with such flair it danced on the edge of tribute and gentle mockery. Each note was delivered with theatrical extravagance, drawing out the grandeur of McDonald’s style in a way that was as delightful as it was knowing.

Equally biting was her turn as Catherine Zeta-Jones, channeling that infamous 2010 Tony Awards performance of “Send in the Clowns.” With an unfortunate breathiness and just-off intonation, Ellis mirrored Zeta-Jones’ appearance to hilarious effect, prompting the audience into waves of laughter. Her instinct for balancing affectionate parody with razor-edge truth made these moments stand out as highlights of the entire revue.

—Ben Brantley, The New York Times

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“Clever, pointed, but always rooted in a deep love… impeccable instincts for both musical mimicry and playful exaggeration”