Singer-performer Varla Jean Merman, the rumored love child of Ernest Borgnine and Ethel Merman, has had a lot to think about following her near-death experience after ingesting some bad catfish. She'll discuss her conclusions, which include - horror of horrors - living clean, at Joe's Pub June 15-16 in her latest show, All Washed Up. Michael Schiralli (Eli's Comin') directs.
The title directly reflects the evening's central question. If Varla Jean Merman gives up her vices and lives a pure life, is she all washed up? Merman's previous outings include the Very Worst of Varla Jean Merman, I, Who Have Nothing, Peel Me A Grape, Varla Jean Merman: A Christmas Concert, Varla Jean Merman Is The Bad Seedling and Enough About Me.
Merman is the creation of Jeffrey T. Roberson, who has appeared on Broadway in Chicago and in cabaret opposite Betty Buckley singing excerpts from Carrie. He won a 1997 Bistro Award and a 1998 Mac Award.
For tickets ($20), call (212) 239-6200. Joe's Pub is located at 425 Lafayette Street between East 4th Street and Astor Place.
-- By Christine Ehren
