The cabaret act celebrates the enduring musical legacy of American singer Lee Wiley, who seemed to disappear from the music scene at the height of her popularity in the 1950s. Lois Walden, Barry Kleinbort and Paul Greenwood tell Wiley's story, and the show features songs from Wiley's repertoire, anecdotes about her life on and off the stage and personal reminiscences from the show's three stars.
Why Lee? features direction by Jay Rogers with musical director Greenwood on piano and William Ellison on bass.
In a previous statement co-creator Kleinbort said, "The creative process behind Why Lee? has been a unique collaboration because the show is both a tribute to Lee's body of work and an exploration of her life and career. On one level, Lois, Paul, and I are artists united by our admiration for Lee’s work, and at the same time we're detectives trying to deconstruct her many contradictions and personas. Our goal is to celebrate Lee's amazing artistry, honor her contributions to American popular song, and peel away some of the many myths surrounding the Wiley mystique."
Cabaretgoers can expect to hear such tunes as "I've Got a Crush on You," "Down with Love," "Moon River," "A Woman's Intuition," "Street of Dreams" and "A Ghost of a Chance."
Show times are Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 7 PM and Monday at 7:30 PM. There is a $20 music charge and a two-drink minimum; for reservations call (212) 206-0440. The Metropolitan Room is located in Manhattan at 34 West 22nd Street.