By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

NEW ORLEANS – Leslie Castay, who made her stage debut as Dorothy in a St. John Theatre production of “The Wizard of Oz,” definitely didn’t need the assistance of the Scarecrow, Tin Man or Cowardly Lion when she took the stage recently at Le Chat Noir in “Leslie Castay…unscripted.”

When Castay takes the stage, which she shares only with Musical Director Jonne Dendinger, the first thing you notice is her charisma. Your eyes are simply drawn to her. It is an essential quality to have when performing cabaret.

Next, you find yourself enveloped by her voice. Castay managed to do every song justice and then some, imbuing each with just the right mood and tone. Her voice itself possessed a certain welcoming quality, devoid of any falseness or gimmickry. It made the songs extremely listenable and proved another essential quality of a successful cabaret performer.

The last key to a triumphant cabaret is a coherent story line. This is probably the hardest aspect of putting together such a show. It can be very difficult to piece together a plot from songs lyrics written by a wide range of artists, but Castay does just that. After the show is over, you really feel as though you’ve gotten to know Castay a little better.

What’s more, Castay’s song selection showed an abundance of consideration. The songs were familiar but not overly so, making the show comfortable yet intriguing, like ordering macaroni and cheese at a five-star restaurant. It is a difficult balance, but Castay pulled it off nicely.

Furthermore, Le Chat Noir matches this quality with a setting that is both stylish and casual.

Although this is her first cabaret show, Castay pulls from her more than 25 years of stage experience to create an experience well worth the trip to the city.

“Leslie Castay…unscripted” concludes it run this weekend with shows Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m.

Le Chat Noir is located at 715 St. Charles Ave. in New Orleans. For ticket information visit www.cabaretlechatnoir.com or call 504-581-5812.