By Michael Buzzelli
With a glass of bourbon in hand, Christopher Jackson stepped up to the mic in the gloriously restored Greer Cabaret and welcomed us to the “Age of Aquarius,” the opening number to his set.
If you’re not familiar with the Tony-nominated actor, Jackson played Washington in “Hamilton.”
Side note: Washington, Hamilton and Jackson sound like the current contents of my wallet (one each).
He regaled the packed cabaret audience with his journey from Cairo, Illinois, along the banks of the Ohio River (the other side of it) to his performances on Broadway. He particularly accentuated the part when he met Lin-Manuel Miranda over twenty years ago.
Jackson’s anecdotes centered on his Broadway career more than it did on his TV and film career. He’s probably most recognized for his iconic take on George Washington.
The actor also played to the audience, connecting with Pirates fans, and, oddly enough, Oakmont Bakery fans (who isn’t?).
While some of his song choices were odd, his rendition of “History Has It’s Eyes on You” was glorious. It even included some audience participation. Patrons sang the “Whoa oh oh” parts. Because the audience was loaded with cabaret regulars (and some local talent), it was beautiful.
Jackson was at his best when the songs required a lower, throatier register.
The cabaret audience got to see a different side of the man. He was personable and displayed a casual ease we didn’t see in the General.
Getting up in front of a live audience and revealing yourself – and singing cannot be an easy task. Jackson seemed genuinely excited to do it.
At one point, he talked about meeting his wife, Veronica. He said, I went to this audition, met her and married her. It would have been nice to hear a bit more about his courtship, learn a few details before skipping to the end.
It was nice to gather a crowd together and listen to Christopher Jackosn and reminisce about a wonderful moment in theatrical history.
The Greer Cabaret has two more shows in the 2024-2025 season. Stephanie J. Block performs on March 10th and Patina Miller will perform on May 5th,
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The Trust Arts Cabaret Series is held at the Greer Cabaret Theater, 655 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information and other upcoming events, click here.
