Mauricio Martínez's new show titled Mauricio Martínez: 5'11, Based in NYC at 54 Below, was just magnificent! Mexican singer and actor is no stranger to 54 Below. This time, he brings his superb skills and charming persona for an evening based on the art of audition tapes, hence the title.
The show consists of various show tunes, from classic Broadway to pop songs. Some Broadway numbers were from Funny Girl, Man of La Mancha, Evita and Kiss of the Spider Woman. One of my favorites was "Music of the Night" from The Phantom of the Opera, which he sang in Spanish. It was a seemingly beautiful rendition that shined with his sultry voice and added Latino flavor.
Martínez's song selection works perfectly with the storyline and his vocal range. Martínez is accompanied by a stellar band consisting of music director and pianist Brian J. Nash, bassist Sean Murphy, drummer Jeremy Yaddaw, and violinist Eleanor Norton. They complement the incredibly engaging and fun nature of the show.
His special guests included Jonathan Hoover, Alexis Michelle and Ana Villafañe. They were a lovely surprise and added a spectacular layer of artistry to the show.
All in all, Mauricio Martínez: 5'11, Based in NYC, is an outstanding show! Full of energy, charisma, humor and puro talent! Epa!
"Mauricio Martínez: 5’11, Based In NYC"
Performed by Mauricio Martínez
Written by Mauricio Martínez & Robbie Rozelle
Directed by Robbie Rozelle
Musical Direction by Brian J. Nash
March 5, 2023
54 Below
254 W 54th St. Cellar, NYC 10019
Yani Perez, M.F.A, is a poet, playwright, translator, and educator. Her plays have been presented in various theaters in the United States such as La Mama and Yale University as well as internationally in Bogotá, Colombia. She works at IATI Theater, one of the oldest Latinx theaters in NYC. She is currently working on translations of Latinx artists in hopes of introducing them to English-speaking audiences.