2008 New York International Fringe Festival Reviews

A Man, A Magic, A Music

reviewed by Jack Hanley

Aug 15, 2008

Movin' Melvin Brown is a fantastic performer, and even better, he's a fantastic person. Generous and warm, he takes us on a tour of his life in A Man, A Magic, A Music with stories, dance, and classic songs from the great R&B performers of the last five decades. And what an incredible life he's lived, and lives. He may not have garnered the fame and fortune of those artists whose songs he delivers with rich and textured vocals, but that makes him no less great. Born in 1945, by the time he was a teenager he was a passionate entertainer hurtling the racial obstacles African Americans faced (and still face) in the music industry.

Melvin is living history. As we are drawn into the depth of his character and wisdom, we witness in a unique way the progression of black musical culture from early R&B to Soul to Funk and to (a la Michael Jackson) Pop. But don't expect to see some nostalgic relic on stage. He has the robust moves (especially during his hilarious strip tease) and the voice of a man half his age. His vivaciousness is captivating, maintained by living life with unconquerable hope and a genuine love for a world made all the better by music and laughter.

Stories such as his time in the military during the Vietnam War or the breakdown of his marriage are told not with despair but with an eye to the path of healing. And it is always a song that has set him on that path. He sings tunes of Sam Cooke, Jackie Wilson, The Temptations, and so many others. The songs connect the twists and turns of his past, and they allow us to understand how this man has rejected cynicism and absorbed the magic of life. They also inspire us to stand up, clap, whoop, and holler at least one good-and-loud AMEN!

I left Movin' Melvin's show feeling magical myself. What a wonderful gift he gave me. Whenever I reflect on his performance I find myself smiling, hearing his infectious laughter, and thanking him for reminding me that music may very well be at the core of a loving life, and a loving world.

Written/created by: Melvin Brown
Directed by Melvin Brown and Francesca Sansalone
Presented by Movin' Melvin Brown