Every so often, it happens.
Mary Claire King, the hometown girl virtually everyone with any solid sense of drama predicted would be a stage star, gets recognized in New York City.
Awhile back, such a scene unfolded. She and a friend strolled in the heart of the city to see a new billboard for the Broadway musical “Chicago” — one that featured her picture.
“It was late and the typically bustling Times Square was on the quieter side,” King said via an email chat. “We took photos and videos of it, and some of the New York City safety workers started to take notice.
“When they realized it was me on the billboard, it really tickled them. It was such a magical New York moment.”
King, who plays Go-to-Hell Kitty and understudies both leads of Velma and Roxie in one of Broadway’s longer-running current shows, will bring a bit of her magic back to the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s Cabaret at the Commons series at 7:30 p.m. Thursday downtown. She is especially significant to the series because she kicked off the concept with a sold-out show in 2015. And she has sold out several other Philharmonic shows since.
At deadline days ago, organizers said that a few tickets remain.
She will present a 15-song set titled “Nowadays” with music from director/keyboardist Kyle Branzel, plus locals Dan Mustard on guitar and longtime friend Hillary Apple on vocals.
“I feel very lucky to make music with such wonderful people and musicians,” she said. “Can’t wait for everyone to hear them.”
She has outlined the performance as one including standards, theater songs, pop, and favorites of the ’60s and ’70s.
“It’s always such a joy and an honor to share my work with the community that raised me and empowered my artistry to grow,” she said.
She still keeps her roots close. Her Instagram page features the phrase “Hoosier grown, NYC strong.”
The Columbus North High School graduate politely declined to reveal her favorite tune in her forthcoming mix. But she was willing to hint.
“Think jazzy, baby,” she said.
Could be maybe the most classic tune from “Chicago,” the one that you can find online of her crooning: “All That Jazz.” In one clip, she and a small ensemble from the show perform the song and dance at an outdoor, promotional performance. And her voice is as big as the sky.
“It has been such an honor and a blessing to be a part of the legacy that is ‘Chicago’,” she said of the show that she joined in 2019.
If she seems more understated about her Times Square billboard, video screen and more attention, perhaps it’s because she retains a sense of humor that her face currently graces one other downtown New York City element.
Trash cans.
About the show
Who: Columbus native and Broadway star Mary Claire King performing in the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s Cabaret at The Commons series.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
Where: The Commons, 300 Washington St. in downtown Columbus.
Tickets: the cip.org.
