THEY WERE ASKING the big question along Broadway last night - was Louis Prima still a big attraction now that he and Keely Smith had decided to go their separate ways?
Louis answered that question last midnight at Basin Street East where he made his first local appearance since Keely left the scene.
The answer was a rousing, ringing yes, accented by the ovation that a capacity crowd accorded one of the most stirring performances in the history of Basin Street.
Louis had the assistance of Sam Butera and his Witnesses, but, and more important, he introduced a young lady to Manhattan night life who seems destined to become a star.
A Star Is Born
Her name is Gia Maione, she's young, naïve, slim and very pretty. Two weeks ago she was a waitress in a Howard Johnson's at Toms River, N.J.; yesterday morning she saw Manhattan for the first time; yesterday afternoon she was coiffed and dressed in a manner to which she was totally unaccustomed.
Last midnight, handsomely garbed in an iridiscent gown, shimmering with thousands of silvery beaded fringes, she walked off the Basin Street stage after taking a spectacular giant step toward singing stardom. Her sweet throaty voice with a husky overtone, had held the capacity audience spellbound. She was cheered for two whole minutes.
The entire evening was exciting. Louis, Sam and Gia performed a full hour and 20 minutes - every second of this time was enjoyable. Louis sang many of his old favorites: "When You're Smiling," "I Wonder Why," "Goodnight to Napoli," and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love, Baby."
Truly a phenomenon of show business is Prima. He has very little voice, it's cracked and hoarse - but man, he knows how to use it! He could give cards, spades and little casino to most of today's entertainers and beat them every time.
This show at Basin Street is one of this year's or any year's best. Prima will be there only for two weeks - don't miss him!
