(OUTscene NW) RE-view: Seattle's original Piano Man, Victor Janusz, shines his Spotlight at Seattle's ACT!

Janusz Shines!                     Photo:  Smith

by MK Scott

Victor Janusz is a Seattle Treasure, and it was about time after collaborating with such stars as Arnaldo!, Phoenicia, Sylvia, and more, Janusz, who has played every corner of our community as well as NYC, has written a show all about himself with Hands Solo, now playing at Seattle's ACT. I personally attended this show this past weekend and even knowing the artist for over 14 years, I learned more about him and was impressed even more on his body of work as a performer (Mr. Pianoman), Actor (He was in the West Coast Premiere of the Normal Heart 1986), and as a human being (Activist).

Janusz poses with a photo of his parents.       Photo: Smith

I have seen Janusz work his magic at countless appearances from a smokey bar in Downtown Seattle to a Top floor classy Lounge overlooking the Seattle skyline.

As I said, I learned a lot about Janusz’s career (method acting, many cabaret stints, 9 years of playing piano for shoppers at Nordstrom), his family (Mexican and Polish decent) and his private commitment to his late partner over 20 years ago. It was also great see old photos from his youth.

Hands Solo, actually premiered in New York at the famed Duplex in 2010, and was developed as part the 2008 Cabaret workshop at Yale University.

The show continues this weekend 7/17 to 20)  at ACT. Through July 20 at ACT Seattle; (206-292-7676 or acttheatre.org).