As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours immersing myself in the world of entertainment and cabaret, I must say that Clifford Bell, or “Lawrence of Cabarabia” as he was affectionately known, was an undeniable titan in our industry. His 40-year career, filled with collaborations with some of the biggest names in show business, is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unparalleled talent.
Clifford Bell, fondly referred to as “Lawrence of Cabarabia,” the renowned figure in cabaret management and production, passed away on Sunday at CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center due to natural causes. He was 68 years old, according to publicist Steve Moyer.
According to Moyer, Clifford Bell was like a powerful natural element! He immersed himself in music each and every day until the very last moment.
For over four decades, Bell has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. He penned and orchestrated diverse performances that included renowned personalities such as Walter Cronkite, Colin Powell, and Michael Eisner at the Honda Center in Anaheim. Additionally, he embarked on tours with Katey Sagal and her band.
In the role of a cabaret director, he oversaw performances by singers such as Gregg Marx, Todd Murray, Lois Bourgon, Carol Whitener, Joanne Tatham, Bonnie Gilgallon, Lauren White, Quinn Johnson, Chase Masterson, Lee Lessack, Bobbie Norman, and Katrina Aguilar.
He was responsible for creating albums for artists such as Betsyann Faiella, Eileen Barnett, and Judy Butterfield, and he also orchestrated one-person shows featuring Beth Lapides, Joan Hotchkis, Juliette Marshall, Craig Laforest, Deborah Pearl, and Paul Jacek.
Working regularly with Tony-nominated actress Lara Teeter (“On Your Toes”), Bell jointly developed the touring show titled “Direct From Broadway.” This production featured Tony award recipients Debbie Gravitte (“Jerome Robbins’ Broadway”) and Michael Maguire (“Les Misérables”).
On the 24th of April, his last concert titled “Our Name Is Barbra” was held at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood, featuring renowned artists. For the first time, it was also staged on the 6th of May in Palm Springs, with the proceeds going to support the Revolution Stage Company.
Bell collaborated with Shannon Penrod from Autism Care Today, singer Dana Meller, and others to found Broadway for Autism, and joined efforts with Aguilar to promote autism awareness through various organizations.
He contributed articles to Cabaret Scenes magazine, appeared alongside Chita Rivera, Bruce Vilanch, and Sam Harris in Marc Saltarelli’s 2023 documentary titled “Studio One Forever”, ran a podcast dedicated to cabaret, and instructed cabaret at the Woman’s Club of Hollywood.
Among those who carry on are his brother, Bryan Bell – an expert in technology, sound engineering, and previously a senior vice president at the theater-focused label Fynsworth Alley; his stepfather Andrew; sister-in-law Margarita; nephew Lindsay; and nieces Christina and Andrea.
Donations in his memory can be made to Project Angel Food and/or Cabaret Scenes.
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2024-09-23 23:54