In the spirit of getting through the cold and bleak months of winter, The Cincinnati Enquirer's next Footlights event will be the Shakin' the Winter Blues Away Cabaret and Show Tune Sing-along on Feb. 9 at Plush, upstairs at Carol's (825 Main St.)

Join our town's favorite Broadway vet Pam Myers, musical men Scot Woolley and David (Frog Princess) Kisor, Ovation Theatre artistic director Joe Stollenwerk, performers from College-Conservatory of Music's dazzling The Boys from Syracuse, members of Northern Kentucky University's Musical Theatre Tour Troupe with Broadway vet Mark Hardy - and more.

Didn't know Shakespearian actors can sing? Discover all the talent on local stages year-round. And you can expect some special guests. Audience members will also be given a chance to get in on the act in Footlights, which is devoted to taking you behind-the-scenes of Cincinnati theater and into downtown restaurants.

Shows are at 5:45 p.m. (doors open at 5:15 p.m.) and 8:15 p.m. (doors open at 7:45 p.m.) For reservations call Ensemble Theatre's box office at 421-3555 or Jackie Demaline at 768-8530. Tickets $25. Please specify the early or late show. The performers will be different for the two shows.

Space is limited. Footlights night with stars of The Producers was a fast sell-out in November, so call soon. You will be asked to hold your reservation with a credit card.

- Jackie Demaline