MAMBO IN CHINATOWN

Charlie (her father wanted a boy) Wong is clumsy, homely, and inept. While working as a bungling dishwasher in a noodle shop, Charlie answers an ad and, incredibly, lands a prestigious job as a receptionist at a dance studio in New York City's Chinatown. Angela Lin's performance moves Charlie through the stages of her transformation in this cross between "The Ugly Duckling" and "Cinderella." Lin keeps the story believable even when the plot stretches credibility. She gives fresh characterizations to Charlie and her noodle-maker father with his old-school traditions. Lin finds separate voices for Charlie's brilliant little sister, Lisa; the studio's owner, Adrienne; and the helpful crew at the dance studio. As the inevitable clash between old world and new occurs, Lin's narration keeps the predictable material lively. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2014]