Does the name Jean-Francois evoke a charming, graceful speaker of French who moves elegantly and lithely across the stage as he acts, sings, and dances? A stereotype, yes, but it is true here. This one-man musical gains an immense degree of its charm from its lead actor, playwright, and composer Jean-Francois Plante-Tan.

I was assigned to review La cravate bleue, and I was immediately hesitant. My understanding of French is quite limited. I love hearing Charles Aznavour, Edith Piaf, Fatoumata Diawara, and many other Francophone singers, but I don't understand their songs, at least the first time around....