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Posted by Philip on June 5, 2008, 11:26 am
91.108.7.250
The Symphony Hall in Birmingham is probably Britain's top concert hall. When I saw the announcement that Liza was including it in her short tour of the UK I deliberated about going. £95 is not cheap!
Think of a Shirley concert, with the band warming up and the excitement building up before the star emerges into the spotlight. It was a sell out and the atmosphere was electric. When she appeared on stage she just couldn't get going - no, I'm not referring to her inability to perform - the audience would just not let her start. And when she did! I have to say that, after seeing her briefly on TV and reading the London reviews I was a trifle apprehensive. That feeling disappeared within seconds. Over two hours later, she was still going strong. I have to say that I have never witnessed so many standing ovations in one night. Her choice of songs was brilliant with some of the best standards you could ever hear. Maybe this time was an absolute tear jerker, Cabaret was unbelievable and as for New York New York, although her voice had by now begun to veer off on the top notes, the dynamic energy was incredible. Her interaction with the audience was incredible. I didn't realise she could be so funny. The closing number was just Liza standing with no orchestra playing, singing I'll be seeing you.
She may not have the voice she used to have. She's had terrible health problems. But for sheer guts and stamina and just about the most incredible charisma I've seen on a concert stage, it was an incredible evening I'm glad I didn't miss.
OK. I like her!!!!!
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