Last weekend I had the joy of attending the shows Barry Manilow taped at Paris Las Vegas for an upcoming production.
Logically I had no intention of going to Vegas less than a week after I’d seen the show. Not that I didn’t want to, but sometimes even I’ve got to be sensible. Then I heard not only were the shows being taped, but another of my favorite people, Scott Nevins, would be doing the audience warm-up. Add to that there’s only a precious few of Barry’s shows left at Paris and logic went out the window as I hoped in my car!
There’s something to be said for being spontaneous. I had a blast! The shows, always phenomenal, took on an extra surge of excitement, from Barry and the audience.
How often do you get more than you paid for? Like an unexpected holiday gift, on top of seeing a fantastic show, as only Barry Manilow gives them, those of us in attendance had the added privilege of enjoying the talents of Scott Nevins. A multi-talented, award-winning comedian, TV/radio personality, headliner, actor, host, mc, producer, director, writer, cover guy, and humanitarian. Scott was the perfect choice in getting the adrenaline charged crowd primed and ready to erupt like a volcano when Barry entered the stage. Sharing a bit of his unmatchable celebrity impression skills, Mr. Nevins did a spot on rendition of “Even Now” as it might be sung by Cher and Eartha Kitt,. With his hilarious banter and delightful good looks, he had people asking “who is this guy and where can we see him again?” I was thrilled to share I’ve seen his one man show a couple of times and tell those asking they can learn more by visiting his website ScottNevins.com.
Both nights Barry’s voice was pure perfection. Not just my opinion. Many echoed the sentiment of rapture in hearing how the power, depth and pure clarity of his voice hasn’t waned over the years, but rather has intensified. None of us could think of another we could say the same for.
Live tapings are fun, when it’s Barry it’s extra special. He’s a super-star, a headliner, this was about him, it was important, and he rightfully could have made it a serious show-biz event. Yet being a consummate gentleman and perfect host at the party that is his show, Barry made it about us. Graciously apologizing for any delays or retakes, sharing the show might run long and amicably speaking to the audience, asking if we were all alright, sharing details of what he was hearing in his ear-monitors from the directors. He doesn’t do this because he has to, it’s perfectly natural for him to be nice, that’s just how he is, one of the good guys. Another attribute that sets him apart and makes him so admirable. Honestly, it would have been fine with me if the show had gone on until dawn, there is never enough of a good thing.
High energy from start to finish. The show went on without a hitch. Not a re-take, but an extra taping of the opening with a camera man walking beside Barry, facing the audience to capture what he sees as the show begins, was wonderful. The expression on his face was priceless, smiling, nodding in humble gratitude as we applauded, shouted and stomped our excitement. It wasn’t because cameras were rolling, it’s a voluntary reaction to excellence!
“Even Now”! I say WOW every time I see this performance, and these two shows were no exception. And Friday, we were fortunate to get not one but two power ballads - seems silly to say that, every song Barry sings, ballad or not is with intense power! After “Even Now” it was decided he’d do “Weekend In New England”, which I love and haven’t heard in quite some time. What an incredible treat. What an amazing performance. From where he pulled the dynamic strength for these songs, back to back, is a secret I wish he’d share. Again, wow… My favorite part of that song is his intense vocal and visual emotion, combined with his mastery of pianist at his finest, something I’ve been giving attention to more and more. “Is there nothing he can’t do”?
I always mention the final note of “Even Now”. Friday and Saturday it hit me how many incredible final notes Barry gives at the end of each song. I can’t think of one that doesn’t end from a place deep within himself, gathering power as it builds, each worthy of a standing ovation. I’ll never disrespect people by blocking their view, but after each song, if you don’t stand, you won’t see for a minute. It’s the only way I know to appropriately thank the man on stage.
The segment including two songs from Barry’s new, original album “15 Minutes” was mega charged with the guts the opening song states he’ll “sell for glory”. The audience needed no prompting to show their appreciation. Leaving the theater “we’ve got to get that album” was heard multiple times and it made me crazy happy. I want the world to hear this masterpiece and would gladly stand on a corner selling the album, talking up it’s greatness, just so people would experience the finest of music and Barry..
The tribute to iconic “American Bandstand” paying homage to dances of the day, is always a crowd pleas-er. How anyone can sit still during it, is beyond me! Barry replaced the bright red jacket he used to wear, for a sharp, perfectly tailored, classy crimson one. For the record I like, I like it a lot!
I love audience reactions to “Mandy”, the song that started it all. It’’s as if people journey back to a time of their youth, perhaps not often thought of and relive every happy moment. As Barry does a duet with his young self, who’s seen on a large screen above him as they both play white grand pianos, he follows each move and note without falter. Watching him now; mature, sophisticated and handsome, with years of living and loving music, all creating the man he’s become, is in a word breathtaking. It’s surprising the theater walls don’t give way to the tumultuous approval. Again, seeing his expression, with a look of astonishment that after all these years he’s still so loved, is a lump in the throat moment.
I was thrilled to see many lovely young ladies and men in the audience. It’s wonderful to know the younger generation is turning an eye and ear to real music, created by a real musician who knows the meaning of longevity and what it takes to have staying power. When this tape is broadcast, I have no doubt it will grap the attention of many more kids and inspire them to take worthy notice. It only took a song or two one show for my kids to say, “wow, I get it”! Now they look forward to listening and being there, any chance they get.
At shows end, it’s that same look and his gorgeous ever ready, genuine smile which beams joy, peaceful contentment and more gratitude, as he takes a final bow, that makes me so happy his music and no other, has become the fabric of my life.
A few personal notes, what would I be without adding those:) Over the years lyricist Adrienne Anderson has collaborated with Barry on some of his most gorgeous songs. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about two of them; “Could It Be Magic”, the one that started it all for me nearly five years ago. And “You Begin Again” which has become my anthem of hope when the going gets tough. After Friday’s show I had the pleasure of spending some time with Ms. Anderson and her charming husband. What an absolutely delightful couple they are. It was such fun sharing how much her words blended with Barry’s music means to me. Within minutes I felt as if I’d known them all my life, they are those kind of people.
At Saturday’s show, to my astonishment, I had a wonderful seat, sixth row center, but this time it wasn’t only the great view that made it special. I was seated next to Ms. Anderson and her husband. We picked up where we’d left off the night before. I jokingly cautioned them I can get pretty enthusiastic during the show. I soon discovered I had nothing to worry about. Both were on their feet cheering, applauding, waving and screaming with as much gusto as any of us. I’d commented to Adrienne that it must be an incomparable thrill to see Barry performing their songs. She agreed it is and her actions reiterated her words.
I have to admit for maybe the first time ever, my attention was taken from center stage, watching Adrienne standing, glowing with pride and admiration as Barry sang “Daybreak” and “Could It Be Magic”, I couldn’t help but think how many year’s they’ve known each other, how much music they’ve brought to life and being a mush those thoughts brought on the tears. Here, in front of me, within yards of each other, were two genius talents. One who wrote the words, one who writes the music and delivers it. And in blending it all together, it has been the catalyst to changing my life. Moments don’t get more surreal or unforgettable than that. I’m so glad I was there!
On Friday I sat next to a couple that were sort of unique. It was the husband that talked the wife into attending. He’s been a fan of Barry’s all his life and had never been to a live show. They’re original tickets were for a show that was unavoidably canceled. Knowing time to see Barry in Vegas is running out, they grabbed the chance and headed in from San Diego.
As a young man Warren had been in the armed services, life wasn’t easy. He shared the music of Manilow got him through; taking him to the high points and seeing him past the low. He’d been ribbed by his peers, they just didn’t get it. I shared my own story with him and a bond was formed. He talked about the early years and surprised even his wife as he went on about the jingles Barry had written and how his career began. Yes this guy is a fan.
Hearing they were there on a special night of a taping made it all the sweeter. He thoroughly enjoyed Scott. At one point, when Barry took a quick break and Mr. Nevins took the stage briefly, Warren leaned over to me “you can tell they’re both down to earth real good guys, nothing fake about either of them”. I couldn’t agree more.
He gently held his wife’s hand during much of the show. Seeing him cry through “Mandy”, “Weekend in New England” and many others he knew the words to by heart got me going. Once again I witnessed the great impact of Barry’s music. This show meant the world to this man, who’d waited all his life to see it. Standing during “Can’t Smile Without You”, he tossed one arm across his wife’s shoulder, the other over mine and we swayed together singing along.
After the show he hugged me and planted a friendly kiss on my cheek, thanking me for making the show even more enjoyable because I get it, I understood. We’d bonded in the camaraderie of happiness that is a Manilow show. Do other entertainers create this atmosphere? Maybe, I don’t know. But I do know for fact, it happens every time Barry Manilow enters a stage. The palpable joy and goodness he exudes is contagious and I for one can’t catch it often enough.
There are only five shows left at Paris. I won’t mention the signs hanging above the doors stating the fact “Manilow’s final shows”. The chapters of every book need to end, how else would we enjoy the next exciting one. I’m truly happy for Barry as he embarks on new and exciting ventures, but selfishly just a tinge sad for me. On the bright side, there is that final show and no doubt it’s going to be, yep I’ve got to say it… phenomenal…
Who knows maybe I’ll get a job with an airline or win lotto, I can’t think of a better reason to travel the world, see new places or revisit those I’ve been to and love than to have a Manilow show at the center of the journey!
… Chicago, New York, New York… Never been to London, my grandmother was from Dublin… ah yes, this could be a lot of fun… Talk about a double header, it would be a fantastic if Scott Nevins opened some of the arena concerts one day!
phtxbutterfly
You found it ! That wonderful feeling that comes over you when you are in his presence , he captures your heart,your soul, and doesn’t let go! He is and always be “Heaven on earth” ! God blessed him with love,compassion, and generosity to share himself with myself and the whole world! That’s why we love him so much!
janetfauret
Yes I too have a tinge of sadness but basically I’m looking at this as not an end but a new beginning. That’s how I’m living it. And how wonderful to know that we will have a permanent record of the show at Paris.
Now Barry is moving on to his life’s next adventure. And we’ll be right there with him!!
Thanks for the usual great description of the evening. It brings it all alive for those of us who can’t be there.