* Here is the article from BroadwayWorld.com regarding Liza's appearance on "On the Record with Greta Von Susteren" the afternoon of December 28, 2009:
* The Liza-maniacs, including Joel Grey, were out in force on November 25 at the Paley Center’s celebration of the DVD release of “Liza’s at the Palace,’ which she actually filmed at Vegas’ MGM Grand. It’s a two-hour Minnelli orgy of sweaty close-ups, unclassifiable high notes, and killer dancing during her entrancing Kay Thompson tribute, which left us –– and Liza, herself –– in her own words, “Exhausted!” So much so that when interviewer Michael Feinstein introduced her by citing a litany of old television shows from 1972 –– “Hawaii 5-0,” “The Brady Bunch,” “Gunsmoke,” “Bonanza”…,” she cut him short with, “So?” What he meant was that all of these shows are now defunct while the Eternal One, whose “Liza with a Z” aired that year, is still going strong with a PBS broadcast of the DVD airing in December, though in an abridged one-hour version.
* "The woman I call home, Liza Minnelli, appeared at the Paley Center's showing of the TV version of her dazzling Liza's at the Palace show (the one in which she bravely did a song from the point of view of a female impersonator and also joked about having had three closet-case husbands). In her post-screening chat, it came out that Liza turned down big money for a memoir because "my autobiography is in my songs." And it's in her energy, too. When actress Arlene Dahl—who seemed to think this event was a Q&A—called out from the audience, "What vitamins do you take?" Liza replied, "The usual ones. C and E and all of that stuff."
* Here is the phone interview with Liza that was taped on November 30th, and aired on December 5th during one of the pledge breaks in the KQED San Francisco airing of Liza's at the Palace....
* Programs such as Liza's at the Palace.... usually don't make it to television because they are expensive to produce. Public television is the only place where such programming is likely to see the light of day because viewers consistently support their favorites when such programming does make it to broadcast. That is why the people who love Liza need to show their support for this kind of television. They don't have to break the bank; however, making a pledge to their local stations is the only way to ensure that programming like this won't go away. Public television is committed to providing programming that viewers want to see and the best way to gauge that interest is to see what viewers will support through pledges (thus the thank-you gifts) and tuning in. So please be sure to make a pledge to your local television station and mention you are doing so because they are airing Liza's at the Palace....
|
POSTED DECEMBER 3, 2009:
* BIG NEWS!
Liza's at the Palace... has been nominated for the Grammy for "Best Traditional Pop Album"!
The other nominees are: "Tony Bennett's A Swinging Christmas", "Michael Buble Meets Madison Square Garden", "Harry Connick Jr.'s Your Songs", and "Willie Nelson's American Classic."
* Liza recently spoke to Liz Smith. The interview will be in the Thursday, December 3rd issue of Variety. It will also be syndicated to newspapers nationwide.
The following are news dates that had originally been set to get posted just prior to Scott Schechter's untimely passing, plus a few immediately after.
Stay tuned, as we're going to try and keep this page as updated as possible.
* LIZA'S AT THE PALACE has been NOMINATED for a TONY AWARD for BEST SPECIAL THEATRICAL EVENT. The awards are broadcast on CBS on Sunday, June 7th, 2009.
Best Special Theatrical Event
Liza’s at The Palace (Producers: John Scher and Metropolitan Talent Presents, LLC; Jubilee Time Productions, LLC)
Slava’s Snowshow (Producers: David J. Foster, Jared Geller, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Judith Marinoff Cohn, John Pinckard)
Soul of Shaolin (Producers: Nederlander Worldwide Productions, LLC; Eastern Shanghai International Culture Film and Television Group; China on Broadway)
You’re Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush (Producer: Jeffrey Richards, Jerry Frankel, Steve Traxler, Home Box Office Inc., Gary Sanchez Productions, Bat-Barry Productions, Ken Davenport, Ergo Entertainment, Ronald Frankel, Jon B. Platt, James D. Stern, The Weinstein Company, Tara Smith/b. Swibel, Dede Harris/Sharon Karmazin, Arny Granat)
|
POSTED APRIL 22, 2009:
* Liza nominated for DRAMA DESK AWARD
Liza -- via her "Liza's at the Palace" engagement -- has been nominated for a DRAMA DESK AWARD, as just covered by Broadway World. The category is Distinguished Performance Award, and the awards will be held on May 15th:
* "Liza's at the Palace" was at Number Ten of the Top 15 Cast Recording List on BILLBOARD, for it's 6th week (I think I have that right, that it's the 6th week for the CD), for the week ending Sunday, March 15th, 2009.
|
POSTED MARCH 12, 2009:
* Palace CD at #8 this week (Billboard)
Nice Birthday gift for Liza: her "Liza's at the Palace" CD jumped back up for its Fifth Week on the BILLBOARD charts, back up to #8, for the week ending Sunday, March 8th. (It was Number 12 last week, #10 before that, #6 before that, and #3 for its debut week)
Looks like the PARADE magazine cover / article helped.
|
POSTED MARCH 11, 2009:
* Press Release for a 2-hour radio show paying tribute to Liza -- airs on her birthday, tomorrow, at 3 PM Central, 4 PM Eastern, etc. See more below. The first hour features Liza, her "Williams Brothers" co-stars, and selections from the new "Liza's at the Palace" CD. The second hour features an interview with yours truly, and a look at "The Complete A&M Recordings" set
###
For immediate release:
WQNA 88.3FM DJ Larry Corley, host of "Jazz Now and Then" will celebrate Liza
Minnelli's birthday on March 12th with two special program events.
At 3:00pm Corley will air an encore presentation of "Liza Minnelli: Back on
Broadway." The hour long program features an interview with Minnelli who speaks
about her godmother Kay Thompson to whom she paid tribute recently at Broadway's
famed Palace Theatre. Added to the program are songs from Minnelli's new CD
release "Liza's at the Palace." The program also includes interviews with
Minnelli's talented singer/dancers, Johnny Rodgers, Jim Caruso and Cortes
Alexander who played the Williams Brothers in Minnellil's Palace show. Other
participants in the program include Broadway stars Kelli O'Hara and Christine
Ebersole who welcomed Minnelli back to Broadway after a ten year absence.
Following this program is an hour long retrospective featuring Minnelli's
earlier sound culled from the new double CD collection "Liza Minnelli: the
Complete A&M Recordings." Included in the program is an interview with author
Scott Schechter who compiled and produced the set.
WQNA broadcasts in stereo to a potential audience of 250,000 in the greater
Springfield, IL area at 88.3FM. It serves as an outlet for unique music and
specialty programs not found on commercial stations. WQNA is
also heard on the Internet at www.wqna.org as well as on area cable TV
channels and other outlets nationwide.
###
* Just a reminder to vote for our dear JIM CARUSO as GENRE's MAN OF THE YEAR ... Just heard from him, and he offer's this recap on the workings of it:
So I'm in the running for Genre Magazine's Man of the Year, which is essentially just a PR thing, but would be great for promoting the Broadway at Birdland series, Cast Party, and all the other crazy things I have going on! Not sure if it's appropriate, but it'd be swell to have the LM fans vote! All they have to do is click on Genre Magazine, and vote '10.' It can be a daily occurrence, if they're really into it, but don't bother voting more than once a day, because it won't count!
* "Liza's at the Palace" was Number 12 on the Billboard Top 15 chart -- under Cast Recordings -- for her fourth week, ending Sunday, March 1st. (As a reminder, her first week / debut was at number three, then number six, then number 10, now number 12)
There's the website for the final edition of the PARADE magazine that hits newstands this Sunday, March 1st, 2009. The website features a few additional photos of Liza from the photo session done for the magazine by Andrew Eccles, in January.
* Liza Minnelli Featured In March 1st Issue of PARADE
* Just a reminder that the Liza cover story on PARADE magazine is still slated to run this Sunday, March 1st. Parade has a circulation of 33 million through more than 470 Sunday newspapers — one of which is The New York Post, which is dropping Liz Smith's column after this coming Thursday, in order to save the $125,000 they are paying her per year. Her column will still be seen on her website and in other newspapers across the country, as well as Variety.
Critics swoon at Van Morrison doing his classic Astral Weeks live in a recent album. It reconnects him with his muse, they say. Perhaps. But few live sessions sparkle with an artist's brass and sass as does Liza's at the Palace, a brashly triumphant document of Liza Minnelli's autumn 2008 run at the Palace Theatre on Broadway. To quote her, "It's Liza with a Z Not Lisa with an S 'Cause Lisa with an S Goes 'sss' not 'zzz.' "
The two-CD set is split between signature smashes and her salute to 1940s Broadway/nightclub doyenne Kay Thompson (Liza's godmother). Minnelli goes for broke on belters such as "Maybe This Time" with delicious clarity. Sympathetic pianist Billy Stritch and a smallish orchestra allow her room to breathe. She saves the scenery-chewing for the soft, dramatic subtlety of "If You Hadn't, But You Did" and the steady sorrow of "But the World Goes 'Round."
Along with the recent The Complete A&M Recordings, which documents her late-'60s/pre-disco '70s, Palace represents a mountainous high peak in a career with more valleys than the Dolls. - A.D. Amorosi
|
POSTED FEBRUARY 13, 2009:
* From TheatreMania.com:
The Tony Awards Administration Committee has announced additional eligibility rulings for the 2008-2009 season.
The three boys playing the title role in Billy Elliot -- David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik, and Kiril Kulish -- will be eligible to be considered jointly in the Leading Actor in a Musical category.
Liza's at the Palace, Slava's Snowshow, and Soul of Shaolin will all be considered eligible in the Special Theatrical Event category. Dividing the Estate and The American Plan are both eligible in the category of Best Play.
All other decisions were consistent with the opening night credits.
This is the third time the Tony Awards Administration Committee has met this year. It will meet two more times to discuss the eligibility of shows opening in
the 2008-2009 season. The cut-off date for eligibility is April 30, 2009.
The awards will be presented by the League of American Theatres and Producers and the American Theatre Wing on Sunday, June 7 and broadcast live on CBS.
Liza Minnelli's "Liza's at the Palace" (Hybrid) debuts at No. 3 on Top Cast Albums. The daughter of Judy Garland most recently charted in July 1996 with "Gently," which peaked at No. 156 on The Billboard 200.
* Looks like Liza will be doing much more radio in the very near future, to talk about the new LIZA'S AT THE PALACE album:
She is doing Barbara Walters radio show—but don’t have an air date
She is doing AP radio—but don’t have air date
She is doing Lenonard Lopate WNYC radio LIVE this Monday!-- February 16th, 2009
|
POSTED FEBRUARY 10, 2009:
* AWARD WIN for Palace Run
Minnelli, Fey, Winslet, Letterman, Rourke and Fernandez Win ITRA Awards
By Andrew Gans
09 Feb 2009
Liza Minnelli
Winners of the 2009 Independent Theatre Reviewers Association (ITRA) Awards have been announced.
Six artists in three categories — film, television and theatre — have been selected for 2009. The honorees, according to press notes, "embody the essence of not only artistic integrity, but also complete dedication to their craft."
This year's ITRA Award winners follow:
Mickey Rourke, Best Actor in a Feature Film, "The Wrestler" (Fox/Searchlight Pictures), "for his powerful and honest portrayal. This is a great comeback from a great American actor."
Kate Winslet, Best Actress in a Feature Film, "Revolutionary Road" (DreamWorks Pictures/Paramont Vantage), "for her profound and beautiful work."
Tina Fey, Best Performance in a Television Series or Variety Show (Female), "3 0 Rock" and "Saturday Night Live" (NBC), for "terrific comedic performances and biggest career explosion of the year."
David Letterman, Best Performance in a Television Series or Variety Show (Male), "Late Night with David Lettermen" (CBS), "for his continued success and longevity."
Liza Minnelli, Best Performance Theatrical (Female), Liza's At The Palace (Palace Theatre, NYC; John Scher/Metropolitan Talent Presents), "for a lifetime of art and heartache, and most importantly survival... a legend returns to Broadway!"
Lucio Fernandez, Best Performance Theatrical (Male), "The Cuban Kid in concert" (Don't Tell Mama, NYC), "for an electrifying performance in cabaret. This newcomer came out of nowhere to surprise us."
Independent Theatre Reviewers Association is "dedicated to reviewing professional theatre in the tri-state metropolitan area." For more information visit www.TheatreReviewers.com.
* Billboard CD reviews as presented by Reuters from New York
Artist: Liza Minnelli
Album: Liza’s At The Palace (Hybrid Recordings)
Liza Minnelli’s recent stint at New York’s Palace Theater was more than just song and dance: It was a declaration of showbiz survival. And the audience, which showered her with ovations, knew it. So it’s disappointing — and odd — for the accompanying double CD to be a studio rather than a live recording. The daughter of Judy Garland, now her own legend at 62, willed herself through the demanding set of American songbook classics, including showstoppers like “Cabaret” and “But the World Goes ‘Round,” despite two hip replacements, a history of addiction and a public life that would cause other stars to go into hiding. Her voice cracked, her movements were abbreviated, but the veteran carried on and brought the house down. What could have been a warts-and-all testament to Minnelli’s true grit is instead a glossed-up memento for fans.
Liza Minnelli to Guest Host SIRIUS XM RADIO SIRIUSLY SINATRA 'PLAYING FAVORITES' 2/9
Friday, February 6, 2009; Posted: 08:02 PM - by BWW News Desk
SIRIUS XM Radio announced today that Liza Minnelli will guest host Playing Favorites on Siriusly Sinatra, the SIRIUS XM channel that plays music by Frank Sinatra and the greatest singers of all time.
Playing Favorites featuring Liza Minnelli will be broadcast on SIRIUS channel 75 and XM channel 73 on Monday, February 9 at 6 pm ET.
SIRIUS XM listeners will hear Liza play some of her favorite music by the star she affectionately remembers as "Uncle Frank." Liza will also reminisce about touring with Frank and share the story of how he came to record his landmark version of the theme to her movie, New York, New York. In addition to playing classics from Sinatra's catalog, Liza will also treat listeners to her own music as well as that of her mother, Judy Garland, performing the George Gershwin song which she was named after.
Playing Favorites featuring Liza Minnelli will air on Siriusly Sinatra on Monday, February 9 at 6 pm ET with an encore presentation broadcast on Thursday, February 12 at 9 am ET and Saturday, February 14 at 12 Noon ET.
Playing Favorites is a weekly show broadcast on Siriusly Sinatra featuring celebrity guest hosts playing their favorite Frank Sinatra songs and sharing their personal stories and commentary on the music. Previous episodes have been hosted by celebrities ranging from Grammy Award®-winner Linda Ronstadt, vocalist Steve Tyrell, Michael Feinstein and award-winning director of The French Connection and The Exorcist, William Friedkin. Playing Favorites airs weekly each Monday at 6 pm ET.
Siriusly Sinatra is the only 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, commercial-free channel to broadcast the entire spectrum of Sinatra's career as well as artists and songs from the standards era. Produced by SIRIUS XM and the Sinatra family, the channel features regular blocks of Sinatra's music, archival performances and is the home of Nancy for Frank, a weekly show hosted by his daughter, Nancy Sinatra. Siriusly Sinatra also broadcasts The Chairman's Hour, a weekly radio show hosted by Frank Sinatra himself using archival material and presented by SIRIUS XM and the Sinatra family. Additionally, SIRIUS XM listeners will hear New York radio legend and musical historian Jonathan Schwartz share his encyclopedic knowledge of Sinatra's music and his passion for popular American standards on his daily show, High Standards with Jonathan Schwartz.
Liza Minnelli, the Academy Award®- and Tony Award®-winning actress and singer, returned to Broadway for a solo concert at Broadway's Palace Theatre in the winter of 2009. The legendary vocalist recently released her latest studio album Liza's at the Palace to celebrate the acclaimed performance.
For more information on Liza Minnelli, please visit www.lizasatthepalace.com.
SIRIUS XM Radio is America's satellite radio company delivering commercial-free music channels, premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather, to more than 18.9 million subscribers.
SIRIUS XM Radio has content relationships with an array of personalities and artists, including Howard Stern, Martha Stewart, Oprah Winfrey, Jimmy Buffett, Jamie Foxx, Barbara Walters, Opie & Anthony, Bubba the Love Sponge®, The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Bob Edwards. SIRIUS XM Radio is the leader in sports programming as the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, Major League Baseball®, NASCAR®, NBA, NHL®, and PGA TOUR®, and broadcasts major college sports.
SIRIUS XM Radio has arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart.
SIRIUS XM Radio also offers SIRIUS Backseat TV, the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network; XM NavTraffic® service for GPS navigation systems delivers real-time traffic information, including accidents and road construction, for more than 80 North American markets.
* Some great photos of Liza's CD signing at Barnes and Noble,
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009:
St. Paul Pioneer Press A&E LIVMonday 2-2-2009 MUSIC
At the Palace — Liza Minnelli inherited numerous traits from her
mother, Minnesota’s own Judy Garland, including launching lavish
comebacks. The latter is the focus of “Liza’s at the Palace,” a new
two-CD collection that hits stores Tuesday. The original cast
recording captures her set from her sold-out run of shows late last
year at the famed Palace Theatre, a venue Garland herself used
several times to relaunch her career. The first disc focuses on her
signature hits, including a terrific “Maybe This Time,” while the
second acts as a tribute to the late-’40s nightclub act of Minnelli’s
godmother Kay Thompson. At 62, Minnelli’s voice isn’t as supple
as it once was, but she’s still got that good, old-fashioned showbiz
blood running through her veins, which is readily apparent
throughout the album. Also of interest to fans is “The Complete
A&M Recordings,” a two-disc set issued just prior to Minnelli’s
Broadway run. It collects her trio of studio albums from 1968,
1969 and 1970 along with a 1972 concert disc and a handful of
period rarities. It’s a little-known, but fertile and fascinating, era of
Minnelli’s career that saw her bouncing between standards
(“Stormy Weather,” “The Man I Love”) and period pop hits
(including songs from the Beatles, Randy Newman and Jimmy
Webb) with undeniable pluck. — Ross Raihala
* Just in case you missed it, here is the link to hear Liza's interview -- and additional moments done for the interview that didn't make the air version -- on NPR's website:
Will try to write more later when I can get caught-up on e-mails, but wanted to say what a blast last night's Barnes and Noble event was. Liza sang four songs ("World Goes 'Round," "I Would Never Leave You," "Violin" -- with the boys, and "What Makes a Man a Man" -- I THINK I got the ORDER right! :) (She was originally only going to sing two songs :)
There were 300 Liza fans there, and it was so great to see and / or meet many of you. Liza stayed till the last person had their CD signed -- as she has usually done at signings in the past (very much like her). We stayed for a few minutes after as we all got our coats, and she told me she was very happy with the way everything had gone.
She's very excited about the Hollywood Bowl, also - and told me she is indeed working on an all-new show. (Although I bet she does wind-up keeping much of Act One intact, since it has many of her signatures songs in it.)
Afterwards, a bunch of us did make it to the Westside diner -- sorry if we lost some of you, due to the time (and the snow), but we did want to wait till everyone had their CDs signed, so we didn't get there till 8:30 or so.
JOHNNY RODGERS was kind enough to stop-by and hang-out with us, as a surprise for our group. He's such a dear soul, as many of you know -- and obviously a great talent. Don't forget Johnny will have his OWN event at the very same Barnes and Noble, on Wednesday, February 25th, during which he'll perform and sign copies of all his CDs -- including his duet disc with Liza, of course. We all had such a superb time laughing and talking with Johnny, and I'm so grateful for all his kindness.
All Best and Warmest,
Scott
* Amazon SOLD-OUT of their initial order of the Palace CD
I found-out at the B&N event last night that AMAZON actually sold-out of their VERY LARGE initial order of the "Liza's at the Palace" CD -- and, of course, already replenished their supply. Very exciting news.
* The Liza B&N Event:
Will try to write more later when I can get caught-up on e-mails, but wanted to say what a blast last night's Barnes and Noble event was. Liza sang four songs ("World Goes 'Round," "I Would Never Leave You," "Violin" -- with the boys, and "What Makes a Man a Man" -- I THINK I got the ORDER right! :) (She was originally only going to sing two songs :)
There were 300 Liza fans there, and it was so great to see and / or meet many of you. Liza stayed till the last person had their CD signed -- as she has usually done at signings in the past (very much like her). We stayed for a few minutes after as we all got our coats, and she told me she was very happy with the way everything had gone.
She's very excited about the Hollywood Bowl, also - and told me she is indeed working on an all-new show. (Although I bet she does wind-up keeping much of Act One intact, since it has many of her signatures songs in it.)
Afterwards, a bunch of us did make it to the Westside diner -- sorry if we lost some of you, due to the time (and the snow), but we did want to wait till everyone had their CDs signed, so we didn't get there till 8:30 or so.
JOHNNY RODGERS was kind enough to stop-by and hang-out with us, as a surprise for our group. He's such a dear soul, as many of you know -- and obviously a great talent. Don't forget Johnny will have his OWN event at the very same Barnes and Noble, on Wednesday, February 25th, during which he'll perform and sign copies of all his CDs -- including his duet disc with Liza, of course. We all had such a superb time laughing and talking with Johnny, and I'm so grateful for all his kindness.
* We have a winner, the FIRST PERSON who knew that Liza appeared onstage at the Palace:
1) During Judy's 1956-1957 Palace engagement
2) During Judy's 1967 Palace engagement
3) During the May 1974 Jule Styne Tribute / Benefit
4) "Minnelli on Minnelli"
5) "Liza's at the Palace"
The CD of LIZA'S AT THE PALACE -- from the fine folks at HYBRID RECORDINGS -- will be mailed out to:
Cheyenne Beal
CONGRATS, CHEYENNE!
|
POSTED JANUARY 26, 2009:
* We have a FREE COPY to GIVE-A-WAY of the new LIZA'S AT THE PALACE album, the sparkling 2-CD set featuring Liza's songs from her recent Broadway triumph -- and the package features two new stunning color photos of Liza AND NEW LINER NOTES by the one-and-only MICHAEL FEINSTEIN. The CD set -- courtesy the fine folks at HYRBRID RECORDINGS -- will go to the FIRST PERSON who CORRECTLY ANSWERS the FOLLOWING QUESTION:
Name the times LIZA has appeared ONSTAGE AT the PALACE. (We know there have now been two Liza engagements at the Palace where she was the STAR of the show, so you should certainly mention those, but you must ALSO mention the other THREE times Liza has performed ONSTAGE at the Palace :)
PLEASE make certain the SUBJECT of your E-mail states "Liza Palace CD CONTEST"
Please ALSO make certain to include your Name and Address.
The CD will be mailed to you ASAP -- and the WINNER's NAME will be posted on the website, and CONTACTED (Please understand that if you do not get a response that means you did not win.)
Remember that the FIRST PERSON to e-mail the CORRECT ANSWER will WIN the new LIZA'S AT THE PALACE CD!
GOOD LUCK!
* The "retail" version of the LIZA'S AT THE PALACE album is finally in -- and they're of course as stunning as the version some of us were lucky to get at the Palace Theater during Liza's recent engagement. The CDs themselves are exactly the same. The only changes are with the packaging. The changes are:
1) Michael Feinstein's new LINER NOTES. That is the big change, and I know many of us will want to pick this up again if only for Michael's loving and insightful thoughts on our lady Liza. (The liners are two pages, and thus the booklet has been expanded by two pages -- It still "folds-out," but instead of being eight panels long when it's unfolded -- four double-sided panels -- the booklet is now TEN panels long, five on each side.)
2) The side Spine is now black instead of red, because the jewel case tray insert is now a black background with red lettering ("Liza's at the Palace ...."), instead of a red background with the words in black, like it was for the copies made to be sold at the Palace.
3) The bottom credit Text on the back cover of the Jewel Case is a tiny bit smaller, likely to make room for a new and very wonderful credit: "Produced by Phil Ramone."
That's it, but as I said above, no doubt most of us will want the new packaging if only for Michael's superb liner notes -- Here's to a Grammy Award for Best Liner Notes .... Along with a Grammy Award to Liza for Best Traditional Vocal, and for Best Original Cast Recording. (I wonder if Lena Horne's "A Lady and Her Music" won both in 1981 or 1982? Have to check into it, but why shouldn't Liza get both? :) (Let's hope :)
LIZA'S AT THE PALACE album is simply Liza's FINEST solo album in twenty years, I believe. The song selection, the sound quality, the production, the orchestra, and Liza's vocals are all brilliant. A must-have for any Liza-Lover, and for any lover of great music.
Liza Minnelli
. Dec. 3-Jan. 4, 2008 at Palace Theatre, New York, N.Y.
. Gross sales of $3,295,062 Ticket prices: $251.50, $26.50
. Attendance: 30,518 Capacity: 35,102
. Number of shows: 22 Number of sell-out shows: 7
. Promoter: Metropolitan Talent Presents/Jubilee Time Productions
“AND SO, with deep humility, I stand in front of you/I’m proud to play the Palace, it’s like a dream come true!”
On Sunday afternoon, Liza Minnelli sang her mother’s famous “Palace medley” for the final time, closing her four-week run at the fabled Broadway theater where Judy herself triumphed in 1951, ’56 and ’67.
“Liza’s at the Palace” show was conceived , in part, as a tribute to her late godmother, entertainer and author Kay Thompson. And the second act is devoted to Liza’s brilliant take on Kay’s unerring way with song and dance. But for many, the show’s sentimental highpoints were Liza’s open acknowledgment of her mother’s influence, Judy’s importance to the legacy of the Palace, and Liza’s total ease at singing not one, but two of her mother’s great numbers — she closes the show with a you’re-made-of-stone-if-you-don’t-cry rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
The atmosphere for Liza’s last concert — which included Barbara Cook and Martin Short in attendance — was hysterical from the moment the lights went down and the overture began, to the very end, with Liza standing in a campy, arms up, head thrown back pose. And while Liza’s audiences are famously forgiving — as they were with Judy — there has been little cause to qualify Liza’s performance during this run. And none whatsoever on that Sunday afternoon.
Her voice seemed, if anything, stronger, more controlled. She hit high notes that wobbled a bit on opening night, the deep low notes were more dramatic than ever. She moved like a woman who has never hear d the words “hip replacement.” Liza belted or caressed all her standards, as if composing them on the spot. When she got to “And the World Goes ‘Round” it was velvet! (Liza keeps her usually active hands in the pockets of her embroidered jacket for most of this song, rendering it even more effective.) Her Kay Thompson numbers were extra exuberant, and the support she receives from Billy Stritch, and her four singing/dancing fellows is incalculable.
The give and take between artist and audience is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I don’t believe anybody, no matter how unmoved they have been by Liza Minnelli in the past, could have attended this Palace run without finally being lifted off his seat, applauding, brava-ing, inexplicably misting up. Miss Minnelli wrenches the emotion from herself and in doing so, transforms her audiences. One cannot remain uninvolved when this genius is on stage.
On opening night, I worried that Liza might not do it for me again. I’d seen her in every mood and move. All her familiar mannerisms, all the bits of business that seem so spontaneous but are carefully rehearsed. Happy as I was that she’d made it back, once again, I didn’t expect the old rush of emotion. Wrong! Liza is a theatrical tsunami, an unstoppable force of nature. I believe she will go on forever. She has to. When she tells her audience, “It’s all for you,” she ain’t kidding.
Let’s hope the Tony committee remembers Liza when they compile the nominees for Special Theatrical Event. Sure, Liza already has three Tonys. But round numbers are neater.
|
POSTED JANUARY 7, 2009:
* The Palace CD is coming (but till then .... :)
Now that the press release is out for the LIZA'S AT THE PALACE CD, I can mention that to those who simply CAN'T wait till February 3rd to have / hear this SUPERB new album -- Liza's BEST NEW SOLO ALBUM in 20 YEARS -- you MAY be seeing a special offer in your e-mail box to get the CD right NOW, but only IF you ordered tickets for the Palace show, through TICKET MASTER ONLY.
One benefit for waiting til February 3rd will be the addition of NEW LINER NOTES by MICHAEL FEINSTEIN that have just been added to the packaging (the recording itself is exactly the same).
* Press release for CD and IN-STORE BARNES AND NOBLE:
For Immediate Release:
"Liza's At The Palace...."
Liza Minnelli’s new CD From her triumphant Palace Theatre Show To Be Released By Hybrid Recordings February 3rd
Two-CD set produced by Phil Ramone
New York critics and theatre audiences fell under the spell of Liza Minnelli’s unmatchable magic when she returned to Broadway’s legendary Palace Theatre and played a recent sell-out engagement. Now, music lovers around the world will get the same chance when “Liza’s at the Palace…” the new original cast recording of her incomparable show will be released on February 3rd (Hybrid Recordings). Helmed by veteran music producer Phil Ramone, the two-CD set captures Liza at her inspired best—with the first CD (Act I) featuring her signature hits and personal favorites followed by the second CD (Act II) a rousing tribute to the groundbreaking late-1940s nightclub act of Minnelli's godmother, Kay Thompson. Along with a twelve-man orchestra led by conductor/drummer Michael Berkowitz and pianist/musical supervisor Billy Stritch, “Liza’s At The Palace….” is highlighted with many of Liza’s showstoppers such as “Cabaret,” “Maybe This Time,” and “New York New York” – as well as songs by Charles Aznavour, Roger Edens, John Kander, Johnny Rodgers, and Billy Stritch. For the first time onstage and now on the recording, Liza pays an affectionate salute to her godmother, the late Kay Thompson who was a ground-breaking vocal arranger and musical director/vocal coach at MGM Studios. Supported by a quartet of dynamic singer/dancers, Liza performs musical numbers (with the original vocal arrangements) from Tho mpson’s historic act with The Williams Brothers. Songs include “I Love a Violin,” “Clap Yo’ Hands,” “Jubilee Time,” and “Hello Hello” – set to brand new staging and choreography by Ron Lewis. Accompanying Liza onstage is Johnny Rodgers ,Cortes Alexander, Jim Caruso and Tiger Martina. Starting February 3rd with a kick-off signing event at the Lincoln Center Barnes & Noble store, “Liza’s At The Palace….” will be availablewherever fine music is sold, for the suggested retail list price of $19.98. The original Broadway concert was produced by John Scher/Metropolitan Talent Presents & Jubilee Time Productions and directed and choreographed by Ron Lewis. Gary Labriola served as Executive Producer. # # # "Liza's at the Palace ...." finds Liza with a Z fit, funny, surprisingly energetic and in her best voice in ages. 100% fantastic entertainment!--New York Daily News Minnelli’s charisma is undiminished and her vocals still have power, warmth and a startling ability to make every song personal. --Variety
A TRIUMPH of which Show-Business Mythology is made! A True LEGEND! --- The New York Post
LIZA MINNELLI IS A PURE ENTERTAINER and there is none PURER! --- The New York Times A STERLING20piece of entertainment! ---AP It is magic. Don’t miss Liza at the Palace, it doesn’t get any better! ---Liz Smith”
Liza in Triumph! ---Rex Reed
------------------------------------------------------------
**Release date to retail: February 3, 2009 **Label: Hybrid Recordings **Distributor: RED Distribution
Act I - Disc 1 Teach Me Tonight / Music by Gene DePaul, Lyrics by Sammy Cahn I Would Never Leave You /Music by Billy Stritch, Johnny Rodgers and Brian Lane Green If You Hadn't, But You Did / Music by Jule Styne, Lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green What Makes a Man a Man? / Music and Lyrics by Charles Aznavour My Own Best Friend / Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb Maybe This Time / Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb He's Funny That Way / Music by Neil Moret, Lyrics by Richard Whiting Palace Medley / David Zippel, John Kander/ Roger Edens/ N. Bayes, J. Norworth, N. Graw S. Brooks/ M. Yvain, A. Willemetz, J. Charles/ H. Sutton, R. Grant, J. Lennox Cabaret / Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb Act II - Disc 2 But the World Goes 'Round / Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb Hello, Hello / Music and Lyrics by Kay Thompson Jubilee Time / Music and Lyrics by Kay Thompson Basin Street Blues / Music and Lyrics by Spencer Williams w/ special verse by Kay Thompson Clap Yo' Hands / Music by George Gershwin, Lyrics by Ira Gershwin Liza (All the Clouds'll Roll Away) / Music by George Gershwin, Lyrics by Ira Gershwin/Gus Kahn I Love a Violin / Music and Lyrics by Kay Thompson Mammy / Music by Walter Donaldson, Lyrics by Sam M. Lewis and Joe Young Theme from New York, New York / Music by John Kander, Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Liza Minnelli As a recording artist, Liza has received a Grammy Award / Living Legend Award; sold millions of records all over the world; made the Billboard charts; scored a Number One single; and three of her albums and one of her videos have been certified Gold by the RIAA. Liza has also recorded every genre of music, from Broadway to Pop, Rock, Blues, Country, Bluegrass, Disco, Dance, and Jazz. Her very first single, “You Are For Loving,” sold a reported half million copies in 1963, leading to her signing with Capitol Records. Minnelli’s first solo album, Capitol’s Liza!Liza!, spent eight weeks on the Billboard charts in 1964. Along with Capitol, Liza has recorded for A&M, Columbia, E pic, Angel, and J Records.
Highlights of Minnelli8 0s recording career include: It Amazes Me; Flora, The Red Menace Original Broadway Cast (eight weeks on the Billboard Top 200 chart); Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli ‘Live’ at the London Palladium (14 weeks on the Billboard charts); There Is a Time (Stereo Review Album of the Year); Liza Minnelli; Come Saturday Morning; New Feelin’ (three weeks on Billboard’s Top 200 Charts); Cabaret soundtrack (Gold Record certification, 72 weeks on Billboard’s Top 200 album chart, reaching Number 25); Live at the Olympia in Paris; Liza With a ‘Z soundtrack (Gold Record certification; 23 weeks on Billboard’s charts, reaching Number 19); Live at the Olympia in Paris; The Singer (20 weeks on Billboard, reaching Number 38); Live at the Winter Garden (four weeks on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, reaching Number 150); Lucky Lady soundtrack; New York, New York soundtrack (14 weeks on the Billboard Top 200 chart, reaching Number 50); Tropical Nights; The Act original Broadway cast; Live at Carnegie Hall; The Rink original Broadway cast; At Carnegie Hall (eight weeks on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, reaching Number 156); Results (Gold Record certified; 10 weeks on the Billboard Top 200 chart, reaching Number 128); Losing My Mi nd (single; Number One on the British charts; 15 weeks on the Billboard Top 100 Dance Tracks chart, reaching Number 11); Love Pains (single; two weeks on the Billboard Top 100 Dance Tracks chart, reaching Number 40); Stepping Out soundtrack; Aznavour-Minnelli : Paris; Live From Radio City Music Hall (video v ersion Certified Gold, and spent nine weeks on the Billboard video chart, reaching Number 23); The Day After That (single, for which she directed the music video); Gently (Grammy Award nomination, Best Traditional Pop Vocal; one week on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, at Number 156); Minnelli on Minnelli : Live at the Palace; and Liza’s Back! Compilations include The Complete Capitol Collection; The Best of Liza Minnelli; ; and The Complete A&M Recordings. Liza Minnelli was born in Los Angeles and made her screen debut as a toddler in the musical In the Good Old Summertime in 1949. One of the world’s best-loved entertainers, she won Tony awards for Flora, the Red Menace in 1965 and The Act in 1978, along with a third for Best Personal Achievement, resulting from her 1974 engagement at the Winter Garden Theatre. Nominated for an Academy Award® for The Sterile Cuckoo (1969), she won the best actress prize for her best-known film, Cabaret (1972), which also won her a Golden Globe Award and a BAFTA. She won an Emmy for Liza with a 'Z' (1972) and was also the recipient of a Grammy Legend Award in 1989, making her one of the few artists who have won entertainment's top six awards. Liza has also been the recipient of three David di Donatello Awards – for The Sterile Cuckoo (1969), Cabaret (1972) and Lifetime Achievement (2002). Film credits include Charlie Bubbles (1968), Tell Me That You Love Me, Junie Moon (1970), Lucky Lady (1975), A Matter of Time (1976), New York, New York (1977), Arthur (1981) Stepping Out (1991), and The Oh In Ohio (2006). Liza recently attracted an entirely new generation of fans with her acclaimed turn as "Lucille 2" on the Emmy-winning Best Comedy Arrested Development, and for her appearance on the chart-topping album The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance. For the latest on Liza, visit her website www.officiallizaminnelli.com # # #
Liza Minnelli's turn at the Palace again finished out of the top 10 and lost ground even with an extra perf. "Liza's at the Palace" pulled in $584,637 from five shows, down from $660,699 from four dates last week.
[Note from Scott: It should be stated that "Liza's at the Palace" has grossed nearly $1.8 million during its first three weeks, and will likely gross a total of just under $3 million for its total five weeks]
Liza INCREASED her GROSS at the PALACE BOX OFFICE her second week (December 8th - 14th, 2008), increasing from 91% capacity UP to 94%! She grossed $660,699 in only FOUR SHOWS! This placed her just outside the Top Ten shows that week, but no doubt her gross-per-show is much higher than that of the other shows, which played eight shows that week! Here's more from VARIETY:
Liza and Johnny's Swinging New Duet Now Available at Select NYC Retailers
Celebrate with Liza and Johnny as they come together in Johnny's original duet “Let's Make A Date”. The EP also contains Johnny's sexy arrangement of the Randy Newman song “You Can Leave Your Hat On”. This is one that Liza likes to dance to!
“Let's Make A Date” now available at Virgin Megastore Times Square, Barnes & Noble Lincoln Triangle, Colony Music Center 49th & Broadway and www.johnnyrodgers.com
* RUSH Tickets will still be available
There will STILL be RUSH TICKETS available at the Palace Box Office, for each show --
The THEATERMANIA.COM Promotion is its own promotion.
|
POSTED DECEMBER 13, 2008:
* PRESS RELEASE TheaterMania.com Announces 'The Liza Lottery' Last update: 7:31 p.m. EST Dec. 12, 2008
NEW YORK, Dec 12, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- -Winners will be able to purchase $25 front row seats for the final 12 shows-
TheaterMania.com is proud to announce an exclusive agreement to run the online lottery for $25.00 front row seats to the smash-hit Liza's at the Palace...! from December 19th through the closing performance on January 4th. Anyone can visit http://www.theatermania.com/contest/liza to enter the lottery, and at least 40 winners will be chosen over two separate drawings held on December 16th and December 23rd. All winners will be given the option to purchase up to two front row tickets for one of the remaining performances.
In a comeback critics have labeled a "triumph" and a "knockout show," Liza Minnelli brings her unmatchable magic to Liza's At The Palace...! The evening features an incomparable Minnelli songfest including many of her personal favorites and signature hits, followed by a dance-filled tribute to the groundbreaking late-1940s nightclub act of Minnelli's godmother, Kay Thompson. In hailing the "extraordinary" production, TheaterMania.com's Brian Scott Lipton says you'll "be kept rapt by the sheer charisma and showmanship that Minnelli brings to the stage." The show features a twelve-man orchestra led by conductor/drummer Michael Berkowitz and pianist/musical supervisor Billy Stritch and is highlighted by many of Liza's showstoppers, such as "Cabaret," "Maybe This Time," and "New York New York" - all written especially for her by the legendary Broadway song writing partnership of John Kander and Fred Ebb. For the first time onstage, Liza pays an affectionate salute to her godmother, the late Kay Thompson, who was a legendary performer ("Think Pink!" from Funny Face), author (Eloise at the Plaza), gifted vocal arranger, and Music Director/vocal coach at MGM St udios while working with stars such as Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra and Lena Horne. Supported by a quartet of dynamic singer/dancers, Liza performs musical hits with the original vocal arrangements from Thompson's act, including such numbers as "I Love a Violin," "Clap Yo' Hands," "Jubilee Time," and "Hello Hello."
About TheaterMania.com
TheaterMania.com is a leading source for theater information and tickets nationwide.
Founded in 1999 to connect the theater industry with a mass consumer audience, TheaterMania.com features comprehensive listings, news, reviews, interviews, video content and online ticketing for Broadway, Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway and theater nationwide. TheaterMania.com provides listings and editorial coverage for over 40 markets, widely distributes free email newsletters and special offers to its subscribers. In addition, TheaterMania.com provides online marketing programs to performing arts organizations, and provides box office, telephone, and online ticketing services to clients across the nation through its proprietary ticketing systems.
* Liza's and Johnny's new EP "Let's Make A Date" is now shipping from www.johnnyrodgers.com. But if the NYC crowd can not wait - or do not want to pay for the shipping and handling cost - they can go to the following retailers (see attached) near the Palace Theatre to pick up the awesome 2 song EP featuring the original Johnny Rodgers duet with Liza Minnelli.
|
POSTED DECEMBER 11, 2008:
* HUGE, GREAT NEWS: Liza has been EXTENDED AGAIN -- ANOTHER WEEK, now through Sunday, January 4th, 2009 :
For Immediate Release:
Due to rave reviews & overwhelming demand
"Liza's At The Palace...." Extends Broadway Engagement AGAIN!
1 more week thru January 4th
Palace Theatre
Tickets for add'l. performances go on-sale December 12th
Due to rave reviews and overwhelming demand, "Liza's at the Palace...." the new hit show starring Liza Minnelli will play an additional week of performances at Broadway's Palace Theatre (Broadway & 47th Street). The engagement is now scheduled to play through January 4th---surpassing the originally announced closing date of December 28th. The extension includes evening (8PM) performances on Tuesday, Decembe r 30th, Friday, January 2nd and Saturday January 3rd plus a final matinee performance on Sunday, January 4th at 3 PM.
Produced by John Scher/Metropolitan Talent Presents & Jubilee Time Productions and directed and choreographed by Ron Lewis, the evening features many of her personal favorites and signature hits, followed by a dance-filled tribute to the groundbreaking late-1940s nightclub act of Minnelli's godmother, Kay Thompson. Gary Labriola serves as Executive Producer.
Along with a twelve-man orchestra led by conductor/drummer Michael Berkowitz and pianist/musical supervisor Billy Stritch, “Liza’s At The Palace…. is highlighted with many of Liza’s showstoppers such as “Cabaret,” “Maybe This Time,” and “New York New York” – as well as songs by Charles Aznavour, Roger Edens, John Kander, Johnny Rodgers, Billy Stritch and David Zippel.
For the first time onstage, Liza pays an affectionate salute to her godmother, the late Kay Thompson who was a ground-breaking vocal arranger and musical director/vocal coach at MGM Studios. Supported by a quartet of dynamic singer/dancers, Liza performs musical numbers (with the original vocal arrangements) from Thompson’s historic act with The Williams Brothers. Songs include “I Love a Violin,” “Clap Yo’ Hands,” “Jubilee Time,” and “Hello Hello” – set to brand new staging and choreography by Mr. Lewis.=2 0Accompanying her onstage is Cortes Alexander, Jim Caruso, Tiger Martina and Johnny Rodgers. With additional material by David Zippel, the concert performance features scenery by Ray Klausen, costumes by Roy Frowick Halston, lighting by Matt Berman and sound by Matt Krauss.
.
Liza Minnelli was born in Los Angeles and made her screen debut as a toddler in the musical In the Good Old Summertime in 1949. One of the world’s best-loved entertainers, she won Tony awards for Flora, the Red Menace in 1965 and The Act in 1978, along with a third for Best Personal Achievement, resulting from her 1974 engagement at the Winter Garden Theatre. Nominated for an Academy Award® for TheSterile Cuckoo (1969), she won the best actress prize for her best-known film, Cabaret (1972), which also won her a Golden Globe Award and a BAFTA. She won an Emmy for Liza with a20'Z' (1972) and was also the recipient of a Grammy Legend Award in 1989, making her one of the few artists who have won entertainment's top six awards. Liza has also been the recipient of three David di Donatello Awards – for The Sterile Cuckoo (1969), Cabaret (1972) and Lifetime Achievement (2002). Film credits include Charlie Bubbles (1968), Tell Me That You Love Me, Junie Moon (1970), Lucky Lady (1975), A Matter of Time (1976), New York, New York (1977), Arthur (1981) Stepping Out (1991), and The Oh In Ohio (2006). Liza recently attracted an entirely new generation of fans with her acclaimed turn as "Lucille 2" on the Emmy-winning Best Comedy Arrested Development, and for her appearance on the chart-topping album The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance. For the latest on Liza, visit her website www.OfficialLizaMinnelli.com Ron Lewis has been a staple on the Las Vegas scene for decades and has worked with Liza since 1970. (Liza credits him with “winning her the Tony” for her performance in “The Act” on Broadway.) Having worked on over 80 productions, Lewis has directed/choreographed shows for some of the biggest names in show business including Ann-Margret, Debbie Reynolds, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Paul20Anka. “Liza’s At The Palace….” plays the following performance schedule at the Palace Theatre (Broadway & 47th Street) : Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8PM with matinees on Sundays at 3PM. PLEASE NOTE: on Wednesday, December 24th there will be a special 3PM matinee performance and no 8PM evening show. In addition: there will be no performance on December 31st. Tickets prices range from $125 to $55. (***Upon special request by Liza--- $25 seats will be made available at box office by daily lottery. **** For more information and tickets by phone Tickets: 212-307-4100 or 800-755-4000 or log onto:http://www.lizasatthepalace.com.
# # #
|
POSTED DECEMBER 10, 2008:
* Statement on Liza's Health:
Due to health reasons and doctor’s orders, Liza Minnelli will not perform “Liza’s at the Palace” this evening.
Co-producer John Scher stated, “This past opening week has been a marathon run for Liza—which unfortunately has led her to dehydration and her doctor has insisted she get some extra rest.Liza will return for the show’s next scheduled performance on Friday, Dec 12th (8PM).”
Ticket-holders can exchange their tickets for any future scheduled performance.
# # #
* Liza is fine, but tonight is cancelled:
Liza is fine, so please do not worry -- but tonight's show (Wed) is canceled.
Awaiting an official statement, but the important thing is that Liza is fine. Please do not worry. She is expected to return on Friday, as Thursday is dark, of course -- but more info will come thru on Thursday. Again, Liza is and will be fine. Certainly you agree that is ALL that matters.
* Liza will be making an appearance on Tuesday in Manhattan at a special event as a benefit and a promotion for the Palace -- More ASAP (likely not till Wednesday or Thursday, but will post info as soon as possible ... You read it here first folks :)
|
POSTED DECEMBER 8, 2008:
* The LIZA'S AT THE PALACE Merchandise should ALL be sold through the Liza website, but sales will likely NOT start until AFTER the engagement at the Palace ENDS. Stay tuned for more updates as they come in.
|
POSTED DECEMBER 6, 2008:
* Palace Lottery CHANGED to RUSH Tickets ONLY ....
Late Friday, the Palace LOTTERY was CHANGED for Liza's run -- It is now going to be RUSH TICKETS instead, which will be sold ONE HOUR BEFORE CURTAIN TIME. First-come, First-served. (Obviously you may begin to start lining up for these tickets as early as you wish, but nothing will happen until 7 PM on Tues, Wed, Friday and Saturday, or on Sundays at 2 PM; There will be no lottery bands handed out, so just keep your place in line, and make new friends while you wait :) There should be 16 tickets per performance (therefore you will only see between 8 and 16 people in line for the Rush Tickets.) Each of these RUSH TICKETS is $26.50 (each) -- CASH ONLY (includes the $1.50 Theatre Maintenance Charge). Each person will be able to buy a MAXIMUM of TWO TICKETS ONLY.
Sorry for the late change of plans. Thanks for your understanding.
Liza Minnelli has reached a new level as an artist, evident from her official opening performance tonight (in "Liza's at the Palace ...." (Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008). She has a new ease and a perfected knowledge of what works for her and for audience. The combined vocal and physical prowess again took me on a time-machine trip to circa 1988 tonight. For her, the clock can not only stand still, but reverse.
OK, enough for now -- more time for the superlatives later after some rest, time, and reflection.
Naturally, tonight was an event -- media, ovations galore (the audience may have spent more time on their feet than in their seats), and celebs aplenty as well (I spotted Shirley MacLaine; Tony Danza; Michelle Lee; Sandra Bernhard; Alan Cumming; and the media folk -- Liz Smith; Rex Reed; Cindy Adams; and Robert Osborne). Liza seemed thrilled during the reception backstage; thrilled, happy, and grateful.
Get ready for the avalanche of rave reviews to start coming in -- Thursday should be a very busy day for your computer, thanks to our lady Liza.
Thanks for all the good thoughts and wishes -- and it was joy to share opening with so many of you.
All Best and Warmest,
Scott
|
POSTED DECEMBER 3, 2008:
*
LIZ SMITH COLUMN
December 02, 2008
"IT IS the best of all trades, to make songs, and the second best to sing them," said Hilaire Belloc.
TONIGHT, ONE of the greatest women to perform in that second "best trade" -- Liza Minnelli -- opens at the legendary Palace Theater on old Broadway, for a three-week stint.
This was the site of three of Judy Garland's famous comebacks -- others occurred whenever Judy performed ... anywhere. "If I leave the ladies room, it's a 'comeback,' Judy once remarked.
Liza herself had a great triumph at the Palace back in 1999, in a show called "Minnelli on Minnelli," which saluted her brilliant father, movie director Vincente Minnelli. This time around she's celebrating herself and her godmother, the remarkable singer/dancer/writer Kay Thompson, who is probably best known as the author of the "Eloise" books. (During her years at MGM, Kay coached a lot of the talent, but her style rubbed off most on Miss Garland, who appropriated many dramatic Thompson gestures.) But, let's face it, people come to see Liza; she could sing two acts in homage to Joe the Plumber, and she'd pack 'em in.
It will be thrilling (and nerve-wracking) as it always is, to sit in the audience and watch Liza. Especially at the Palace. After her own success there, she faltered and regained herself, several times. In the nine years since "Minnelli on Minnelli," she has lived a thousand lives, but she has endured, with a remarkable amount of her dignity intact. This is a feat in itself, because Liza, like so many of us, was often her own worst enemy.
Aside from her talent (Frank Sinatra once said he thought Liza was even more gifted than her mother!), Liza has in double doses what Judy couldn't sustain -- real discipline. Liza, after hip and knee replacements, still takes dancing lessons every day. Liza, after damage to her throat during an operation to remove some nodules, takes singing lessons every day. When Liza glances twice at a drink, she checks into a rehab center to avoid disaster.
Judy was certainly taken advantage of, and exploited, but what star isn't? The real problem was that Garland seemed never to bear any responsibility for her troubles. I have never heard Liza Minnelli publicly blame anybody else for her issues. (However, Liza has been much smarter with money. She has been able to afford her discipline. Judy Garland literally sang for her supper. There was no escape from her monetary grind after MGM.)
Liza, now 62, has outlived her mother by 15 years. And it hasn't been luck, but determination. Many, many years ago, Liza altered the famous lyric from "Cabaret." In the movie, for which she won an Oscar, Liza sings it as Kander and Ebb intended: "...and when I go, I'm goin' like Elsie!" (Elsie, died from "too much pills and liquor," but life was still a cabaret.)
In concert, however, Liza sings, "and I'm NOT goin' like Elsie!" The audience always goes mad, because no matter what her travails, Liza has kept her promise to them.
She hasn't ended up like Elsie. Or like Mama. Recently, Liza, who is usually loath to draw comparisons between herself and her mythic mom, did contrast their musical choices, saying that she, Liza, preferred more basically optimistic material, while Judy's choices -- certainly in her later years -- tended toward the dramatically tragic. (Garland knew how to use her fragile victim vibe to drive her audience crazy; she could turn it on and off. "Sympathy is my business," she told Liza.)
Whenever Liza first appears onstage, along with the trepidation -- will she be "okay?" will she hit that note? -- I always think I hear those Munchkin voices from "The Wizard of Oz" trilling: "You're out of the woods, you're out of the dark, you're out of night/ Step into the sun, step into the light. ... Hold onto your breath, hold onto your heart, hold onto your hope."
Liza has stepped into the light, and held onto to hope countless times. She'll do it again tonight. And I'll be in the audience, cheering.
P.S. IF YOU want a dazzling blast of early Liza, in all her fresh-voiced glory, pick up "Liza Minnelli: The Complete A&M Recordings." The two-CD set contains her entire A&M catalogue, from 1968 to '72, including her great "Live at the Olympia in Paris" concert.
|
POSTED DECEMBER 2, 2008:
* Some quick thoughts as I dash this off for you, about tonight's dress rehearsal.
"'Perf," to quote KAY.
OK, some technical issues came up with the wireless mics, etc., but the lady was in glorious form and truly superb voice. Looked better than .... since .... Well .... I'll put it this way: There were moments when the combined vocal / physical / emotional impact was so strong, I was asking myself "what year is this?" With Liza, it's often like watching a time machine -- There were occasions I felt I was watching the HBO New Orleans concert taped almost 30 years ago. I mean that.
So .... Get ready for a truly Miraculous Minnelli.
It was a magical night, made all the more potent by the honor of my front row center seat
More on Thursday afternoon
Now, onward ....
The new CD -- LIZA'S AT THE PALACE -- just MIGHT become my favorite new Liza album since RESULTS in 1989 -- She's THAT good on it.. I've only listened ONCE to the two-CD set, but .... It's a glorious keepsake of the engagement.
You'll also find at the Concession stand:
1) A magnet : $10
2) A Cap: $20
3) A T-Shirt : $25
4) The 2-CD set of "Liza's at the Palace" : $25
5) The Lobby Card ($20 I think)
6) A GLORIOUS new Program -- LAVISH new COLOR photos to die for: $30
7) A Sparkly T-Shirt: $40
8) A Sweatshirt : $50
And my book, "The Liza Minnelli Scrapbook," I'm grateful to say.
All Cash Only (no sales tax), for now. No credit cards for now. Not sure yet if that will change.
More on Thursday afternoon (likely an AVALANCHE, with all the REVIEWS and News coming in that day) .... Please understand the lack of posts here till then, and sorry this wasn't more detailed.
* Just had a wonderful talk with the Palace merchandiser, and hope to get a complete, detailed list on what will be sold at the Palace, ASAP.
The new Program is expected to arrive tomorrow, and will start selling tomorrow -- at the Opening. Price will be $30 per copy (not the $20 mentioned yesterday).
There will also be T-shirts GALORE, several different designs -- and sweatshirts .... The Poster ... and a magnet.
Also the CD, at $20 (confirmed)
And yes, we are hoping / expecting to work out the details so that the merchandising can be sold thru the website
More to come
Please bear with me as these days are quiet full. You may not hear a lot from here, until Thursday afternoon -- and then be prepared for an AVALANCHE of REVIEWS and News.
All Best and Warmest,
Scott
* Here's the CD Front Cover of "Liza's at the Palace ..."
* GREAT new article on Liza in the new NEW YORK Magazine, just out: nymag.com
* Some great new shots of the Palace marquee/billboard at: broadwayworld.com
|
POSTED NOVEMBER 29, 2008:
* I am currently scheduled to appear on the CELLULOID DREAMS Radio Show (see more below). It airs MONDAY, December 1st, at 5 PM on the West Coast (and online) -- (8 PM East Coast, etc) -- and the Liza A&M CD and myself are set for the first 30 minutes, should you care to listen (some tracks from the CD will be played -- and a copy will be given away! :)
Celluloid Dreams is a public affairs radio program celebrating the art of film and the moviegoing experience. We provide information on all aspects of movies through interviews, film/ book/ DVD/ soundtrack reviews, film quiz giveaways and special features. Celluloid Dreams serves the international community by conveying quality information, entertainment and the excitement of the movies!
Celluloid Dreams can be heard every Monday at 5 PM (Pacific Time) on 90.5 FM, KSJS-San Jose.
* This just in, clarifying the report in the Star-Ledger:
"There is only one album. It is the official cast recording and was recorded in the studio, produced by Phil Ramone."
|
POSTED NOVEMBER 28, 2008:
* Liza is slated to be on THE TODAY SHOW on FRIDAY, November 28th, 2008, during the 10-11 AM hour, the Final Hour, with Kathy Lee and Hoda (It was videotaped when Liza was at NBC for her previous TODAY SHOW on Monday, October 20th)
**Two- CD set celebrates Liza Minnelli’s triumphant return to Broadway’s famed Palace Theatre. Helmed by legendary producer Phil Ramone, this ORIGINAL CAST RECORDING captures Liza at her inspired best. The first CD/Act I combines her signature hits and personal favorites while the second CD/Act II features a tribute to Minnelli's godmother, Kay Thompson.
**Original Cast Recording available exclusively at the Palace Theatre during the “Liza’s At The Palace….” four week Broadway engagement (12/3-12/28).
**Release date to retail: February 3, 2009
**Label: Hybrid Recordings
**Distributor: RED Distribution
* "Liza's at The Palace," a new two-CD set celebrating Liza Minnelli's upcoming return to Broadway's Palace Theatre, will arrive in stores Feb. 3, 2009, on the Hybrid Recordings label.
Helmed by producer Phil Ramone, the recording will also be on sale during Minnelli's Broadway engagement, Liza's at the Palace . . .!, Dec. 3-28.
The first CD (Act I) features Minnelli's signature hits, while the second disc (Act II) features a tribute to Minnelli's godmother, Kay Thompson.
Liza's at the Palace . . .! and The Seagull to Offer Actors Fund Performances
By Andrew Gans
21 Nov 2008
The acclaimed revival of The Seagull and the eagerly awaited limited engagement of Liza's at the Palace . . .! will both offer special performances to benefit the Actors Fund of America.
The Dec. 2 invited dress rehearsal of Liza's at the Palace and the Dec. 7 performance of The Seagull will benefit the non-profit organization. Show time for both evenings is 8 PM.
Liza's at the Palace, starring Tony, Emmy, Grammy and Oscar winner Liza Minnelli, will play the Palace Theatre, located at 1564 Broadway. Tickets, priced $125, are available by calling (212) 221-7300, ext. 133.
The Seagull, starring Kristin Scott Thomas, plays the Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 West 48th Street. Tickets, priced $41-$110, are available by calling (212) 221-7300, ext. 133.
The Actors Fund, which was founded in 1882, is a non-profit organization that provides for the social welfare of all entertainment professionals. Some of the many programs The Actors Fund provides include a nursing home and assisted living care facility; senior and disabled programs; mental health services; chemical dependency services; entertainment industry assistance programs; the Phyllis Newman Women's Health Initiative; the AIDS Initiative; and supportive housing on both coasts.
* The interview Liza videotaped in NYC last Monday, November 17th, 2008, for ACCESS HOLLYWOOD is now apparently set to air on Wednesday, November 26th, 2008 -- Right before ROSIE LIVE (in most markets ... Check your listings :) (Thanks, Bobby!)
* Liza Sings Swinging New Duet with Billboard Song-Winning Artist Johnny Rodgers
Celebrate with Liza and Johnny as they come together in Johnny's original duet Let's Make A Date. The release of the song and EP, inspired by Liza, coincides with Rodgers' Broadway debut in “Liza's At The Palace…!” in December. Rodgers has been featured and toured around the world with Minnelli and her orchestra.
The EP also contains Johnny's sexy arrangement of the Randy Newman song You Can Leave Your Hat On. This is one that Liza likes to dance to!
Let's Make A Date now available at www.johnnyrodgers.com.
* Liza is slatted to perform on the CBS EARLY SHOW this coming Tuesday, November 25th, 2008 -- In the 8 AM hour, with BILLY STRITCH on piano, of course.
* Liza will be a very special guest on WABC Radio's Saturday Night Oldies on Saturday, November 22, 2008.
The radio show, hosted by Mark Simone (www.marksimone.com), airs on 77 WABC Radio, New York. The radio show begins at 6:07 PM ET.
* There's a whole lotta Liza coming our way, as Liza promotes the "Liza's at the Palace" show on Broadway .... Confirmed are: ACCESS HOLLYWOOD (taping this Monday, November 17th; air date to follow); THE NY TIMES (Sunday Arts and Leisure section article); NY MAGAZINE .... and more .... Stay tuned
|
POSTED NOVEMBER 14, 2008:
* Please be advised that due to the weather, the installation of the Liza billboard at The Palace was stopped yesterday. They will resume today, Friday, November 14th, at 8am. We'll post photos as soon as we can!
|
POSTED NOVEMBER 11, 2008:
* The Palace Theatre is being stripped of all Legally Blonde dressings today (Tuesday, November 11th), and the Liza Marquee will be going up this afternoon.
Great news (more to come)
|
POSTED NOVEMBER 6, 2008:
* PRESS RELEASE:
For Immediate Release:
Due to OVERWHELMING Demand "Liza's At The Palace...." Extends Broadway Engagement !
2 More Weeks! Dec. 3rd thru 28th
Palace Theatre Tickets for add'l. performances go on-sale November 8th
Due to overwhelming demand, "Liza's at the Palace...." the new show starring Liza Minnelli will play an additional two weeks of performances at Broadway's Palace Theatre (Broadway & 47th Street). With an opening set for December 3rd (6:30PM), Miss Minnelli will bring her unmatchable magic to Broadway for an engagement now scheduled to play through December 28th---surpassing the originally announced closing date of December 14th. Included in the extension, is a special holiday matinee at 3PM on December 24th.
