Charing Cross Theatre, London – until 17th November 2024
Reviewed by Celia Armand Smith
4****
I will preface this review by saying that I saw Barbra & Liza Live! on 6th November when the news cycle was working overtime and people everywhere had a lot of opinions about a lot of things. Before the show started we were sitting in the bar and over the PA system Barbra and Liza told us that the show was starting in 15 minutes and I knew instantly that this was going to be the perfect tonic following the events of the day. A joyous night of show tunes, classic hits, sequins, and laughter.
The set list is extensive and includes classics from both Liza and Barbra’s time on stage and screen. There is an amazing new (and surprising) take on ‘Single Ladies’ by Beyoncé, and a madcap ‘Feed the Birds’ performed by Liza (Rick Skye) a whirlwind of fantastic impressions from Barbra (Steven Brinberg) whilst singing ‘I’m Still Here’. We get treated to Carol Channing and Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher to name but a few. Steven Brinberg’s Barbra is uncanny; the singing voice is spot on and so are the delicate hand gestures and grace. The duet with Anthony Newley and Barbra performed entirely by Brinberg is a masterclass in impersonations. Rick Skye is fab as the chaotic Liza, belting out songs new and old, and constantly reaching out to an avoidant Barbra. Accompanying them is Nathan Martin on piano and he is a brilliant constant throughout. Between two of the numbers in Act 2 they introduce Peggy Lee (Chuck Sweeney) who sings ‘Fever’, and to be honest I haven’t laughed so much in a theatre in ages.
Is this a show for young people? Some would say not but then Liza and Barbra have cult status and there were definitely some young millennials (as opposed to us geriatric millennials) who were honking with laughter along with us. If you love musical theatre, a mad Hollywood story, or a silly song, then this show is for you. The impressions are filled with heart and although the stories are ridiculous (and true) there is no malice. You can also see that there is a tremendous bond between the performers when they are both on stage.
There were some technical difficulties with the sound, however Barbra & Liza Live! is just what we all need to give us a bit of a lift as we descend into the darkening days of November. My face hurt from smiling long after I left the theatre.