Yesterday's musical creating opportunities were obliterated with laundry, shopping, cooking, and cleaning. How did Bach write with all those kids running around?
The last two nights I've popped over to Manhattan and have seen a couple of monsters. First, Stanley Jordan, one of the most amazing guitar players on the planet. He was filling in for Les Paul. I was blown away by Jordan's contributions to the set. But before Jordan was a line up of others. First, Les Paul's seasoned trio (minus Mr. Paul) played some tunes they have been playing for far too long, then Muriel Anderson sat in for a very quick song. Her finger-picking and various other styles were overflowing with musicality to spare. Oh and there was a famous comedian too. And the bass player had to sing a funny song. Then there was a polar bear jumping through a ring of fire. Okay not true, but you get the idea - I was surprised there wasn't a singing frog. By the time Jordan came up, the set was more than half over, but to hear this monster musician perform live for a few songs was still an incredible event.
Actually there was a singing frog scene associated with the other monster - The Phantom of the Opera. After hearing the music for so many years, and hearing about the falling chandelier (definitely not a high point in this production) I finally saw the real thing. Though a little tired, this production is still impressive and enjoyable - even inspiring - with great designs, stage performers and pit orchestra. And a scene where the phantom turns the soprano's voice into "ribbit".
So who was the famous comedian? And there really was no polar bear?
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