Maria Friedman: From the Heart, Southbank Centre - ★★★★ - November 10, 2019


Maria Friedman's new show is so much more than a series of songs. She offers us a peek into her personal and professional life that is often humorous and frequently moving. Similarly her choice of songs makes us laugh and makes us feel. She has that rare ability as an artist to take the audience on an emotional journey with the consummate skill of a professional, always able control the audience's response and to bring us into the mood she wishes to create. This is also an evening which gives us a fresh look at some songs we think we know. Her interpretation of such standards as the Beatles' "Eleanor Rigby" and Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" brings new life to these old favourites. And just as she draws new colours out of some popular songs, she is also capable of great interpretations of the musical classics. Maria Friedman delights with the humour of Stephen Sondheim's "Getting Married Today" and Marvin Hamlisch's "Nothing" and then wrenches us with "Being Alive" and "Papa, Can You Hear Me?" With her musical director, Theo Jamieson, this three-time Olivier Award winner provides a wonderful night of music that truly comes from the heart.

 Reviewed by J.C.

  Our Score:  ☆☆☆☆ 

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 WHEN, WHERE, GETTING THERE:
November 10, 2019
Sunday at 7:30 pm
Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre
Nearest tube: Waterloo
https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/135944-maria-friedman-heart-2019
Map & Location: Southbank Centre, South Bank, London SE1, UK

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