Tag Archives: Phoenix concert review

REVIEW: Sarah Brightman’s ‘A Christmas Symphony’ Enchants Phoenix with Music and Nostalgia (12-09-24)

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PHOENIX — For enthusiasts of musical theatre, the name Sarah Brightman is iconic—and for good reason. A true legend, she began her career as an incredibly influential stage actress before transitioning to a highly successful classical crossover singer—just one of many remarkable stories about her. Brightman was married to composer and impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber, who – when adapting The Phantom of the Opera – wrote the part of Christine specifically for her. She also harbors a deep affection for the Christmas season, thus the “A Christmas Symphony” tour was conceived. And on a slightly chilly evening, this awe-inspiring production was bestowed upon a Phoenix audience at Arizona Financial Theatre.

The stage was bathed in soft blue light as the orchestra settled into their positions, soon joined by a 16-member choir. Just after 7:30 p.m., the concertmaster – also known as the violin first chair – raised his bow, signaling to the conductor that they were ready. The conductor gave a flourish with his baton, and the show commenced. The evening opened with a Nutcracker classic, “Act 2 Divertissement / Trepak / Russian Dance”. As the final notes played, Brightman made her grand entrance.

Sarah Brightman
Photography:
Katherine Amy Vega © All Rights Reserved

Adorned with a crown reminiscent of Lady Liberty and a dazzling silver gown, she commanded the audience’s attention. Her glittering dress caught and refracted the erupting stage lights, casting radiant beams into the audience. Smiling warmly, Brightman began with a breathtaking rendition of “Ave Maria,” setting the tone for the evening. When the song faded and the first of many enthusiastic bursts of applause subsided, she greeted the crowd.

Sarah Brightman
Sarah Brightman
Photography:
Katherine Amy Vega © All Rights Reserved

With an air of utmost elegance and a voice of silky, unwavering propriety, she shared her love for Christmas and revealed that the evening would feature special guests. She then launched into “O Holy Night,” a poignant rendition that showcased her unparalleled vocal ability. Local child prodigy Markus Amdam Bang then joined Brightman for the angelic “Walking in the Air”.

Sarah Brightman and chorister Markus Amdam Bang
Sarah Brightman & local (Phoenix) chorister Markus Amdam Bang
Photography:
Katherine Amy Vega © All Rights Reserved

Brightman’s voice must be experienced to be fully appreciated; as she has the ability to transport the listener to faraway lands and evoke memories of bygone Christmases, warm fires, and cherished stories told by generations now gone. Her voice resonates deeply, moving the most stoic hearts, and bringing childhood back to the old and infirm. Stripped of all artifice, her voice reveals a pure and transcendent beauty.

The concert was expertly curated, weaving traditional Christmas with selections from Brightman’s discography, such as “Follow Me” from her Hymn album, and a luminous cover of ABBA’s “Arrival”. She was also joined by Jay Dref, who performed on several songs, including “Carol of the Bells” and a spectacular version of “The Phantom of the Opera.”

Sarah Brightman singing vibrantly
Sarah Brightman
Photography:
Katherine Amy Vega © All Rights Reserved

The evening also featured covers of additional artists, such as “Colder Than Winter” by the current backing and occasional lead vocalist of the Eagles, Vince Gill, and Linda Ronstadt’s “Winter Light”. As the show neared its inevitable conclusion, Brightman saved the best for last. Following the powerful “Phantom”, she sang her timeless hit “Time to Say Goodbye,” often performed with Andrea Bocelli, earning her a standing ovation. Her incomparable version of “Amazing Grace” enveloped the audience with wonder, sending chills and awakening deep emotion—bringing a tear to the eye of the greatest cynic. 

Sarah Brightman close-up
Sarah Brightman
Photography:
Katherine Amy Vega © All Rights Reserved

For the finale, Brightman chose John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over),” a song of protest – of both the Vietnam War and of the song “White Christmas”. After expressing her heartfelt gratitude, she bid the audience farewell, leaving the stage to yet another standing ovation.

Photo Gallery

Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega

Sarah Brightman – Arizona Financial Theatre 12-9-24

Photography © Katherine Amy Vega, Kataklizmic Design
All Rights Reserved.

REVIEW: Phoenix Lassoed in the Marquee Theatre Crowd with Their Electrifying Performance 6-13-17

TEMPE, Ariz. — Marquee Theatre was heated up by Phoenix’s electric performance on June 13th. Just four days earlier, Phoenix released their sixth studio album Ti Amo and played a few songs from it. It was an unusually cool night (well, as cool as Arizona in June can get), and everyone was lining up to enter into the venue. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the Marquee was quickly filling up, and looked to be a nearly sold out show.

The venue seemed to be filled with mostly ages 21 and over, as many people had a drink in their hand as they watched the opening act, The Lemon Twigs, perform. The Lemon Twigs owned the stage with their vintage style and sound. Brothers Michael (Lead Vocalist/Guitarist) and Brian (Drummer/Backing Vocalist) D’Addario front the band; with Megan Zeankowski on bass, and Danny Ayala on keyboards/backing vocals. Michael D’Addario commanded the stage with his flare pants and teal shaggy hair. He did numerous high kicks into the air and had a reminiscent look and presence of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards combined. They played a song “Bay Baby”, which gave a 70s feel-good heartbreak vibe. The Lemon Twigs are about to take the music industry by storm, so make sure to check them out!

After a long anticipated wait, Phoenix walked onto stage and the crowd roared with excitement. They started with “Ti Amo”, the title-track of their newly released album Ti Amo. Next came “Lasso” which was met by a pleased crowd that cheered after hearing the first few seconds of the song.

"Thomas
Thomas Mars (Vocalist), Phoenix
Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega
© Kataklizmic Design. All Rights Reserved.

Phoenix played “Entertainment”, and were immersed in an incredible light show during parts of the song. White lights created a curtain cover and our concert photographer, Katherine Amy Vega, described it as being like a holographic effect. The lighting really complemented the electric rock sound. Strobe lights of white, red, blue and yellow filled their set. During some songs, there was a rainbow lighting effect, which may have hinted to Phoenix’s support of the LGBTQ community during Pride Month.

"Phoenix
Phoenix
Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega
© Kataklizmic Design. All Rights Reserved.

Phoenix seemed to have one of those awe-struck moments as the band paused after playing “Lisztomania”, and smiled at the crowd. During most of the set, balloons with a heart and “Ti Amo” printed on floated through the air amongst the crowd. The whole band put on an energized performance and played their part in creating a music loving atmosphere.

Christian Mazzalai (Guitarist), Phoenix - Photo Credit: Katherine Amy Vega
Christian Mazzalai (Guitarist), Phoenix
Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega
© Kataklizmic Design. All Rights Reserved.

One of the most amazing intimate moments of the show was during the encore when Thomas Mars (Lead Vocalist), climbed off the stage and came to the barricade while singing a stripped-down version of “Countdown” to the crowd as guitarist Christian Mazzalai played on stage.

Phoenix played many fan favorites including “1901” and “Fior Di Latte”. The band took over the stage and created an exhilarating atmosphere. Constant dancing, singing along, cheering and pure happiness filled the venue. It was a concert where you couldn’t help but feel joy because the band projected their happiness and love for music onto the crowd.

Laurent Brancowitz (Guitarist), Phoenix - Photo Credit: Katherine Amy Vega
Laurent Brancowitz (Guitarist), Phoenix
Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega
© Kataklizmic Design. All Rights Reserved.

To end the show, in the BEST way, Thomas Mars came off stage and joined the crowd in the final song “Ti Amo Di Piu”. He walked through the full crowd with his microphone connected to a glowing red cable that the crowd held up; and he said “Thank you!” over and over again, showing his gratitude to the loving fans. At one point he seemed to be hoisted on someone’s shoulders, possibly a fan, and said “Thank you!” again; followed by crowdsurfing back up to the stage . It was truly a moment no one will forget!

Phoenix put on an amazing performance that rocked the Marquee. Fans will definitely be awaiting the next time they come to Arizona!

Photo Album

Photographer: Katherine Amy Vega

Phoenix (The Band) – Marquee Theatre 6-13-17

Photography © Katherine Amy Vega, Kataklizmic Design
All Rights Reserved.