Supporting the Arts in Western Massachusetts and Beyond

August 13, 2011

Tommy Tune: In Steps With Time

Colonial Theatre, Pittsfield, MA
www.thecolonialtheater.org
August 11, 2011
by Vickie Phillips


An extremely talented and most engaging Tommy Tune commanded the stage at The Colonial Theatre with his celebration of 50 years in show business. Tune's performance was his broadway biography in song and dance, with the backing of the top-notch, never miss a beat Manhattan Rhythm Kings Band.

From the first "Steps in Time" to the finale, Tune stayed "in tune" with his voice and feet in top form. His scripted song and dance routines encompassed a wide range of well chosen musical material that had the audience stamping and cheering for more. His act is so classy and entertaining, the 90-minutes (no intermission) flew by in a flash. Tune's nine Tony Awards celebrate his diverse talents as an actor, choreographer and director.  Broadway accomplishments include "My One and Only," "Grand Hotel," "Will Rogers Follies," and "Nine" to name a few. He has been honored with his own star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In this show, Tune recreated a few of his numerous broadway stage moments with such style and ease. An especially rousing rendition of "I've Got Them Feeling Too Good Today Blues" (Leiber & Stoller) along with a new take on "Madeleine" (Brel), and the poignant "September Song" (Weill/Anderson) took the audience on a thrilling musical journey. Tune is especially associated with the musical number he created, "It's Not Where You Start, It's Where You Finish."

Seeing Tune in action was an experience to remember. He started on top and finished on top. Colonial presented a really razzle-dazzle evening by a masterful performer.