Liberace still top dog at Christmas

The life of legendary pianist Liberace was flamboyant beyond compare – maybe a little too ostentatious for many. But the masses – especially women – adored him.

For one day only capital region music lovers get a sampling of the music, humour and over-the-top glitz defined by the legendary maestro.

Curtis Labelle, a musical theatre instructor at Visionary College and founder of Labelle Stage Productions, mounts A Liberace Christmas Special on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at L’UniThĂ©atre.

His special guests are dancers Kasha Pinel as the Nutcracker’s Sugar Plum Fairy and Josh Craigen as one of the toy soldiers. In addition, child star Sofiya Chvojka, nine, as well as pop-rock singer Dana Strong and St. Albert’s own jazz vocalist Martha Livingstone add a contemporary twist to the two-hour plus show.

A showman first, a musician second, Liberace’s Las Vegas reign started in 1955 and lasted three decades. Razzle-dazzle summed up the music icon’s personal motto “Too much of a good thing is wonderful,” and was reflected in every aspect of his life.

Labelle’s production features Mr. Showmanship’s signature production elements – dramatic lighting, the trademark candelabra, exaggerated hand gestures, massive rings and eye-catching costumes.

Part of the visual interest includes a parade of six replicated costumes with enough rhinestones, crystals and ostrich feathers to outfit a chorus line.

Labelle’s program reignites several Liberace mainstays such as a Gershwin medley, Flight of the Bumblebee and Beer Barrel Polka. The Liberace tribute artist has also included the elegant Chariots of Fire and a smattering of Christmas carols.

And he believes audiences will melt at Chvojka’s rendition of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

“At nine years old, she has this powerful voice and a lot of control over it. She sings pop and rock and is beautiful to look at on stage.”

Livingstone cranks up the edge with Winter Wonderland and Santa Baby while Strong’s power-belt voice smokes it in Burlesque and All About the Bass.

“Dana has a pop voice, yet it’s classically trained. Her voice is distinct and she knows how to utilize it. Her technique is amazing.”

Oh yes, and hidden inside the piano is a tickle trunk of small, specially wrapped gifts spontaneously tossed out to the crowd.

“This show is great fun for the season. If you’re not going to see the Singing Christmas Tree, come to see Liberace.”