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Published Tuesday, April 7, 2009 | 3:52 p.m.
Updated Tuesday, April 7, 2009 | 4:49 p.m.
Insider alert: One of the most impressive shows I've seen lately was staged off the Strip. Two weeks ago, on his off night from "Jersey Boys" at the Palazzo, Erich Bergen, who co-stars as the genius songwriter behind the Four Seasons, brought together some of his talented colleagues for a solo showcase at the Liberace Museum.
It was an intimate, solidly entertaining evening, bridging old-school Vegas, current Broadway and future pop, and Bergen was wickedly funny. Sitting sometimes at Liberace's own mirror-encrusted piano, Bergen included his own very personal, surprisingly affecting take on the Barry Manilow hit "Even Now." In the audience, next to Bergen's beaming mom, was Marty Panzer, who co-wrote it, among many other songs that made the whole world sing. It was one of those rare nights when everything clicks and you feel like you're present at the start of something special.
This guy is going to be a big name before long, and on Wednesday night, a fortunate few will get another chance to catch Bergen performing his own songs and those who inspired him: Another pair of shows have been scheduled for Wednesday night, again at the Liberace Museum.
The 7 p.m. show is already sold out, but there's still a chance to get in on the 9:30 set. Tickets are $15; call (702) 798-5595 x14 to purchase. Both shows are benefits, with Bergen and his ace band (there's even backup singers!) donating their time and talents, and every penny going to the Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts. Both shows are being filmed and recorded for an upcoming CD and DVD release.
J.B.! Good call. I'll be there, but not in performance mode.
"Even Now" is by far my favorite Barry Manilow song. I've related it to so many losses in my life, whether it's the passing of someone precious or the loss of a relationship. I've never seen Manilow perform it live, however.
Erich adds so much emotion and feeling in this song, and really shows what it means to have a loss, in any sense of the word.
You're right, Joe. Erich's talent is "shining through" now and he's certainly poised to become a big name. And don't miss him in "Jersey Boys" at the Palazzo!!