Kansas City Gears Up for a Magical Night with Sarah Brightman
As the holiday season approaches, excitement is bubbling in Kansas City with the return of Sarah Brightman and her annual A Christmas Symphony show! Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 30, as the enchanting event takes place at the historic Midland Theater. With the stage set for some beautiful music, Brightman will be joined by a full orchestra and choir, promising a night filled with the magic of the season.
Bringing Holiday Cheer
In a recent chat during her rehearsal break, Sarah Brightman was bubbling with excitement about what the concert will bring. “It’s sort of a relief,” she shared, her enthusiasm evident. “I’m feeling free and excited to communicate with the audience through all these lovely Christmas songs that I love and to thread the songs that people know me for into the Christmas theme.” And what a theme it is! Expect a delightful mix of tunes ranging from religious hymns to poppy holiday hits, and even some classical pieces. “It’s not a ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ sort of evening,” she quipped, setting the tone for something truly special.
A Seasonal Playlist
Now, you might be curious: what songs can we expect? Brightman’s setlist will draw from her Christmas album, A Winter Symphony, but there’s more! She thoughtfully curates her selection, stating, “Time to Say Goodbye can really go anywhere, and I think Phantom of the Opera has a fantasy element that lends itself to a Christmas theme.” With clever arrangements, including sleigh bells and lush orchestral sound, Sarah is determined to create a festive atmosphere that captivates the audience.
A Roller Coaster of Emotions
Before jumping into this holiday magic, Brightman has been busy showcasing her impressive talent in theater. She recently took on the challenging role of Norma Desmond in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard in Australia. After a three-decade hiatus from the stage, it was quite the climb! “I looked at all of these great actresses who have portrayed her in the past and knew I couldn’t do it like any of them,” she reflected. With her own unique voice and vision, she made a point to portray Desmond’s vulnerability, showing a side of the character that resonates deeply.
But it wasn’t all daisies and sunshine. Sarah faced hurdles, including battling COVID and injuring her leg during the production. “I don’t think I really did my best,” she admitted about the early performances. “It wasn’t really until we hit Sydney that I really felt I could get into it. Those were my best performances.”
Home for the Holidays
When she’s not dazzling audiences worldwide, Sarah loves embracing holiday traditions at home with her family. Picture this: a festive dinner at her place with over twenty people! “I’ve got five siblings, and they’ve all got children, so it’s usually twenty-two or more at the Christmas table,” she exclaimed joyfully. After feasting, many in the family head off to Midnight Mass, and come Christmas Day, it’s all about the turkey and the laughter.
Brightman even shared a unique tradition of her own. Every year, she makes a visit for an eye exam on Christmas Eve! “After doing these shows with all the lights in my eyes, I worry and want a checkup,” she explained, adding, “Then I’ll go and have Christmas punch at the Christmas market, that sort of thing … So, I guess that is my very odd Christmas tradition.”
Reflecting on the Joy of Music
Amidst the whirlwind of concerts and family gatherings, Sarah Brightman takes a moment to appreciate the Christmas shows she’s performed over the past few years. “I feel very privileged that I can do these Christmas shows, and if you love this time as much as I do, it’s a great thing,” she said. Her joy and passion for spreading holiday cheer is evident as she hopes that audiences everywhere find happiness in her performances.
If you’re in the mood for some breathtaking music and a cozy festive vibe, make sure to catch Sarah Brightman at the Midland Theater on November 30. It promises to be a heartwarming start to the holiday season!
