BWW Reviews: Laura Benanti Dazzles at the Landmark in Port Washington, Long Island
Laura Benanti's concert in Long Island this weekend focused on family, intertwined with antidotes about her career on the stage, in TV (or lack there of, she joked), and in movies. The Tony winner was fantastic as she took the stage at Landmarks' beautiful Jeanne Rimsky Theater in Port Washington, Long Island.
Besides sounding spectacular, Laura and musical director Mary Mitchell Campbell put together a wonderfully humorous production. Her friendship with Mary was apparent as they joked with each other throughout the show about everything from their history to Benanti's multiple Tony nominations. The last portion of the show was a medley of popular songs including Beyonce's "Single Ladies." Benanti also treated the audience to some highly amusing stories from her past, including the time in which Chita Rivera taught her how to bow properly by counting down for her from the wings while the pair were performing in Nine.
Another highlight was her performance of "When You Wish Upon A Star" and her Stephen Sondheim compilations. The star revealed that she was a huge fan of the legendary composer growing up, with "Into The Woods" (Tony Nomination) and "Gypsy" (Tony win for Featured Role) being among her favorites in which she also got to star.
Many sections she dedicated to various members of her family. Laura reminisced on her mother marrying her father as well as how her mother was an actress and left acting to raise her.
There was alot of energy from the audience in the charming, former school auditorium; even one couple traveling from North Carolina to see the show. As she said goodnight to the vociferous audience, you can tell she had a great time and the sentiments were completely mutual.
Photo By Steven Silberstein
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