The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
By Virginia Ross
Maureen McGovern wowed the crowd! Her incredible range of styles and octaves as well as choice of songs mesmerized the audience.
This 65 year old entertainer sang for about two hours with only the expert accompaniment of her pianist/arranger/lyricist, James Harris, a known figure in the world of pop, jazz, classical and musical theatre.
Caressing the audience with a reprise of songs from the late 60's through original scores written especially for her, she told her life story.
"America," "The Times, They Are A Changin," "We Shall Overcome," "Cowboy," "Turn, Turn, Turn," "Let It Be," "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," and many more recalled memories of a bygone era. Her delightful banter displayed what a versatile performer she is.
Knowing the value of audience participation, she invited us to sing along with a Carol King classic, "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and "If I Had A Hammer."
Her a capella version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from the Wizard of Oz stunned the audience in its power and intensity.
She attempted to end her show with Ella Fitzgerald's "Tisket A Tasket," but a standing ovation recalled her to the stage and she graciously sang her Oscar winning "The Morning After" from "The Poseidon Adventure."
All in all it was an outstanding performance by a very talented artist.
Civic Music's calendar for next year will soon be in the Hawkeye so buy your tickets quickly to have your choice of seats (really there is not a bad one) and attend the 86th season of culture coming to river city.