Audra McDonald’s concert at QPAC’s Concert Hall was a masterclass in vocal artistry and emotional storytelling, leaving the Brisbane audience mesmerised by her versatile performances and engaging stage presence. McDonald, a six-time Tony Award winner, brought an eclectic mix of Broadway classics, personal favorites, and poignant tributes to her Brisbane show, creating an unforgettable evening.
McDonald opened the evening with the classic ‘I am what I am’ from “La Cage aux Folles,” setting a tone of elegance and emotional depth. Her rendition of ‘Cornet Man’ from “Funny Girl” was a delightful blend of humor and pathos, showcasing her ability to capture the essence of her past by poking fun at her high school self singing that song in Show Choir at 14 years old.
One of the standout moments was her performance of “Mister Snow” from her Tony-Award winning performance in Carousel, where her rich, expressive voice beautifully conveyed the longing and heartache of the song.
McDonald also included a charming piece about her newfound love for gardening during the pandemic. She introduced “I Always Say Hello To A Flower,” written by Murray Grand, and despite claiming she “sucks at gardening,” her affection for the activity shone through in her heartfelt performance.
A tribute to Stephen Sondheim was a significant part of the concert. She shared a touching story about a performance years ago where she supported Sondheim and, despite her admiration, accidentally messed up the lyrics. “I can laugh about it now,” she said with a smile, demonstrating her candidness and the respect she holds for the late composer. This evening, her renditions of Sondheim’s works were filled with deep emotion and reverence, captivating the audience.
Audra’s interactions with her band members and musical director were particularly sweet and endearing. McDonald frequently turned to them with genuine smiles and playful banter, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect they share. Musical director Andy Einhorn, a long-time collaborator, received special acknowledgment. Their chemistry was evident, and their shared history added a layer of warmth and authenticity to the performance.
The audience participation peaked during “I Could Have Danced All Night” from My Fair Lady, where McDonald encouraged a singalong, creating a joyous and inclusive atmosphere in the hall.
Other memorable performances included a lively rendition of “Hello, Dolly!” and a whimsical nod to “The Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog, which showcased McDonald’s playful side. A powerful mashup of “Children Will Listen” from Sondheim’s Into the Woods and “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught” from South Pacific highlighted her ability to blend songs to create new, thought-provoking interpretations.
The concert also featured a segment where McDonald channeled Billie Holiday, performing selections from “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill.” This part of the show was a compelling blend of McDonald’s interpretation and Holiday’s soulful style, highlighting her versatility as an artist.
A touching moment came when McDonald performed a song by Emily King, her older daughter’s favorite singer, adding a personal touch to the evening.
Her rendition of “Cabaret” was both sultry and spirited, demonstrating her dynamic range and theatrical flair. The concert concluded on an uplifting note with “Happy Days Are Here Again,” leaving the audience with a sense of joy and hope.
Adding to the personal charm of the evening, McDonald frequently mentioned her husband, actor Will Swenson, and their children. Her anecdotes about family life brought a relatable and intimate feel to the concert, making the audience feel like they were part of her extended family.
Audra McDonald’s concert at QPAC’s Concert Hall was a testament to her extraordinary talent and connection with her audience. Her ability to blend humor, personal anecdotes, and impeccable musicality made for an evening that Brisbane will not soon forget.
Follow Audra’s journey here:
https://audramcdonald.com/
All images supplied.
The Fame Reporter 