Barry Manilow Returns to Broadway at the St. James Theater

At age 69, Barry Manilow has crossed over the line from simply a pop star to being a pop institution, just ask his fans, who seem to enjoy singing along with him when he performs as much as they do hearing him sing. With “Manilow on Broadway,” Barry Manilow has returned to New York and will be performing through March 2nd at the St. James Theater on West 44^th St.

Several dates were added later this month because of missed previews that Manilow had to cancel in January due to bronchitis. While fans who waited for those shows in vain were disappointed, audiences that have seen the show since it opened at the end of January have only been pleased. Now, Mr. Manilow is in good spirits, and, with his voice in good form, is back putting on a performance that showcases his brand of song, what one critic described as, “musical chicken soup for the soul.” The show is slightly under two hours long, without an intermission, but fans of Manilow’s songs like “Mandy,” “I Made it Through the Rain,” and “I Write the Songs” certainly won’t mind, as the Manilow takes the audience through much of his best known output.

The show itself uses Barry Manilow’s musical autobiography to give structure to his performance. The audience is treated to anecdotes that highlight many milestones and important factors in Manilow’s career. That list includes the influence of Manilow’s grandfather, but also the role his high school orchestra played in his musical development. Audiences also learn pieces of trivia that showcase Manilow’s dedication to his craft. For instance, in his first studio apartment in New York City, Manilow spent years sleeping on a mattress beneath his baby grand piano, as there was not room for both.

Audience members may be reminded of Mr. Manilow’s progression as an artist when, late in the show, he performs several duets with himself. Next to an image of a much younger Barry Manilow on a television, the 69-year-old version is impressive, even if he isn’t quite in the vocal form he once was. That piece of the show serves as a reminder that you ought to enjoy great performers like Manilow while you can.

So, if you are looking for a way to get to or from the show, or any other for that matter, do not hesitate to give Gotham Limousine a call. Our professional staff will do their utmost to ensure you arrive safely and in style to “Manilow on Broadway,” or anywhere else you care to go in New York.

Get to the Barry Manilow Concert in Style in a Gotham Limo.

By Frank McDonald