"I Love a Piano"

Touring the nation to terrific reviews, the Irving Berlin revue "I Love a Piano" rolled into the BCPA on Saturday night, March 1. The evening started off with a very interesting pre-show discussion led by Illinois Wesleyan Emeritus Professor Jared Brown, talking about Berlin's history, including his over 1500 compositions, his musical abilities (or lack thereof; he could neither read nor write music and could only play the piano in one key), and his lasting place in American musical history.

The pre-show set the mood off right for a high energy performance featuring over 64 of Berlin's songs. Six performers took the stage leading the audience through the history of the America Berlin saw in his 70 years of work as a composer. From the ragtime of the '20s through World War II, and his final hits from the movie "Easter Parade," the show was a snapshot of Berlin's musical genius.

For me, the most impressive thing about the show, created by Bloomington-Normal native Ray Roderick, was the energy of the six performers. The three men and three women wove in and out, and around the stage, trading solos, harmonizing with ease, and maintaining a high level of energy throughout.

And, heaven knows these performers need high energy. The show loaded out quickly after the curtain fell to get everyone on the road for an 8 am load-in 33 hours later ... in Panama City, FL.

The night ended with a reception for the BCPA's Arts Partners and to thank Jerry and Carole Ringer for their generous event sponsorship. One of the perks of being an Arts Partner, the reception was a great time to enjoy some refreshments and talk about the great performance.

Were you there? Did you "Love a Piano"? Click here and let us know ...

PATRON COMMENTS
My husband and I were so delighted that we had purchased tickets for this show – we loved every minute of it! That was one of the best entertainments we’ve seen, although we have seen many great shows throughout this season. Thank you Bloomington Cultural Center for the Performing Arts for bringing good, family entertainment to our cities.
--Karen Stivers

My wife Carole and I very much enjoyed the program. We look forward to"Mark Twain Tonight" and Arlo Guthrie. We look forward to yourofferings for the next season.
--Albert Semmler