Tony's Week- Day Four

At a certain age, birthdays become just another day. But yesterday was not like that. My birthday was a total, award winning, festival of a day. CB Leslie feted me virtually nonstop. I woke up to presents, balloons, streamers, coffee, and a day long celebration. My brothers and sisters, husband, coworkers, and darling daughter called me pretty much all day, and I really and truly FELT THE LOVE!! Thanks everyone, but especially thanks to CB Leslie who made the day so memorable.

Last night we saw the revival of South Pacific at Lincoln Center. The reviews have been over the top, but I still wasn't ready for the grandeur and perfection of the production. We had great seats in the mezzanine overlooking the huge stage. There is no more perfect location for a big production than Lincoln Center. Where else can you have a 30 piece orchestra, a multilayered gorgeous set with army trucks, a combat plane, and Bali Hai in the distance? We were mesmerized from the moment the overture began, and I watched the show with a lump in my throat. My heart was really bursting! I've have never loved a show more. The performances were perfect. Kelli O'Hara and Paola Szot are a dream couple, and they are so incredibly talented. They are just divine in these roles--Kelli sings and dances like it is the most natural and effortless thing in the world. She has a wonderful stage presence and was born to play Nellie. When Paola sang "Some Enchanted Evening", it was one of those moments that can only be experienced on Broadway- so perfect that time stands still. Leslie kept saying she was swooning . . . The show is sold out for the rest of the summer but PLEASE, if you possible can, take in this show while Kelli and Paola are playing the leads. It is a revival that will join the Broadway history books, and the chance to see the great Opera star Paola Szot make his Broadway debut is one that any true musical lover shouldn't miss. Check out this video for more proof that he is amazing.

We ended the day with drinks and a lovely dessert at Pigalli's and fell asleep at 3:30 still talking about the show. It was a perfect birthday. Thank you Leslie, thank you Kelli O'Hara, and thank you Paola Szot. Who knew turning 57 could be so much fun??