(The production has now closed)
An evening of Whitney Houston music charms audiences at Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre this week. Written and performed by Taylor Lovelace, the program is described as ‘The Whitney Houston Songbook.’
Ms. Lovelace is clearly an accomplished singer, and with this vehicle, her voice is extraordinary. Back-up singers, Jillian Cooper and Zoe O’Connor, accent the production, and they could have made even more of an impact.
At the outset, it took a few moments to understand that the narrative was about Ms. Lovelace’s career rather than Houston’s. More clarity was needed to connect her life to the ‘Houston songbook.’ Ms. Lovelace is clearly passionate about Houston’s music, and some lyrics connected to defining moments, but the narrative and the singing felt divergent.
The band setup was unique and forceful – two percussion stations towered ten to fifteen feet above the stage with other musicians at various levels. The visual suggested an evening of full music.
Starting with the titular song ‘I’m Every Woman’, Ms. Lovelace immediately demonstrates her range and strength. Houston’s oeuvre is a tough act to conquer, but she manages it with confidence and style.
Back-up performers were constantly moving and took on more roles than just singing – near the beginning they were involved in the narrative, but this eventually trailed off.
Highlights were ‘The Greatest Love of All’ – ‘Didn’t We Almost Have It All’ – and the rousing ‘I Will Always Love You’ – a fan favourite that opened the second act.
The narrative continued through audition anxiety, relationship heartbreak, and the ever-present theme of strong women who influenced every aspect of her life.
‘I Have Nothing’ was notable for some beautiful harmony work from the three performers – more from the trio would have added depth to the program.
Rob Kempson’s direction gave elegance to most scenes. It was refreshing to see no reliance on distracting background video – the music was always front and centre.
Carlyn Rahusaar Routledge’s costume changes were subtle and effective. A dazzling final evening gown sparkled through the final numbers.
Whitney Houston fans of all ages would welcome this evening of Taylor Lovelace’s remarkable renditions of the number one hits.
Programme notes:
If the narrative is about Taylor Lovelace, shouldn’t her picture be on page one rather than page three?
If it is billed as a ‘Songbook’, a song list in the programme would be helpful.’’
‘I’m Every Woman’ by Taylor Lovelace
Performers: Taylor Lovelace, Jillian Cooper, Zoe O’Connor
Direction: Rob Kempson
Music direction: Jeff Newberry
Costume design: Carlyn Rahusaar Routledge
