Minnelli on Minnelli: Live at the Palace
The atmosphere was electric at New York's Palace Theater in December 1999. Here was Liza Minnelli on the comeback trail, battling back from weight gain and surgeries, as well as various addictions that recalled the star-crossed life ofher famous mother. And the multimedia tribute to the movies of her famous father,Vincente, meant Liza was finally going to perform her mother's songs, which she had always avoided. In addition, her mother (who is never referred to by name) had staged her own historic comeback at the Palace in 1967. The first act includes medleys fromMeet Me in St. LouisandThe Band Wagon, and Liza, backed by orchestra and male sextet, isn't at her best. She slurs and slurps her lyrics, and her monologues, though affectionate, seem labored. But she's clearly delighted to be here, and the audience is with her every step of the way. Things pick up in the second act, including "I'm Glad I'm Not Young Anymore" with some new, self-referring lyrics, and a rousing "What Did I Have That I Don't Have." She also shares "The Trolley Song" with a film clip of her mother and closes with a newly written valentine to her father byJohn Kanderand the show's writer-director,Fred Ebb.Minnelli on Minnelliisn't perfect.  Those only familiar with theCabaretLiza would probably prefer herCarnegie Hall concert.  But those who know and love her will want to be a part of this event. Welcome back, Liza!--David Horiuchi