Photos and review by Jennie Book
@jenniebookphotography

Sarah Brightman brought her “A Christmas Symphony” to the Luther Burbank Center in Santa Rosa on December 11^th, and enraptured the crowd through two solid acts while backed by an orchestra and choir.

Her set was filled with both Christmas favorites and selections old and new, including “Phantom of the Opera,” “Arrival” by ABBA, “Ave Maria,” and “Follow Me” from her album “Hymn.” A few highlights of the evening were a duet with local-area elementary school choirboy Russell Nakagawa, and a beautiful rendition of “Coventry Carol” by the choir during a costume change. She also brought tenor Jay Dref onstage for several duets, and their voices complemented each other perfectly.

Brightman’s outfits were opulent and extravagant over five or so changes, a perfect companion to the venue’s dramatic lighting. Her tiaras were epic, and her voice plus stage and costume production made Luther Burbank’s 1,700 seats feel like Broadway.

The sold out older crowd was thrilled to be in attendance, and stood up to ovate Brightman several times throughout the evening, with one ardent fan yelling “I love you!” after the fourth song. When all was said and done, the crowd spilled out into the lobby, clearly satisfied after the final two songs of “Amazing Grace” and “Happy Christmas (War Is Over)” with big smiles and great memories to take home with them.

Sarah Brightman continues her Christmas Symphony tour for several more dates, and all the latest news and information can be found at www.sarahbrightman.com.