The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra: A Big Band Swing Celebration Of Frank Sinatra – Review

Her Majesty’s Theatre, Thu 8 Oct There was a tsunami of grey hair and chrome domes in the capacity audience of Her Majesty’s Theatre that swept up onto the stage as well, missing only a few clever heads here and there. This glorious music from the Big Band Swing era was rich with memories as it celebrated the hits of The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and those of its most famous vocalist, Frank Sinatra. This band launched Sinatra into the career that made him one of the most influential singers in the world. Musical Director and inspired sax and clarinet player, Terry Myers, entertained us with his wonderful anecdotes about the band, the pieces played and the fantastic musicians gracing the stage. It was a true privilege to be in the presence of some of the finest musicians this genre has to offer; men who have lived by their skills throughout decades of change and still have the ability to play with extraordinary passion, elegance and humility. It is rare, especially in this day of ‘instant music’, to see such an extraordinary band on stage that comprised of six saxophone/clarinet players (including one bass clarinet), four who also played flute, three trombone players, four trumpeters, a young genius pianist, fabulous double bass player and stunning drummer. Yum!!! But wait, there’s more! Add all your favourite Sinatra numbers introduced and sung by the charmingly brilliant, Bryan Anthony and clear-voiced marvel, Michelle Amato, and top it off with Australian dancers, Simone Barry and Daniel Dolling and you have a world class ensemble. All the musicians deserve accolades. Solo after thrilling solo was applause-worthy and we were working over-time to show our appreciation. With numbers like Marie, Song Of India, Night And Day, That’s Why The Lady Is A Tramp, Georgia, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Night Train, and many more, this show was over-flowing with timeless hits. With Bryan Anthony and the band winding up the night with I Did It My Way and New York, New York, if you didn’t enjoy this show you’re already dead. A multitude of musical masters, playfully playing musical masterpieces. This ageless show is nourishment for the soul. Nikki Fort The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra lead singer Brian Anthony with The Clothesline writer Nikki Fort