Review: LAURA & LINDA BENANTI THE STORY GOES ON at Artis-Naples

What is it that is so compelling about a mother-daughter duo? Whether viewing two women portraying those roles opposite each other on stage, screen or television, or watching the real life interaction between mothers and their daughters, there are few relationships as complex. We learn from our mothers. Inspired by their life choices, some of us choose to walk in their footsteps, pursuing their council. Others seek their mother's blessings as they find their own paths. Some may be estranged while others enjoy a lasting and loving relationship.

It felt as though it was a very special "Mother's Day "in Naples when audience members had the delightful pleasure of witnessing one of the most heartwarming mother-daughter concerts by Laura and Linda Benanti. Center stage in front of a backdrop of ripples of silk, the Benanti duo graced the stage exuding love, compassion and total respect for each other. How refreshing. How beautiful.

The setting was so elegantly staged. A large screen showcased various family pictures; baby Laura on Linda's lap, Laura and her daughter Ella, Laura and her husband Patrick - it was like family night in the Benanti living room and we were all invited. A piano and upright bass, a cozy cabaret table draped in black linen, 2 chairs, a tea pot with cups, and bottled water, let us know we were in for an intimate evening with a mother and daughter who could not love each other more, and who just so happen to be celebrated performers.

From the songs that Linda sang to young Laura, who now sings those same sweet songs to her daughter Ella, to the comedic banter between the stunning twosome, right up to the beautiful arrangements they sang solo or as a duet, this inspiring concert was not to be missed. The hues of the backdrop changed colors in ambient tones to set the mood for each song. Accompanied by Todd Almond (director/pianist) and Michael Thurber (bassist), it was all that was needed to undergird the dynamic voices these women had to share with a very grateful audience.

It isn't easy to entertain cabaret style. You have to be able to draw your audience in, interact with them, and have a quick wit and sense of humor ready for anything that can happen with a live audience. I have been very fortunate to see Laura perform several times in concert, in cabaret settings, and as a hostess for awards shows. Laura can teach a class on how it's done. Linda and Laura shared funny stories, heartwarming memories and brought a sense of family to the stage. Actually it really was family night as husband Patrick and daughter Ella were in attendance along with Laura's father and grandmother. I was thinking how awesome for them to have 3 generations enjoying this wonderful show with us.

Although this performance needed little stage direction, I thought it was charmingly unique to watch - while Laura sang, her mom sipped tea at the cabaret table and watched her perform. By the same token when Linda was singing a solo, Laura would sit at the table, sipping tea and watching her lovely mama. Soon they would get up and sing or dance together, (you must catch them performing Beyoncé's "Single Ladies"). This pair will keep your toes tapping and face smiling. They kept the show moving at a nice pace, kept it interesting, and very entertaining.

Laura treated the audience to her Cockney accent from My Fair Lady and a few iconic songs from the show such as "Wouldn't It Be Loverly", "The Rain in Spain" and "I Could Have Danced All Night". Linda spoke about her idols, opera legend Joan Sutherland, Julie Andrews and meeting Judy Garland. Her rendition of Garland's "The Man That Got Away" from A Star Is Born was perfection. Showing off his classical side, Todd accompanied himself on the piano and sang a solo of a very clever song he wrote about a relationship between Dolly Parton and Bach. (That Jolene always gets in the way!)

The evening ended in two standing ovations and a long round of applause. I spoke with a few guests who brought their mothers to the show - an early Mother's Day gift. What a lovely memory several mothers and daughters made that night. I got to visit briefly with Laura backstage and meet this awesome family. Love overflowed. It was as real on stage as it was backstage.

And that's how The Story Goes On, Benanti-style!

Laura Benanti is a highly celebrated stage, television and screen actress with a myriad of awards she has garnered, including a Tony Award for her portrayal of Gypsy Rose Lee in Gypsy. She made her Broadway debut at the age of 18 as Maria in The Sound of Music. Laura is known for her television roles in Supergirl, Nashville, Law and Order: SVU and The Good Wife, to name a few. She frequently appears on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in her comedic portrayal of First Lady Melania Trump. Laura is currently starring as Eliza Doolittle in Lincoln Center's revival of My Fair Lady.

Linda Benanti returns to the stage co-headlining concerts with her daughter Laura after a 35-year retirement from performing in order to dedicate more time to motherhood. She enjoyed working on the revival of Brigadoon with Yul Brynner, and many roles in various shows including as Camelot, The Music Man, No, No, Nanette, and Guys and Dolls. After transitioning out of performing, Linda opened her own studio and began teaching notable Broadway performers and inspiring singers. She continues to teach today.

Artis-Naples is the premier destination for the visual and performing arts in Southwest Florida. Their state they are driven to inspire, educate and entertain by presenting world-class events that enrich the community. They offer a unique range of programs including music, film, dance, comedy, lectures and exhibitions featuring internationally acclaimed artists. Their interdisciplinary approach cultivates a broader appreciation for art in its many forms. The Kimberly K. Querrey and Louis A. Simpson Cultural Campus include two performance halls, Frances Pew Hayes Hall and Myra J. Daniels Pavilion, The Baker Museum, and the Stabile Education building. Try to catch the stunning Isabelle de Borchgrave Fashioning Art from Paper exhibit running through May 5, 2019.

For more information on Artis-Naples and the Baker Museum, visit www.artisnaples.org

For information on the performers:

Laura Benanti www.laurabenanti.com

Linda Benanti www.lindabenantivoicestudio.com

Todd Almond www.toddalmond.com

Michael Thurber www.michaelthurber.org