Whole Lotta Comedy - Liberace – In His Own Words

A well-crafted narrative and some stunning piano playing can be found in Liberace –In His Own Words, 

In this one-hander, Richard Lewis plays the flamboyant musician whose extravagant costumes, candelabra-topped piano and habit of playing classical music ‘without the boring bits’ helped him to fame in the 1940s.

His huge following live and on television kept him in the public eye long after his contemporaries had faded from view, and made him an obvious influence on Elton John, as well as more surprising performers (apparently including Bill Evans and Lang Lang).

Lewis replicates Liberace’s charm and winning way with an audience, and most importantly is a remarkably good piano player, whether charging through the souped-up classics spliced with popular song, or racing along in double-speed boogie-woogie. There are also some well-chosen vocal numbers.

The how is not just about piano technique, however. As well as being a treat for any fans, the production includes enough biographical and personal information (elegantly drip-fed throughout) to make any beginner feel familiar enough with the story of Liberace’s childhood, early career, Vegas stardom and the criticism that famously had him ‘crying all the way to the bank’.

The production does not hide away from his disappointments and failures, and addresses Liberace keeping his sexuality a secret for so long. Apparently afraid of the effect on his legions of female admirers, he even went so far as to sue a British tabloid for insinuating he was gay. The effect this had on his relationships is touched upon, but this side of the story certainly does not dominate affairs.

Instead it concentrates on Liberace’s flair for showbiz and apparently effortless piano technique, which Lewis is more than capable of reproducing in a production that is extremely satisfying.

Running time: 45 minutes (no interval). Followed by Q&A.