Bernadette Peters in Concert

We were not so much part of an audience – more a congregation to worship at her feet.

Bernadette Peters shimmered and sparked onto the stage. She flirted and flitted those long red juicy curls, still impossibly attractive, for the age which Wikipedia dobs her in for, but a gentleman would not publish.

The sermon was musical theatre at its most sultry, beautifully wrapped in delicious lighting and musical accompaniment.

The most pleasing songs were the unexpected. There is nothing like a Dame is famous for being stomped out by sailors in South Pacific. From the lips of Bernadette Peters it was altogether different experience, shining a new sexy light on those well-worn lyrics.

Just as hot was her interpretation of Fever, draped over the piano.

Performing songs originally written for a man is a trademark.

Two of her songs were a tribute to her late friend and former on-stage partner Peter Allen. The lyrics of one of his hits were tweaked to become.

If you were wondering who I am…I’m just a woman…unlike any other woman.

But the biggest musical influence on Bernadette Peters is of course Stephen Sondheim. She’s starred in many of his classics on Broadway and reprised many of the best including gems from Into the Woods, Company and A Little Night Music.

There was even a performance of an original song written and composed by Bernadette devoted to the love of her life – her pooch.

I am wondering if her pet is quite as fluffy as its master.

David Spicer 

The tour continues at the Theatre Royal Sydney until Friday night. Jupiters Casino Gold Coast follows on Saturday, then Her Majesty’ss Theatre, Melbourne on Monday and Tuesday.

Photographer: Kurt Sneddon