Barry Briefs - Archive 14

Fall in love at Eastview's Copacabana - Barry Manilow's classic hit Copacabana comes to life on Eastview Secondary School's stage starting April 30. "We looked at five or six different shows, but we decided on this one because it's a little different, and people don't know that much about it," said Steve Winfield, co-music director of the show. "It's got a lot of great music. The kids like it and I know the parents will be thrilled." Jane Robinson, co-director, said the musical features more than 100 students in all aspects of the production, from orchestra to set design. "The show has lots of different settings, New York, Havana, an airplane and even a pirate ship," she said. But behind all the great sets and music, the show follows the basic musical format of boy meets girl, Robinson said. Copacabana follows Stephen as he tries to compose the next hit musical. His imagination takes him back to the 1940s where he, reincarnated as Tony, is trying to make it as a songwriter while working as a bartender at the Copacabana Nightclub. It's here where Tony meets Lola La Mar who works as the Copa Girl. Kendra Stevenson takes on the role of Lola. "Lola is from New York and she goes to the Copacabana to work as a showgirl. The whole thing is new to her, so Gladys takes her under her wing. Tony is the guy she falls in love with." Andrew Murray takes on the roles of Tony/Stephen. "There are two levels to the story. You have Stephen who is trying to figure out this great musical and you have Tony who is living in the musical." Murray said the story and the great music will keep the audience entertained. Copacabana runs between April 30 and May 2 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 each. For more information or tickets, call 728-1321. (Barrie Advance (Ontario, Canada), 4/21/2009) http://www.barrieadvance.com/barrieadvance/article/133822 Everett Concert raises $280,000 for charity - Barry Manilow's March 15 concert at Comcast Arena at Everett raised $280,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, said Dottie Moore of the group's Seattle office. The money is used for cystic fibrosis research and support for patients with the disease. Manilow's Las Vegas and Portland, Ore., shows also benefited the organization. (HeraldNet, 4/10/2009) http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20090410/NEWS01/704109828 Come buy art to benefit the Art Museum and Artists Council - The Artists Council of the Palm Springs Art Museum will have a 99 Bucks sale from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Hotel Zoso, 150 S. Indian Canyon Drive. About 250 5-by-7-inch canvases created by celebrities and other well-known people will be for sale. The contributors include actress Cameron Diaz, baseball star Don Sutton, fashion designer Trina Turk, producer J.J. Abrams, singer Barry Manilow, Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and many others. Each artwork will cost $99 plus tax. Proceeds will benefit the art museum and Artists Council. Tickets: $19.99 per person, available at Annenberg Theater box office, 101 Museum Drive, or at the hotel during the event. Information: 322-4800. (The Desert Sun, 4/8/2009) http://www.mydesert.com/article/20090408/LIFESTYLES0104/904080308/1143/RSS27 Reality Cares' Ameriface Benefit - Las Vegas is pulling out all the stops to welcome Miss USA 2008 back to the city for it's second consecutive year at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. One of the many events leading up to the big pageant night is the Reality Cares' AmeriFace Benefit presented by Gaudy PR and 944 Magazine, a red carpet charity event aiming to raise awareness for AmeriFace, an organization that helps people with facial differences such as cleft lips & palates. The AmeriFace Organization will also be launching it's "Face Of Change Campaign", a program where doctors from across the United States will commit to providing pro-bono reconstructive surgeries for patients in need. The star studded party will be held at The Living Room in The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino ... Guests will have a chance to bid on Exclusive Celebrity Experiences & Las Vegas Fantasy Packages including ... an Ultimate Manilow Package, & much more... Tickets are available on www.itsmyseat.com. (Press Release, 4/7/2009) http://news.yahoo.com/s/prweb/20090407/bs_prweb/prweb2301164_2 http://www.realitycares.org http://www.ameriface.org Annual Fundraising Event Benefits Seriously Ill Children in Arizona - Starlight Children’s Foundation Arizona recently hosted its annual Sparkling Starry Soirée, and the event helped raise $32,000 for programs dedicated to helping seriously ill children and their families, in addition to a Fun Center TM and two PC Pals® to be provided to local hospitals. The fundraiser took place in a newly built, custom home in Silverleaf, with dramatic city-light views. It included entertainment by acclaimed jazz artist Jay Soto and band. A cocktail reception and light dinner was accompanied by a silent auction featuring a variety of items ... The night concluded with a live auction including exclusive packages such as a private jet get-a-way to Las Vegas to see Barry Manilow in concert ... For 25 years, Starlight Children’s Foundation, an international, 501© 3 organization, has been dedicated to helping seriously ill children and their families cope with their pain, fear and isolation through entertainment, education and family activities. Starlight’s programs have been proven to distract children from their pain, help them better understand and manage their illnesses, and connect families facing similar challenges so that no one feels alone. For more information about Starlight Children’s Foundation, this event or future sponsorship opportunities, call (480) 280-5289 or visit www.starlight.org/arizona. (East Valley (EV) Living, 3/29/2009) http://www.evliving.com/2009/03/29/4890/starlight-childrens-foundation-raises-32000/ Music and passion are always the fashion at the 'Copa' - Golden West High School drama students are venturing where no other Central California high school has gone before: The "Copacabana." Drama teacher Mike Wilson said the north Visalia high school is the first to bring the Barry Manilow-written musical, based on the hit song of the same name, to the stage. The musical follows Stephen, a young and aspiring songwriter, as he guides the audience through his imagination. While there, the audience is taken to the upscale Copacabana Nightclub in New York in the late 1940s. The story centers on the young, ambitious Lola Lamar, who arrives at the Copacabana by way of Oklahoma with dreams of becoming a big star. As she makes her way to becoming a successful "Copa Girl" dancer, aided by the witty and charming Tony Starr, she is kidnapped by the ruthless gangster Rico Castelli, who manages The Tropicana in Havana. This all unfolds by the swanky sounds of jazz, salsa and other fast-paced, Latin-infused rhythms. And the sparkling gowns, zoot suits and bright-colored mambo outfits just add to the musical's flair. But conflict never leaves Tony's side. Tony and Sam Silver, manager of the Copacabana, head off to Cuba to rescue Lola from Rico. The brave act comes with a price. A fight ensues, a gun is pulled and someone is hurt. Who gets shot? Who has the gun? "The ending's a secret," said Jenna Glick, who plays Rico's sassy, performer girlfriend Conchita Alvarez. "You're just going to have to come out and see it." What: "Copacabana". When: 7:30 p.m. April 1-4; Saturday matinee 2 p.m. April 4. Where: L.J. Williams Theater. Tickets: $8 for April 1 and Saturday matinee, $10 all other showings. Information: 622-3138. (Visalia Times-Delta, 3/27/2009) http://www.visaliatimesdelta.com/article/20090327/ENTERTAINMENT05/903260334 Barry Manilow an unwittingly anonymous benefactor to Reading school - Barry Manilow has the New York City rhythm in his life, and students at 10th and Penn Elementary School have African rhythm in theirs thanks to his charity. Last month Manilow Music Project donated $300 worth of instruments and materials to the school to help music teacher Alexandra Booth start an African drumming class. The Sovereign Center likes to find a visiting artist's favorite charity and use it to help the community, said Joanie Bernie, marketing coordinator at the venue. After Manilow's concert here in February, he was presented with a picture of 10th and Penn Elementary School students. The singer's charity purchased instruments for the students, none of whom had any idea who he was! (Reading Eagle, 3/16/2009) http://www.readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=129891 "Copacabana," 7 p.m., (March 14-15) - Memorial Middle School auditorium, 502 Cabot St., Beverly. A musical based on Barry Manilow's song, staged by the Beverly High School Music Department. Tickets $7 for students and seniors, $9 adults, available at the door. 978-921-6132, ext. 381. (The Salem News (Salem, MA), 3/14/2009) http://www.salemnews.com/punews/local_story_072220818.html St. Bede musical opens today - Doors open at 7 p.m. today for the St. Bede musical. St. Bede Academy will present Barry Manilow’s "Copacabana" musical production at 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday March 14 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 15. Tickets are $7 each. (News Tribune (North Central Illinois), 3/13/2009) http://www.newstrib.com/articles/news/local/default.asp?article=D95AABB6400BE21B7CA2C4191F6D529A6A64A8400F10C591 Barry Manilow coming to Arena next weekend - Barry Manilow will perform at the Spokane Arena at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 14. Tickets range in cost from $30 to $110. For more information, call (509) 325-SEAT or visit http://www.ticketswest.com or http://www.spokanearena.com. (The Whitworthian, 3/9/2009) http://www.whitworthian.com/1.1601768-1.1601768

Manilow helping raise money for cystic fibrosis - Barry Manilow is coming to the Comcast Arena in Everett on March 15 and, as we found at, it's not just for fun. He's also raising money for a worthy cause. Manilow's fanilows - KING-5's Kim Holcomb is in Las Vegas where Barry Manilow is headlining. Meet a few Northwest Fanilows who'll get a chance to see him live when he heads to the Northwest. (KING5.com, 3/5/2009-3/6/2009) http://www.king5.com/video/eveningmagazine-index.html?nvid=338932 http://www.king5.com/video/eveningmagazine-index.html?nvid=339398 http://www.king5.com/video/eveningmagazine-index.html?nvid=339386 The Osgood File - Once upon a time, many years ago, there was a pleasant smiling young man named "Barry," who worked in the mail room here at CBS - who, while he was sorting the mail and bringing it around to the different offices and studios - dreamed of bigger things and wider worlds to conquer. And this very morning, in an Associated Press dispatch from the New Zealand city of Christchurch, I saw his name. It seems they plan to enlist him to solve a problem of so-called "mall rats" - unruly teens who congregate in the central mall district, spread rubbish, spray graffiti, use drugs, create a threatening and intimidating atmosphere for shoppers. The executives believe he is uniquely qualified to drive the "mall rats" away. How does Central Christchurch, New Zealand think that our former CBS mail room employee "Barry" will be able to calm - or even drive out - the teenage "mall rats"? It wasn't anything he earned in the mail room. While he was here, Barry was also studying music at Julliard - and the world came to know him as "Barry Manilow"... The manager of the central mall association, Paul Lonsdale [explained] "We just want to change the atmosphere" and do it in a positive way - with nice, easy listening music like Manilow's. Manilow, now in his 60's, has gone far - and is still going strong. But he has no plans to actually go to Christchurch, New Zealand - or, back to our mail room... (The Osgood File, 3/3/2009) http://www.westwoodone.com/pg/jsp/osgood/transcript.jsp?pid=25872 Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards gala draws in 1,400 - Desert AIDS Project executive director David Brinkman opened the program, followed by board president Curt Ringness and event co-chairwoman Barbara Keller and co-chairman Jim Casey. Harriet Goldberg received the 100 Women Award for volunteerism from Susan Unger, and Bill Jones received the Partners for Life award from Dick Taylor. The live auction was very successful, with pledges and fabulous trips enticing large bids. Celebrity co-hosts Morgan Fairchild, Linda Gray, and Donna Mills stunningly represented the beauty and glitz factor. Fairchild introduced Regan Hofmann, editor-in-chief of Poz Magazine, who presented the Science and Medicine Award to Dr. Anthony Fauci, a Presidential Medal of Freedom winner for his worldwide advances in the understanding and treatment of HIV and AIDS. Mills introduced B.D. Wong, who presented the first Arts and Activism Award to actress Bebe Neuwirth, who said, "We are finally shifting to a theme of hope: people living with AIDS, not dying from it." Gray presented the second Arts and Activism Award to Kristin Chenoweth, and all three joined in introducing Kevin Bass and Daniel Warn, who presented the Silver Anniversary Community Service Award to Barry Manilow for his legendary philanthropy and love of community. Manilow's neighbor and friend Suzanne Somers just happened to be in the neighborhood and dropped in to take part in the introduction. Manilow passed his praise on to executive director Brinkman, saying, "It's unbelievable how much he has going on — he's amazing!" Desert AIDS Project information: call 323-2118, or visit www.desertaidsproject.org. (The Desert Sun, 3/1/2009) http://www.mydesert.com/article/20090301/LIFESTYLES09/903010345/1026/news12 DAP Raises Much Needed Funds at Steve Chase Awards Gala - More than 1,500 people join the 2009 Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, but beyond the decorations, jewels and red carpet is a cause that is important to everyone at the event, it's the Desert Aids Project. The DAP assists people in the valley who have Aids/HIV. The gala is the DAP's largest fundraising event. This year is a little different for the DAP, just like all organizations, they are struggling in the weak economy. They rely on donations, but they're down this year. However, organizers are confident that this event will raise the funds they need to serve the community. This year Barry Manilow is recognized with the Silver Anniversary Community Service Award. Several other local humanitarians are awarded for their dedication to the fight against HIV/AIDS. From the awards, to the food and fashion, organizers say this year's event is a hit. They expect to raise more than $1 million, making it possible for the DAP to continue serving the community. (KESQ (Palm Springs, Coachella Valley), 2/21/2009) http://www.kesq.com/Global/story.asp?S=9885235&nav=menu191_27 VIDEO: Steve Chase Awards Gala (2/21) Teen pop singer Annabelle Priftis will be one of the youngest performers singing at the day of mourning memorial service (National Day of Mourning, Together for Victoria) at Rod Laver Arena today (for those who died in Victoria's devastating bushfires). Priftis jumped at the chance to perform after receiving a call from the Premier's office last week, and is thrilled to be performing Barry Manilow's song "One Voice" with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Korowa Anglican Girls' School choir. "I hope that the song will reach out to those people affected and show them that we are united and that we care," Priftis, 15, told The Sunday Age. Her family, who live in Ashburton, had been touched by the tragedy and had donated to the appeals, she said. Priftis started performing in front of shopping centre crowds at the age of nine. She was a Teen Idol grand finalist in 2006, but her biggest performance came at Carols By Candlelight in 2007. She is nervous but excited about performing in front of Princess Anne, the Premier and the Prime Minister. (The Age, 2/22/2009) http://www.theage.com.au/national/teen-pop-star-to-reach-out-20090221-8e9g.html Today's Daily Tour Recap includes summer tour announcements, special event updates and more, as compiled by TicketNews on February 26, 2009 ... Crooner Barry Manilow is extending his run at the Las Vegas Hilton Theater for another year. He's booked for more than 60 performances this year from February 26-28 through December 28-30. (TicketNews, 2/26/2009) http://www.ticketnews.com/Daily-tour-recap-Boyz-II-Men-Indigo-Girls-and-more2926330 CLIO to Honor Manilow - The show holds its 50th anniversary gathering at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino May 12-14 in Las Vegas. The CLIO Awards will present its first honorary statues to Barry Manilow and Mad Men show creator/producer Matthew Weiner for their contributions to the advertising industry at its 50th anniversary gathering at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino May 12-14 in Las Vegas ... Manilow will receive his award at The Moving Image Awards on Thursday, May 14, which is a tribute to the '70s, a decade in which he won two CLIOs. Manilow was the co-recipient of a CLIO award in 1976 for Best Television/Cinema composer for Band Aids' "Stuck On Me" (Young & Rubicam, New York) and another that same year as a performer/voice for Best Radio (international) for Tab's "Countdown" (McCann Erickson, Toronto). The CLIO Awards are produced by Nielsen Business Media, which is part of the Nielsen Co. (Adweek, 2/23/2009) http://www.adweek.com/aw/content_display/news/agency/e3i6c21c5456af55219d6556bb1c66d4718 Barry Manilow & Matthew Weiner To Be Presented W/ CLIO Award - Barry Manilow and Matthew Weiner, Mad Men show creator/producer will be presented with Honorary CLIO Awards for their contributions to the advertising industry during the 50th Anniversary CLIO Awards at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino May 12-14 in Las Vegas. The CLIO Awards is one of the world's most prestigious international advertising and design competitions honoring creative excellence and innovation in the industry. Manilow was the co-recipient of a CLIO award in 1976 for Best Television/Cinema composer for Band Aids' "Stuck On Me" (Young & Rubicam, New York) and another that same year as a performer/voice for Best Radio (international) for Tab's "Countdown" (McCann Erickson, Toronto). Weiner will accept an Honorary CLIO during the Communications Awards on May 12. Manilow will receive his award at The Moving Image Awards on Thursday, May 14. For more about CLIO, please visit: www.clioawards.com (Broadway World, 2/23/2009) http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Barry_Manilow_Matthew_Weiner_To_Be_Presented_W_CLIO_Award_20090223 Manilow Honored - You may know him for his classic recordings like "Can't Smile Without You" and "I Write the Songs," but before he was a platinum-selling megastar, Barry Manilow wrote jingles for commercials. Among the many ditties he wrote were "Stuck on Me" for Band Aids, "You Deserve a Break Today" for McDonalds, and "Like a Good Neighbor" for State Farm. Now, the 65 year-old legend -- who used to play piano for Bette Midler -- is being given the top award of the advertising profession, an honorary Clio. The 50th annual awards fest for best ads will be presented at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas from May 12-14. (Radar Online, 2/23/2009) http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2009/02/manilow-honored.php

Barry Manilow Shows Big Love for NYC - How did Barry Manilow spend his Valentine's Day? Naturally, the music legend celebrated with song! Barry performed a very special concert in New York City -- and ET was there! "I'm a hometown guy coming back to my hometown of New York -- Long Island," Barry told ET. "This is a benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, which, I can't think of a more important foundation in this day and age." [ Video: Barry Manilow Shows Big Love for NYC ] (Entertainment Tonight, 2/17/2009) http://www.etonline.com/news/2009/02/70794/ The "Copacabana" Comes to Middletown - For all you, Barry Manilow fans, watch as his [1978] Grammy Award-winning hit song, "Copacabana" comes to life onstage right here in Middletown. On February 27, 28, March 5, 6, and 7, the local nightlife will definitely take on a dramatic flair when the students of Middletown High School bring "the hottest spot north of Havana" to their hometown! Through the direction of Dr. Veronica Perrine, choreography of Amanda Chas, and set design of Kyle Wessel, Middletown's stage will be transformed once again into another crowd pleaser! Dr. Perrine promises that this year's production will be "full of fun"! "Copacabana" follows a wannabe songwriter, Stephen, as he hopes to create a hit musical. His imagination takes him back to the 1940s as he dreams up a story about a struggling young singer Lola Lamar, who arrives in New York City from Tulsa aspiring to be a star. She lands a gig at the famous Copacabana Nightclub and has high hopes of becoming a 'Copa Girl' dancer with a little help from the bartender, Tony Starr. As the first curtain opens, the audience is drawn into a dreamlike scene of an elegant nightclub. Showgirls, waiters, gangster-types, and entire company are frozen on stage. In the center, Stephen is standing visualizing his dramatic masterpiece. The audience can't help but be entranced by what is "materializing" in his "mind". Suddenly, the stage comes alive before them as the cast unfreezes and begins to dance and sing to the song that is just waiting to be debuted, "Copacabana". Show dates are February 27, 28, and March 5, 6, and 7th and the curtain opens at 7:30 pm. Reservations can be made starting February 12th by calling 378-4140 ext 5055. Prices are $8.00 for adults and $6.00 for senior citizens and children (12 and under). All seats are reserved. Although tickets will be sold at the door, people are urged to make reservations early because the shows are expected to sell out. (Delaware Online, 2/16/2009) http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20090216/COMMUNITIES0601/90216046 Barry Manilow Red Carpet Interview with ET's Thea Andrews - "I'm so happy that they found me once again, they could easily ignore me. I've been making records for so many years. I'm so happy they found this album ("In The Swing Of Christmas") because it's not about me. It's about these three musicians. I found these three young musicians. They're REAL jazz musicians. Matt Herskowitz, David Rozenblatt and Mat Fieldes (MaD FUSION). When I got the opportunity to make this album, I went, Oh, maybe I could showcase these guys. So I'm just the boy singer on this. Really. And I did these arrangements for these guys. It's great that the Grammy committee found this album. Maybe they'll get a break because ... they're the real deal. And it'd be great if I can give them a shot." ... "We're doing the Nassau Coliseum for a benefit for the Breast Cancer Awareness. And you know... Me and Valentine's Day... Hey! Come on down. We'll all hold hands!" ... About attending Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy Party: "We all agree the man is the Einstein of music. I, personally, am the grateful recipient of his genius. He's been in my corner since "Mandy," encouraging me and mentoring me, for all these years, so I have no words anymore but to thank him." (WCBS-TV, 2/9/2009) http://wcbstv.com/cbsvideospecials.html?show=Grammys&guid=1026937745 Pop icon Barry Manilow will be inducted into the New York Friars' Club on Valentine's Day, with comic Lisa Lampanelli, AKA the Queen of Mean, hosting the event. Rumor is he might even sing an acapella version of his hit song "Copacabana." Manilow is in town to perform a concert in aid of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation at the Nassau Coliseum later that evening. (NBC New York, 2/13/2009) http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/entertainment/Access_Star_Sightings__February_7_-_13.html Valentine's Day: Loving suggestions for lovers ... "Ultimate Manilow: The Hits ... And Then Some" - WHERE Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale. WHEN 8 p.m. Saturday. WEB nassaucoliseum.com. PHONE 516-794-9303. COST $75-$2,500. It's the one, the only, Barry Manilow in a Valentine's Day concert hosted by Kelly Ripa to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. "Premier" $1,000-plus ticket holders have access to a private VIP preconcert reception from 6 to 7 p.m. with an open bar, hors d'oeuvres and a gift bag... (Newsday.com, 2/13/2009) http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/ny-etxmain6032174feb13,0,5996164.story How can you not love the Manilow? Smartest thing he ever did was to start releasing songbooks from the past. And to make it even better, it is Valentine's Day! Is there anything more romantic then listening to "Mandy" on V-Day? When: February 14 : 8 p.m. Price: $100-$2,500 Event Phone Number: 516-794-9300. Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1255 Hempstead Tpke. Uniondale, NY 11553 516-794-9303. When: February 14: 8 p.m. Price: $100-$2,500 Event Phone Number: 516-794-9300. Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1255 Hempstead Tpke. Uniondale, NY 11553 516-794-9303. (Metromix New York, 2/13/2009) http://newyork.metromix.com/music/pop/barry-manilow/235745/content Barry Manilow at Sovereign Center - Hundreds of women are swooning for Barry Manilow at the Sovereign Center. He made Reading the hottest spot north of Havana Thursday night. Manilow is known for songs like "Copacabana," where he sings that it is the [hottest] spot north of Havana. He's also known for "Weekend in New England" and "Mandy." His albums have sold more than 76 million copies worldwide. (WFMZ, 2/13/2009) http://www.wfmz.com/view/?id=640002 Desert AIDS Project to honor Dr. Anthony Fauci, Barry Manilow - The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards will recognize Dr. Anthony Fauci with its Silver Anniversary Science and Medicine Award. The awards ceremony will be Feb. 21 in Palm Springs. Established in 1984, the Desert AIDS Project serves people in the valley living with HIV and AIDS with medical care and social services. Other honorees include: Barry Manilow, Bebe Neuwrith, Kristin Chenoweth, Bill Jones and Harriet Goldberg. (The Desert Sun, 2/10/2009) http://www.mydesert.com/article/20090210/NEWS01/90210030/-1/rss Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy Bash - An exuberant Whitney Houston kept the Beverly Hilton Ballroom audience on its feet during a major comeback performance at last night's (Feb. 7) pre-Grammy Gala ... In addition to high-wattage performances by Jennifer Hudson -- including her surprise duet with Barry Manilow on "Weekend in New England," the gala served as a tribute to Davis. Despite the Recording Academy imprint, the gala remained Davis' show. Opening with Rod Stewart, the lineup included Kings Of Leon, Josh Groban (filling in for Usher, who canceled owing to a serious illness in his family), Kelly Clarkson and Leona Lewis. Prior to Houston's performance, Hudson earned her own standing ovation with an impassioned version of her hit single, "Spotlight." As in years past, Davis showed video clips of past galas and namechecked a good portion of the ballroom, which held more than 300 tables. Among the glitterati in attendance: Paul McCartney, a a blonde-mohawked Sly Stone (who elicited a roar from the crowd), Prince, Chris Brown, Rihanna, Quincy Jones, the Jonas Brothers, Katy Perry, Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas, Trace Adkins and will.i.am. (Billboard.com, 2/8/2009) http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/whitney-houston-returns-at-clive-davis-grammy-1003939527.story Events: The Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Party Show - Whitney Houston reclaimed the stage last night at her mentor Clive Davis' pre-Grammy party. She looked every bit like the musical royalty she is as she performed to a crowd that included legends Paul McCartney and Barry Manilow, and newcomers Rihanna, Chris Brown, Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry and others. Also making a return of sorts was a stunning Jennifer Hudson who performed "Spotlight" before being joined on stage by Barry Manilow for his song "Weekend in New England." (Neon Limelight, 2/8/2009) http://neonlimelight.com/2009/02/08/events-the-clive-davis-pre-grammy-party-show/ Pre-Grammy Party 2009 - Grammy Salute to Industry Icons in honour of record industry boss Clive Davis ... As well as honouring Davis, it gave musicians the chance to warm up for the biggest night of the year in the music calender, the 51st Grammy Awards tonight. But it was easily Whitney Houston and Jennifer Hudson - who has only returned to perform last week after the tragic murder of her mother, brother and nephew last year - who won the biggest applauses of the night. Hudson was greeted with applause as she sang a rousing duet of "Weekend In New England" with Barry Manilow ... Kevin Jonas, Sean 'P Diddy' Combs, Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, Katy Perry and Barry Manilow had plenty to talk about. (Daily Mail, 2/8/2009) http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1139022/Back-best-Whitney-Houston -declares-Ive-got-makes-triumphant-comeback-pre-Grammy-party.html?ITO=1490 Saturday night's celebrity-packed Pre-Grammy Gala - Grammy nominees in attendance included Duffy, Estelle, the Jonas Brothers, Chris Brown, Katy Perry, Eric Benét, Rihanna, Sheryl Crow, Fantasia, Wayne Brady, will.i.am and Jazmine Sullivan. American Idol was represented by alumni Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry, host Ryan Seacrest and judges Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi. Quincy Jones attended, along with Natalie Cole, Russell Simmons, Taylor Swift, Dwight Yoakam, Foo Fighters, Herbie Hancock, Miley Cyrus, Missy Elliott, Andy Williams and Earth Wind & Fire ... Jennifer Hudson sang "Spotlight" before sharing the spotlight with Barry Manilow for a duet. (USA Today, 2/8/2009) http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/awards/grammys/2009-02-08-clive-davis-houston_N.htm?csp=34 Clive Davis' annual pre-Grammy bash (February 7) - Last night the featured perfomers who took the stage included Whitney Houston, Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, Rod Stewart, Barry Manilow, Josh Groban, Kings of Leon, Sean Puffy Combs, and Faith Evans. Davis received a Lifetime Achievement award at the dinner held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel ballroom from the Grammys as an Industry Icon. The recording academy helped sponsor this year's dinner. The Davis dinner showcases the best the record industry has to offer in front of a star studded crowd. Last night the star wattage was turned up several notches by the attendance of Sir Paul McCartney, Prince, Sly Stone, lots of American Idol winners (Fantasia, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson) and three of the judges - Randy, Paula and newbie Karo. And then it was just lots of A list stars, from Joan Collins and Jackie Collins to Jamie Foxx, Rihanna, Rosanna Arquette, Bill Maher, Natalie Cole, Sam Moore, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Katy Perry, actor Jon Voight, Herbie Hancock, producer Richard Perry, Chris Tucker, singer Eric Benet, Chris Brown, the Blackeyed Peas, Val Kilmer, David Spade, plus both Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Melanie Griffith, Antonio Banderas, songwriter Dianne Warren, Jimmy Jam Harris, Dwight Yoakam, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, L.A. Reid, Cissy Houston, Berry Gordy, producer Phil Ramone, Quincy Jones, Kanye West, and so on. Jennifer Hudson performed her hit "Spotlight," then sat down with Barry Manilow — who was at the piano — and walked away with his "Weekend in New England" in a duet that turned into a stunning solo knockout. Hudson will also perform tonight on the Grammys. (FOXNews.com, 2/8/2009) http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,489725,00.html Clive Davis pre-Grammy party in Beverly Hills, California on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, honoring music mogul Clive Davis ... a night that included a rousing performance by Kelly Clarkson, and a magical duet between Jennifer Hudson and Barry Manilow. For nearly three decades, Davis' pre-Grammy party and concert had become one of the industry's most coveted invites; this year, the Recording Academy took the event over and honored Davis instead. Hudson performed her hit "Spotlight," which earned her one of her four Grammy nominations, and got a standing ovation from the crowd. But she raised the bar with a pairing with Barry Manilow, injecting one of his signature songs, "Weekend in New England." The Grammys air on Sunday on CBS. (Myrtle Beach, 2/8/2009) http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/586/story/776433.html The 51st Annual Grammy Awards, the music industry's premier event, will be presented Feb. 8 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. CBS will broadcast the event live, 8-11:30 PM ET; check local listings ... Nominees in the Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album include Natalie Cole ("Still Unforgettable"), Michael Feinstein ("The Sinatra Project"), Josh Groban ("Noël"), Barry Manilow ("In the Swing of Christmas") and Rufus Wainwright ("Rufus Does Judy At Carnegie Hall"). (Playbill, 2/8/2009) http://www.playbill.com/news/article/126032.html Legendary crooner Barry Manilow will perform an exclusive rendition of his Las Vegas Hilton show at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at the Sovereign Center in Reading. Thirty years after Manilow ruled the charts, he's still going strong. One of the top adult contemporary artists of all time, he has sold more than 75 million records to date. For ticket information, call 610-898-7200. (Lancaster Online, 2/8/2009) http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/233584 RSVP - Calendar - Barry Manilow ... Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 8 p.m., at the Dunkin Donuts Center, 1 LaSalle Square, Providence. Tickets are $119.99, $99.99, $79.99, $49.99, $29.99 and $19.99 and are available at The Dunkin' Donuts Center Box Office, charge-by-phone at 401-331-2211 or 617-931-2000, www.ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster outlets, as well as www.manilow.com. (The Herald News, 2/6/2009) http://www.heraldnews.com/entertainment/x2143289149/RSVP-Calendar Access Extended: Barry Manilow Talks "American Idol" Season 8 - Music legend Barry Manilow pays a visit to the Hollywood rounds to give the Season 8 "Idol" contestants a few tips to make it to the finals. (Access Hollywood, 2/4/2009) http://www.accesshollywood.com/access-extended-barry-manilow-talks-american-idol-season-8_video_990701 American Idol: Welcome to Hollywood! - One-hundred and forty-seven singers made it from the national auditions to the Kodak Theatre, where they were informally enrolled in a bootcamp of makeovers and coaching at the start of Tuesday’s Idol episode. The singers also got a little speech from "Copacabana" singer Barry Manilow. His definition of stardom? "Preparation meets opportunity." You said it! (People TV Watch, 2/4/2009) http://tvwatch.people.com/2009/02/04/idol-hollywood-week-begins/ Hollywood brings hope and heartache to American Idol - For the first time this year, Hollywood Week took place at the Kodak Theater, which is home to Idol's grand finale at the end of the season. Before the contestants could take the stage, though, they were all given a day of Idol Boot Camp, an intensive program that focused on their looks, vocals, and song choices. Barry Manilow appeared as a guest speaker and told the hopefuls that fame is just a combination of "preparation meets opportunity." Their opportunity now stood in front of them, so all they had to do was prepare properly. (Examiner.com, 2/4/2009) http://www.examiner.com/x-2695-American-Idol-Examiner~y2009m2d4-Hollywood-brings-hope-and-heartache-to-American-Idol American Idol: Triumph and Tears in Tinseltown - From standout singers to cursing, crying contestants to the return of "Bikini Girl," "American Idol"'s first round of Hollywood action had it all! A sea of 147 singers who passed auditions in cities across the country filled Hollywood's Kodak Theater to try and impress the judges once more. Before performing, the crop of competing hopefuls were enlisted in the first-ever "Idol" boot camp, where they received special attention from stylists, a glam squad, a vocal coach, and a very special guest speaker: Barry Manilow! ... At the end of the round, 104 contestants were left standing, but the number will dwindle tomorrow night as the infamous group round begins! (ETonline, 2/3/2009) http://www.etonline.com/news/2009/02/70389/

Go Guide Calendar: Feb. 5-13 Music: Barry Manilow, 8 p.m. Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza, 255 Highland Park Blvd., Wilkes-Barre. 570-970-7600 ... Barry Manilow, 8 p.m. Feb. 12, Sovereign Center Arena, Reading, 215-336-2000, 610-898-7469.(The Morning Call, 2/5/2009) http://www.mcall.com/entertainment/all-cal-gg-long0205.6769109feb05,0,2978927.story http://www.mcall.com/entertainment/all-upcomingconcerts0205.6770710feb05,0,1583269.story?track=rss Barry Manilow will perform his "Ultimate Manilow: The Hits and Then Some" show tonight at 8 at the Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre Township. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster.com, by phone at (570) 693-4100 or at any Ticketmaster outlet. (The Citizens Voice, 2/5/2009) http://www.citizensvoice.com/articles/2009/02/05/news/wb_voice.20090205.t.pg3.cv05cdbestbet_s1.2279733_loc.txt This Week's DVD Releases ... Loosely based on Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist, Disney's very decent Oliver & Company represents something of a milestone in the studio's history. Released in November, 1988, it was the first animated feature started during the Eisner/Katzenberg regime and, as such, the harbinger of very good things to come for that unit. Oliver & Company also is recalled fondly for songs performed by Bette Midler, Huey Lewis, Billy Joel, Ruth Pointer and Ruben Blades, the music and lyrics of Barry Manilow and Howard Ashman, and choreography by Bob Fosse. (Movie City News, 2/5/2009) http://www.moviecitynews.com/reviews/DVD/2009/090205.html Event Information: Barry Manilow, February 4 (8PM); 555 Elm St; Manchester; Verizon Wireless Arena. A true legend of our time, Barry Manilow will visit Verizon Wireless Arena on February 4th. Once proclaimed by Rolling Stone magazine "The Showman of Our Generation," Manilow's unparalleled career encompasses virtually every arena of music, including performing, composing, arranging, and producing. A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Manilow has triumphed in every medium of entertainment. Industry charts rank him the undisputed Number One Adult Contemporary Artist of All Time with record sales exceeding 65 million worldwide. This pop icon has written hundreds of songs and performed around the globe thrilling millions of fans, winning a Grammy, two Emmys, several Tony Awards and an Oscar nomination along the way. Contact info: Box Office (603) 868-7300. Tickets: $99.50, $79.99, $69.99, $49.99, $29.99, $19.99. (NewHampshire.com, 2/2/2009) http://www.newhampshire.com/calendar/details.aspx?eventDate=2/4/2009&eventID=14843 Best of the week: This one's for you - The legendary Barry Manilow comes to the Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester on Wednesday, and tickets are still available. The top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time, Manilow will perform his hit concert, Ultimate Manilow: The Hits...and then some. Tickets are $19.99 to $99.50 and can be purchased at 868-7300 or ticketmaster.com. (Concord Monitor, 1/29/2009) http://www.concordmonitor.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090129/ENTERTAINMENT/901290322 Good Morning America 2009 Winter Concert Schedule - Come to Times Square and shake off the chills at the "Good Morning America" 2009 Winter Concert Series. Annie Lennox (Tuesday, February 10), Barry Manilow (Friday, February 13), The Fray (Tuesday, February 3), and Wynonna Judd (Wednesday, February 4) will appear on the GMA Winter Concert Series. Performances in the Winter Concert Series are free and open to the public. Most concerts take place at our Times Square Studio at 43rd St. and Broadway in midtown Manhattan. Entrance to the studio is on a first-come, first-served basis. "Good Morning America" airs live from 7-9 a.m., with concert performances usually starting around 8:30 a.m. Viewers interested in attending a free, live performance should arrive at the studio no later than 7 a.m. (ABC News, 1/21/2009) http://www.abcnews.go.com/GMA/WinterConcert/story?id=6699375 http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/WinterConcert/ Sixth-grade teacher taps into multiple styles of learning - Four sixth-grade boys at Heritage Middle School gathered at the front of the classroom and launched into their rap, "One Voice." Darius Shackleford led the group in the steady rhythm, not knowing the so-called poem they chanted originally was sung by Barry Manilow. Teacher Lynn Estep revealed the surprise at the end of a lesson discussing the meaning and literary techniques behind Manilow's words. A consensus appeared to be among the students that the project was entertaining and they appreciated Manilow's message. Musically, Manilow got mixed reviews. Brooklyn Griffin said the rap version sounded more "normal" to her than Manilow's orchestration. Shackleford, however, found merits in it. "It was really interesting," he said. "You could hear all the melodies and all the instruments in it." Estep first brought Barry Manilow into the classroom 30 years ago when she was teaching in Illinois. Her class at the time was full of artistic students. The children had little confidence, however, because other students saw them as geeks, Estep said. She decided to teach them Manilow's song, "One Voice," about having the courage to speak your mind. She invited a local musician to teach the class to sing in harmony. A student named Rod Rogers played piano accompaniment in a subsequent talent show. "Rod started playing and from the audience his classmates came up and joined him. From that point on, no one picked on them. It was so exciting for me to see they weren't down anymore." Estep also uses other musical styles in her classroom. Classical music, she said, helps the students concentrate, but Manilow CDs outnumber others 3-to-1 in her classroom stereo. "His music was so positive. The messages he had were so unique," she said. For example, she uses his song "Never Met a Man I Didn't Like" in conjunction with a unit on world religions. Last fall, Estep met her musical idol in person as part of a 60th birthday surprise organized by friend Deb Petzing. Family and friends, including her former student, Rogers, met Estep in Las Vegas to hear Manilow perform. The teacher was blindfolded several times on the way there to preserve the secrecy of the destination. In the theater moments before the show, Estep removed her final blindfold. "The entire stage was lit with 'Ultimate Manilow: The Hits' and I cried," she said. "Then they gave me the backstage passes and that blew my socks off"... (Newark Advocate, 1/12/2009) http://newarkadvocate.com/article/20090112/NEWS01/901120329/1002/rss01 Sunderland's Empire Theatre - Dubbed The West End of the North East, the Sunderland Empire today announced a jam-packed bill of shows for 2009. Musical mayhem kicks off with Barry Manilow's Copacabana from January 21 to 24 presented by Sunderland Amateur Operatic Society ... To book tickets or find out more shows that will be taking to the stage, log on to www.sunderlandempire.org.uk or phone 0844 947 2499. (Sunderland Echo, 1/5/2009) http://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/West-End-spectaculars-star-at.4844366.jp Billboard CD review: Barry Manilow's "The Greatest [Songs] of the Eighties" (Arista Records) - With a Christmas single on the adult contemporary singles chart for the second year in a row and a fifth sold-out year of live shows, Barry Manilow's millennial presence continues to dazzle. Following "The Greatest Hits of the Fifties" (No. 1 debut, 2006), "Sixties" (No. 2, 2006) and "Seventies" (No. 4, 2007), "Eighties" is already off to a merry start with a No. 14 debut on the album chart. Manilow's gleeful duet with Reba McEntire on "Islands in the Stream" proves what a master arranger/interpreter he is, taking an overtly familiar hit and recasting it honorably. The same holds true for "Right Here Waiting" and "Have I Told You Lately." Most surprising are "I Just Called to Say I Love You," now a lite rhumba, and "Never Gonna Give You Up," where Manilow busts a groove. There's a lot of uncertainty in the world, but "Eighties" is one sure thing. (Billboard.com, 1/1/2009) http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSTRE50143U20090102?feedType=RSS&feedName=entertainmentNews

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