The People’s Diva Is Back

Examiner.com
Bette Midler, the people’s diva
August 16, 7:50 PM · Paul Lavell – Las Vegas Local Music Examiner
Bette Midler on stage
The People’s Diva, Bette Midler

A burro crosses the desert landscape as the wind begins to pick-up. A lone vulture perches itself on the edge of a billboard sign while off in the distance a tornado touches down on a deserted stretch of blacktop. No, it’s not a scene from the movie Twister, its Bette Midler ”“ blowing into town for an extended run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

The Divine Miss M ”“ “The People’s Diva”, thank you very much ”“ appeared on stage amidst a cloud of smoke and a dozen showgirls cleverly called The Caesar Salad Girls, singing the title song to her new show, The Showgirl Must Go On.

With a full band behind her, including a horn section, the People’s Diva as she announced herself to be known, performed a list of hits ranging from Glenn Miller’s In the Mood; The Rose, from the movie of the same name; and even a medley of Elvis songs (who plays a small role in the show).

The Showgirl Must Go On is full of costume and set changes, as well as Bette Midler’s unique sense of humor. A reoccurring theme behind the production is based around the history of Midler’s fictional character Sophie Tucker, which she first introduced in the early seventies. With songs and jokes and the dropping of the occasional “F bomb” ”“ along with other expressions that would make a sailor blush ”“ the audience enjoyed every bit of it.

During a dream sequence where the People’s Diva is struggling with the fear that she is no longer good enough to go on, she is visited by not one, not two, but all three of the American Idol judges. After some dialogue is shared between the trio the way that is seen on the famous singing contest, the People’s Diva is given new life and bounds with more energy then ever before.

Midler closes the show with Wind Beneath My Wings, which many believe to be her best. The entire production is entertaining from start to finish demonstrating that the Divine Miss M has not lost a single step in her illustrious career. Combined with the talents of dance director and choreographer Toni Basil, The Showgirl Must Go On is a must see.

The Showgirl Must Go On appears five nights a week at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, dark Monday and Thursday.