With that particular sort of expressiveness and virtuosity which is native to soul and jazz, White has one of those thunderclap voices that electrifies and illuminates everything it touches (think Izora Rhodes and Martha Wash of The Weather Girls). It was that voice plus her terrific comedic acting that won her the Tony for The Life — plus that great Cy Coleman/Ira Gasman tune “(Getting Too Old for) The Oldest Profession.”
A genuine fusion of Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughn, and Ella Fitzgerald, Ms. White brings vibrancy and life to every melodic note she sings. She always captures the essence of a dynamic songstress who revels in her love of song. Her heart and soul ooze through every powerhouse ballad. She is able to easily go from one type of song to another with ease and takes her audience hostage with her brilliance.
Always a great artist, always a warm presence. Highly recommended.
photos courtesy of SCFTA
Lillias White
Samueli Theater
Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa
January 23-25, 2020, at 7:30
for tickets ($89), call 714.556.2787 or visit SCFTA
