HE’S CLOSER THAN EVER

Brent Barrett proves that artistry
only deepens with experience

There’s a big difference between a great singer and a true veteran of the stage, and Brent Barrett proved exactly why he’s the latter during his performance at CVRep Thursday night. Bringing his retrospective show, My 40 Years On Broadway, to the Summer Cabaret Series, Barrett delivered a remarkably grounded, beautifully sung evening that demonstrated what real vocal craftsmanship sounds like.

From his first note, it is clear that Barrett’s instrument is as sharp as ever. His baritone is rich, effortless, and carries the kind of expressive weight that only comes from decades of consistently performing. He moved seamlessly through shows that have defined his career, treating the audience to songs from West Side Story, Chicago, Camelot, The Phantom of the Opera, On a Clear Day You Can See Forever, Closer Than Ever, and more.

One of the evening’s standouts came during Phantom‘s “The Music of the Night.” Because Barrett originally opened the production in Germany, he began the song in German. Hearing the familiar melody in a different language brought a completely fresh, gorgeous quality to the piece. It was a stunning choice, and the impact on the room was immediate. It wasn’t just me: the entire house was completely silent, transfixed. The room grew so quiet you could hear a pin-sized chandelier drop, and it felt as though everyone was breathing together.

What makes Barrett such a class act is how easily he balances that powerhouse talent with an approachable, easygoing presence. Whether he was channeling the slick charm of Billy Flynn or sharing personal stories from his forty years under the lights, nothing felt forced.

Ultimately, My 40 Years On Broadway was a fantastic evening of theater. Barrett didn’t simply sing his résumé; he gave a masterclass in connecting with an audience, proving he is still at the top of his game.

Brent Barrett

✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

My 40 Years On Broadway
Brent Barrett
Coachella Valley Repertory, June 25, 2026
CVRep Playhouse, 68510 E. Palm Canyon Drive in Cathedral City
Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7
Summer Cabaret Series ends on July 30, 2026
for more cabaret ($65 per person), call 760.296.2966 or visit CVR

✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦