Idina Menzel, The poster girl for modern Broadway. Named the ‘Streisand of her generation’ by the New York Times. If you haven’t heard her true name, the name ‘Elsa of Arendelle’ may ring a bell, which is commonly used in households. This iconic singer doesn’t only belt out the Oscar-winning song Let It Go, but she’s also played Maureen from Rent in the movie and the play, and was the original Elphaba from Wicked. I was fortunate enough to witness her live in concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Idina Menzel Red Rocks Concert Review
As my mom and I made our way from the car to the infinite line of people waiting to be checked for security, we saw the infamous sloping red beasts of the newly named national monument. We waited in line, and I listened to the eager chatter of others who were immense fans of Menzel. Once we went through security, I pranced up the steps to be greeted by a crowd of people almost as large as the rocks themselves. But I couldn’t focus on the rainbow of shirts; I could only concentrate on finding our seats and analyzing the view.
We were perched in the nineteenth row, (almost) directly center. The stage was decked with the live orchestra and her band, and an elegant yet mysterious white staircase. It wasn’t an elaborate set, but it kept a clean image. I remember wondering where she was going to appear from, predicting it being the stairs. When the screens hanging over the stage blazed on with video clips of her performing and a voice over of her telling the story of her childhood, I quickly moved a row down where there were vacant seats, entranced by the stage magic.
Then a figure strutted onto stage, belting a world-famous show tune that she helped create the image of: Defying Gravity. She sang the last high notes with ease, as if she was modestly singing in the car. After, she introduced herself and how her family residing in Louisville connected her to Colorado. She spoke to her audience confidently yet relatable, saying what a person speaking their thoughts in the moment would say while keeping the audience entertained with her charisma. She led into songs from her personal album, to covering other famous musical theatre pieces, to singing songs from musicals she’d starred in. Her high notes showcased her undeniable talent and her ability to navigate her strong voice and riffs flawlessly.
Throughout the show she commented on the astonishing beauty she was performing in and how the breeze could cause possible wardrobe challenges. The night produced a brisk, cooling wind, which I found refreshing after the scorching day. The area that backed Idina was breathtaking, with a hued light constantly illuminating it. The openness of Red Rocks was a perfect environment for the show, and the sky was cloudless above us while over the city and other sections of wilderness it remained overcast. The weather added to my enjoyment of the event, in an atmosphere ideal for shrinking into your sweater and being lulled by Idina’s unique, serene, jazzy voice. The pleasure induced by warm sweaters and hearing Idina’s resonate voice fill the amphitheater was like listening to a Frank Sinatra Christmas song while wrapped in warm blankets by a fire in a rocking chair.
Attending Idina’s world tour was an experience that deepens the admiration I hold for her vocals and personality. I found myself anticipating the times when she would talk as much as I anticipated her next song! She caused hearty laughs to erupt from the audience and drew slack jaws with her precise notes. It was gratifying to attend her show and witness her be out of character and realistically chat with the audience. She is an inspiration for those who aspire to see their name on a playbill. I’m extremely fortunate to have Idina Menzel be my first concert at Red Rocks!
IF/THEN
Idina Menzel will be performing in Denver from this Tuesday, October 13th 2015, through Sunday, October 25th 2015, with her critically-acclaimed performance as Elizabeth in If/Then (a role and a Broadway musical written specifically for her).
If/Then follows two distinct storylines in the life of Elizabeth, a city planner who moves back to New York to restart her life in that city of infinite possibilities. When her carefully designed plans collide with the whims of fate, Elizabeth’s life splits into two parallel paths. If/Then follows both stories simultaneously as this modern woman faces the intersection of choice and chance.
If/Then will be showing at The Buell Theatre, Denver Center for Performing Arts and it’s run time is 2 hours and 40 minutes including 1 intermission.
Ticket prices start at $49 and can be purchased at by clicking HERE.
* If/Then contains strong language and mature themes