Well blow me down. FINALLY got to a Manilow concert and struck a JACKPOT. It was opening night at the Paris for Mr Manilow.

The theatre was not packed to the rafters as befits his talent, not Mr Manilows fault, but the people at front of house telling people seats were NOT available and I bet turning away disappointed fans.

There appeared to be only a couple of technical hitches , one a mike that had Mr Manilow asking for them to turn it down (or risk his hearing for life), and then a great piano quadruple twist with pike going AWOL when one of the Piano mikes was offline.

Mr Manilow mixed his better known songs with a smattering of lesser songs (but still that Manilow touch) as well as songs from his new Album where he sings other famous writers love songs. As he said if you can’t score with his new Album you never will.

He placed his own life further in the spotligt with photos and scratchy “record your Voice” records from his past. Thank god for a grandfather with vision is all I can say.

My one concern was that Mr Manilow looked thin, perhaps unhealthily so perhaps more pasta?? I also noticed a limp in his right leg (as he is around my age, I can understand the limp….but I have travel insurance to cover any problem and I am sure his health cover is A1)

Despite all this, the ravages of time that we all face, has perhaps removed that youthful voice but the gusto, verve and talent shines through yet again on a star who can show other new acts what stage craft is.

Mr Manilow from Section D to your right, in rows L and M, we thank you for a masterful enjoyable night to remember.

We would LOVE to see you down in Australia I am more than sure we would fill your concerts.