A Magical Night with Sutton Foster at MPAC: Holiday Classics and Broadway Charm
Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and dancer Sutton Foster, in a high-slit, slinky, shimmering gown only outshone by a dazzling smile, gave a one-woman concert at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) that people will long remember throughout the holiday season and beyond.
Her voice is hypnotic with a sweetness that exudes throughout every note she sings.
A Festive Opening Filled With Warmth and Charm
Accompanied by piano, guitar, and cello, Foster, like an innocent and happy schoolgirl, opened the show with the iconic Christmas song “Let It Snow.” The mood among the sold-out audience was light and festive.
Foster had an engaging, carefree aura about her. She revealed she had recently made many wonderful changes and made important decisions about her life. Foster stated that her mom’s energy, a woman who had passed away several years ago, flowed through her body, and she said, “It’s all right.”
Emotional Highlights and Intimate Moments
Foster sat down at the piano and said, “Sorry for the front row,” which caused loud applause from the audience as she exposed her lengthy legs. She sang “I Love You More Than Christmas,” and her voice was powerful and soulful. Those in attendance could sense that her rendition was driven by her love for Hugh Jackman, her co-star in the Broadway musical “The Music Man.”
Love affects all performing artists, and Foster delivered a motherly message to her daughter, Emily, and sang the Cole Porter song “Every Time We Say Goodbye.” This song portrayed Foster’s personal feelings as she explained how hard it is to be away from the ones you love when you have a busy career.
Sutton Foster at Cafe Carlyle through Dec. 6. Courtesy @suttonlenore on Instagram
Nostalgia, Storytelling, and Holiday Reflection
“Let’s do a little Dan Fogelberg,” Foster said, and she sang the hauntingly beautiful song “Same Old Lang Syne,” a tune that reunites the memories of Christmas past and present. In a tribute to one of the most talented vocalists and drummers of the ‘60s through the ‘80s, Sutton sang Karen Carpenter’s “Top of the World,” and attendees could see that the song reflected where Foster is in her life’s journey in 2025.
A Glowing Finale That Lit Up the Theater
Foster’s internal radiance permeated the room. In a warm and wholesome last tune, Foster sang “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and all who exited the theater were in a festive mood, wishing she could have stayed on stage just a little longer.
Encore Opportunity: Sutton Foster at Café Carlyle
Foster is in residence at Café Carlyle in NYC through December 7. So, if you want another evening with this incredible performer, cross the river to NYC. You won’t regret it.
Sutton Foster at the MPAC and Café Carlyle.
https://youtu.be/NxdjHNPbxO0?si=o_UnoTcm_UUYhqTk
