Ford Theatre in 1860
Renee Fleming glorious at close of show!
An American Idol darling bombed at the top of the show, comic George Lopez insulted the President right out-of-the-gate, and a touching tribute to war heroes brought tears to the eyes.
In fact, the underlying current that swept the telecast along, appeared to guided by an invisible hand with an agenda in mind.
Was it just coincidence that a pretty African-American chanteuse belted out a Broadway tune about a colored woman’s plight, a war hero was singled out as a legal immigrant from Mexico who went on to fight for his new country once landed on these shores, and a celebrated Soprano warbled about the “truth marching on” (which turned out to be a great lead-in for the President’s parting speech to the Nation at the near-end of the hyped-up soft-shoe-show?).
Me thinks not.
Was Barack Obama simply an invited guest, or did the President orchestrate behind-the-scenes, to ensure the Democrat's message was presented in a neat-and-tidy package complete with ornate bow?
Unfortunately, "America's" (Obama's?) 4th of July celebration suffered a bumpy start, though.
A bland, non-charismatic host, caused viewers at home to utter up in disgust:
“Who the heck is this guy?”
But, it was the opening number by Kelly Clarkson, that triggered folks to grab for the remote.
The former American Idol contestant sashayed out in a overblown ballroom gown - too wide at the skirt and too-tightly-stretched over her pudgy frame - in the most unflattering way.
Uh-huh.
Clarkson looked more like a stuffed sausage than a dazzling Pop Star Diva.
In the wake of all the pressures of success, it appears that Clarkson is now eating her way into oblivion.
The tune she warbled (badly) - "Everyone’s got Something" - established (ironically) that was simply not the case with Kelly.
Bad taste persisted when George Lopez trotted out with that gnarled grin and proceeded to insult the President.
“I was asked if the President was real. I assured the person that he was, otherwise, he would have had his ears pinned back years ago.”
Dumbo smiled when an on-the-ball camera-man zoomed up for a close-up reaction, but I expect he was seething with rage inside.
Like Ronald Reagan before him, Obama is a good actor (or expert at masking his feelings).
No more invites to the White House, just betcha.
Dick Van Dyke scurried out on stage at one point - as part of a tribute - and to celebrate the return of an all-time Broadway favorite (Mary Poppins) to the Broadway "boards".
Though the seasoned pro is highly respected, some shook their heads at the dated material.
Moi!
What’s the expression?
Old and grey.
Corny, too.
On occasion, the camera floated around the interior of the Ford Theatre, momentarily putting the spotlight on the Washington power-players in attendance.
One Supreme Court Justice - you know, the Latino woman - looked puffy and tired beyond her years.
For the most part, it appeared from this perch, that there were quite a few stodgy stuffy Washington movers-and-shakers trying to get their mugs on camera and in the limelight.
The 4th of July show creaked, was flat and old hat, not with it (for the most part).
There were a couple of highlights, though.
In one quaint segment on the history of 1st families in the White House, a well-spoken woman noted that over the years one hundred-and-fifty-four children resided in the Mansion.
And, with wit and charm, the hostess recalled some of their antics for the audience to appreciate.
For instance, on the heels of being gifted with a toy cannon, Lincoln’s children allegedly turned it on the President’s cabinet with explosive results.
One President’s children were known as the “White House Gang” because they got caught firing spitballs at portraits adorning the walls.
In one lively entertaining segment, Lionel Richie was warmly received as he performed one of his popular mega-hits of yesteryear (“All Night Long”).
At one point, Richie let loose, and began dancing a clapping on stage which inspired guests to copycat in the packed house below the footlights.
In fact, I spied a few stuffy political types letting loose, too!
No panties were hurled on stage, Tom-Jones-style, though.
“I see you want to dance,” the talented performer quipped in Michelle Obama’s direction.
The 1st Lady was dolled-up in a mauve designer gown and spectacular neck piece which sparkled and caught the light just right.
Barack obama was smartly attired in a formal dark suit.
Positively Presidential.
But, get this, Barack often responded to the music with a roll of the eyes and a rhythmic bobbing of the head (as if he were stoned on a joint).
Soprano - Renee Fleming - stepped on stage and unfortunately chose to warble a tune that was all wrong for her professionally-trained voice.
Fleming came off like a pale version of Sarah Brightman.
However, she redeemed herself later with a spirited version of another tune that revved up the emotions of everyone in the ABC TV Special's sway.
Coincidentally, a contact of mine at her record company, just provided me with a copy of her new album for the purpose of a review.
The critique will follow.
At a solemn moment in the show, five men who valiantly earned the Medal of Honor, were singled out to represent all recipients of the prestigious group who have earned one over the years.
The light blue ribbon adorned with 13 stars is awarded to those who made supreme sacrifices beyond the call of duty while serving their country.
During this poignant touching presentation, General Colin Powell established his talent for public speaking.
What a stage presence, too!
The well-spoken Powell should be gainfully employed as a voice-over artist!
By the way, as each of the five Medal of Honor recipients were introduced to the audience, the President stood at attention and saluted each military man with utmost respect and admiration.
A prolonged standing ovation persisted and I expect there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
After Fleming’s rousing rendition of “Glory Glory Hallelujah”, the President took the stage.
Natch!
Told ‘ya he wasn’t an innocent by-stander.
Barack Obama noted that he was thrilled with the spectacular evening.
He thanked all the “voices” and “honored guests” who helped make the night such a success.
With a nod to the "Medal of Honor" fraternity in attendance he summed up.
“Heroism, that is what this Nation is all about.”
Right on cue, he closed out the hour show with a heartfelt message.
“God Bless you and America.”
Amen!
