THE stylish Nina Kristofferson has received much acclaim in recent years for her Billie Holiday ‘story’ – a tribute to the music of the legendary jazz singer. But there is more to this talented musician (and actress) as evidenced at the Pizza Express Live Pheasantry (Chelsea, London) on Bank Holiday weekend where she demonstrated her wonderful versatility before an audience that included actress Anita Dobson.
Without a nod in the direction of Holiday, she put together a show that embraced songs made famous by the likes of Adele, James Brown, Beyoncé, Barbra Streisand, Ella Fitzgerald, Emma James, Dusty Springfield, Nina Simone and Dean Martin.
She even treated the audience to a little Puccini and Schubert where her strong soprano voice came to the fore. Not once was she overwhelmed as she imposed her own particular style on the chosen songs. As happy singing jazz as she was pop, classical and theatre (Les Miserables’ On My Own).
Supported by pianist Mike Stobbie, drummer Paul Robinson and Neil Murray (bass), Kristofferson seemed to gain confidence the longer the show went on. A little nervous to begin with, she raced from one song to another, rarely pausing for breath to interact with the audience.
It was only really six songs in that suddenly she took up her performance a gear with a powerful – and quite beautiful – version of Schubert’s Ave Maria. Following this with an equally strong O Mio Babbino Caro (Puccini), Kristofferson relaxed, feeding off the audience’s appreciation. From there on in, she delivered unique interpretations of Beyonce’s Halo, Adele’s Someone Like You and Streisand’s Somewhere. The show ended thrillingly with Besame Mucho and Mambo Italiano (made famous by Dean Martin).
With other standout songs Cry Me A River, My Baby Cares for Me and If You Go Away, Kristofferson demonstrated that she is a born entertainer. As happy singing as she is acting.
Awesome – overall a superb review however the image above is terribly misleading as it is not the wonderful Nina Kristofferson but someone else who may take offence to their image being used to support the article so please do amend the image as soon as you all can.
I thought Nina was fabulous throughout and nervousness didn’t enter into the equation.
Sipping gently on drinks throughout her performance, she connected beautifully with the audience and oozed confidence throughout. A true performer. #star #quality #wonderful.
We get to see it all again as Nina will showcase at The Zedel in Soho on 24 October so it’s another amazing opportunity to hear her super dulcet tones across the musical spectrum. #Bravo
Pic sorted. Our apologies. A talented performer
Will definitely see her on 24 October – thank you so much for your comments.
Great review although I agree with the previous comment about the main image of someone else being very misleading. I nearly thought I’d landed on the wrong review!
I saw the first night and have seen Kristofferson in several other shows and there’s never been any hint of nervousness from her.
“Timeless” does indeed showcase Nina’s versatility and ease of singing her own style across the genres. A very talented lady.
Pic sorted – our apologies – superb performer