Idol update

Last night's theme for the Rehoboth Idol contest was Broadway. I chose to sing "Seasons of Love" from the musical "Rent".

Since my comfort zone is definitely old standards and torch songs of which there are plenty in most Broadway musicals, I thought "Seasons of Love" would show the audience and judges that I can sing any genre and that I'm not a 1-trick pony.

Miss Richfield 1981 was the hostess and emcee again, and I must admit that I have become infatuated with her! Although it flows out of her in a seemingly effortless way, her humor and witty interaction with the audience, judges, and contestants is quite smart. Go see her if you can! A special thank you to John from Indiana for these terrific photos.
So here's how the night went: after doing her intro song and introducing the judges, Miss Richfield 1981 brought all 5 contestants onto the stage for a general introduction to the audience and to decided what order we'd sing in. We drew straws and here's the order and songs performed:

1. Tamara - "My Favorite Things" from Sound of Music
2. Terry - "Ease on Down the Road" from The Wiz
3. Amber - medley of 4 songs from Rent
4. Tom - "Get Me to the Church on Time" from My Fair Lady
5. me - "Seasons of Love" from Rent

Tamara has a lovely voice and great stage presence, but unfortunately her nerves got the best of her and she kept forgetting the lyrics. It was almost heartbreaking to watch her struggle. Terry really used the stage and incorporated lots of choreography in his number. I was impressed when the audience learned that Amber created her Rent medley herself. I was thoroughly entertained by Tom's bachelor party interpretation of "Get Me to the Church"!

Miss Richfield 1981 asked about my costume choice. When I told her I'd be singing a song from "Rent" she said it made more sense. I think she was a little disappointed that I wasn't wearing polka dots again. Here's my performance in 3 segments:






Like before the judges went off to deliberate and Miss Richfield 1981 explained to the audience that this week they could have input on the contest results. Blue paper ballots were distributed to the audience and Miss Richfield 1981 explained that they should place the ballot in the bucket of the performer they liked best. The ballots were then given to the judges to be combined with the judges' scores. I had no idea this was going to happen, but fortunately 2 of my biggest fans (Steven and Joe P) showed up and were able to cast their ballots for me. At least they better had!
When the judges returned the results were announced:

• Tamara was in last place and will not sing in the finals next week
• Amber and Tom tied for 3rd place and will sing in the finals
• Terry was in 2nd place
• I was in 1st place
  

So next Wed is the final night and the remaining 4 contestants will each sing 2 songs: 1 disco era song and 1 song from any genre. I'm holding off on stating my songs because I've already changed my mind since a few days ago. But I'm planning to pull out all the stops and have friends and Spouse in the audience to cheer me on.