John Bucchino by Himself - Review

Reviewed by Amity Dry.

On a particularly cold Adelaide night the energy in the Festival Theatre’s Banquet room was warm, as Broadway songwriter John Bucchino performed a selection of songs he has written over the last 25 years.

Sharing the stories behind many of his songs Bucchino spoke of his move to New York, where his two new friends Steven Sondheim and Stephen Schwartz encouraged him to write for the theatre. There he was introduced to a circle of friends that included Liza Minnelli, who he later went on to work with.

Endearingly humble and self-deprecating Bucchino performed his songs with soul baring honesty. From the breakdown of a relationship to his insecurity after meeting someone new, his songs offered a window into his life.

An accomplished pianist his interpretation of the Richard Rodgers classic ‘My Favorite Things’ was a definite show highlight. As a writer, not a singer, his voice often fell flat on the top notes, however this only further illustrated that it is not always the vocal delivery but the intention behind it that connects to an audience.

Entertaining and engaging, this show was a lesson in watching a pro at work.

For Amazon links to John Bucchino's music - click here.