Introduction:
In the whirlwind of the past year, Barry Manilow has been on a festive roll, culminating in his latest TV special, “A Very Barry Christmas.” This article delves into the heartwarming details of the special, Manilow’s prolific career, and his thoughts on the term ‘Fanilow.’ Join us on a sleigh ride through the highlights of a year that has been nothing short of extraordinary for the legendary musician.
A Very Barry Christmas TV Special: A Festive Extravaganza:
Barry Manilow has crafted a unique holiday tradition with his Christmas-themed TV specials, and “A Very Barry Christmas” is no exception. Filmed at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, the special seamlessly blends timeless holiday classics like “Jingle Bells” and “White Christmas” with Manilow’s chart-topping hits such as “Mandy” and “Copacabana.” Directed by Matt Askew, known for his work with Adele, the special promises a visual feast with 12 cameras capturing every angle, creating a truly otherworldly experience.
The Origin of the Christmas Show:
How did this festive spectacle come about? NBC executives, hungry for Christmas content during a strike, discovered Manilow’s regular show and expressed interest. The result? A heartwarming holiday special that captures the essence of Christmas, complete with Santa, children, Christmas trees, and even snowfall on the audience.
Barry Manilow’s Prolific Year:
Beyond the holiday cheer, Manilow’s year has been a whirlwind of success. From his acclaimed shows in Las Vegas to receiving honors at Carnegie Hall and playing five consecutive nights at Radio City Music Hall, Manilow has shown no signs of slowing down. His stage musical, “Harmony,” finally opened on Broadway after decades in development hell, marking another milestone in his illustrious career.
Manilow’s TV Legacy:
Barry Manilow is no stranger to the small screen, having won Primetime Emmys for his specials in 1977 and 2006. His genuine and honest approach to every performance has endeared him to audiences over the years, making the transition from stage to screen seamless.
The Evolution of ‘Fanilow’:
Did you know that the term ‘Fanilow’ originated from a 2003 episode of “Will & Grace”? Initially skeptical of the term, Manilow eventually embraced it, realizing its catchiness and the affection fans had for it. Now, ‘Fanilows’ proudly declare their admiration for the legendary artist.
Manilow’s Unwavering Energy:
At 80 years old, Manilow’s energy is nothing short of remarkable. Playing five consecutive nights at Radio City and dismissing the idea of taking nights off, he attributes his stamina to not worrying, not sleeping much, and not eating much. A true testament to his passion for the stage.
Looking to the Future:
With a career spanning five decades, Manilow reflects on the potential of receiving the Kennedy Center Honors, an accolade that has eluded him thus far. Despite the absence of a call, he remains humble, expressing gratitude for the honor and the possibility of reaching the “top of the line.”
Conclusion:
In a year filled with ups and downs, Barry Manilow stands tall, capping it off with a heartwarming Christmas special. From his legendary hits to the evolution of the term ‘Fanilow,’ Manilow’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary year, let’s celebrate the enduring magic of Barry Manilow and look forward to what the maestro has in store for the years to come.
FAQs:
Q1: How did the “A Very Barry Christmas” TV special come about? A: NBC executives discovered Manilow’s regular show at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and, impressed, decided to produce a Christmas special.
Q2: What makes Barry Manilow’s Christmas show unique? A: The special seamlessly blends classic holiday songs with Manilow’s chart-topping hits, creating a festive experience for audiences.
Q3: Where was the special filmed, and who directed it? A: The special was filmed at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and directed by Matt Askew, known for his work with Adele.
Q4: How did the term ‘Fanilow’ originate? A: The term was coined in a 2003 episode of “Will & Grace” when a character declared herself a Fanilow while waiting for tickets to a Manilow show.
Q5: What keeps Barry Manilow energized at 80? A: Manilow attributes his unwavering energy to not worrying, limited sleep, and minimal eating, emphasizing his passion for the stage.
Q6: Has Barry Manilow ever considered a summer replacement TV show? A: While ABC did offer, Manilow turned it down, preferring to focus on annual specials instead of a regular series.