The David Bowie tribute at the Orpheum on Oct. 5 was amazing! I got caught up in a bizarre flow of energy that led me to spend the two days before the show recreating David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust look, complete with the Kansai Yamamoto rabbit romper! I had so much fun that night, with a great view of the concert from the second row. The VSO and a five-piece rock band were faithful to Bowie’s music, with innovation in the arrangements, and the audience vibe held appreciation, love, and enjoyment of this chance to remember and celebrate Bowie’s life and music.
During the interval I received a million compliments on my hair, make-up, and outfit, and lots of people took their photo with me. I thought I should make the most of it all, and was waiting for the right opportunity.
As I mentioned, the VSO was joined by a Windborne Music rock band for this Bowie tribute. The singer, Tony Vincent, gave a lead-up to each song. In between songs he began talking about Bowie’s fashion sense and innovative style, and I thought this is my moment. (I had a feeling I knew which song was coming!) So I strutted back and forth like I was on a fashion runway along the “catwalk” in front of the stage during the song Fashion. Turn to the left, turn to the right!
And then the band invited me up to conduct the VSO for Golden Years! What a rush! I went up onstage and was up there for the whole song. The drummer cued me on how to do the final crescendo at the end of the song. They were all so nice to me on stage. It was an unbelievable night—so much love, celebration, sadness, remembrance.
After the show, many people thanked me for bringing a beloved memory-image of David into the air of the event, and said it was the icing of the cake. It was truly magical for us all.
This is me on stage at the Orpheum, with the VSO and the rock band, actually conducting, dancing, and making a fool of myself! This was one of the best nights of my life. I still can’t believe it really happened! (P.S. The lead cellist is gorgeous!)
I’ve been rocking the Ziggy Stardust mullet since the devastating news of David Bowie’s sad death in January. I will be running the New York Marathon on Nov. 6 in Ziggy Stardust costume, in memory of Bowie and to raise money for Harlem United. If you can help this fantastic cause with a small donation, please visit my donor page.
