Sarah Brightman: A Versatile Icon Returns with “Christmas Symphony”
Sarah Brightman, a name synonymous with theater excellence, has captivated audiences from the West End to Broadway and across music charts worldwide. Renowned for her unique ability to bridge musical genres, the 64-year-old singer is the only artist to have simultaneously topped both the Billboard dance and classical charts.
Known for her powerful three-octave range in “The Phantom of the Opera,” Brightman’s roots trace back to the disco era. This evening, she will grace the Arizona Financial Theater stage with her “Christmas Symphony” performance, a show infused with holiday nostalgia.
Exploring a Multifaceted Career
SARAH BRIGHTMAN: A self-described competition child, Brightman was introduced to the arts by her mother, engaging in ballet, modern dance, and singing. “I was fully trained really, and I was at art school when I got this audition for a dance group,” she shares. Her early foray into music saw her achieve a disco hit in the late ’70s, before transitioning back to theater with a role in “Cats.”
Her career, marked by versatility, remains grounded in a passion for classical music, which she views as essential to maintaining her vocal prowess. “I also have trained, you know, and still continue to train in the classical voice and classical music, and I love it,” she reflects.
Breaking Genre Boundaries
LAUREN GILGER: Brightman’s ability to transcend genres has set her apart as a pioneer in the crossover genre.
BRIGHTMAN: “I’ve sort of woven my own, my own way in life,” she says, emphasizing the importance of following one’s instincts in choosing projects. For Brightman, creative expression is not confined by genre; instead, she embraces opportunities that resonate deeply with her.
Vocal Mastery and Routine
GILGER: Maintaining a three-octave range requires dedication, and Brightman attributes her vocal stability to consistent training. “I work… with my vocal coach for like three hours today,” she explains. Brightman likens her routine to that of an athlete, emphasizing that protecting vocal cords is crucial as they do not age in the traditional sense.
The Spirit of “Christmas Symphony”
GILGER: Initially a pandemic-era live stream, Brightman’s “Christmas Symphony” has become a cherished holiday tradition.
BRIGHTMAN: “Within the Christmas spirit, it is about nostalgia,” she notes, highlighting the emotional significance of the season. Her performance is carefully curated to respect Christmas traditions, creating a personal and soulful experience for audiences.
The Thrill of Live Performance
GILGER: Despite her extensive experience, performing live continues to excite Brightman.
BRIGHTMAN: “I get more of a jolt now than I ever did,” she admits, attributing this to the challenge of crafting exceptional performances. At this stage in her career, Brightman relishes the opportunity to refine her craft, finding joy in the details and the pursuit of artistic excellence.
KJZZ’s The Show transcripts are created on deadline. This text is edited for length and clarity and may not be in its final form. The authoritative record of KJZZ’s programming is the audio record.
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