“A Carpenters Christmas”

[rating=4] Many of my age group fell in love with Karen Carpenter during her years on TV and recording some great music. We all know the struggles she had with what we were told was an “eating disorder” that took her life while she was in her prime. None of us really know the reasons for her disorder, but it is thought that her fame may have been involved. Despite that memory, we have another memory of her- the beautiful musi that she and brother Richard brought to us with their sound.

I have been witness to Karen being kept alive by Lisa Rock ,who travels the country bringing this sound and story to those who loved, and still love, Karen! The “Close to You” concert is a masterpiece of CABARET work!, and now, her new show, “A Carpenters Christmas” brings back fond memories of the Television Specials of  the 1970’s. Yes! It has been a long time, and yet in my heart, listening to Lisa bring her music to life, I have the eerie feeling that Karen is looking down at her and smiling that warm smile she brought to the tv screen. Last night at The Metropolis Performing Arts Center in Arlington Heights, a perfect space for this intimate show, I was able to recall those find memories of “long ago, and oh so far away” when Karen would delight us with her holiday music; Sant Claus is Comin’ To Town” and “Merry Christmas Darling” and many more. In fact, two hours of clorious memories handled by the delightful Lisa Rock who has assembled an incredible group of musicians to back her up ( with vocals as well ).

While this show was only a one nighter, and I am sorry if you were unable to catch it- be aware that Ms. Rock will be back with this show ( I am in hopes as an annual event, and maybe more than one performance). But she also has her other concert, “Close To You” which I understand will be back in 2013. Ms. Rock, in no way tries to imitate Karen carpenter. She understands the inner feeling of Karen and her voice has the same quality. One can see ( or hear) from her performance the love and adoration that she brings to each line of every song. To keep up on her concerts, you can check out her site- www.closetoyouonline.com and of course, www.metropolisarts.com which will fill you in on an entire year of plays, concerts, comedy nights in beautiful downtown Arlington Heights with lots of free parking.

I will also keep you posted on this valuable asset to our community.