UB Tributes Buffalo's Favorite Son

"He's worked with the likes of Barbara Streisand… and Vanessa Williams," said Thomas Ralabate, Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance. "[And] he keeps his ties to Buffalo alive by working with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. He's one of Buffalo's favorite sons."

It was with this warm introduction that David Shire was introduced to the audience at the Center for the Arts along with his wife, Didi Conn.

UB's Theatre and Dance Department put together a wonderful, high-energy compilation of Shire's most famous songs for "It Goes Like It Goes" in a room full of fans both old and new.

"I'm not familiar with his music, but this show was definitely fun. I couldn't keep my eyes off the stage," said Hyein Ryu, a senior business major.

The performers, made up entirely of UB dance and theatre majors, performed 21 songs from Shire's legendary collection of music, and the talent was plentiful.

One student's talents that stood out in particular was Kara Tripoli. She shined not only because of her vocal talents, but also her ability to continue her performance despite minor setbacks.

During her performance of Shire's "Do You Want To Play Games/Stars" from Closer Than Ever, Tripoli's heel strap popped and she continued to belt out her lyrics, even with the minor wardrobe malfunction.

"I saw her shoe break and gasped, but she so gracefully kept on. I loved her energy," said Stella Kozlowski, a 43-year-old stay at home mom of Buffalo.

What gained the most applause, however, was the last number of the night from Saturday Night Fever. When the first note of the song overflows the audience everybody stood up in appraisal. The most endearing moment was when the whole dance and theatre company lunged into the audience to invite them to dance with them onstage.

David Shire, who was in the audience with friends and family, stood with pride and celebrated with them.

Being that it was opening night, the group let out its first-time jitters with stride. The show premieres through Sunday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. at the CFA at UB North.

Email: arts@ubspectrum.com