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Patrizio Buanne at the Highline Ballroom
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
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By Giovanni di Napoli
Patrizio Buanne triumphantly returned to New York City last Saturday (Oct. 22nd) with a spectacular performance at the Highline Ballroom. Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of his first PBS sell out tour, the show was the culmination of the North American leg of his 5th World Tour.
As the usher brought us to our private booth, I could definitely sense we were in for something special. The capacity crowd of about 500 (mostly swooning female) fans was buzzing with excitement in anticipation for the great Neapolitan pop crooner.
The multiplatinum recording artist is used to filling arenas around the world, so by his standards this was a small venue. While there is certainly something epic about large stadium concerts, I always preferred the intimacy of smaller shows. In addition to generally sounding better, there is an undeniable energy shared between the audience and artists.
Taking the stage to thunderous applause, Patrizio kicked off with a rollicking cover of Renato Carasone’s 1956 classic, Americano (Tu vuo’ fa l’ Americano). Putting in solid performances of many of his greatest hits, as well as songs from his latest album "Viva La Dolce Vita," his setlist included Parla piu piano, Luna Mezz ‘O Mare, Charlie Chaplin's Smile and, of course, his showstopper Il Mondo.
Between songs, Patrizio made us laugh with amusing quips and funny anecdotes. While talking about Engelbert Humperdink, Tom Jones and other childhood influences, he did some spot on impersonations of Axl Rose, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and “The King,” Elvis Presley. He capped off his tribute to Italian American singers (Tony Bennet, Connie Francis, etc.) with Shake the Spaghetti, a jocose ditty he wrote when he was only seventeen-years-old.
Clearly proud of his southern Italian roots, Patrizio spoke glowingly about the pre-unification Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, the everlasting pride and joy of southern Italians everywhere. For his encore, the Neapolitan even wore his patented Salvatore Argenio masterpiece, a custom made silk shirt emblazoned with the coat-of-arms of the Royal House of Bourbon–Two Sicilies.
To the delight of his adoring fans, Patrizio promised to sign autographs and take pictures with anyone who wanted to meet him after the show. True to his word, the artist came out and met with a legion of admirers, thanking each and every one. Considering they are mostly attractive, gushing women, this may not be as laborious as it seems. "It's a hard job," joked the singer, "but somebody has to do it."
Patrizio is the quintessential professional, a talented entertainer and a true gentleman. I had a fantastic time and look forward to his return.
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| Patrizio performed many fan favorites |
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| Halfway through the show, special guest and longtime friend Karen King joined Patrizio on stage with her band for a duet and a few songs |
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| Tickling the ivories: In addition to being an accomplished singer, the multitalented artist jumped on the keyboard and played guitar for a few songs |
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| Wailing on the guitar |
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| Always the romantic, the dashing Neapolitan offers a kiss on the hand and roses to several lucky ladies without ever missing a beat |
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| Patrizio literally wears his heart on his sleeve |
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| A couple of very happy fans show off their southern Italian pride |
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| After the show, Patrizio meets with his many admirers |
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| There is no doubt where Patrizio's loyalties lie |
Mass was sung by celebrant and homilist Fr. Richard Cipolla, Pastor of St. Mary’s Parish in Norwalk, Connecticut. He was assisted by deacon Fr. Robert Rodriguez, subdeacon Mr. James Barrett and several dutiful altar servers. Cavalieri John Napoli, Charles Sant’Elia and Vice Chancellor Patrick O’Boyle of the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George served as Knights in Attendance.
