Gold Coast Jazz Society’s “Diva Power” with Ann Hampton Callaway

Tony-Award nominee Ann Hampton Callaway lit up the Broward Center stage with her electric star power in Gold Coast Jazz Society’s “Diva Power” concert. Best known for singing the iconic theme song to the 90’s sitcom “The Nanny” and penning seven of Barbra Streisand's best hits, Callaway captivated audiences with her distinct stage presence. Her dazzling personality paired with innovative renditions of age-old tunes made for one of Gold Coast Jazz’s most engaging performances yet.

Callaway brought down the house with her lively odes to some of contemporary music’s greatest influences: including the great Carole King, who Callaway was lucky enough to collaborate with on a tune years back. Callaway's performance of King’s classic “You’ve Got a Friend” proved to be a highlight of the production as it prompted the audience join in with the nostalgic melody. Patrons clapped along to countless smooth ballads and euphoric rhythms. Her ability to bond the audience and seamlessly transform the Broward Center’s sizable Amaturo Theatre into an intimate setting is a testament to her good old-fashion showmanship.

Callaway’s authenticity shined through as she told hilarious anecdotes and truly spread the holiday cheer. Grounded in jazz, she reconstructed a variety of iconic tuners to showcase her bluesy tone. Accompanying herself on the piano, Callaway delivered harm-warming performances of Beaches’ “Wind Beneath My Wing” and Etta James’ “At Last,” further exhibiting her vocal versatility. From traditional jazz to pop, Callaway never missed a beat and conveyed the same confidence and pizazz in every single note. ​ Ann Hampton Callaway, a natural born entertainer, truly embodies the diva spirit and infused the Great American Songbook with her own jazzy flare. This concert ranks as a personal favorite in all of my years attending Gold Coast Jazz productions, which can be attributed to Callaway’s apparent sincerity and undeniable talent. As a truly unique individual, Callaway engaged the audience with her warmth and encourages everyone to “embrace the diva within.” Make sure to catch Gold Coast Jazz Society’s upcoming concerts at the Broward C

enter for a true musical treat!