She opened her eclectic set with “The Way We Were” and she continued with “Everything” and “Being at War With Each Other.” It was followed by “Woman in Love” and she was able to tip her hat to the late but great Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Laura Nyro with “Stoney End.”
Her solo rendition of “No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” was neat, thanks to her jazzy arrangement of it. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” was a highlight from the first half of her set, where she sat on a stool, serenading her fans, with a vase of flowers next to her.
She took her fans on a trip down memory lane to the motion picture Funny Girl, with “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” Streisand’s show included two special guests, which included heartthrob film and stage actor Patrick Wilson (“Little Children”) who collaborated with her on “Loving You,” as he showcased his tenor voice, coupled with Streisand’s angelic soprano. “Thank you so much Patrick,” she said, praising Wilson.
In addition, she brought out Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx who triumphed on “Climb Every Mountain,” which earned them both a lengthy standing ovation. This duet is featured on her forthcoming album, Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway, which will be out on August 26 via Columbia Records.
The iconic songstress concluded her well-received show at the Barclays Center with “Happy Days Are Here Again” and “I Didn’t Know What Time It Was.”
The Verdict
Overall, Barbra Streisand was able to take her fans on a musical journey at the Barclays Center for her homecoming show. She proved to be a true song stylist and she was able to make a strong connection with her audience, as she belted out hit after hit with comfort and ease. There were no gimmicks. Only a woman with a tremendous powerhouse voice who was able to blow the roof off the venue. Her live concert garnered an A rating.