Dressed in an elegant white dress, Carey opened her show with “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” where she earned a standing ovation from the New York audience after singing its first note, especially since they know they were in the presence of a musical muse, and rightfully so.
She continued with a nostalgic version of “Charlie Brown Christmas,” as images of the Peanuts characters displayed on the giant televised screen. “Hello, New York,” Carey exclaimed, prior to acknowledging her fans in the venue, as well as the fact that Christmas is a time for “love, peace and joy.” She also thanked the kids that were a part of her Christmas production.
Carey picked up the pace of the set with the upbeat “Oh Santa!” and it was followed by a noteworthy cover of Darlene Love’s signature hit “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).” The pop sensation noted that she has a great time making Christmas music.
Her choir went on to sing a gospel tune which was well-received by the crowd, as Carey changed outfits, and returned with a bronze dress. She delivered a tender and angelic version of “Silent Night,” and went on to acknowledge all of the people that made her show possible.
The fans clapped along with her on “Joy to the World” and she went on to perform a holiday tune from her second Christmas album, entitled “When Christmas Comes,” which she nailed.
She continued with a sassy cover of “Up on the Housetop,” as a Santa Claus went in the crowd and gave fans presents.
Carey displayed her tremendous range and whistle register on “O Holy Night,” where she was able to leave her fans breathless, in awe of her superb talent, prior to taking them on a trip down memory lane with her smash hit “Emotions,” where she showcased her trademark pipes yet again.
The inclusion of the R&B hit “We Belong Together” from her Emancipation of Mimi album was also sheer perfection. The highlight performance of the evening was her stellar rendition of her optimistic ballad, “Hero,” as her elaborate stage was eloquently graced in blue laser lights.
She closed with her smash holiday hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” thus leaving her fans wanting to hear more.
The Verdict
Overall, Mariah Carey was fantastic at New York’s Beacon Theatre. She interacted well with the audience and put them in the Christmas spirit. Her vocals were heavenly and impeccable. Her live “All I Want For Christmas Is You” holiday show earned 5 out of 5 stars, and she is worth seeing live whenever she is in town.
