In the first act of the show, Carrere sings in French in the audience, and moves her way up to the stage. One of the highlight vocals was her distinct and dramatic interpretation of “L’Accordéoniste,” as well as “Les Mômes de la Cloche,” the latter of which was from Piaf’s days as a chanteuse. She truly takes fans on a journey through Edith Piaf’s life over the years by performing some of Piaf’s classics.
Following an intermission, Carrere returned with the upbeat “Mon Manege A Moi” and a sassy yet powerhouse version of “Jezebel.” She made a few welcoming remarks in French and English about what a pleasure it is for her to perform at Carnegie Hall at the same stage where Piaf sang 60 years ago, back in 1957. Equally noteworthy and convincing were “La Foule” and “Padam,” while “Hymne à l’amour” and Mon Dieu” tugged at the heartstrings. During Piaf’s signature song, “La Vie En Rose,” Carrere went in the audience and flirted and slow-danced with a few male audience members. She even had the crowd singing along with the chorus of “La Vie En Rose,” as the lyrics displayed in the background, which was a neat sight, as the entire venue assisted her in paying homage to Piaf.
She closed with an emotional performance of the unflinching “Non, je ne regrette rien,” as orange lights dimmed on the stage. The control she maintained over her voice was yet again impeccable. It went on to garner her a lengthy standing ovation, and Carrere returned for one final song, “Milord,” where she invited a male audience member on stage with her to portray her “milord,” as everybody was chanting and clapping along.
At the end of the evening, Carrere, ever-gracious, went on to thank everybody who made this night possible for her, including her fellow musicians, producer Gil Marsalla, as well as the late Edith Piaf and the Carnegie Hall audience. Marsalla handed Carrere a bouquet of flowers for her Carnegie Hall performance.
In this show, Philippe Villa played piano, Guy Giuliano played the accordion, Laurent Sarrien played percussion and xylophone, and Daniel Fabricant was on double bass.
The Verdict
Overall, Anne Carrere was transformative as Edith Piaf in Piaf! The Show. She was offered a role of a lifetime, and she nailed it. Carrere captured Piaf’s mannerisms and music to the tee. The show was dramatic, witty, warm, authentic and utterly fantastic. Carrere was able to bring back Piaf for a final bow at the exact iconic venue where the legendary songstress performed 60 years prior. The entire cast of musicians was exceptional, and Marsalla did a brilliant job on the writing and direction. It is safe to say that Carrere belongs on the Broadway stage. This stellar production garnered five out of five stars. Congratulations.
