By Carol McCracken (Post # 595)

To honor Liza Minnelli’s first ever trip to Portland to perform, Mayor Nicholas Mavodones will officially welcome her and present her with a key to the city. This special occasion takes place Tuesday, September 28th at 4 pm on the city hall steps, 389 Congress Street. Should the weather be inclement, the ceremony will take place inside the city hall in the State of Maine Room.

“It is an honor to welcome Liza Minnelli to Portland,” stated Mayor Mavodones. “She is an incomparable performer and while it may pale in comparison to her Tonys, Oscar Grammy, Golden Globes and Emmy, I hope our key to the city gives Ms. Minnelli a sense of how proud and excited we are to have her as our guest,” said the Mayor in a press release issued by Nicole Clegg, the city’s director of communications.

For the first time ever, Ms. Minnelli will be performing at Merrill Auditorium, Portland on Wednesday, September 29th at 7:30 pm. About 100 balcony tickets are still available. Seats cost $50. and $70.

The legendary Ms. Minnelli will be performing some of the greatest American standards of all time. She’ll be joined by a sextet of talented musicians led by famed jazz pianist, Billy Stritch. She will also perform selections from her latest album, Confessions. She is the daughter of the late Judy Garland.

Andy Gilbert, of Portland Ovations, said “bringing talent of her caliber is an honor for us. Bringing Liza Minnelli to Merrill is a dream come true. It’ll be a very intimate and engaging experience for all.”

For tickets, please call PortTix at 842-0800 or visit portlandovations.org today!