So, Kent thinks this is review #501? He may be off by a
few 100, but here once again, I present Herman's Hermits starring Peter
Noone as they present
An Olde English Christmas
I
must say that these five entertainers have worked to enhance what we
have seen in past years. Admittedly, this is only my second time seeing
this show in person, but I have seen videos of past Christmas tidings,
and I feel I have a certain handle on what has gone on. There are two
topics I wish to cover here this year. The first is how the show opens
and closes and the second is exploring changes in lyrics on several
songs. We have all stated that through the years we have misheard lyrics
that have changed our perception on what the song might be about. The
lyric changes tonight have been purposeful and are made to get you to
laugh, question what you heard or shake your head in wonder. In other
words, let's have fun!
With
background music supplied by Rich, Vance and Dave, we hear the
off-stage voice of Peter Noone as he recites (in his own way) The Night Before Christmas. Right at the start, words are revamped as we learn that Santa turned like a jerk
And as we hear him explain as he drives out of site, Santa Billy Sullivan jumps out and proclaims MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT. He
carries a sack, and he peppers the audience with HHSPN T-shirts and
cds. People jump up, wave their arms and flail away to try to catch the
flying cotton and plastic treasures. I sit quietly but my eyes are big
as saucers to match my smile. When Santa's sack is empty, and the
announcement of tonight's entertainment has been made, Peter Noone comes
running down an aisle and climbs onstage to sing Into Something Good.
Where
do we go from here? Why into the predictable HH favorites sparkled with
Christmas joys. Here is the line-up with lyric changes noted for you to
giggle about.
Wonderful World
Winter Wonderland - We'll conspire as we sit in the fire
Flagstar
at Westbury Music Fair in Westbury, NY ... NOPE! We never did get that
one right. However, Westbury changes names so frequently, maybe next
year.
Ring of Fire
Sea Cruise - It's no use to sitting and singing the Christmas Blues; Won't ya let me take you on a Christmas Cruise
Daydream Believer
Oh, Holy Night
Just a Little Bit Better
Listen People
For Your Love - I'll bring pizza and fajitas to your door
Silhouettes
Jezebel
All My Loving
East West - (This was beautiful and heart warming)
When a Child is Born
Traveling Light - The Flagstar Westbury Theatre in Westbury tonight
No Milk Today - No milk today because it's Christmas Day
Leaning On a Lamppost
End of the World
Glad All Over - You'll have no sorrow and high definition TV; Till the end of time and then you'll go blind
Because - I
know this is NOT one of Mr. Noone's favorite songs, but it was Dave
Clark's birthday. It is one of MY favorites however, so I was upbeat.
Start Me Up
Can't You Hear My Heartbeat
Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter - NO, NO! A full rendition of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, followed by Mrs. Brown.
I'm Henry the VIII I Am
There's a Kind of Hush - Before the song is finished Peter, Vance, Rich and Billy gather at the front of the stage to sing Silent Night. The second verse had the most beautiful harmonies. And then ... they finished Hush.
December
14, 2025 in Westbury, NY. As Mame said, "We need a little
Christmas ... NOW" I hope your holidays, wherever they be and whatever
you celebrate, bring you renewed joy and insight for all in the New
Year.
OK Tiny Tim, go for it!
GOD BLESS US EVERYONE
60 YEARS AGO TODAY:
12/22/65 – The film “Doctor Zhivago” premiers in New York
City
