There aren’t many 82-year-olds who can make a crowd jump to its feet, sing its lungs out and maybe even tear up a little, but Barry Manilow isn’t most people. For over half a century, he’s been the man behind the moments: love songs, heartbreak ballads, that drama-filled night at the Copa with Rico and Lola.
This December, he’s gifting us once more with A Very Barry Christmas, a show that’s equal parts concert, celebration and a spin through pop music’s most memorable hits. Across two weekends, Fanilows—yes, that’s what they proudly call themselves (I count myself among their ranks)—will flock to the International Theater at Westgate Las Vegas for a dose of comfort and joy, Barry-style.
This is no ordinary holiday Vegas show. The production is a snow globe of sentiment and showmanship: glittering lights, lush arrangements and that voice, still soaring through the room, still hitting those high notes. Manilow weaves his classics with holiday standards, turning “White Christmas” into a slow-burn emotional power ballad. No matter who you are—bah humbugs included—it will hit you straight in the heart.
Along with holiday classics (expect a rockin’ “Jingle Bell Rock” and perhaps a mention of a certain red-nosed reindeer), the beloved Manilow hits will be there. When the audience stands for “Weekend in New England,” half of them will be mouthing the words through tears. In between, there will be anecdotes from an extraordinary life and career, stories that remind you why this man’s music has soundtracked so many lives. Do yourself a favor and bring a copious amount of tissues.
When asked why he keeps doing it, Manilow simply says, “It’s a holiday party where we get to laugh, sing and celebrate together.” And that’s exactly what it feels like: equal parts nostalgia and community. Whether you’re there for “Mandy,” “Can’t Smile Without You” or that inevitable conga line during “Copacabana,” the real moment is the connection—one voice, multiplied by hundreds of waving glow sticks.
You can feel it before the curtain even rises. The fans show up early, trade stories and pose with cardboard Barrys just outside the theater. The air buzzes with anticipation, sequins sparkle under the lobby lights and the preshow chatter sounds like a family reunion in full swing. The earnestness and lack of irony are downright refreshing. They’re here for the big choruses and even bigger feelings.
And yes, behind the songs, there’s heart. A Very Barry Christmas continues its partnership with Las Vegas Toys for Tots, inviting fans to bring new, unwrapped toys for local children. It’s the perfect reflection of Manilow’s whole deal: generosity, gratitude and music that brings people together.
That’s why A Very Barry Christmas is a show like no other. Manilow performs like that Brooklyn boy who still can’t believe this is his life, amazed that the crowd keeps showing up, humbled that they know every word. His ongoing residency, Manilow: Las Vegas—The Hits Come Home!, continues to pack the Westgate theater year-round.
He writes the songs. We still sing them. And in December, Manilow is the gift that keeps on giving.
Westgate Las Vegas, 5+. westgateresorts.com
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