I know, I know - Elaine Stritch is a "legend" - she makes sure you know it, believe me... Maybe I'm the only one in the universe who felt like smacking her, but I did feel like smacking her. She does have some interesting stories about Old Hollywood, however the rest seems like a never ending, self-congratulatory vanity piece. I got the feeling that she's been practicing these "naked" little soliloquies for her audience of one, in front of the mirror, for years. Maybe that is the point of the show, I don't know. Perhaps some think she should be humored because she's 80, but crikey, I just found most of it insufferable. Sorry Elaine...

While she is a familiar face to younger viewers;(she has played many cameo parts; ""The Cosby Show"", etc.) they would benefit to catch this show on cable; or rent the DVD.I recall seeing Ms. Stritch in the Woody Allen movie, "September", but her stage career, which was quite extensive, is well documented here, even for those of us of younger generations.If you don't have a chance to visit Broadway, this is your next best introduction to it. Ms.Stritch talks about Marlon Brando, her drinking problems, Rock Hudson, and her early stage career; all at once. The camera follows her to London, shows the extensive preparations and rehearsals; the anecdotes are all real; and more interesting than the dreck which is reported today about Hollywood couples; Brad and Jen; etc.; ad infinitum; I for one would rather hear about past mega-stars who had REAL talent, like Ms. Stritch. Do yourself a favor and see this performance; you will see real talent and diversity on stage; original comedic and musical routines; and you will learn what a real star is.

Elaine Stritch is one of the survivors of Broadway, a tough old broad with a voice if, not exactly melodic, is of the stuff great stage singers are made of. Think Ethel Merman after hundreds of cigarettes. This show, which ran on Broadway and then in the West End, was well worth seeing and this recording is a good standby if you missed the live event.In between memories of her start in showbiz, her time as an understudy, her first big break (in Pal Joey singing 'Zip'), her time in Hollywood, her stage career, her sitcoms, and her alcoholism, Ms Stritch finds time to sing a range of songs including 'Zip', 'The Ladies Who Lunch', 'Broadway Baby', 'Why Do The Wrong People Travel', and, best of all, 'I'm Still Here'. With minimal staging it really is the case that the star is the thing, and her she reigns supreme.Fabulous.

Gut wrenching is one of those descriptive throwaways too often used insincerely to pump up the ego of some mediocre talent. Not so in the case of Elaine Stritch: At Libery. I defy any lover of the theatre to remain in his seat at the conclusion of this two and a half-hour journey of theatrical brilliance. The experience truly is gut wrenching! Ms. Stritch is that rare bird who makes the stage a living, breathing organism. Without props or scenery we are privileged to hear her express her incredible love for life and the spotlight through songs, musings and memories of her six decades in show business. When she is finally able to put down the bottle and begin her career anew, we breathe easier, with the same joyous simplicity that she faces her life sober. This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that makes the whole world look right. That Ms. Stritch is in her mid-70's means the incredible feat is all the more special.