Review: STAYIN' ALIVE Gets Audience Dancing at Wausau's Grand Theater

STAYIN' ALIVE, the preeminent Bee Gee's tribute band, performed at Wausau's Grand Theater on January 12. The band's impressive vocals and high energy made for an entertaining and infectiously joyous performance.

STAYIN' ALIVE previously performed at Walt Disney World's Sounds Like Summer Concert Series at Epcot for over a decade before the event was discontinued. They have also performed in New York, Los Angeles, Mexico, Russia, Sweden and Finland.

STAYIN' ALIVE offers tight harmonies and impressive falsettos to bring the Bee Gee's vocally-challenging classics to life. In spite of their obvious talents, what is perhaps most remarkable and engaging is that they appear to be enjoying themselves.

Tony Mattina (as Barry Gibb) possesses an impressive vocal range and command of his voice. Not only does he nail Barry Gibb's trademark falsetto, but he also has a wide array of different vocal qualities - sometimes rich, sometimes breathy. Mattina's voice is so diverse that between songs, he often sounds like an entirely different singer.

Todd Sharman (as Robin Gibb) sings beautifully in his solo numbers and also harmonizes beautifully with Tony Mattina. Sharman's energetic dancing really helps set the tone of the show.

Joseph Janisse (as Maurice Gibb) provides excellent backing vocals and keyboard accompaniment.

Backup singer Cheryl Hardy is also a standout. Her powerhouse vocals are a remarkable and unexpected addition to the standard Bee Gee's fare.

The band, which includes Tom Wolf on drums, Chris Mullin on bass guitar, and Smokin' Joe Peeres on guitar, is also on point.

The audience atmosphere at this performance added to the overall experience. A handful of passionate fans danced and encouraged other audience members to do the same. While some shows suffer due to audience participation, this one flourished with it - the enthusiasm was contagious, and it was nearly impossible not to smile. Indeed, even the performers frequently looked amused but managed to maintain their stellar vocals even with obvious distractions.

One audience member stated "You guys are the best thing ever...ever!" Though his words may seem effusive, he wasn't too far off.

If you missed the show or want to see it again, you have a few more chances. STAYIN' ALIVE performs at the Eau Claire Regional Arts Center State Theater on January 13 and at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton on January 14.

Photo courtesy of STAYIN' ALIVE.

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