‘Coming Home’
Kristin Chenoweth (Concord)
4 stars out of 5
Kristin Chenoweth has a Tony (“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”) and an Emmy (“Pushing Daisies”) on her resume, along with a handful of well-received albums, but “Coming Home” is a first for the diminutive star of stage and screen.
The 15-track collection of Broadway classics, pop standards and contemporary tunes marks her first live album and was recorded at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center’s Kristin Chenoweth Theatre in her hometown of Broken Arrow, Okla. “I’m know for musical theater, but I grew up with country and gospel, and I’ve always loved standards and operas,” says Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda in Broadway’s “Wicked.” “So I figured that this live album would be a good chance to show people the different things that influenced me and the different things I can do.”
The charismatic Chenoweth shines in the live setting, serving up spine-tingling renditions of “Wicked” staples “Popular” (with lyrics in no fewer than five different languages!) and “For Good.” Additional keepers include performances of “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Bring Him Home,” “Over the Rainbow,” “No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)” and “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again.” This homecoming is a rousing success. (Jeffrey Sisk)
Pittsburgh In Tune 