There are no words to describe the type of entertaining show that Belty Betty puts on – you just have to see one. The alter-ego comedienne of local musician Erin Manning, Belty Betty’s pseudo-concerts are full of humor, satire, and surprises – and last night was no exception (with TWO opening acts! ). Supporting Betty were openers B.ET.A as well as Lea Marie – past American Idol contestant and rabid YouTube user (check it out here).
The End was a perfect venue for the mischief/ debauchery that followed… I had only heard one song by B.ET.A (Brianne Angarole) before Sunday night’s performance, so I had no idea what to expect, but B.ET.A is truly an entertainer. Her set was so high-energy, so outrageous, and so good. The electronic/pop mix was really clever – but not too electronic heavy, and B.ET.A’s vocals were effortless. Although it was an opening set for a comedy-based show, it was a great performance. Lea Marie was…indescribable. But I’ll try. The self-proclaimed "teen singing sensation" didn’t actually sing one note on stage. She was a huge hit, however. Her two male back-up dancers didn’t help the cause – clad in Nike Airs and black pleather pants, the entire performance seemed like a joke. Her last song, “Your Brother’s Girl,” was definitely the crowd favorite – echoes of the song could be heard out on the patio after her performance was over. Bottom line: it was a great experience.
The majestic Belty Betty took the stage with a bang – a medley of classic patriotic songs. The ensemble was very diverse – Indians, pilgrims, a turkey and even Lady Liberty. What ensued was nothing short of a hilarious party on the stage. Choreographed dances, an oversize stage prop pot for “Melting Pot,” burning sparklers, Thanksgiving Day ingredients being thrown down on the stage… it was epic. Even the interludes – a turkey being chased by a pilgrim, an African dance to “Whip My Hair,” were as strange and entertaining as the show. The audience was glued to the stage during the entire performance – laughing, dancing, singing and worshiping Belty Betty. My personal favorite was the “Native American Struggles” medley, which ranged from “Indian Outlaw” to Pocahontas themes. The set ended with Betty’s version of the Star- Spangled Banner, which absolutely stole the show. You are truly missing out if you haven’t caught Belty Betty live – make that your 2011 New Year’s Resolution.–Lindsay Hayes