Judy Garland, Melbourne, Australia, 1964

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I had the privilege of seeing Judy Garland in 1964, when she visited Australia for concerts in Sydney and Melbourne.

Her concert in Sydney was a knockout, she was a sensation, a perfect performance.

What a difference a city makes, the concert in Melbourne was a disaster.

Judy was hours late, and when she did arrive, she decided that she just wanted to talk, sitting on the edge of the stage, rambling on about her grievances. 



She eventually sang 'San Francisco' - flawlessly, not a flat or missed note, it was enthralling to see her (even if briefly) at her best...what an amazing performer.


On her arrival onstage, she wore a pencil skirt and perilously high stilettos but then changed to flat shoes and slacks. 

After singing that one song so perfectly, she bounced offstage as they played the overture to 'Over the Rainbow' several times, but, then the announcement was made that Miss Garland wouldn't be returning to the stage.


Heartbreaking, because I thought she was the ultimate singer and entertainer. 

After all she had been through in life, she could still beat out a song, powerfully and perfectly.

I am glad that I was able to see her perform, and at the beginning of this rant, I said that I had the privilege of seeing her, and that's what it was.


Thank you, Judy.







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