When George Michael died on Dec. 25, 2016, at the age of 52, the world lost a truly remarkable musical talent, but he left a rich legacy of immensely popular music. On Sept. 19, 2024, that music will be the tool to evoke the spirit of George Michael at Philadelphia’s Miller Theater titled, appropriately enough, “The Life and Music of George Michael.”
Headlining “Life and Music” is singer/actor Craig Winberry, a critically acclaimed performer seen onstage in such shows as “Thank You For Being a Friend” — a “Golden Girls” musical parody — and “Mamma Mia!” While the show was conceived and directed by Dean Elliot, Winberry nevertheless had a fair amount of input in crafting the finished product, helping to choose the final roster of songs.
Winberry says he has had an emotional connection with Michael’s music from an early age, with the spirit of George Michael’s expressiveness coming out even when performing in church. With regard to “Life and Music,” Winberry points out that, while his performance is perforce reminiscent of George Michael, he is nevertheless bringing much of himself to the interpretation.
And it’s not an easy repertoire. Michael’s oeuvre covers multiple genres, from romantic ballads to dance pop to R&B and more. Winberry didn’t want to give too much away, but he coyly mentioned that fans should look out for a popular cover of a Stevie Wonder song that Michael recorded. Winberry praised Michael’s talents as a writer, calling the material “some the most eloquently written songs in the contemporary playbook.”
When asked what audiences should take away from “Life and Music,” Winberry said, “I think audiences leave with a smile on their face. But they should bring their dancing shoes, too. Most people probably mostly know George’s ballads, but he put out some banger dance tunes, too.”
That sentiment is echoed by director Dean Elliott.
“Fans are out of their seats the entire night, singing and dancing in the aisles,” Elliott said in a statement.
George Michael struggled for much of his life with his sexuality, but in his later years came to terms with himself and his identity as an out and proud gay man. That personal journey suffuses his musical legacy. Concerning that legacy, Winberry said, “It’s all about self-acceptance and community. It’s important to make that connection with people.”
Winberry spent much of the summer touring Australia with the show, which is currently midway through its North American leg. The current tour is scheduled to wrap up with 12 performances in Toronto in November.
Beyond theater and film, Winberry is half of a music duo called BaseSuite. A recent EP release by BaseSuite includes a cover of the Wham! classic “Club Tropicana.”
Craig Winberry will perform in “The Life and Music of George Michael” on Sept. 19 at the Miller Theater, 240 South Broad St. For tickets call 215-893-1999 or visit ensembleartsphilly.org.
