Review: Billy Porter Brings More Than Just a Smile to His Black Mona Lisa Tour
(© Cindy L. Huang)
Tony-, Emmy-, and Grammy-winning artist Billy Porter has brought his talent and activism back to the stage with his Black Mona Lisa tour, which touched down in Los Angeles for a one-night engagement at the Pantages Theatre on May 6. Porter has a burning passion to protect his community under fire. In an electric, uplifting evening, he recounts his past career, while voicing in his opinions on the issues of today.
Aided by a live band and a litany of clips from past interviews on shows like Rosie O’Donnell and The View, Porter sails through the many genres of his repertoire, including his early R&B career with the 1997 album, featuring “Show Me” and “Borrowed Time;” Broadway numbers that he made famous in Kinky Boots such as “Sex Is in the Heel”; gospel numbers that reflect his heart for God, while addressing his conflict with the church; and songs from his upcoming album Black Mona Lisa.
Two highlights in the concert are “Always Be My Man,” a tender love song about fatherhood from his upcoming film Our Sons (which may give him an opportunity for an EGOT), and Pose co-star Michaela Jaé Rodriguez joining the stage for a heartrending duet of “Home” from The Wiz.
Porter’s performance is mostly about that glorious voice. But the fashion maven, who has destroyed the old repressed normative standards by stomping down the red carpets of the Oscars and other televised awards in magnificent gowns, comes prepared with several striking outfits, including a multi-colored, floor-length couture jacket over peach pants and a stunning blue dress with thick, oversized ribbon material that ensures a fierce silhouette. His face is beat for the gods, and his hair flows to enhance his hair-ography. Though not credited, the costume designer, make-up artist, and hair stylist all deserve hat tips.
Billy Porter is a warrior who suffers no fools. His production is dynamic, tender, and filled with power ballads that rouse the audience. The tour continues across the country until June 6 and should not be missed.
