Rick Wakeman, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre - review

The 68-year-old star gave audiences at Wolverhampton Grand a wonderfully varied show, as the Yes member performed an array of his best-known hits, as well as a range of pieces from his new album.

Strolling out onto the stage in a pinstriped suit and white trainers, the prog icon instantly had fans in giggles as he recoiled from the bright lights shining on to the stage.

“Gosh, that’s bright,” he winced.

“I don’t mind white lights, it’s just that at this age I find myself walking towards them.”

And with that, the tone of the evening was set. We were in for a great show, no doubt about it, but Rick instead proved to be outstanding, with mesmerising performances which seemed to cast a spell over the crowd.

He treated the audience to a stunning rendition of Amazing Grace, which then morphed into a gorgeous performance of my personal favourite of Rick’s - Morning Has Broken, which he recorded in 1971 with Cat Stevens.

See Rick play Morning Has Broken here:

Each time we’ve been to see Rick before, he always tells the tale of how he never actually got paid for this recording session - much to the crowd’s amusement. But last night, Rick revealed Cat - now Yusuf Islam - tried to pay him back not long ago for the session, wanting to settle his debts. But Rick refused, explaining that he’s actually made a fortune telling his tale of non-payment on stage.

The star then played a lovely rendition of Return To The Centre Of The Earth’s The Dance Of A Thousand Lights, which he dedicated to his late parents. As he played the large black piano centrestage, he was accompanied by an orchestra and choir on recording. Though this was a lovely experience, I would have much rather have been able to hear more of Rick’s playing, as he was a little drowned out by the backing music.

"I praise my mum and dad a lot," grinned Rick.

"They actually wanted me aborted, but the doctor said as I was four years old it was a little late."

Then came the interval.

“I never used to have intervals,” quipped the star.

“It’s the old prostate. In a few years time, the first half will be just eight minutes long.”

Upon his return, Rick continued with his stories, explaining that his father was a talented pianist - and that he had taught him how to play 1934 aria Summertime; which he then played with passion and unquestionable talent. This was undoubtedly one of the evening’s highlights, performed with incredible intricacy and depth.

Rick paid tribute to his 'dear friend' David Bowie, with stunning renditions of Life On Mars? and Space Oddity.

He also gave a new slant on Beatles' hits Help, with a beautiful ballad-style cover, and Eleanor Rigby in the style of Soviet composer Sergei Prokofiev - both of which feature on the Piano Portraits album.

“The wonderful Rachael Heyhoe Flint was a great friend of mine,” explained Rick, with a wry smile.

“A few years ago, I had a show coming up in Wolverhampton and Rachael said to me, ‘for heaven’s sake, play something intellectual for the Wolverhampton crowds’.”

And with that, Rick hilariously launched into a series of nursery rhymes in the style of classical composers; such as Baa Baa Black Sheep in the style of Mozart.

This was very funny - and had the crowd in stitches from start to end. This is a prime example of the kind of wit and originality Rick exudes.

No other artist could entertain a theatre full of people playing alone - on just the one instrument, no less - and keep them riveted for the entirety of his set.

Rick is one of the warmest, wittiest, most talented musicians around. And he is always an absolute pleasure to watch.