My love for Liza

The 62nd Annual Tony Awards

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15th June 2008 - Radio City Music Hall, New York City. Liza presented the Best leading Actor in a Musical Award, won by Paulo Szot for South Pacific. Here are a few pictures of OUR leading lady.

The Brilliant Billy Stritch

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An award-winning composer, arranger, vocalist, and jazz pianist of extraordinary range and sophistication, BILLY STRITCH breathes new life into the Great American Songbook, all the while bringing an easy sense of humor and showmanship to his performances.Born and raised in Sugar Land, Texas, Billy Stritch got his start at age 12, playing piano at his neighborhood First Presbyterian Church. Word spread about the child prodigy, and the local country club hired him for a four-year weekly gig in the piano bar. The dreaded requests came in droves, prompting Billy to rush home and learn all the requisite standards, which would subsequently fill his tip bowl! Inspiration came from jazz greats like Oscar Peterson and George Shearing, but his older sister’s love for Elton John and Billy Joel opened up a new world of pop music which informs his playing to this day. After being turned on to singers like Mel Torme, Ella Fitzgerald, Mark Murphy and Carmen McRae, Stritch started to find his own voice to use in conjunction with the piano mastery.

Read more of Billy's biography and all the latest info at; http://www.billystritch.com/

John Kander and Fred Ebb

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Composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb have forged one of the longest-running and most successful creative partnerships in Broadway history; their bold, brassy style giving rise to a series of enormously popular and provocative musicals including Cabaret, Chicago, and Kiss of the Spider Woman. Kander was born March 18, 1927, in Kansas City, MO, and began studying music as a child; he started his professional career in 1950 with Second Square, and between 1955 and 1957 served as choral director and conductor for Rhode Island's Warwick Musical Theatre. From there, he arranged the dance music for Gypsy and Irma la Douce, and made his Broadway composing debut with the 1962 flop A Family Affair. Later that same year, Kander met Ebb, with whom he soon collaborated on the songs "My Coloring Book" and "I Don't Care Much," both later recorded by Barbra Streisand. The duo's first stage musical, Golden Gate, went unrealized, but it did convince producer Harold Prince to hire them for his Flora, The Red Menace, a satire of bohemian culture and radical politics which also featured Liza Minnelli in her Tony Award-winning Broadway debut. Kander and Ebb's next collaboration continued in the political vein of Flora, but with much more serious overtones; 1966's Cabaret, a brilliant examination of fascism in pre-war Berlin, rocketed the duo to massive critical and commercial success, winning seven Tony awards (including Best Musical) on its way to a run of 1,166 performances and an Oscar-winning film adaptation. Kander and Ebb resurfaced in 1968 with two new musicals, The Happy Time and Zorba, followed three years later by 70, Girls, 70; in 1972, they also composed a number of songs for Minnelli's Emmy-winning television special Liza With a Z. After contributing material to Streisand's 1975 film Funny Girl, later that same year Kander and Ebb launched Chicago, which was largely overlooked during its original run but was revived to massive success two decades later. In 1977, they scored Martin Scorsese's film musical New York, New York; the title song later became a signature hit for Frank Sinatra as well as the Big Apple's unofficial theme. Also that year, the duo launched The Act on Broadway; both projects starred Liza.

A Time to Live - 1985

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Liza played the part of Mary-Lou Wiesman, A mother struggling to cope with her sons muscular Dystrophy and the agonising fact that, one day, she will lose her son. Liza gained a Golden Globe award for her portrayal of Mary-Lou, Showing that as an actress, She is at the top of her game.

Everyone asks the question "Why do you like Liza?"

2008-06-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

"Why do you like Liza Minnelli? What's the attraction?"
It comes up a million times and I give everyone the exact same answer that I am going to write here. If Liza asked me herself, "Why do you love me?", this is what she'd get.
Babies and animals love you unconditionally. They love you because you love them. You feed them, you care for them, you make sure they're alright. I love Liza unconditionally because she does all these things without even knowing me. She feeds me music that changes my life and alters my mood, She makes sure we all are happy with what she puts up onto the stage and she cares about our opinions. On a personal note, The warmth she gives to other human beings, the way she'd not afraid to hug someone in pain, how free spirited she is. She's the kind of person you could go up to and say "I have a problem. Can I tell you about it?" and she'd say "Sit".
I feel a huge connection with her because I've been where she's been. I've been at rock bottom before and she's helped me get back up again, without even knowing she's done it.
I try not to call myself a "fan". Even though this blog is titled "An intimate look at a fan's devotion" I don't particularly like the word. I feel it's too harsh. I'm an adorer. I adore her.
I know that if I have a bad day, a really bad day, I can sit down and watch a interview and listen to her tell everyone how she stayed strong and she got through it and it helps me gain a little courage and face the problem I have at that time. She's the kind of person that would be your best friend or the mother you could only wish to have.
I guess a part of me, since I was a little girl, had wished that Liza had been my mom. I know it sounds strange but, even though I love my mother, she was never always completely there in mind. My mom has battled with Bipolar Disorder for 25 years and has been in and out of hospitals all my life. As a result of this, She would drink heavily, My brother and I carrying her to bed more often than not. My relationship with my mom deteriorated when I hit my teens and when many of my problems began although now that I am older, 21, our relationship has got back on track. I guess I wished that Liza was my mother, Not because she was famous and rich but because I felt I had an emotional connection with her. A overwhelming feeling of love and all I wanted to do was protect her. Eight years old and I wanted to protect a woman I had never met but who I had such a deep connection with. I often thought about the year I was born and that, had I been Liza's daughter, it would have been in her marriage to Mark.
Having met Liza four times in the past year and a half, I have got more of an understanding of the kind of person she is. She truly is the most remarkable, strong and independant woman I have ever met. A truly willful and positive person. A lover not a fighter. She shows dedication, timeless effort and is an absolute phenomenon. Without her in my life, I would have no substance. A good way to explain it is if you are a Christian or a Catholic. You follow the bible as your guide. You turn to it for stability, for growth, to live your life. Liza is my bible. She gives me substance and order in my life and I know I can overcome many fears and problems. Because I know I have her wisdom to look at. I know I have her words.

Liza and Mark

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Liza and Mark were Married on the 4th of December 1979, Liza's third marriage and her longest, lasting 12 years. They were divorced on 27th January 1992. It has been said that the reasons for the divorce was the fact that Mark couldn't handle the fame that surrounded Liza and often felt left out, although this has been mentioned in several biographies and reports, It is not entirely known if it's factual or not. I feel that this relationship was one of stability for Liza, Mark being a Sculptor meant he was not in the attention of the spotlight before the relationship began and I think Liza benefited from this. It is saddening that their relationship didn't make it. It was my favourite relationship and they seemed so suited for each other.

The Sterile Cuckoo - 1969

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Magazine Covers from over the years

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Our Liza

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Liza in Glasgow 2008

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I got into Glasgow for 3pm and made my way over to meet my friends Conor and Clare at their hotel. What a great pair they are. Very funny and friendly and very easy to talk to. We walked the reasonably short distance to the SECC and got to the stage door for about quarter to four. There was only a handful of people waiting, mainly autograph hunters in search of a Celebrity signature. Me met Neil there, He's a great guy. We went out for drinks after. Anyway, We were waiting for about half an hour when Billy Stritch came outside for a cigarette and turned the corner, away from everyone. I decided that it would be a good idea, and a morale boost for him, to go over and say Hi and conor came with me. He was so friendly and we chatted for about 10 minutes about the weather and when they were going back to New York and stuff like that. I showed him my picture of me with Liza and he remember who I was from the Sarasota Concert. He told me I looked beautiful and he gave me a big cuddle and told i him I'd see him later. A few minutes later we were told to move to the other door as Liza would be heading straight for the dressing rooms. She arrived at about 5.15, got out the car, shook Clares hand, then mine and then saw Conor and gave him a kiss and a cuddle. She didnt have time to sign anything right there and then but we were told to hand stuff to her Manager and she'd sign the backstage. So she went to her dressing room and conor was allowed to go back. Conor did ask Ron, Liza's choreographer, If I could come back too. He had said No originally but once he was inside, he asked Liza and Liza said it would have been fine but by that time the doors had been closed and sound checks were getting underway so I would be going backstage after the concert anyway but Ron made sure Conor told me that it would be a definite, considering I didn't get to watch the rehearsal.
Liza's manager came out about half an hour later so I got my picture back all signed. Conor came out at about 6.15 and we went back to the hotel, had drinks and then made our way back to the SECC. We had a quick drink and took our seats. I was sitting up on the lower circle while Conor and Clare where on the ground level. Liza was fantastic. really skinny, superb voice, very reminicent of her radio city days and she just gave it her all. She opened with Teach me tonight which was fantastic! Everyone was up on their feet. I cant remember exactly what she sang but I know she did My ship has sailed, Mammy, sara lee (which everyone just adored) maybe this time, the man I love and a few more that I can't remember. She finished the end of the first act with Cabaret. I ran down to Conor at Intermission to say Hi and he told me Alan Cumming was sitting right infront of him. I went out for a smoke and as I was coming back in, I ran into Alan Cumming! lol I shook his hand and he introduced me to his boyfriend, He went for a pee and I took my seat. Second half was terrific, as usual. the four dancers portraying the Williams brothers were better than last year and they sang and danced there asses off. Liza of course ended the show with New York New York. At the very end of the show, I made my way down to meet Conor and luckly enough Alan was still in his seat so I got a quick picture with him and his autograph which is signed on the back page of the my September play script as I had no paper! lol I'll Scan it and put it on the group page. Conor, Clare, Neil and I waited in the auditorium along with people that had won the television comp and Liza's managers decided it would be far more easier to bring Liza out than bring everyone in. She came out and was very chatty, saying she loved Scotland and how beautiful it was. She stood right next to me, brushing her arms against mine a few times and I turned to her and said "Everybody here just adores you. You can see that." She said "Oh thank you, I just love it here." then she tapped my arm with her hand lol She didnt have any time for pictures, which I was disappointed about, so she quickly signed a few peoples things and went away. I asked one of the security guards to let Johnny Rodgers know that I was waiting to see him and he was expecting me so he came out and we had big cuddles and kisses, got my picture with him and we just chatted about how he's liked Glasgow and the UK tour and how it was good to see him again. As you all know Angie and I have met him twice before and he's just a doll. Very quiet and so cute. He went away and I forgot to give him my CD so I gave it to one of the security guards to give to him. Afterwards we wenty back round to the stage door and saw Liza come out. There were alot of people waiting to see her but she said something like "Bye Babies! thank you for coming! Ill be back!" She gave me a quick wave and blew kisses and then she got in the car. There was a little disabled girl who was wheeled up to the car door and liza gave her a big hug and a kiss and signed her stuff. Then she was gone.
We went back to the hotel, dumped our stuff and went for another drink before heading to a club for some partying. Clare rocks on the dance floor! lol We practically never stopped! Of course we requested Liza and got "Losing My Mind" played to the delight of many!! Went to Macdonalds at 3am with Clare, phoned a taxi and was home for 4am.
Overall:
Met with Billy Stritch and got a big cuddle
Met Liza twice and shook her hand and got patted lol
Got pic signed
Met Alan Cumming
Got pic and autograph with Alan Cumming
Met up with Johnny Rodgers got pic taken and gave CD to him

I am a little disappointed as the time we had with Liza was so rushed and I guess I am a little disappointed I didnt get to watch her rehearse. But, I have met her twice before and had wonderful experiences with her last year so I really shouldn't complain. All in all, I've seen her in Concert 5 times, been in the audience for a live tv show when she was guest staring and Ive met her 4 times. That cant be bad for a 21 year old girl from Scotland can it?

Liza singing "Lazy Bones" on the Johnny Cash Show

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Liza Minnelli "God Bless America"

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Liza Minnelli & Joel Grey "Money Money"

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Liza Minnelli "New York, New York"

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Liza Minnelli - New York New York

LIZA....with a Z

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And the award goes to...

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Liza Minnelli has achieved a lifetime of Memories, of goals and has entertained the worlds for 45 years. She been on the stage, the screen, danced her ass off and sung her guts out. Liza's career ares been recognized as that of lustre, dedication and true commitment to the theater and to the world. The first Award that Liza won was in 1965, for Best Actress, for her performance of Flora in 'Flora the Red Menace', at just 19 years old, she is the youngest actress to ever win a Tony Award. On March 27Th 1973, Just 2 weeks after her 27Th Birthday, Liza won an Academy Award for Best Actress, for her performance of Sally Bowles in 'Cabaret'. Joel Grey won Best Supporting Actor that night, As you can see from the above picture. She was also nominated for Best Actress for the 1969 release of 'The Sterile Cuckoo'. The following year, 1974, Liza was awarded her second Tony, a 'special' Award for her dedication to the theater. Her Third Tony was honored to her in 1978 for her one woman show, 'The Act'. Liza was also nominated for Best Actress in 1984, along with Bernadette Peters for 'Sunday in the park with George' and Rhetta Hughes for 'Amen Corner', for her role in 'The Rink' but lost out to her fellow cast member, Chita Rivera. On July 24Th 2001, Liza accepted a GLAAD (gay & lesbian alliance against defamation) Vanguard Award at "The 16Th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, honored for being a member of the entertainment community who has made a significant difference in promoting equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
Liza quotes: "I must say, I've been given some awards in my time, but this is very, very important to me. I'm moved and I'm honored to receive this award from a wonderful organization that I deeply believe in, and that's GLAAD," Minnelli said in accepting the award. "Love is the most cherished feeling we have; it's unique to human beings, and if anyone thinks they can dismiss love through politics, they're nuts." Among the three Tony's, The Oscar and the GLAAD award she's won, Liza can safely boast a few more. She won a Golden Globe for her performance in 'Cabaret' in 1973, A second Globe for her performance in 'A Time to Live' in 1986 and has been nominated four more times for The 'Sterile Cuckoo', 'Lucky Lady', 'New York, New York' and 'Arthur'.

She also won a Living Legend award at the 1989 Grammy Awards, for her work in the music industry and was even inducted into the Theater Hall of Fame on January 29Th 2001.

The extent of her award collection just goes to show how amazing Liza is, That she has been dedicated to and the people understand just how fantastic her work is. She has deserved every single award she has and the ones that she will get in the future. I feel very incredibly proud of her.

Liza's a Hollywood STAR

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On September 30, 1991, Liza Minnelli received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was honored for her career in theater which, at the time, had spand an amazing 29 years. To date, Liza's career in theater has reached a tremendous 45 years. (Her star is located at 7000 Hollywood Boulevard.) Her star was raised by her fan club, generating funds by having bake sales and car washes. She was joined on Hollywood Boulevard with her half sister Lorna Luft, Lorna's daughter Vanessa and hundreds of fans, reporters and spectators as she was presented with her 'mini star'. Judy Garlands star can be found at 1715 Vine Street and Vincente Minnellis can be found at 6676 Hollywood Boulevard. Here Liza is with Billy Stritch, her good friend and pianist, and posing by herself looking delightfully happy! Who can blame her!

My mother gave me my drive....

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Here are a small selection of beautiful photographs of Liza and Judy together from 1946 to 1960.
Liza Minnelli was Judy Garlands first child, Born on March 12 1946, with Vincente Minnelli. Judy went on to have two more children, Lorna, born November 21st 1952 and Joseph (Joey) Luft born March 29th 1955, with producer Sid Luft. Judy had always supported Liza in her career, knowing that it was to happen eventually. She had said to Liza at the very beginning of her career 'Don't sing my songs'. Vincente would later tell her that 'They'll come a time when you'll find it's ok to sing them', and she has, selecting very carefully the songs that she may sing. Liza has always been classed as "Judy Garlands daughter" throughout her career and it has been hard for her to separate herself from her mother. Judy had said, on discussing her own songs 'Be a first rate version of yourself, not a second rate version of anyone else', clearly talking about herself. I personally think Liza has her own style, her own music and her own personality. In my eyes she is Liza Minnelli. Not the daughter of Judy Garland. Sadly, Judy passed away on June 22nd, 1969 in London, England due to drug related causes. Her final resting place is Ferncliff Cemetary and Mausoleum in Hartsdale, New York. Judy will never be forgotten. She lives on through her music and her movies. She brought joy to our hearts and laughter to our lives and continues to do so and we'll always remember that quirky sense of humor. Here I celebrate the time that Liza had with her mother alone.

But my father gave me my dreams

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Here are a selection of beautiful pictures of Liza with her father, Director, Vincente Minnelli from 1947 to the early 1980's. Liza was definetly a daddy's girl as you can tell from these pictures. Liza is the oldest of two children fathered by Vincente. His other Daughter, Christiana Nina was born in 1955 to his second wife, Georgette Magnani. Vincente definetly lives on in liza. Not just through her trademark eyes but in her soul. She has always claimed that 'my mother gave me my drive but my father gave me my dreams', believing that anything is possible as long as you believe in yourself and believe in make believe. Sadly, Vincente passed away on July 26th 1986 in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 83 from Alzeimers Disease, naturally devastating Liza, Tina nina and his fourth wife, Lee Anderson-Minnelli, not to mention his followers and his dedicated fans who had supported his career spanning over 50 years. Vincente was laid to rest in Burbank, California in Forest Lawn Memorial Park and although he is no longer with us, he will always live on through his movies, his pictures and in our hearts.

Liza's Discography

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1990 - The Act - Orginal Broadway Recording (1977)

2005 Results/visible Results - Sony International

2001 - 20th Masters-The Millenium Collection: Best of - A & M Records

2000 - Minnelli on Minnelli Live from the Palace - Angel Records

2004 - When it comes down to it: 1968 - 1977 - Raven Records

1996 Liza Minnelli - Gently - Angel Records

2001 - Liza Minnelli - The Ultimate Collection - Hip-O records

1977 Tropical Nights - Columbia Records

1999 The Rink (Original Broadway cast) - Polydor

1977 New York, New York

1972 Liza with a z - Columbia Records

1992 - Flora the Red Menace - Original Broadway cast recording (1965)

1964 Liza! Liza! - The Complete Capitol Collection- Capitol Records

1987 Liza Minnelli at Carnegie Hall (live) - Telarc

1996 - Cabaret (orginal soundtrack recording 1972) -

2004 The Best Of Liza Minnelli - Columbia/Legacy

1993 - Best Foot Forward - (1963 0ff broadway revival cast)

1995 - Palais des congres des Paris - Charles Aznavour and Liza Minnelli

2002 Liza's Back - J records

2001 Liza Minnelli - The Capitol Years - EMI Records

Snapshots

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Liza with her brother, Joey Luft (mid 80's), Liza with Bette Midler (Mid 70's), Liza with Andy warhol, Bianca Jagger and Roy Halston (late 70's) and Liza with Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr while performing 'The Ultimate Event' (1989).

The many faces of...

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This is a collage that I designed for Angela, I love the picture of Liza on the phone...So normal!

Liza and I

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people love the colour blue. They love a certain kind of food, they like walking along the beach. I love Liza Minnelli. Always have, always will. The energy that she gives when she's up on that stage. The amount of heart and soul that goes into every word she sings. She delves into the Characters and she makes sure you understand everything about them. I have never seen a performer give as much to her audience as Liza does. She gives you shivers down your spine, your hair standing up on end. She'll have you crying, Laughing, shocked and dazed with every song she sings. She works her ass off and she deserves every standing ovation and red rose in the world. Her music has always healed me. When I have a bad day I listen to the words she says. It feels like they are about you, that this song is about your life and your situation and you can relate to it. You feel like you're not the only one going through what your going through.

If I'm happy, I'll listen to her happy songs. It moves me, it changes my mind and my mood and she makes me feel better about myself. A lot of people give Liza a bad rap. They see a mirror image of her mother, The Late Judy Garland, and see her problems with Alcohol and drugs, her Marriages and Divorces. We all have problems. Everybody in this world at some point or another has to deal with overwhelming situations but you get through it. You overcome them and you learn from them. Liza has learnt from her mistakes. She has been entertaining the world for over 40 years and she just gets better and better. Liza is a fantastic performer, she's a superstar and she's a human being. She's devoted to charities such as AIDS, helping to find a cure and devote time and money to AMFAR and even recording a song "The Day after that" with 150 members of the public, men women and children, and a 70 piece Orchestra who all turned up for free because they wanted to make a difference. Liza cares. She believes and she deserves a lot of credit.

Nobody will truly understand just how much Liza has changed and altered my life. She has made me feel bold. She has made me strong when I couldn't get up. She's taught me to go with the flow and follow my heart and never ever give up on what you believe in. She made me believe in life again. She made me realise that, OK, crappy things do happen and sometimes you get hurt and want to stay in bed but life is a great thing with so many wonderful opportunities so get your ass out of bed and live it! Be who you want to be. The way she has altered my spirit is truly magnificent. The way she has touched my soul and made me more of a human being and less like a statue. She's gave me an understanding of all things in life, to be courteous and kind and hold your head up high and get on with the day and for that, I will be eternally grateful.

Liza's Filmography

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2006 The Oh in Ohio. A woman gets a belated introduction to the joy of sex in this comedy. Priscilla (Parker Posey) is a thirtysomething public-relations agent with the unenviable job of trying to lure new businesses to Cleveland, OH. Priscilla is married to Jack (Paul Rudd), a high-school teacher who is reaching the end of his patience with his career. Things aren't going especially well at home for Priscilla and Jack -- she seems unable to have an orgasm, and while Priscilla insists she's perfectly happy with their sex life, Jack is driven to distraction by his inability to arouse his wife. When Kristen (Mischa Barton), one of Jack's students, begins displaying an extra-curricular interest in him, he throws caution to the wind and begins an affair with her, and has soon moved out of the house. Left on her own, Priscilla finally begins feeling sexual frustration, and turns to Alyssa (Liza Minnelli), an outspoken sex therapist who advises her to learn how to pleasure herself. Alyssa's advice proved to be right on the money, and soon Priscilla is a changed women who is looking for a new man in her life. She soon finds one in Wayne (Danny DeVito), a swimming-pool salesman whose sloppy appearance belies his talent in the bedroom. The Oh in Ohio was the first feature film from director Billy Kent, who previously established himself making television commercials. Directed by Billy Kent and Adam weirzbianski.

1991 Stepping Out. Set in Buffalo, New York in the 90's, Liza Minnelli is Mavis Turner, a former Broadway star, now teaching Tap dance classes in a local church hall for a bunch of misfit dancers. Glenda (Shelley Winters) is a crotchety but caring piano player for the lessons. Mavis gets a comeback shot at stardom if she can whip her amateur group of tap dancers into shape for a charity benefit in aid of Save the Children. Mavis is put in tough positions by her boyfriend, Patrick, who is chasing sour dreams and is horrified to learn that Mavis becomes pregnant. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, Based on the play by Richard Harris and Screen play written by Richard Harris. Music by Peter Matz and songs include 'Stepping Out' by Kander and Ebb. Great performances made by Ellen Greene (Maxine), Andrea Martin (Dorothy), Bill Urwin (Jeffrey) and Juie Walters (Vera).

1988 Rent a cop. Set in the 1980's, Detective Tony Church, played by Burt Reynolds, is forced to retire and become a store rent-a-cop when his drug sting operation comes to a tragic end by a masked killer. He joins forces with a prostitute called Della Roberts, played by Liza, the only one able to identify the killer, to bring him to justice. Directed by Jerry London and produced by Raymond Wagne for Kings Road Entertainment. Music by Jerry Goldsmith. Appearances by Dionne Warwick, Bernie Casey and Robby Benson.

1988 Arthur 2: On the Rocks. The sequel to the hilarious original. Three years later and even more the drunk than he was in the original, Arthur has now married Linda and living happily ever after until Bert Johnson demands that he marries his 'little girl' Susan or he goes broke. Arthur refuses and so he and Linda pack up and live in a tiny apartment and Arthur gets a job, but, Bert has control of his family's company and makes sure anywhere Arthur lives or works, he's thrown out on his ass. Great comedy from Dudley moore and a return performance of John Geilgud as the ghost of Mr. Hobson. Kathy Bates also stars as Mrs. Kanby, An adoption agent. Directed by Bud Yorkin, Produced by Robert Shapiro for Warner Bros, Screen play by Andy Breckman and music by Burt Bacharach.

1985 A Time to Live. Set in the 1980's, Liza plays the part of Mary Louise Weisman who's young son peter, played wonderfully by Corey Haim, was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy. Her Husband Larry (Jeffrey Demunn) feels she spends more time with her son than with him and their relationship begins to deterriorate but soon they learn to grow together when they learn thier sons condition is deterriorating. Directed by Rick Wallace, Produced by Blue Andre and Executive producer Judith. A. Polone. Liza was nominated for a Golden Globe award for her role in the movie.

1984 The Muppets take Manhattan. Kermit the Frog and friends take their hit college variety show and try to make it on Broadway. Along the way, the Muppets must separate and find jobs to support themselves until their show finally becomes a success. There are several cameos by such Hollywood stars as Art Carney, Gregory Hines, Dabney Coleman, Linda Lavin, Joan Rivers, Brooke Shields, and Elliot Gould. Liza Minnelli plays herself, attending a restaurant for dinner and finding that Kermit the frog has removed her picture fromt he wall and replaced it with his own. Created by Jim Henson, Directed by Frank Oz, Produced by David Lazer for TriStar Pictures, Screenplay by Frank Oz, Tom Patchett, and Jay Tarses and Music by Ralph Burns.

1981 Arthur. Set in New York city in the 1980's, Liza played the part of Linda Morolla, a waitress from queens who bumps into millionaire playboy, Arthur Bach, played wonderfully by Dudley Moore, while shoplifting at Bergdorfs. Arthur falls in love with Linda but risks being disinherited if he does not marry Susan Johnson, the daughter of infamous millionaire, Bert Johnson. Fine performances by John Gielgud as Arthurs patient valet, Mr Hobson and Geraldine Fitzgerald as Arthurs grandmother. Directed and screenplay by Steve Gordon, Music by Burt Bacharach. The Song "Arthur's Theme" by Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager, and Peter Allen; performed by Christopher Cross.

1977 New York, New York. Set in New York in the 1940's, Liza played the part of Francine Evans, a band singer who after returning from playing her part in the war, meet sassy saxophonist Jimmy Doyle, who together fall in love and play music together. Directed by Martin Scorsese and score by John Kander and Fred Ebb, the song "New York, New York" is now the national anthem for New York City.

1975 Lucky Lady. Set in the USA during 1930's prohibition, Liza plays the part of Claire, a bootlegger who, along with Gene Hackman and Burt Reynolds, smuggle booze from Mexico to California while dodging the coast guard and rival Bootleggers. The movie didn't do too well at the box office.

1972 Cabaret. Based on the book "Goodbye to Berlin" by Christopher Isherwood, the play "I Am a Camera" by John Van Druten, and the musical by Joe Masterhoff. Set in Berlin, Germany during the 30's, Liza played the part of Sally Bowles, an American quirky, full of life cabaret singer working at the KitKat Club. She meets and falls in love with English teacher Bryan Roberts played by Michael York while falling for another man, Maximilian von Heune played by Sigrid von Richthofen. Joel Grey recreates his role of the emcee, and is a sort of dramatic "Greek Chorus" that comments on the happenings around him. He is also the symbolic representation of the decay of Germany shortly before WW II. Academy Awards went to Bob Fosse for Best Director, Liza Minnelli for Best Actress, Joel Grey for Best Supporting Actor and Best Musical Score for Ralph Burns. Cabaret grossed £10 million at the box office and hit number 8 in 1972. Music by John Kander and Fred Ebb, Arrangements by Ralph Burns and Choreographed and Directed by Bob Fosse.

1969 Tell me that you love me, Junie Moon. Set in 1970, Liza plays the part of Junie Moon, Facially disfigured after acid was poured on her face. Junie, along with two patients from the hospital that treated her, all with different physical and emotional ailments decide to share a house in an effort to gain a normal life. Arthur (Ken Howard) is an epileptic, and Warren (Robert Moore) is in a wheelchair. Produced by Otto Preminger for Paramount, Based on the novel by Margorie Kellogg. Screenplay by Marjorie Kellogg.

1969 The Sterile Cuckoo. Set in upstate New York in the 60's, Liza Played the part of Pookie Adams, a quirky college student who falls in love with Jerry(Wendell Burton) who attends a different college, 90 minutes away. The movie was produced by Alan J. Pakula for Paramount Pictures with Music by Fred Karlin. Liza was nominated an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. Based on the novel by John Nichols.

1967 Charlie Bubbles - Set in England During the 60's, Liza played the part of Eliza, the secretary to writer Charlie Bubbles, played and Directed by Albert Finney, with whom she has an affair with. Produced byMichael Medwin for Regional Films. Music by Misha Donat.

In loving memory of Bill LaVorgna - Our "Pappy"

2007-10-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

What wonderful memories. I will never forget our meetings with Pappy. He is the most easiest man in the world to talk to. We saw him outside the theatre on his cell phone and once he had finished with his call, we started chatting to him. He stood and talked to us for about half an hour, telling us about his house in Florida and how he loved to go fishing. I loved the shirt he had on that day. Tells you so much about his personality.

He was the most talented musician I had ever had the privilege of seeing. He was a joy to listen to and a joy to watch. He had such a friendly persona about him, you felt at complete ease around him.

I was lucky enough to have a quick word with him at Liza's concert in Germany last July and meeting him again was such a joy...I can't express it. We will miss you pappy. God bless.

Johnny Rodgers - Sarasota, Fl - February 2007

2007-10-11T19:01:00.001-07:00

These are our wonderful pictures with the amazingly talented, Johnny Rodgers. We were lucky enough to meet him on both nights met Liza.

The top two were taken in Clear water and the bottom two, in Sarasota. He stood and chatted with us for a good 15 minutes and when we met him the second night, we were standing by the backstage doors, he came out and...

He came right over to us and gave us both a big hug and kiss. He is so charming and gorgeousand we felt very honoured to meet him. He had no problem posing for a couple of pictures.

My favourite Quote

2007-10-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

A seven year old Liza once asked her father, Vincente Minnelli, a very important question. "Daddy, what is acting?" After much careful thinking, he returned home from work the next day, sat Liza down and said "you asked me what acting was. I think that acting is hearing something for the first time and saying something for the first time 'cos you don't know what to say until you've heard what the other person has said." I love that. It's so honest and very true and I keep it with me at all times especially when I'm on the stage. What beautiful words from a wonderful Director.

The Many faces of Liza Minnelli

2007-10-11T18:18:00.000-07:00

Liza with her father, Vincente Minnelli, the night Liza won her Academy Award for Best Actress in Cabaret, 1972. (below)

With her Dear friend Bob Fosse (below) and with Roy Halston her clothing designer and good friend who died of AIDS in March 1990. (above)

In the early 70's with Bette Midler (above)

With her Godmother, Kay Thompson, in the early 80's. Liza is, at the moment, dedicating her concerts to a Kay Thompson tribute, and producing an album intitled 'The godmother and the god daughter'

Liza, giving it her all, the way she does with every performance.

This shot was taken by Angie when she saw Liza at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. An absolutely fabulous shot!

I love these pictures. I saw this top one on a website and I just loves the way it was designed. The picture you see below that has to be one of my favourites. I love this time in her life not only for her great sound, but for her trends. She really made clothes look cool and her hair is just fabulous!

This picture shows me how hard she works on that stage. No matter how tired she may be, she entertains us and gives us her all and makes sure we enjoy it! She has every right to a standing ovation. She works so hard for it.

Awww. The muppets. When I saw 'The Muppets Take Manhattan', I was expecting Liza to have a starring role in it. Little did I know that she only appears in a restaurant because Kermit took her picture off the wall.

This has got to be the most beautiful picture of Liza. It shows how every woman should look at this age. She looks simply breathtaking. I hope I look that good when I reach my 40's.

A very young Liza here. I'm guessing about 18 or 19. She had very long hair until she reached 20 when she cut it all off, starting one of the biggest trends and having her well known for her Elfin look.

I love this shot. This was the picture that was on the posters for her German concert appearance last year in Bonn. I was lucky enough to have been able to go.

This is such a cute picture. I love her hair. Great look and a great style. I think my favourite parts of Liza's life, the periods in time, are during the mid 80's moving into the early 90's. Her Stepping Out days. I loved the way she looked during "The Rink" and "Time to live" and she made a gradual move back into her 'Elfin' look. I just love it. Of course, I love her style now. After beating Ensephilitis of the brain, and being told she would never walk or talk again, She has beaten all her demons and she is back! She sounds fantastic she is looking great and I can't wait to see her in concert again. I managed to see her sing "God Bless America" for the US Open, on Youtube and she amazed me. She walked out infront of all those people and, even though she was a little shaky, she blew them away and meant every word of the song. She was simply amazing. I almost cried when the American flag was pulled over the court while she was singing. These people have gone through so much for their country and they were saying "We will stand together and unite and god will always bless our country" Simply fantastic.

Ruth Eckerd Hall - February 2006

2007-10-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken backstage at Ruth Eckerd Hall, the second time we were privileged to meet Liza. She signed my arm first, followed by the dvd. I remember standing in the hallway as she walked down, shaking everybody's hands, She got to me and shouted "Hey Baby!", grabbed me a gave me a big hug. A precious moment in my life.

I was planning on getting her signature tattooed on my arm but by the time I'd built up the guts to do it, it had faded away! Oh well, maybe next time.