Pink Martini — Larger than Life

Pink Martini took the stage just after 8 p.m. "Amado Mio" revealed Storm Large, the Martinis interim lead vocalist. She looked as she sounded, tall, blonde, and ready to entice. (The usual singer, China Forbes, is recovering from throat surgery.) The "little orchestra" filled the stage with players and beautifully restored venue with sound.

Flamboyant bandleader and grand pianist Thomas Lauderdale was in complete control of the festivities throughout the evening, giving music lessons between each song.

No less than seven different languages were sung, highlighted by Malaysian singer Sean Ghazi's beautiful duets with Storm Large on "Let's Never Stop Falling in Love" and "Get Happy/Happy Days," which was blissful!

After intermission, Mr. Lauderdale invited all the Turks in the audience up on stage and did a big ol’ Turkish dance party, followed by some swinging jazz and a stunning "Que Sera, Sera," sung eloquently by Ms. Large.

For the encores, the Martinis were joined by the Bonita Vista High Marching band and color guard, in full uniform, waving their colorful flags and swinging their tubas! The finale, "Brazil," looked like a Brazilian carnival onstage — larger than life.

• Concert: Pink Martini
• Date: November 12
• Venue: Balboa Theatre
• Seats: Center Orchestra Row S