Singer Extraordinaire Susan Campanaro loving known by her stage name “Lavinia Draper” realized her father’s dream and celebrated her 89 year old mom’s birthday in a spectacular extravaganza of song and comedy this past Sunday 5/21/23 at the trendy and edgy new venue Chelsea Table & Stage in the heart of New York City. Fans, friends, and family filled the seats as Lavinia raised the roof along with MC/Host Anthony Fett and accompanist Lynn Portas.
The international superstar recently returned from London where she headlined and she is also a New York Nightlife and club staple in New York City. Her showcase is unique, creative, infused with artistry and a signature style belonging to Lavinia alone. She won awards for her musical “Doing Time With Lavinia” including Best Musical, Best composer at the United Solo Festival and she’s donated her time and craft to many benefits including Meals on Wheels, and event orchestrated by celebrity photographer Billy Hess who roamed the room documenting the evening.
Making a shocking entrance cascading down the winding staircase of the venue and wearing a glamorous black and silver gown designed by stylist Mark DeAlwis (and probably worn by him as well) Lavinia included in her set songs that her dad Richard had hoped she would sing for mom….They included “Hear it for the Fans”, “Love is Here to Stay”, “Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head”, “At This Moment”, “Misty”, “Let’s Dance”, “Fly Me To the Moon”, “Got to Be Real”, and an eclectic unicorn marathon of others. Her climatic grand finale was “Glory of Love” and she killed it. Of course, a chorus of “Happy Birthday” was also in order.
The show was infused with comedy and laughter. It was touching, sensitive and at times emotional as if she were on a spiritual quest and god himself propelled her chariot of fire. Lavinia lit up the room like fireworks plunging into the night sky and shattering the darkness…..
Photo Credits: Billy Hess
