The stage is nearly bare with only a single wooden chair and an old upright piano to decorate it.  He steps on the stage dressed in a casual black outfit and with his accompanist, performs songs that range from funny to heart-wrenching with a voice that goes from whisper soft to a full Al Jolson pitch.  Bravely he even entertains in Yiddish and makes you want more.  He mesmerizes an audience in the two and half hours on stage and the time doesn't seem long enough.

Mandy Patinkin is a rare talent, who is able to entertain without all the props that "they" tell us we require.  The only fireworks is in him and what he shares with his audience.  Like many, I first really became entranced with him with performance on his Emmy-winning role on "Chicago Hope" (and am tickled to have him back on the show this year).   Before that, I had heard him on the "Evita" cast album (he won a Tony Award for his performance) and had been impressed by his acting when he played the alien, Sam Francisco, in "Alien Nation" and the humanity he brought to the role despite the extreme makeup.  His charming performance in "The Princess Bride" makes it a favorite movie.

My appreciation of his talent truly came when I heard his solo albums and was privileged to finally see him in concert.  I love his passion and ability to draw the audience to him.  I cannot recommend seeing him in person enough.  I have seen many performers, but for me, he ranks as the best.

UPDATE: Just saw Mandy again in concert on 11/9/99 and another terrific show.  This time he is doing several songs of childhood - perhaps the influence of just filming "Elmo in Grouchland", which he said last night is now the highlight of his career.  Along with his wonderful accompianist, Paul Ford, he was joined on stage by an fantastic interpeter for the deaf, Catherine, whose last name I didn't catch.  Amusingly, Mandy was upstaged by the adorable Ike, a PAL dog, whose owner was seated in front of me.  Ike was sent up to Mandy on stage with a gift and his sweet face brought the house down.  Mandy amusingly complained that he had requested 200 to 300 fans on stage and he only ended up with one dog.  Absolutely charming!  I can't wait till the next time to see Mandy - talent and heart - a great combination.

Mandy is married to Kathryn Grody and has two sons named Isaac and Gideon.  He was born November 30, 1952 in Chicago, Illinois.  His performances are done for charities, which makes the experience all the sweeter.   Mandy has reputation for being difficult, but as you see on many of the sites, he has time for his fans.  He is one class act.

NOTE: Hurray, Mandy is touring again - follow this link to see his schedule - TOUR SCHEDULE