Ben Folds at Ravinia

After nearly two years away, we were anxious to see our first Ravinia show. Ben Folds with the Ravinia Festival Orchestra and conductor Francisco Nova was the perfect choice!

Backed by a full orchestra the entire evening, Folds displayed his impressive skills as both an entertainer and musician, blending his prodigious pop-rock sensibilities with plenty of classical flavor. Few musicians would entertain this kind of genre crossover- only a musical virtuoso like Folds could pull it off.

The evening included moments of audience participation and Folds did his typical, though no less impressive impromptu on-stage song writing shtick, all the while curating an evening full of memorable moving music. Folds is a funny, quirky kind of performer who’s boundless knowledge of his craft radiates an endearing excitement You can’t help but get caught up in it and start singing along.

And Ravinia one of the greatest venues bringing together music, friends and memorable times. We have certainly missed you and are happy to say “Welcome Back.” Thanks for the memories we have had and the ones we will make for years to come.

Reviewed by Murray Karbin