Review of John Denver Concert in Kansas City, MO
                by Emily M. Parris
                12/02/93

Music Hall
Kansas City, Missouri
November 29, 1993
   
The stage was beautifully decorated with trees against a vivid
blue background. In the foreground were decorated Christmas
trees and a sleigh with a white reindeer and presents.  To
each side of John's microphone were more presents and teddy
bears. The drum set was outlined with Christmas lights as
well. The entire effect was very striking and I noticed it
when I first walked down the aisle.

The first half of John Denver's melodious and entertaining
concert at the Music Hall in Kansas City consisted of all
Christmas music.  Some were John's compositions from various
Christmas albums and some were traditional Christmas
favorites.  Joining him were the members of the Kansas City
Children's Chorus. "Aspenglow", "Christmas Like a Lullaby",
"Christmas for Cowboys", and "Please, Daddy Don't Get Drunk
This Christmas" were some of the songs from his albums.

After a short intermission John continued with a selection of
his traditional favorites.  "Back Home Again", "Take Me Home,
Country Roads", and "Grandma's Feather Bed" were a few of the
favorites that brought an enthusiastic response from the
audience. During a number of the selections a screen was
lowered above John's head and scenes corresponding to the
music were seen.

The Kansas City Metropolitan area is split between Kansas and
Missouri.  So the audience was understandably appreciative of
the song "Matthew" and the many, many references to KANSAS in
the lyrics.  Scenes from Kansas wheatfields were shown during
the song.

Another highlight was the song "What Are We Making Weapons
For?" when scenes from Russia were shown and John sang a duet
(via Video) with Alexandre Gradsky.  After the song John was 
given a standing ovation as the audience responded to
his call for Peace in the world.

"Perhaps Love", "For You", and "Annie's Song" were a few of
the love songs he sang and the audience was also enthusiastic
about "Calypso" and "I'm Sorry."  "The Ballad of Gary Hart",
and "Home Grown Tomatoes" were also well received.  John's
voice was perfect and melodious throughout the concert and
after he left he was called back for one more song.  Everyone
enjoyed a very entertaining "Evening with John Denver."