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Book Review: Liberace Extravaganza!
by Connie Furr Soloman and Jan Jewett
To describe accurately what is enclosed in the pages of this book about the life of a destined showman named Liberace would be “Life with Meaningful Purpose.” Authors Connie Furr Soloman and Jan Jewett, accomplished costume designers for many popular actors as well as numerous well-known Broadway stage performances, composed the Liberace Extravaganza, a biographical overview of Wladziu Valentino Liberace, the son of a poor immigrant family living in West Milwaukee, WI, who went from rags to riches with his charismatic stage presence and flamboyant costumes.
Reviewed by LCM’s Carol Dorsey
Liberace was the sole survivor of twins delivered “under the veil” or encased in the amniotic sac. In medieval times, this was considered an omen that a child was destined for greatness. Influenced by his musician Father, Liberace was playing the piano at age three and continued his lessons even though the family struggled with finances.
The pages of the book are electrically charged with more than 260 vividly detailed photographs displaying Liberace adorned in his unique attire coupled with the behind-the-scenes inspiration for fashioning the ostentatious costumes for his performances. He was adored by friends, family and fans alike. Liberace’s innate genius inspired a magical stage and television presence, which helped him gain national and international notoriety changing the face of stage performances forever.
Liberace’s innate genius inspired a magical stage and television presence,
which helped him gain national and international notoriety
changing the face of stage performances forever.
The energy found in the pages of this book is sure to be engaging and will inspire a reader interested in costume designing or discovering more about Liberace and his biographical story of hardship, creativity and determination to be a distinguished and celebrated performer. LCM
Front cover photograph by John Seakwood
“Liberace Extravaganza” by Connie Furr-Soloman and Jan Jewett is published by Harper Design and is available on Amazon.com
Some customer reviews from Amazon.com:
“As a tailor and costumer this book is a big piece of heaven. As a fan of Liberace, I have been searching for a book with a major compilation of his costumes. I could not be more pleased except if I had seen him in person. This book starts with a short biography which is truly enlightening. My favorite part of this book are all of the gorgeous professional high quality pictures. The pictures include a complete head to toe view and also a dramatic close up swatch of each outfit. Every costume is described in minute detail. The details include; the designer, the tailor, the weight, pricing of materials, the quantity and size of the rhinestones and beads and sequins and when the costume was worn. The shoes and or boots and bow ties and vests and the complete accessories for each outfit are included and discussed. I am so glad that nothing is left out. I am especially pleased to have a first edition copy.”
“Stunningly beautiful. While not the size we usually associate with coffee table books, this is one you'll want to leave out for browsing. Wonderfully put together, very interesting as you're drawn through the visual cacophony that was Liberace's image. Jan Jewett and Connie Solomon have a done a masterful job of chronicling the entertainer's wardrobe. A visual feast for the eyes. Highly recommend getting this. Especially for the money, it's an amazing book. If you're interested in Liberace, or just beautiful things, you HAVE to buy this book.”
“This is an amazing book, a veritable treasure trove of the King of Bling's most opulent costumes; the accompanying stories made the book a wonderful read! I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who appreciates fashion, costumes and of course Liberace. The detailed photographs are extraordinary!!!!!!The costumes and sketches are stunning and the text detailing the construction is insightful One cannot come away from this book without an appreciation for the artistry involved in the creation of these masterpieces.”
