Myriam Phiro's The Joy of the stage!

I often describe the stage as being where I feel the most free and at home. Growing up as a timid child, I caught my first glimpse of freedom the second I first set foot onto the stage, many years ago. From that moment on, my entire existence revolved around the pursuit of live performance. After a year and a half intermission due to Covid, it felt as if part of me had been taken away, yet I felt oddly uncomfortable returning to the stage, my former “home”. I had almost forgotten how engrained in me it had become and in fact, it felt completely natural to return “home” and share an evening of French cabaret with a live audience last month at Birdland!

The room was packed, the energy was electrifying and the band was hot. Even from behind the curtain before going on, I could tell there was magic in the air. I had put on my favorite emerald green gown and was bursting with excitement to walk on that stage again and be reunited with this addictive feeling. The one I had longed for all throughout 2020. The one that has kept me wanting to improve, connect and dig deeper my entire life. I opened the curtain and immediately felt how well surrounded I was; both on and off stage. Love was in the air and although I had been nervous about my long-awaited return, I was “in the moment” the second I set foot onto that stage!

It’s fascinating how that happens. Some people say it’s like riding a bike: you can never forget how it’s done. Since I was a child, I don’t think I had ever gone this long without some type of stage performance. It was only recently that I started to feel really nervous about the whole situation and weird thoughts started creeping in. What if I forget lyrics? What if I freeze and have a panic attack? What if I tank? My partner & bassist, Elias Bailey, witnessed the progression of things and as always, he had comforting words to tell me, advice to share and most importantly: he had my back.

I’ve performed many shows throughout my short life and I can say nerves are always part of the equation, at least for me. They vary in size and intensity depending on many factors, but ultimately, what I think makes the biggest difference is being surrounded by a team you know you can trust. And this is just what I had on October 17th at Birdland, for “PHIRO chante PIAF”’s return to the theater! Thanks to my amazing team’s artistry, connectivity and sensibility, I was able to feel engaged and free of worries to deliver a performance that touched and entertained people, gather raving reviews and earn a feeling of deep accomplishment.

I wish to thank all of you who came and continuously support live music. More than ever, we, artists, need your support: what we do is far from being easy and we couldn’t do it without you beautiful patrons, supporting souls and keepers of the flame. I have learned through the years how precious it is to have a caring network of individuals offering guidance, support and truth. From the bottom of my heart, I wish to say thank you for keeping the arts alive!

***Reviews of The Return of “PHIRO chante PIAF” to Birdland can be found on Broadway World & Theater Pizzazz***