Dionne Warwick - Don't Make Me Over (An Intimate Evening) in Amsterdam & Antwerp

The legendary American singer Dionne Warwick performed on April 11th at the Royal Theater Carré in Amsterdam, and on April 15th at the Queen Elisabeth Hall in Antwerp. An evening of Miss Warwick sharing stories of her life and career, accompanied by her sons Damon and David Elliott. And of course, performing several of her most famous songs together with three incredible musicians. At 84, this seemed a concept suited for an artist well-loved and wanting to be with her fans once more.
In Amsterdam, several visitors became impatient as the evening progressed, while Miss Warwick was being interviewed by her youngest son Damon and shared her memories. She insisted that the songs would come later on, if only people would remain patient.

In Antwerp, most visitors seemed to have informed themselves well about what to expect in advance. The difference with the Belgian audience was also noticeable in the way they had dressed for the occasion. Lovely to see many looking so stylish for an evening out.

The response of Miss Warwick and her entourage at both venues were fitting to their audiences. In Antwerp, the audience was more positively receptive and able to really listen to Miss Warwick's stories. At both venues, the true-blue fans appreciated her presence, sharing her memories and her songs with them. When one was open to it, one really felt invited into her living room. It felt like an intimate evening.
I loved attending these shows with two of my dearest friends. Memories of her songs we had listened to in the 80's and 90's. Such a treasure to have Miss Warwick share her presence, her recollections and her songs with us.

At the Royal Theater Carré, filming and photography were not allowed. Therefore, I added footage filmed by more daring fellow visitors seated higher up in the venue. Only the last part of Miss Warwick and her sons taking bows at the end were filmed by me.
In Antwerp it was possible to film and take pictures. It was there, that I filmed most footage.

Close up photography by Charles Batenburg.
Historic footage of Miss Warwick derived from the documentary 'Dionne Warwick: Don't Make Me Over'.
Video edited by Niels Zuijdweg