I Saw Bette at the Palace

White background with a color illustration of Bette Midler with black text above

Born in 1945, Bette Midler is an American singer, actress, comedian, and author. She began her career performing in off-off Broadway plays and singing at the Continental Baths, a local gay bathhouse in New York where she was able to gain a following. She released a studio album in 1972 entitled The Divine Miss M. which gave nod to her trademark persona. The album went platinum and earned her a grammy for best new artist in 1973. That same year she was originally set to perform at New York City’s Palace Theater from December 3rd- 15th but it was extended through December 22nd, due to high demand. Every performance was sold out ahead of its engagement due to the popularity. The synopsis of the show was described as “Bette Midler performs an evening of pop standards, rock, and other music on Broadway”. Barry Manilow is credited and performed as the music director of the shows. Meanwhile, the image depicting Midler and her iconic red hair was the featured image for the tour and playbills.