Entering the room from the rear, singing, Richard showed that talent that Jolson fans have been enjoying through his many Festival performances, and showed his love for the music of the World's Greatest Entertainer. Richard began his performance with songs from Jolson's later films, and included a film clip of himself singing with Sybil Jason, who was unable to make the festivities. For a sample of the first part of his act, click the picture to the upper left, or right here for a piece of Richard Halpern's Festival Performance.

With any live performance, the performer has to adapt to the audience or situation. Such was the occasion with Richard Halpern that Saturday night, when his music went the wrong way at the wrong time. Always the trouper, Richard went right on and finished the number. You can either click the picture at the right, or this text link, to make up your mind if this bit was an accident or planned, you decide!

Showing that he didn't need the music, anyway, Richard loosened his tie, and concluded his act as 11 p.m. approached, by taking requests from the audience. With no live music, his accompaniment had been pre-recorded, he sang the selections a capella. See what you think, by clicking the picture at left, or this text link, to hear Richard Halpern singing "Who Cares?"