Classic Albums Live has been making its case for musical authenticity since Craig Martin founded the organization in 2003, and the terms have not changed: no costumes, no impersonations, just professional musicians executing the record as it was originally made. “No cheesy costumes, no bad impersonations,” Martin has said, “just the purity of the music.” On Friday, April 2, the ensemble brings that philosophy to Kingston Grand Theatre’s Rosen Auditorium, with The Immaculate Collection as the evening’s subject.
About the Show
The Immaculate Collection arrived November 12, 1990 on Sire Records and became one of the most successful compilations in pop history: 30 million copies sold worldwide, 11-times platinum RIAA certification, and a Blender designation as “the greatest American album of all time.” Its 17 tracks span Madonna’s full 1980s commercial run: “Holiday,” “Lucky Star,” “Borderline,” “Like A Virgin,” “Material Girl,” “Crazy For You,” “Into The Groove,” “Live To Tell,” “Papa Don’t Preach,” “Open Your Heart,” “La Isla Bonita,” “Like A Prayer,” “Express Yourself,” “Cherish,” “Vogue,” “Justify My Love,” and “Rescue Me.” The final two were new at the time of release, giving the compilation a coda rather than merely a closing track.
Classic Albums Live performs the full album, then follows with a set of greatest hits. The ensemble draws on musicians who have recorded and performed with major figures in rock and pop, and now logs more than 200 performances annually across North America, with a repertoire exceeding 45 albums. This Kingston date falls in spring 2027, well into a Canadian run that began in Ottawa in August 2026, continued through western Canada (Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton) in fall 2026, and then worked through Ontario. Critical notices have backed the concept: the Bradford Telegraph described the group’s work as “a stunning note for note recreation – enthralling,” and the Toronto Star found it “Joyful and Thrilling.” Kingston Grand has already hosted Classic Albums Live: the ensemble performed their Billy Joel program at the Rosen Auditorium, so this visit builds on an established relationship between the ensemble and the room.
Venue & Logistics
Kingston Grand Theatre’s Rosen Auditorium, at 218 Princess Street in Kingston, Ontario, presents this evening as part of its Grand OnStage series. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. North Country audiences can purchase subscriptions covering four or more Grand OnStage events, or buy individually at the box office (613.530.2050). Performance sponsorship comes from Cataraqui Cabinets.
Tickets
Tickets are priced at $44.50–$59.50 plus HST and fees. Buy tickets