Underwood shows her command of, and joy for, the stage

CARRIE UNDERWOOD, E Center, Wednesday

WEST VALLEY CITY — Despite her small stature, former American Idol winner Carrie Underwood knows how to own a stage.

The blonde powerhouse of a singer delivered an energetic and sometimes sentimental performance Wednesday night to a crowd of screaming fans at the E Center. The event included at least four costume changes and a mix of ballads and rock-infused melodies.

Her opening act, Little Big Town, also joined Underwood for a lively version of Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way." The group, which became well-known about two years ago, gave a powerful 45-minute introduction to Underwood with songs such as "A Little More You" and "Boondocks."

Underwood started her nearly two-hour set with the songs "Flat on the Floor," "Some Hearts" and "Wasted." The singer then belted out her popular tune, "All-American Girl," where she pranced across a runway extending from the stage, shaking hands with the audience.

At one point she had a 14-year-old girl join her on stage to sing the lyrics to the song — one of the highlights of the show.

Throughout the evening, Underwood seemed confident, poised and as if she were having fun. She talked with the audience and described her background, at one point telling them that she really believes dreams come true.

Her tour, titled "Carnival Ride," is actually her first as a headlining singer.

Other highlights of the show included her performance of "Jesus, Take the Wheel," "Just a Dream" and "So Small." Her encore included a Guns N' Roses song, "Paradise City," and Underwood ended with "Before He Cheats."

All in all, it was a rousing performance by a talented singer. You could tell both Underwood and her opening band, Little Big Town, thoroughly enjoyed the stage.

E-mail: nwarburton@desnews.com