It’s a very rare thing to come across a show that embraces its simplicity with virtually zero pretense. A Grand Night for Singing at Mercury Theater is such a show. This perfectly enjoyable musical revue celebrating the classic scores of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein isn’t afraid to make the songs the star by featuring five excellent singer/actors backed by a sparkling five piece ensemble featuring two strings, harp, piano and percussion (excellent music direction by Eugene Dizon).

Unlike another revue taking place in the northern suburbs honoring a popular West End composer, this show begins with a subtle prelude: a bass and piccolo echoing the sounds of twilight — a chirping bird, a sunrise, a new beginning. A cello hums in and the cast strolls out to welcome us with “The Sounds of the Earth,” which gradually transforms into a lilting opening medley. From there, the cast (including Marya Grandy, Robert Hunt, Leah Morrow, Stephen Schellhardt and Heather Townsend) trade off with each other in pairs, trios and solos to explore R&H’s penchant for the themes around new love, lost love and hopeful love. Read the full review on The Huntington Post >>