Remember the magic of these classic songs? “Moon River,” “Charade,” “Accentuate the Positive,” “That Old Black Magic” and “I Remember You.”
Those songs and more will be heard at the next event in the TrueMuse concert series at Ravisloe Country Club as the Linda Solotaire Sextet performs “Dreams of You, the Sun, the Moon and Johnny Mercer” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16.
The sextet will embrace the dreamy world of one of America’s finest lyricists, Johnny Mercer. Solotaire, on vocals, will be joined by Stu Greenspan, arranger/guitarist ; Michael Levin, saxes, flute and clarinet; John William Lauler, upright bass; Paul Cotton, percussion; and Steve Strunk, drums.
“The show takes us on a journey from early 20th century affluent Savannah and all her hidden treasures, to depression era New York City where Mercer finds himself part of an explosion of creativity,” Solotaire said in a news release. “This quietly passionate, charming southern gentleman was so well loved by everyone, sought by some of the greatest composers of his time, and enjoyed enormous professional success and public accolades.”
Despite his success, Mercer was plagued by alcoholism and self doubt. His story personifies the social and cultural shifts and enormous growth that America experienced during his lifetime, Solotaire said.
“Most importantly, his music became the music of the people,” she said. “His songs gave voice to their longings, love, sorrow, joys in a familiar idiom that was down home and accessible.”
The show was originally produced as part of the ongoing music series at the Open Door Repertory Theater in Oak Park. Curated in collaboration with Linda Solotaire, Rhythm, Rhyme & the Refrain, it featured some of Chicago’s most highly acclaimed jazz artists.
Solotaire urges patrons to come to the show early and enjoy dinner and cocktails starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Bunker Bar and Grill. Reservations suggested but walk-ins are welcome. Call 708-798-5600 for more information.
Tickets available online are $18, or $20 at the box office on the night of the performance.
More information:
Tickets for TrueMuse events at Ravisloe
TrueMuse on Facebook
Linda Solotaire on Facebook
Ravisloe Country Club on Facebook
Ravisloe Country Club
