Big Band Legends is a dazzling production that honors the great crooners and songbirds from Bing Crosby to Michael Bublé, is entertaining theatregoers of all ages at the Dunfield Theatre Cambridge through June 22nd. It is a must see on the list of Drayton performances.
Creator and Director of this production, Alex Mustakas has done an exceptional job of integrating the elements of music, dance, and visual effects to create a stunning performance for all ages.
What had me most intrigued is the number of seniors in attendance. Throughout the show, I wondered whether some of them fell in love with one of the songs performed. Did hum of some of these tunes while cooking supper for their family? Did they sing their children to sleep to the tune ‘Put Your Head On My Shoulder?’ Yes, these are the songs, written about young love and good times, that made music history. It was a melancholy experience that made many of us wanting more by the end of the show.
The performance made me encourage my teenage children to purchase tickets. I think there is a lot to learn about the history of music just by listening to songs and hearing the reaction of the attendees.
The phenomenal cast of Big Band Legends is comprised of Canada’s own enchanting trio, The Mantini Sisters; Sandra, Barbara and Ann Mantini, Michael Vanhevel, Yvan Pedneault, and Chris Sams. With their own unique voices, they brought singers like Patsy Cline, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Vera Lynn, Bing Crosby, and Dean Martin to life on stage. I was particular enamored with Sandra Mantini’s performance of “Where the Boys Are” and Michael Vanhevels rendition of Sinatra’s “I’ve got the world on a string”. **He’s not hard on the eyes either**
Of course, none of this could have been orchestrated better without the help of distinguished composer, arranger and conductor Howard Cable who has masterfully created the orchestrations and vocal arrangements for the production, which includes over 70 songs.
Time is of essence to see Big Band Legends as the production ends on June 22nd. Tickets can be purchased online at www.dunfieldtheatrecambridge.com, in person at the Dunfield Theatre Cambridge Box Office, or by calling (519) 621-8000 or toll free 1-855- DRAYTON (372-9866).
