The legacy of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein continues to shine brightly in American music, exemplified by the recent concert ‘The Magic of Rodgers and Hammerstein’ at Millennium Park on Friday, July 25.
Under the skilled direction of Conductor Lawrence Loh, the Grant Park Symphony and Chorus filled the summer night with classic melodies from the golden age of Broadway musicals, delighting an appreciative audience.
The evening featured three exceptional vocal talents who brought the magic of these iconic songs to life.
Soprano Lisa Vroman, known for her remarkable portrayal of Christine in ‘Phantom of the Opera,’ opened the concert with ‘It’s a Grand Night for Singing’ from ‘State Fair.’ Her voice, often described as pure and velvety, captivated the audience from the very first note.
Following her was Mamie Parris, whose lively rendition of ‘All the Things You Are’ from ‘Very Warm for May’ infused the performance with playful energy. Parris’s expressive demeanor and strong vocal presence complemented Vroman’s operatic style beautifully.
The lineup was completed by tenor John Riesen, who is noted for his appearance as a finalist on ‘America’s Got Talent.’ Riesen’s magnetic stage presence drew the audience in, adding to the enchantment of the night.
The trio showcased beloved songs from a range of Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals, including ‘South Pacific,’ ‘Carousel,’ ‘The Boys From Syracuse,’ and ‘The Sound of Music.’
A particularly touching moment arose when Vroman shared her admiration for Julie Andrews, referencing how she aspired to sing like the legendary performer. The audience erupted in joy as she invited them to sing along during her rendition of ‘Do Re Mi’ from ‘The Sound of Music,’ her charm reminiscent of Andrews herself.
John Riesen’s performance of ‘Soliloquy’ from ‘Carousel’ offered a glimpse into the darker themes present in some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s works. Riesen’s emotional delivery resonated strongly, evoking the tragic depth of the musical’s narrative.
Mamie Parris continued to impress with her spirited interpretation of ‘June Is Bustin’ Out All Over,’ effortlessly embodying the catchy vibrancy of Broadway with her mischievous vocal flair, drawing inspiration from the comedic style of legendary actress Betty Hutton.
Throughout the concert, the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus contributed to the magic with enchanting pieces such as the overture to ‘South Pacific’ and the ‘Waltz’ from ‘Carousel.’
The highlight of the evening came when the chorus joined in for ‘Climb Every Mountain,’ a poignant anthem of self-discovery that filled the air with a powerful crescendo and left the audience with goosebumps.
Imagery of the Von Trapp family arriving in Switzerland danced in the minds of those present as the orchestra expertly performed ‘Shall We Dance’ from ‘The King and I,’ recreating the regal atmosphere of the Siamese palace.
Conductor Lawrence Loh commanded the stage effortlessly, making the legendary Broadway songs come alive with precision and passion.
As the concert drew to a close, the trio delivered a heartfelt series of songs from ‘Oklahoma,’ including ‘People Will Say We’re in Love’ and the title song. Their performance received a standing ovation from the enthusiastic crowd both in the pavilion and on the lawn.
For the encore, the trio chose the iconic ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ from ‘Carousel,’ a song that resonates deeply in challenging times and has been sung in various venues from theatres to churches.
The Grant Park Music Festival’s celebration of Rodgers and Hammerstein was not just a concert but a full-fledged experience, enhanced by a cool lake breeze that provided relief from the threatened rain.
For music lovers, attending this outdoor festival is highly recommended. Guests are advised to bring a blanket, insect repellent, and a selection of snacks to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings of Millennium Park, located at the intersection of Randolph and Michigan.
Originally the site of Chicago’s festivals, Grant Park continues to be the venue for many summer events. The festival is free and runs from early June through mid-August, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy great music.
As Chicago gears up for the upcoming Lollapalooza festival, next week will also see the Grant Park Music Festival occurring at the Harris Theater.
In conclusion, ‘The Magic of Rodgers and Hammerstein’ was a magical night celebrating the timeless impact of American musicals from one generation to the next, reflecting the spirit of our nation through music.
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