Venice Theatre Cabaret Festival: Mercer Magic

The Venice Theatre Summer Cabaret Festival is moving into its fourthweek. If you haven't gone to see any of these unique cabaret-style performances, there's still time. Friday, Aug. 9 and Thursday, Aug. 22, 'Mercer Magic' will be appearing on the Pinkerton cabaret stage.

You may not know the name Johnny Mercer, but you certainly know the music he wrote. Mercer was an American lyricist who collaborated with many composers to create great American standards including "Moon River," "Come Rain, Come Shine," "Blues in the Night" and "That Old Black Magic". Mercer wrote the lyrics to over fifteen hundred songs and received nineteen Academy Award nominations, winning four.

The performers who will be bringing his music to life are Kim Kollar, Bobbi Eschenbach and Michelle Kasanovsky. Each singer is a well-known performer on the Venice stage. Among the numerous shows they've appeared in, all three were in the successful production of "Radio Gals," which will return in 2014.

This cabaret has long been in the making. Kollar and Eschenbach have been singing partners and close friends for more than 20 years. One of their favorite nightclub acts featured the iconic songwriter, Johnny Mercer, and they fell in love with his lyrics. Kasanovsky will add to the show a mix of keyboard and vocals.

Still, one of their favorite aspects of performing Mercer's work will come from those who are not onstage. They can always count on witnessing a look of surprise when an audience member recognizes one of their favorites songs and then realizes whom it came from.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Venice Theatre website.