Theater Thursday: Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon

The following is a repost of a post originally published during the initial run of Going Bacharach: Songs of an Icon at the Marjorie S. Deane Little Theatre last Winter. Previously, we received complimentary tickets for review purposes, as we have now. We have edited and updated this post as necessary to reflect the current production. All opinions expressed here are our own. 

 What: Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon

Where: Marjorie S. Deane Little Theatre

             10 W. 64th St.

              New York,  NY

Who: Recommended for Ages 8 and Older

When: Through November 29, 2026

Burt Bacharach songs are irresistibly catchy. They all sound so simple and easy to sing. Yet, when you look closely at their structure, they are often quite surprisingly complex. Bacharach was a songwriter whose career spanned numerous genres, including general pop songs, songs written for movies or Broadway shows, and more. 

Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon is a new musical that covers the iconic composer's songs. The show is more of a revue than a traditional book musical. This format allows packing as many of his songs as possible into the approximately 2-hour run time, something any true Bacharach lover should appreciate. 

Even so, with such a prolific catalogue, many of his beloved songs didn't make the cut, although quite a few popular favorites appear. "Close to You," "Walk on By", and a medley of songs from the stage musical Promises, Promises are just a small sampling of songs included. A few more favorites are jammed in with a medley toward the tail end of the show. 

Cast member John Pagano spent many years as a vocalist touring with Burt Bacharach himself. He is joined by the lovely-voiced pair of Hilary Kole and Meecah. John and Hilary are seasoned concert and cabaret performers; Meecah is a star-on-the-rise who clearly inherited her musical talent from her father, a founding member of The Commodores. 

Musical director Adrian Galante also sings in addition to playing piano and clarinet. He is an extremely talented and intensely passionate performer and musician. Several other performers may appear on certain dates, but they aren't credited as understudies, as all cast members receive equal billing.

The performers take turns singing solos and duets. There is also an occasional trio. The four, including musical director Galante, also share tidbits about Bacharach's career and particular songs throughout the show. 

If you can't get enough of Burt Bacharach's songs, you'll love this show.  If you are unfamiliar with his music, check out his catalogue, and you may be surprised by how many Bacharach songs you actually know and love. 

And that's our view. For more about Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon, or to purchase tickets, visit goingbacharach.com.

Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.

Photo credits: 

All Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon production photos by Russ Rowland

Images used in this post were sent by publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission.  Address any concerns regarding image usage here.