Lyric Theatre at Illinois presents “A Grand Night for Singing”, an intimate night of dinner, theatre, and song at the Allerton Mansion. Featuring masterpieces from the era of Rodgers and Hammerstein, this sparkling night celebrates the golden age of musical theatre, and is sure to delight and enchant. Madelyn Gunn, Director of the performance, gives us an insider’s view into this special evening:
What attracted you to do “A Grand Night for Singing” at Allerton?
“A Grand Night for Singing takes its name from a well-known revue of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most famous work! We chose this music to bring audience into that particular place and time. Performing at Allerton is a dinner-theater experience, so everything is up close – not to mention, Allerton was given over to the University during that time, so when these songs were first being performed, this was a real home where performers could come play for the family!”
What is your earliest/favorite memory of Allerton?
“I grew up in Champaign, so I have a lot of fond memories of Allerton from when I was a kid. The forest trails and the gardens are wonderful to get away for a Saturday whether you’re a family or you just want to be in a beautiful place for a day. Some of my favorite memories are at the barn, watching or being part of Lyric Theatre! I’m very excited for the chance to do a show in the Mansion!”
What feeling/experience do you hope people leave with from your performance?
“I want people to come away with the feeling of having been in a time and a place not entirely their own, or one that they can only remember. I also want the audience to leave with the desire to visit Allerton again, or to see these singers perform in another Lyric Theatre show!”
Please feel free to add anything else you feel might be insightful!
“There’s dinner and a cash bar! Just kidding – although, yes, there is both. This is an intimate, comfortable musical experience, and it’s a great opportunity to visit somewhere many students in Champaign might not know about!”
View the dinner menu HERE. Overnight lodging is available in the Mansion for a discounted rate of $80 (plus tax) – call 217-333-3287 to make your reservation. Are you a student? Attend an exclusive, student-only preview for just $5! Find out more HERE.
