Artwork by Yadira Hernandez
(HILLSIDE, NJ) -- Kean Stage will present two performances of The Soul of Burt Bacharach on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm at Enlow Recital Hall. Acclaimed bassist and festival producer Mike Griot introduces a special presentation of the work of one of the most iconic composers in music history: the legendary Burt Bacharach!
Bacharach’s work has created a legitimate “American Songbook” that includes some of the most beloved songs of the last 50 years. Prepare to sing along with such classics as What the World Needs Now is Love, Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head, I Say a Little Prayer and many more.
“I have held this idea in my mind since the age of nine, as an emerging classical cellist who was transfixed by the arrangements heard on the radio at the time. Even then, I knew those compositions were magical. There was always a certain soul to the music, and it seemed all of the popular singers of the time were in on the secret. I am now proud to lead a world-class ensemble into the best of his work. Join us!”, said Griot.
A star-studded array of vocalists and musicians will deliver soulful renditions of your favorite Bacharach tunes. The Soul of Burt Bacharach will feature Dave Popkin (Narration), Dave Malyszko (Piano), Damon Duewhite (Drums), Carl Burnett (Guitar), Manu Koch (Keyboard), Sara Devine (Vocals), Vivian Sessoms (Vocals), Mike Davis (Vocals), Ed Shea (Percussion), Mary Babiarz (Viola), Amy Soto (Violin), Terrence Thornhill (Cello), Lisa Hansen (Flute), Kenneth Ellison (Saxophone / Clarinet), Thomas Boulton (Trumpet), Steve Friedman (Trombone), Ryan Marino (Baritone Saxophone) and Rob Poparozzi (Harmonica).
Tickets for The Soul of Burt Bacharach range from $38 - $58 and are available for purchase online or by contacting the Box Office at (908) 737-7469. Enlow Recital Hall is located at 215 North Avenue in Hillside, New Jersey.
The Kean Stage Box Office is located in Wilkins Theatre (1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ) and is open Monday - Friday, 10:00am - 3:00pm.
Mike Griot has crisscrossed the world for several decades as a sought-after bass player in a variety of musical genres including, blues, soul, jazz, gospel, and hip-hop. His diverse credits include performing alongside Grammy-nominee Sue Foley (blues), UK-soul pioneer Omar (soul), Grammy-nominee Russell Gunn (jazz), Grammy-winner Hezekiah Walker (gospel), Gangstarr/Guru’s Jazmattazz (hip-hop) and dozens of globally recognized artists.
Kean Stage at Kean University educates, entertains and challenges audiences by presenting high-quality programs that reflect the diversity of the region and of the arts. These cultural offerings complement the intellectual life of the classroom for our students, increase opportunities for community engagement, and provide affordable access to the arts for New Jersey residents. Audiences of all ages are invited to enjoy a wide range of professional theatre, Broadway tours, dance performances, concerts, international films and family-friendly shows. In addition, Kean Stage encourages University students to attend events, and provides several opportunities to explore the performing arts through masterclasses, workshops, lectures, and employment opportunities as ushers, backstage technicians and box office staff.
