A Higher Ground

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Stevie Wonder Experience

One afternoon, as a little boy growing up in Detroit, Michigan, my Grandpa and I were watching “American Bandstand” together. Suddenly I became aware of a young, new, extraordinarily talented young African-American kid who was unbelievable. His name was Little Stevie Wonder. He was around my age, lived somewhere near me, and was on national television singing “Fingertips, Parts 1 & 2,” and accompanying himself on his harmonica. All the while a studio full of joyful teenagers were dancing to his infectious music with wild abandon. But, in addition to being an astounding talent, Stevie Wonder also happened to be blind. I was completely in awe of this gifted young man, and never forgot him. From that moment I became a lifelong fan of Stevie Wonder.

That’s my connection to the Motown singer/composer who is being musically honored in this new wonderful new, foot-tapping production at the Mercury Theater. Although I knew Stevie Wonder wasn’t going to actually be performing on the Chicago stage, his essence and musical brilliance permeates the delightful two-hour show. The revue is a sunny celebration of Stevie Wonder’s talent and his many decades of much-loved hit tunes. 

The revue stars John-Mark McGaha, a brilliant, internationally renowned singer and multitalented instrumentalist. Besides performing in Off-Broadway shows and touring in many musical tributes to Lionel Hampton and Nat King Cole, Mr. McGaha has made his mark with this particular presentation. “The Stevie Wonder Experience” is undeniably fun, educational and very entertaining. John-Mark McGaha clearly respects and reveres Stevie Wonder’s life and artistry. As he chronicles an encyclopedia of information and anecdotes about the award-winning Motown singer/composer, he blends in stories about his own life. And it goes without saying that Mr. McGaha sings the heck out of the Stevie Wonder Songbook.

Accompanying himself on guitar and baby grand, John-Mark McGaha is deftly backed by a company of talented artists. Musical Director, Will Kurk, enhances every number on synth, piano and with supporting vocals. In addition, Will Baggett accompanies on bass, Chuck Lacy on drums, Jesse Montijo on sax and flute, and a brilliant Josh Rzepka plays the heck out of the trumpet. Additional supporting vocals are provided by talented Chicago performers Cherise Coaches and Jessica Brooke Seals.

But it’s John-Mark McGaha who predominantly dazzles and shines in this tuneful tribute. He brings the poetry and brilliance to the fore of so many of Stevie Wonder’s hits, and clapping and singing along is encouraged. The two-act revue includes the titular, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” in addition to “For Once in My Life,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” “My Cherie Amour,” “Living for the City,” “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” “Superstition” and “Higher Ground,” among many other favorites.

Artists Lounge Live, the producer of this captivating concert, is the creative brainchild of the Ingersolls, Michael (who starred in the National Tour of “Jersey Boys” as Nick Massi) and Angela (Emmy nominee for “Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll Sings Judy Garland”). The company is devoted to developing shows that present talented contemporary artists, who excel in musicianship and storytelling expertise. Their revues provide dazzling entertainment while evoking fond memories among more mature theatergoers and introducing new audiences to the brilliance that makes these legendary performers stars. 

For several cold wintery afternoons and evenings in February and March, the Mercury Theater Chicago will warm audiences with this savvy celebration of the one and only Stevie Wonder. International singing star and instrumentalist John-Mark McGaha, along with his band of gifted musicians and backup vocalists, will delight young and old alike, taking each and every patron to a “Higher Ground” of enjoyment. It’s an unforgettable production that will both enlighten and entertain everyone.      

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented February 23-March 12 by Artists Lounge Live and Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Ave., Chicago.

Tickets are available in person at the box office, by calling 773-360-7365 or by going to www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.