Morris Dance

Group performing The Look of Love featuring the music of Burt Bacharach

Following the roaring success of his Beatles tribute Pepperland, Mark Morris teams up again with musical collaborator Ethan Iverson for The Look of Love a wistful and heartfelt homage to the chart-topping songs of Burt Bacharach. A towering figure of popular music, Bacharach was known for his soaring melodies and unique orchestrations influenced by jazz, rock, and Brazilian music — his longtime lyricist Hal David providing unsentimental, poignant lyrics.

This evening-length work features original choreography by Morris and new musical arrangements by Iverson, performed by an ensemble of piano, trumpet, bass, and drums, with singer, actress, and Broadway star Marcy Harriell on lead vocals.

The Look of Love is a Series co-commissioned work. We are honored that the late Kansas City-icon Bacharach (May 12, 1928 – February 8, 2023) himself was involved with the project and was thrilled to witness its unique treatment of his beloved catalog of songs, including:

Message to Michael, Anyone Who Had a Heart, Walk on By, Are You There (With Another Girl), A Say A Little Prayer, Do You Know the Way to San Jose, Always Something There to Remind Me, I’ll Never Fall in Love Again, What the World Needs Now, Don’t Make Me Over, Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head, Alfie, The Look of Love, The Blob.

Friday, November 17, 2023, 7:30 PM Muriel Kauffman Theatre, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Generously sponsored by: The Curry Family Foundation

“ For many years, I’ve wanted to see my music reimagined in some kind of theatrical production – not just a jukebox musical formula of songs, but an original work with its own story and appeal. I’ve found an ideal collaborator in Mark Morris, whose brilliant choreography and deep musicality give songs new meaning and dimension through movement. Like a great melody, his dances evoke an atmosphere and inspire feelings, and I think that’s just what the world needs now. I’m excited to see how Morris and his creative team bring my songs to the stage in The Look of Love.” — Burt Bacharach

Sunday, November 26, 2023, 3 PM Folly Theater

Generously sponsored by:

The Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts Commerce Bank, Trustee