Remembering the Lyrical Hits
Reviewed by Vicki Stokes
The world is a better place because John Denver existed. There is plenty of evidence that he was far from perfect, but he left a legacy of beautiful music, and his humanitarian efforts have inspired people to this day. Huron Country Playhouse is currently paying tribute to this wonderful 1970s-era recording artist with a talented cast of musicians. Hopefully, they will inspire a new generation of people to be moved by his sentimental music.
Alex Baerg first played John Denver at the Victoria Playhouse in Petrolia (VPP) in 2018, and now he is the musical director of this new show. The director is VPP’s David Hogan, and the set, including mountainous scenery and images plus video of John Denver, was created by VPP’s David Rogers. Performances began at Drayton Festival Theatre on June 4th until June 22nd.
Baerg is a natural on the guitar, and Leah Grandmont’s violin perfectly complements his guitar. Scott Carmichael plays drums, Bobby Prochaska plucks the bass, and Melissa Morris plays piano. Meanwhile, the five denim-clad performers contribute their voices in beautiful harmony to Denver’s lyrical songs.
The show is designed to tug at your heartstrings, then make you laugh. Denver’s songs range from deep and emotional to light and fun, from “Annie’s Song (You Fill Up My Senses)” to “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” featuring an electric guitar. My personal favourite is “Perhaps Love,” which Bobby Prochaska performed expertly with Alex Baerg in a tender duet. Another favourite is the super-fun hit that features a huge, critter-filled feather bed.
Leah Grandmont delivers several emotional performances, including “Leaving on a Jet Plane” and “Fly Away.” Melissa Morris tenderly performs “Looking for Space,” among others. Drummer Scott Carmichael gives us a more upbeat “Take Me to Tomorrow.”
In a brilliant addition to the show, the performers deliver a medley of popular songs of 1974, one of Denver’s best years. Many of the hits are from Canadian performers such as Anne Murray, Gordon Lightfoot, Terry Jacks and the Guess Who.
If you were alive during John Denver’s height of success, this show will stir all your warm memories. If you’re new to John Denver, this show is an audio-visual learning experience not to miss.
Country Roads: The Songs of John Denver continues until July 13th at Huron Country Playhouse, South Huron Stage. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 519-238-6000, or Toll-Free at 1-855-372-9866, or by checking www.huroncountryplayhouse.com for availability.
Photo: Alex Baerg and Leah Grandmont perform the songs of John Denver.
Country Roads: The Songs of John Denver
Created by D2 Entertainment
Directed by David Hogan
Music Director – Alex Baerg
Performed by Alex Baerg, Scott Carmichael, Leah Grandmont, Melissa Morris, Bobby Prochaska
South Huron Stage, Huron Country Playhouse, Grand Bend
June 26 to July 13, 2025
Reviewed by Vicki Stokes