On Friday night, June 29th, Brian d'Arcy James (Shrek The Musical, Next to Normal, NBC's "Smash") got a birthday surprise on the stage of 54 Below where his show, "Under the Influence," just closed to rave reviews on Saturday, June 30.
For his birthday surprise, following his final encore, Brian's wife, Jennifer Prescott, daughter, Grace James, and 54 Below's Executive Chef, André J. Marrero presented the Tony Award nominee with a birthday cake while his good friends and back-up singers, Clarke Thorell (Annie, Hairspray, Titanic) and Haven Burton (Shrek The Musical, Legally Blonde), led the audience in singing of "Happy Birthday." Backstage between shows, d'Arcy James was joined by his friends and family, including his guest vocalist for the evening, Julia Murney (The Wild Party, Wicked).
D’Arcy James opened at 54 Below on Tuesday, June 26. “Under The Influence” was directed by Carl Forsman and featured musical direction and arrangements by Dan Lipton. D’Arcy James was backed by Dan Lipton at the piano; Damien Bassman on drums; Greg Joseph on percussion; Nicholas D’Amato on bass; Erik Della Penna on guitar; Paul Vercesi on saxophone; Bob Millikan on trumpet; and Clarke Thorell and Haven Burton on vocals.
Photo Credit: Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for 54 Below
Brian d'Arcy James and Family
Brian d'Arcy James with Wife Jennifer Prescott and Daughter Grace James
Brian d'Arcy James, Haven Burton and Clarke Thorell
Brian d'Arcy James with Mother Mary James, Wife Jennifer Prescott and Daughter Grace James
Julia Murney & Brian d'Arcy James
Brian d'Arcy James (center), backed by Clarke Thorell and Haven Burton
Brian d'Arcy James with Wife Jennifer Prescott and Daughter Grace James
54 Below's Executive Chef, André J. Marrero & Brian d'Arcy James
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