Concert Pianist Danny Wright

 Life is supposed to be more than dashing to appointments, being stuck in traffic, worrying about 401Ks.

Pianist Danny Wright reminded us of how life should be In a Friday evening concert at the beautiful Majestic Theatre in Dallas. Wright gave us an oasis from fretful pressures, treating his audience to an other-worldy performance. With theatrical flair, the classically-trained Wright demonstrated his versatility choosing a varied program for this concert, which served as a fundraiser for Star Children’s Charity and The eWomen’s Network Foundation.

From inspirational to romantic, from nostalgic to dramatic, Wright transported his listeners on his musical journey connected by his own patter about his selections. In his lush interepretations of Moon River  and Summertime, Wright dramatically commanded the most from his piano.

High points from the evening came in the second half when he was joined on stage by six string musicians from the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. Backed by the strings, his performance of Pachebel’s Canon in D and Amazing Grace were highlights. Wright and cellist Debbie Brooks paired for a duet of Don’t Cry for me Argentina, which was marred only slightly because of early difficulties with the sound level of the cello.

Also taking the stage with the pianist was soprano Lauren Jelencovich. Teaming on the ever-popular Somewhere Over the Rainbow , they ended the concert with the audience floating on an emotional, if not rainbow, high.

Pianist Danny Wright will headline a benefit concert accompanied by members of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra this month at The Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St., Dallas.

Wright will take the stage March 27 in a performance benefiting Star Children’s Charity and The eWomenNetwork Foundation. The 8 p.m. concert will be preceded by a VIP reception.

“This concert is very special to me, not only because of the charities that I am benefiting, but because I am fortunate enough to be able to play with several members of the Fort Worth symphony,” Wright said.

His eclectic program will include “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” from the Broadway musical Evita, “Send in the Clowns” from the show A Little Night Music and several original compositions from Wright’s latest CD, Walking in Faith.

Since his 1986 debut recording, Wright has sold more than 4 million CDs. Billboard Magazine named him one of the top 10 aritsts of his genre in 1993 and 1994.

VIP tickets, which will include a 7 p.m. pre-concert reception and special seating, are available for $98. Other tickets are on sale for $28 and $18. Contact Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.