Maury Yeston doesn’t do abrasive. His strings swell, his harp pours out silver streams of melody, and the brass only gets out of its seat to proclaim a triumphant finale. It’s all very pleasant and very easy to listen to, sung by accomplished soloists in front of a well marshalled orchestra and an on-point choir.

The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane has been set up to celebrate the eightieth birthday of multi-Tony Award winner Maury Yeston, featuring a tranche of musical theatre notables: Ramin Karimloo, Sydnie Christmas, Madalena Alberto, Graham Bickley, Rob Houchen, and Kelly Matthieson. They all acquit themselves superbly, with all of them flawlessly achieving Yeston’s signature effect of taking voices to the very top of their range and then going just a bit higher. This means all the songs finish with a triumphal roar regardless of how melancholic they started out, but when done as well as this it’s a thrilling experience. Every song brings tumultuous applause from the packed theatre. Ramin Karimloo is the pick of the soloists, but everyone is splendid. There is also a particularly engaging singing of the song “Lady’s Maid” from Yeston’s hit show “Titanic” which features an ensemble of less famous singers, but has an engaging reach that the more polished stars occasionally lack. This ensemble and the RAM choir make for a nice textural change in the programme of big songs.

It’s a celebration. There are lots of filmed inserts, mostly of Maury imparting his wisdom on what makes good musicals, also featuring friends and apprentices taking the opportunity to heap digital praise on his well-preserved head.

A seamlessly curated, expertly presented evening of lovely, powerful voices singing pleasant tunes. If the programme lacks a little bite, that is understandable. The man is a legend and it’s his birthday. Happy birthday Maury.

Three and a half Stars.

Reviewed by Christopher Lilly.