Lou Villano and Ron Gartner Celebrate Anka and Darin in Concert

On December 20, 2023, the Century Village Theater in Pembroke Pines, Florida, hosted a unique tribute concert titled “The Dream Concert.” The event featured the music of iconic artists Paul Anka and Bobby Darin, performed by Lou Villano and Ron Gartner. This marked a significant occasion, as it represented the first time that the two artists’ music was performed live together, despite their historical connection.

The concert commenced with Villano paying homage to Anka by performing “Diana,” followed by the popular track “Destiny.” His rendition of “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” resonated with the audience, sparking a sing-along that revealed the nostalgic power of Anka’s music. Gartner took to the stage to deliver energetic performances of Darin’s hits, including “Queen of the Hop” and the ever-popular “Splish Splash,” showcasing his impressive imitation of Darin’s signature dance style.

In a poignant moment, Villano performed “Lonely Boy” from the film “Girls Town” and captivated the audience with “The Longest Day.” After this heartfelt performance, he invited veterans in attendance to stand, receiving a warm salute from the audience in recognition of their service. Gartner later sang “Sunday in New York” and the theme song “More” from the film “Mondo Cane,” further celebrating Darin’s legacy.

The concert featured a segment where the two performers exchanged songs, showcasing their versatility. Villano offered a stirring rendition of Darin’s “The Curtain Falls,” while Gartner sang Anka’s emotional “Let Me Try Again.” Villano continued with a medley of Anka’s classics, including “All of Me,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” and “Times of Your Life,” concluding with “She’s a Lady.” Gartner followed with “Just in Time,” the title track of a Broadway musical featuring Jonathan Groff as Bobby Darin, along with “Lazy River,” “Beyond the Sea,” and the iconic “Mack the Knife.”

For their encore, Villano and Gartner united for a powerful rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” a song famously penned by Anka. This final performance left the audience with a sense of nostalgia and celebration, capturing the essence of both artists’ contributions to music.

The concert’s timing was particularly significant, as it fell on the 52nd anniversary of Bobby Darin’s passing on December 20, 1973, at the age of 37. This connection added depth to the evening, reminding attendees of Darin’s enduring influence in the music world.

Overall, “The Dream Concert” at the Century Village Theater was a memorable celebration of two musical legends, delivered with passion and energy by Villano and Gartner. Their performances not only honored Anka and Darin’s legacies but also brought together an audience united by a shared love for their timeless music.