"The Power of American Popular Song" is the name of the Sundance Theatre's weekend devoted to the legacy of the Great American Songbook. On Aug. 16 and 17, the Utah theatre — in conjunction with the Johnny Mercer Foundation — will host master classes on lyric interpretation, a star-studded panel discussion and a special performance featuring songs by legendary American songwriters.

Tony winner Christine Ebersole, actor-singer Jason Graae, singing legend Margaret Whiting, director Jack Wrangler, musical director Don Rebic and songwriter David Friedman are among the panelists, teachers and performers for the special Sundance weekend. About this eclectic group, Sundance Theatre Artistic Director Philip Himberg said, "To have this fantastic group of professional entertainers, writers and directors here to coach local Utah talent is a great honor for Sundance and the beginning of a great collaboration. This weekend continues our relationship with young Utah talent by providing master classes for students and recent graduates of music/theatre programs."

Four master classes will be offered throughout the weekend, each limited to 20 invited participants with an additional 30 spaces open for people to audit the workshops. The popular song tribute concludes on Aug. 17 with a special late-night performance from Whiting, Hall, Ebersole, Wrangler, Friedman and Graae at the Sundance Village.

The classes, panel discussion and performance are all free and open to the public. For more information, contact Aaron Young or Patrick Hubley at (801) 328-3456. The Sundance Theatre is a not-for-profit arts organization founded by Robert Redford; go to www.sundance.org to learn more.

—By Andrew Gans