Behind the Scenes: Arlene & The Vantastix’s Heartwarming Performance of a Doris Day Classic
Arlene & The Vantastix is a delightful group led by Arlene Silver, wife of the legendary Dick Van Dyke. The name “Vantastix” cleverly plays on Van Dyke’s name, reflecting the group’s joyful spirit. Van Dyke has been a beloved figure in entertainment for over 65 years, known for his work in film and TV, including “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”
Arlene Silver and Van Dyke met in 2006 at the SAG Awards, where she was working as a makeup artist. Their friendship grew into a deep bond, leading to marriage in 2012. Despite their significant age difference—46 years—the couple shares a deep connection, particularly through their mutual love of music and dance. This bond is evident in their performances, including “Everybody Loves a Lover.”
Their rendition of “Everybody Loves a Lover” is a charming tribute to the classic song originally by Doris Day. The tune, with lyrics by Richard Adler and music by Robert Allen, has seen many versions over the years, including a 1962 release by The Shirelles. However, Arlene & The Vantastix chose to stay close to Doris Day’s original arrangement, which aligns perfectly with the barbershop quartet style that defines The Vantastix, a group formed by Van Dyke in 2000. The performance kicks off with a catchy groove, and Arlene’s vocals bring a sassy and sparkling quality to the song.
As the performance progresses, Van Dyke’s voice, still rich and vibrant at 96 years old, adds a layer of nostalgia and charm. His playful scat at the 36-second mark is a highlight, and the addition of trumpeter Tony Guerrero further enriches the performance. The video, directed by Silver, was filmed at the LA art installation SUPERSHOW by David Allen Burns and Austin Young. The video is filled with playful nods to Van Dyke’s career, including a reference to his famous ottoman trip from “The Dick Van Dyke Show.”
Released on Valentine’s Day 2022, the video also celebrates Van Dyke and Silver’s wedding anniversary, which falls on February 29, making it a special and personal project. The couple’s joy in music is evident throughout, creating a heartwarming experience for viewers.
The Vantastix includes vocalists Eric Bradley, Bryan Chadima, and Mike Mendyke, who create the rich harmonies that define the group’s sound. They frequently collaborate with Silver, who brings her vibrant energy to their performances. Van Dyke’s extensive filmography includes classics like “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” with his passion for performance shining through in this latest project. The video is full of nods to Van Dyke’s career, with references that longtime fans will appreciate.
Their video for “Everybody Loves a Lover” is a delightful blend of nostalgia and fresh creativity, showcasing the timeless appeal of the classic song and the enduring talent of Van Dyke and his collaborators. The video, released for Valentine’s Day, also marks a celebration of their unique love story, with a playful and joyful vibe that resonates with viewers.
Arlene & The Vantastix’s performance is a testament to the joy that music can bring across generations. The group’s harmonious blend of voices, combined with Van Dyke’s still-vibrant presence, creates a performance that is both heartwarming and entertaining. The video’s release, timed with their wedding anniversary, adds an extra layer of meaning to the project. Fans of classic tunes and Van Dyke’s work will find much to enjoy in this lively and loving performance.
