REVIEW: Josh Groban and Idina Menzel, the powerful duo take Toyota Center stage

Singer and actor Josh Groban is on tour this fall in support of his newest album, “Bridges.” Groban wrote nine of the 12 songs on the album and stopped in Houston Oct. 23 for an incredible show at the Toyota Center.

Special guest Idina Menzel took the stage at 8 p.m. sharp and dazzled the audience with her remarkable voice. Of course, Menzel had to give the audience what they wanted, a live performance of the hit song “Let It Go” from Disney’s “Frozen.” In support of Menzel, a few young girls were spotted in the crowd dressed as Queen Elsa from the film.

There was about a 30-minute intermission while the stage was set-up for Groban’s set, which included a 14-piece orchestra and full band. Groban kicked off his set on an upbeat note with “Bigger Than Us” from the new album. Attendees were excitedly loud, and Groban stated that he loves that about Houston.

Groban mentioned that he and his touring crew had three whole days to spend in Houston, which is very unusual. He explained how geeked-out he felt while touring NASA. Mission Control put his name on the screen when he walked in and he joked that everyone was probably wondering, “Who is Josh Groban?” Groban was very humble, especially for an artist whose voice is heard around the globe, has been nominated for four Grammys and multiple other awards.

About halfway through Groban’s set, he jogged off stage as his orchestra and band performed an entertaining instrumental. He then popped up at the back of the arena on a platform with his piano. He sang “She’s Always a Woman” and impressed the audience with his piano expertise.

Menzel then joined Groban for a few songs including the beautiful “Lullaby.” Groban joked about the two being theater nerds, but Menzel added that she calls herself a “theater diva,” instead. Groban, accompanied by his talented pianist, also graced the audience with the song “Bring Him Home” from the Oscar award-winning musical, “Les Misérables.” He could have put the audience to sleep as it was so peacefully sensational. Groban then jogged through the aisles high-fiving fans as he made his way back to the main stage.

Toward the end of the night, a choir joined Groban to perform the hit that brought him recognition around the world, “You Raise Me Up.” With harmonies from the choir, accompanying orchestra and Groban’s classic voice, the sound carried throughout the arena was remarkable. It turned the Toyota Center into a church-service as the crowd lifted their hands and sang along.

The common theme throughout Groban’s set was bringing hope to others and encouraging them to pursue a dream. He talked about the time in his life when he was very insecure and anxious. He urged anyone feeling depressed to talk to someone who can help.

“Please, please, please, do not be afraid to reach out that hand to a friend, a counselor or teacher,” Groban said. He then dedicated his moving song, “River” to those struggling.

Groban left the stage as if the show was over, but the audience knew better than to leave. “Encore!” the crowd shouted. Groban entered stage-right and performed two more songs to end the night of stunning music.

For more information on Josh Groban’s tour, head to www.joshgroban.com.