Ring in the New Year with a Spectacular New Years Eve Dinner and Show at New York's Legendary CabaretDON'T TELL MAMA(343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788) on Tuesday, December 31st. The festive evening will kick off at 9:00 pm with a Chef's Full Tasting Menu and continue through to midnight with a free glass of champagne at midnight. "Judy and Liza Together Again", starring internationally acclaimed entertainers Rick Skye and Tommy Femia is the perfect tonic for this Holiday Season. Teaming up for an evening of "Just POW!", these MAC and Bistro Award winning performers pull out all the stops, singing classic solo's, parodies, duets and just plain whooping and hollering by the greatest mother/daughter team in show biz history. They are joined by Award Winning Musical Director Ricky Ritzel (as Mort Lindsey/Pappy). "Judy and Liza Together Again" premiered at The Rising Action Theater in Ft Lauderdale to great acclaim and has toured the US, most notably playing the Palace Theater in Danbury, Connecticut, The Richmond Triangle Players in Richmond, Virginia, Martini's Over Eighth in San Diego, California and Bob Egan's Supper Club in New Hope, Pennsylvania. It has been performed at DON'T TELL MAMA on Saturdays to sell-out houses for over 2 years. $175.
Following last year's sold-out New Year's Eve Soiree atTHE CRAZY COQS AT BRASSERIE ZEDEL (20 Sherwood St, Piccadilly, London W1F 7ED - 020 7734 4888), comedy cabaret chanteuse Miss Hope Springs will again be in residence on Tuesday, 31st December this year to commemorate the passing of the last twelve months and welcome in 2014. There will be two sizzling sets of Miss Hope's acclaimed original show songs performed live at the piano with her band and sprinkled liberally with seasonal seasoning. Add a pre-show dinner at Brasserie Zedel, complimentary canapes, a half bottle of Champagne, and dancing until the early hours with Miss Hope's personal DJ spinning hits from Bacharach to Bassey, and you have the perfect way to welcome in the New Year! Call for cover/minimum information.
Gerald Duval, Edie's producer during the time of her appearance at Reno Sweeney has re-created the essence of those magical nights at 54 BELOW (254 West 54th Street, NYC - 646-476-3551 - ) on Monday, December 30th at 9:30 pm. He will be using dialogue, songs, and text from the historic event resulting in a not-to-be-missed, intimate evening of theatre. Enjoy, experience, and witness what happened when Edie Beale was LIVE at Reno Sweeney. There is a $25-$35 cover plus a $25 food/drink minimum.
Jazz songstress "pretty, perky Peggy King" performs at 54 BELOW (254 West 54th Street, NYC - 646-476-3551 - ) on Monday, December 30th at 7:00 pm. King is one of the few, certifiable legends of the stage, screen, television and nightclubs still among us, having worked with everyone from Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis to Andre Previn and Harry James. For more than four decades, the hard-driving All-Star Jazz Trio-pianist Andy Kahn, drummer Bruce Klauber and bassist Bruce Kamsinky-have been known, instrumentally and vocally, for their charismatic brand of swing and showmanship. The legendary Peggy King joins The All-Stars for her star turn, singing songs from the Great American Songbook and telling of her close personal relationships with many of the Songbook composers, and of her singular career in show business. There is a $25-$35 cover plus a $25 food/drink minimum.
Jenna Esposito & Jim Van Slyke bring their show "Where The Hits Are: A Tribute to the Songs of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka" toBIRDLAND (315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080) on Monday, December 30th at 7:00 pm as part of The Broadway at Birdland concert series. Jenna and Jim will join together in celebration of the music of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka with Fortune Esposito, musical director/ guitarist, with David Crone on piano, Rob Broelmann on bass, Dan Weiner on drums, Frank Petrocelli on sax, with Kelly Esposito-Broelmann & Rob Langeder on backup vocals. Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis are two of the most enduring legends in the history of popular music, and unbeknownst to many, each of them can attribute a great deal of their success to the other. Vocalists Jenna Esposito and Jim Van Slyke have been performing their tributes to Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka, respectively, to rave reviews around the country, and have finally brought them together. Join them on a rockin' and rollicking journey through the songbooks of Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis, including hits like "Stupid Cupid," "Laughter In TheRain," "Solitaire," "Where The Boys Are," and more. There is a $25 cover plus a $10 food/drink minimum.
Jenna Esposito & Jim Van Slyke bring their show "Where The Hits Are: A Tribute to the Songs of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka" toBIRDLAND (315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080) on Monday, December 30th at 7:00 pm as part of The Broadway at Birdland concert series. Jenna and Jim will join together in celebration of the music of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka with Fortune Esposito, musical director/ guitarist, with David Crone on piano, Rob Broelmann on bass, Dan Weiner on drums, Frank Petrocelli on sax, with Kelly Esposito-Broelmann & Rob Langeder on backup vocals. Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis are two of the most enduring legends in the history of popular music, and unbeknownst to many, each of them can attribute a great deal of their success to the other. Vocalists Jenna Esposito and Jim Van Slyke have been performing their tributes to Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka, respectively, to rave reviews around the country, and have finally brought them together. Join them on a rockin' and rollicking journey through the songbooks of Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis, including hits like "Stupid Cupid," "Laughter In TheRain," "Solitaire," "Where The Boys Are," and more. There is a $25 cover plus a $10 food/drink minimum.
Jenna Esposito & Jim Van Slyke bring their show "Where The Hits Are: A Tribute to the Songs of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka" to BIRDLAND(315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080) on Monday, December 30th at 7:00 pm as part of The Broadway at Birdland concert series. Jenna and Jim will join together in celebration of the music of Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka with Fortune Esposito, musical director/ guitarist, with David Crone on piano, Rob Broelmann on bass, Dan Weiner on drums, Frank Petrocelli on sax, with Kelly Esposito-Broelmann & Rob Langeder on backup vocals. Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis are two of the most enduring legends in the history of popular music, and unbeknownst to many, each of them can attribute a great deal of their success to the other. Vocalists Jenna Esposito and Jim Van Slyke have been performing their tributes to Connie Francis and Neil Sedaka, respectively, to rave reviews around the country, and have finally brought them together. Join them on a rockin' and rollicking journey through the songbooks of Neil Sedaka and Connie Francis, including hits like "Stupid Cupid," "Laughter In TheRain," "Solitaire," "Where The Boys Are," and more. There is a $25 cover plus a $10 food/drink minimum.
Multi-talented American Idol performer Elliott Yamin returns toYOSHI'S (1330 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA - 415-655-5600) on Sunday, December 29th at 8:00 pm. Yamin has already earned a prestigious reputation as both a world-class recording artist and a deeply compelling live performer, having built an impressive body of work as well as an intensely loyal international fan base. On Let's Get to What's Real, the multi-talented artist raises the musical and personal stakes, tapping into the emotional honesty and sonic intimacy of classic soul to create the most inspired and distinctive music he's ever made. The resulting album is the purest expression to date of the musical talent and personal charisma that were first introduced to the public during Yamin's stint as one of the most acclaimed performers to ever compete on TV's American Idol. There is a $24 cover.
Monty Alexander will perform at BLUES ALLEY (1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC - 202-337-4141) on Friday through Monday, December 27th through 30th with shows at 8:00 & 10:00 pm. Born on D-Day (June 6, 1944) and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, he took his first piano lessons at age six but was largely self-taught. His musical collaborations span multiple genres and styles. In August 2000 Monty Alexander was awarded the title of Commander in the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for outstanding services to Jamaica in his capacity as worldwide music ambassador. Alexander maintains a rigorous touring schedule worldwide, from jazz clubs to concert halls and playing at Jazz Festivals. To date Monty Alexander has recorded over 70 albums as a leader. Call for cover/minimum information.
The Wynton Marsalis Septet will perform at DIZZY'S CLUB AT JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER (33 West 60th Street, NYC - 212-258-9595 ) on Thursday through Monday, December 26th through 31st with shows at 7:30 & 9:30 pm. The Wynton Marsalis Septet features the best of the best, with each legendary member a true leader on his instrument. Led by nine-time GRAMMY• Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Wynton Marsalis, the group's repertoire includes originals from Marsalis and his band mates, as well as a diverse selection of favorites from throughout jazz history. Members are Wynton Marsalis, trumpet; Victor Goines, saxophone & clarinet; Wessell "Warmdaddy" Anderson, saxophone; Wycliffe Gordon, trombone; Eric Reed, piano; Reginald Veal, bass; and Herlin Riley, drums. With an array of straight jazz, blues, bop, New Orleans music, and Marsalis' own extended compositions, music fans will find a lot to dig into during these sets. A shining example of polish and discipline, the group navigates these demanding pieces with deceptive ease, leaving room for expressive, subtle detail and off-the-cuff interaction. Most excitingly, every player gets plenty of time to solo - and these soloists are inexhaustible, endlessly resourceful, and nothing short of magnificent. Please make your tax-deductible contribution today in support of Jazz at Lincoln Center's mission and programs, and secure your seats for this exclusive week of performances. $125 per person includes one $35 cover and one special tax-deductible contribution of $90. See website for details. SEE DECEMBER 31st FOR SPECIAL TIMES AND PRICING
Singer and actress Freda Payne, best known for her 1970 smash "Band Of Gold," will return to THE IRIDIUM JAZZ CLUB (1650 Broadway, NYC - 212-582-2121 ) for a special holiday run Friday through Sunday, December 27th through 29th with shows at 8:30 & 10:30 pm. During her distinguished career, Payne has shared the stage with Lionel Hampton, Sammy Davis Jr., and Quincy, Jones among others, acted on Broadway, and even performed as a special guest on American Idol. She'll be joined for these shows by Grammy-winning pianist and musical director Bill Cunliffe, who also appears on her new album, due out in 2014 on Mack Records. Call for cover/minimum information.
Birdland's very own jazz quartet hits the stage at BIRDLAND (315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080) every Sunday at 6:00 pm to wrap up the weekend with jazz classics! This quartet features John Hart (Guitar), Paul Gil (bass), Carmen Intorre (Drums) & Jon Davis (Piano). This week's special guest vocalist is Hilary Gardner. There is a $25 cover plus a $10 food/drink minimum.
The York Theatre Company (James Morgan, Producing Artistic Director; Andrew Levine, Executive Director), presents acclaimed jazz vocalist Stevie Holland in the Off-Broadway premiere of the tour-de-force musical Love, Linda: The Life of Mrs. Cole Porter at THE YORK THEATRE at Saint Peter's Church (619 Lexington Avenue, NYC - 212-935-5820 ext. 25). Performances are set to begin Tuesday, December 3rd at 7:00 pm for a limited engagement through Sunday, January 5, 2014. Performances are Tuesdays through Sundays - see website for showtimes. Opening Night is set for Thursday, December 12th at 7:30 pm. Music direction will be by Christopher McGovern, and the onstage band will feature Danny Weller on bass and Alex Wyatt on drums. Love, Linda has book by Ms. Holland with Gary William Friedman, music & lyrics by Cole Porter, and arrangements & additional music by Mr. Friedman. Tony Award-winner Richard Maltby, Jr. is the Director. Love, Linda: The Life of Mrs. Cole Porter is a one-woman, tour de force musical and theatrical journey, starring acclaimed jazz vocalist Stevie Holland. Love, Linda explores the life of Linda Lee Thomas, the Southern beauty who, at the dawn of the Roaring Twenties, married and was a driving force behind legendary songwriter Cole Porter. Though Porter was gay, their companionship and love lasted through 35 years of marriage and together they lived a spectacular, glamour-filled life. With swinging, jazz-inflected arrangements by award-winning composer Gary William Friedman, Cole Porter's timeless music and lyrics weave through the compelling narrative written by Holland and Friedman, celebrating the deep love that Linda and Cole shared, while examining the darker sides of their life. The score for Love, Linda includes such beloved Porter songs as "Night and Day", "I Love Paris," "In the Still of the Night" and "Love for Sale." Tickets are $67.50.
'Le Jazz Hot: How The French Saved Jazz', created by Peter and Will Anderson, will be presented at 59E59 THEATERS (59 East 59th Street, NYC - 212-279-4200) on Tuesdays through Sundays, December 3rd through 29th (showtimes vary- see website). Peter and Will Anderson, with their sensational jazz quintet, whisk audiences to the streets of Paris and the French countryside with rollicking swing and gypsy jazz. Had France not supported musicians like Django Reinhardt, Sidney Bechet, and Josephine Baker, America's great art form may not have survived! Tickets are $25.
59E59 THEATERS (59 East 59th Street, NYC - 212-279-4200) presents renowned British chanteuse Barb Jungr in her only NYC engagement of 2013 when she premieres her new show BARB JUNGR: DANCING IN THE DARK, accompanied on piano by Tracy Stark. Performances begin on Sunday, December 22nd and run through Sunday, December 29th. Show times are 7:15 pm on Tuesday & Thursday; 5:15 pm on Friday & Saturday; and Sundays at 7:15 pm with an added performance on Sunday, December 29th at 3:15 pm. Specially created for the Holiday season, BARB JUNGR: DANCING IN THE DARK features songs by Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and more, done in Jungr's sultry stripped down style, a seductive accompaniment to the long nights ahead. With rave international reviews and two prestigious New York awards (2008 Nightlife Award for Outstanding Cabaret Vocalist and Best International Artist 2003 Backstage Award), Barb Jungr is renowned for her unique vocal style, interpretation of song and radical approach to arrangements. Her acclaimed releases on Linn Records and Naim Label, and "revelatory" live performances have brought her to audiences all around the world. Tickets are $35.
Bistro Award winning vocalist, Gabrielle Stravelli, returns with her Sunday Jazz Brunch on August 11th at LE PESCADEUX (90 Thompson Street, NYC - 212-966-0021), a French restaurant in the heart of Soho. They will play three sets from 12:30 to 4:00 pm. She will be joined by Saul Rubin on guitar and Pat O'Leary on bass in this charming boite that offers a great, well-priced menu and cozy atmosphere. Award-winning vocalist Gabrielle Stravelli has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following through her unique take on material from the new American songbook as well as classic standards by artists as varied as Pink Floyd and Duke Ellington, Dolly Parton and Johnny Mercer. A trained actor, Gabrielle has a soulful sensitivity for the story in the lyric. Gabrielle has performed on stages from Amsterdam to New York including Carnegie Hall, Iridium Jazz Club, Birdland, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Reservations are strongly suggested. No cover, no minimum.
Trumpeter Claudio Roditi will perform a Tribute to Dizzy Gillespie at THE BLUE NOTE (131 West 3rd Street, NYC - 212-475-8592) for the December Brunch shows - showtime is 11:30 am. He is joined by Roni Ben-Hur, guitar; John Lee, bass; and Robin Baytas, drums. Integrating post-bop elements and Brazilian rhythmic concepts into his palette with ease, Grammy-nominee Claudio Roditi plays with power and lyricism. This versatility keeps the trumpeter in demand as a performer, recording artist and teacher. Born in 1946 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Roditi began his musical studies when he was just six years old. By the time he was twelve, he had already become a serious jazz listener. In 1966, he was named a finalist at the International Jazz Competition in Vienna, Austria. While in Vienna, Roditi met Art Farmer, one of his idols, and the friendship inspired the younger trumpeter to follow a career in jazz. He has since performed and recorded with many jazz greats, including Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Mann, Joe Henderson, Horace Silver, McCoy Tyner, Tito Puente, and Paquito D'Rivera. With over twenty critically acclaimed albums to his credit, Claudio Roditi continually develops his playing and compositions through new recording projects. His latest release features several Roditi originals (Bossa de Mank, Piccolo Samba, and the driving, straight-ahead tune, Levitation) framed by seven compositions written by Brazilian masters such as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Johnny Alf, guitarist/composer Toninho Horta, and pianist Eliane Elias. $29.50 cover includes brunch, music and a drink.
This Holiday season Micah Barnes and his Trio (Daniel Barnes drums, Russ Boswell bass) take you on a musical tour through New York City in celebration of their upcoming disc "New York Stories" for Sunday Brunch at THE JAZZ BISTRO (251 Victoria Street, Toronto, ONT, CA - 416-363-5299) at 12:30 pm. Join the former Nylons Baritone and his band as they visit legendary musical landmarks such as The Brill Building, The Savoy Ballroom, The Cotton Club, The Apollo Theatre, and Broadway's Time Square with songs taking the audience on a journey through the musical history of The Big Apple. There is a $15 cover.
Freddy Cole, the legacy of his brother Nat "King" Cole, will stir up memories that will never be forgotten when he entertains at Christmas Jazz Brunch on Sunday, December 29th at 11:00 am at BETHESDA BLUES & JAZZ SUPPER CLUB (7719 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD - 240-330-4500 ). Now in his 55th year of performing, this great singer and pianist has developed a huge following of his own. The instantly recognizable Cole voice and a veteran quartet, play the classics as well as new compositions and interpretations from a huge repertoire. Cole doesn't apologize for sounding like his brother, Nat "King" Cole. He plays piano and sings, and performs live with guitar and upright bass, just like Nat. Yet his voice is raspier, smokier, jazzier even. But he has emerged from the awesome shadow cast by his elder brother. In truth, his phrasing is far closer to that of Frank Sinatra or Billie Holiday and his timing swings a little more. His vocals - suave, elegant, formidable and articulate - are highly respected. $50 includes Buffet Breakfast.
Singer and actress Freda Payne, best known for her 1970 smash "Band Of Gold," will return to THE IRIDIUM JAZZ CLUB (1650 Broadway, NYC - 212-582-2121 - ) for a special holiday run Friday through Sunday, December 27th through 29th with shows at 8:30 & 10:30 pm. During her distinguished career, Payne has shared the stage with Lionel Hampton, Sammy Davis Jr., and Quincy, Jones among others, acted on Broadway, and even performed as a special guest on American Idol. She'll be joined for these shows by Grammy-winning pianist and musical director Bill Cunliffe, who also appears on her new album, due out in 2014 on Mack Records. Call for cover/minimum information.
59E59 THEATERS (59 East 59th Street, NYC - 212-279-4200) presents renowned British chanteuse Barb Jungr in her only NYC engagement of 2013 when she premieres her new show BARB JUNGR: DANCING IN THE DARK, accompanied on piano by Tracy Stark. Performances begin on Sunday, December 22nd and run through Sunday, December 29th. Show times are 7:15 pm on Tuesday & Thursday; 5:15 pm on Friday & Saturday; and Sundays at 7:15 pm with an added performance on Sunday, December 29th at 3:15 pm. Specially created for the Holiday season, BARB JUNGR: DANCING IN THE DARK features songs by Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and more, done in Jungr's sultry stripped down style, a seductive accompaniment to the long nights ahead. With rave international reviews and two prestigious New York awards (2008 Nightlife Award for Outstanding Cabaret Vocalist and Best International Artist 2003 Backstage Award), Barb Jungr is renowned for her unique vocal style, interpretation of song and radical approach to arrangements. Her acclaimed releases on Linn Records and Naim Label, and "revelatory" live performances have brought her to audiences all around the world. Tickets are $35.
Award-winning singers Tanya Holt and Marcus Simeone will perform at THE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) once a month through January 2014. Performance dates are Saturdays, October 19th, November 16th, December 28th and January 26th, all shows at 7:00 pm. Their show "Quiet Storm," mixes R&B with pop hits and standards. Musical director is Tracy Stark with Marco Broehm on bass. Lina Koutrakos directors. The wide-ranging song list includes tunes by Matt Alber, Anita Baker, Mariah Carey, Jimmy Webb, Cole Porter, Comden & Green, and Vincent Youmans. A 13-time MAC nominee (and four-time winner) Simeone is one of the most honored outsiders in the business. He is putting the finishing touches on his fourth CD on the Miranda Music label. Holt, by contrast, is a much-loved insider and rising star, who has been touted as one of the breakout talents in cabaret. She received the 2013 Bistro Award (Outstanding Vocalist) for her highly praised "Forever Home," seen at Urban Stages and the Metropolitan Room. There is a $25 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
As December draws to a close, Anthony Santelmo Jr returns to DON'T TELL MAMA(343 West 46th Street, NYC - 212-757-0788) with his Annual Christmas Show. This year's show is called a 'Seeks Out The Tunes - Retrospective', reflecting on Anthony's many shows over the years showcasing new and lesser known songs. Performances are scheduled for Saturday, December 28th at 3:00 pm; and Sunday, December 29th at 5:00 pm. Musical director is Barry Levitt. Anthony is also joined on stage by 'The Upfront Girls', with Rob Thomas on violin and Jon Burr on bass. There is a $20 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
The Jerry Costanzo Quartet (Jerry Costanzo, vocals; Tim Regusis, Piano; Chris Haney, Bass; Jonathan Mele, Drums) will perform for 'Saturday Jazz Brunch' at THE GARAGE RESTAURANT & CAFE (99 7th Ave South, NYC - 212-645-0600 - ) on Saturday, December 28th from noon to 4:00 pm. They will be performing jazz, swing and and the best of The American Song Book. Jerry will be going into the studio in January to record a few songs for his up coming EP to be released sometime in 2014. Call for cover/minimum information.
Award-winning singers Tanya Holt and Marcus Simeone will perform atTHE METROPOLITAN ROOM (34 West 22nd Street, NYC - 212-206-0440) once a month through January 2014. Performance dates are Saturdays, October 19th, November 16th, December 28th and January 26th, all shows at 7:00 pm. Their show "Quiet Storm," mixes R&B with pop hits and standards. Musical director is Tracy Stark with Marco Broehm on bass. Lina Koutrakos directors. The wide-ranging song list includes tunes by Matt Alber, Anita Baker, Mariah Carey, Jimmy Webb, Cole Porter, Comden & Green, and Vincent Youmans. A 13-time MAC nominee (and four-time winner) Simeone is one of the most honored outsiders in the business. He is putting the finishing touches on his fourth CD on the Miranda Music label. Holt, by contrast, is a much-loved insider and rising star, who has been touted as one of the breakout talents in cabaret. She received the 2013 Bistro Award (Outstanding Vocalist) for her highly praised "Forever Home," seen at Urban Stages and the Metropolitan Room. There is a $25 cover plus a 2-drink minimum.
The Wynton Marsalis Septet will perform at DIZZY'S CLUB AT JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER (33 West 60th Street, NYC - 212-258-9595 ) on Thursday through Monday, December 26th through 31st with shows at 7:30 & 9:30 pm. The Wynton Marsalis Septet features the best of the best, with each legendary member a true leader on his instrument. Led by nine-time GRAMMY• Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Wynton Marsalis, the group's repertoire includes originals from Marsalis and his band mates, as well as a diverse selection of favorites from throughout jazz history. Members are Wynton Marsalis, trumpet; Victor Goines, saxophone & clarinet; Wessell "Warmdaddy" Anderson, saxophone; Wycliffe Gordon, trombone; Eric Reed, piano; Reginald Veal, bass; and Herlin Riley, drums. With an array of straight jazz, blues, bop, New Orleans music, and Marsalis' own extended compositions, music fans will find a lot to dig into during these sets. A shining example of polish and discipline, the group navigates these demanding pieces with deceptive ease, leaving room for expressive, subtle detail and off-the-cuff interaction. Most excitingly, every player gets plenty of time to solo - and these soloists are inexhaustible, endlessly resourceful, and nothing short of magnificent. Please make your tax-deductible contribution today in support of Jazz at Lincoln Center's mission and programs, and secure your seats for this exclusive week of performances. $125 per person includes one $35 cover and one special tax-deductible contribution of $90. See website for details. SEE DECEMBER 31st FOR SPECIAL TIMES AND PRICING