Celebrate the “King of Swing” Benny Goodman with a Champagne Jazz Brunch at The Ridgefield Playhouse on September 13

 

It’s the perfect way to unwind on a Sunday when the Ridgefield Playhouse and 109 Cheese & Wine Evening of Art, Wine and Jazz Series mark the 80th anniversary of Benny Goodman's famous Palomar concert that started the “Swing Era” with a Champagne Jazz Brunch on Sunday, September 13 starting at noon and performance of "Reimagining Benny Goodman" featuring Oran Etkin at 1pm.  

Join internationally acclaimed jazz/world artist and composer Oran Etkin as he brings together Steve Nelson, Matt Wilson, and Sullivan Fortner for a creative homage to the groundbreaking quartet of Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, Teddy Wilson and Gene Krupa of the 1930s. Included in the ticket price, and kicking off the afternoon is a Champagne tasting courtesy of 109 Cheese and Wine, brunch courtesy of Award winning restaurant Bernard’s and an art exhibit by artist Martha Talburt in the lobby of the Playhouse. Specialty drinks such as Mimosas and Bloody Marys will also be available to purchase at the lobby bar.  Media sponsor for this event is WZBG out of Litchfield. 

In the 1930s-40s, swing dominated American popular music, and for “Reimagining Benny Goodman”, Etkin channels the "King of Swing" and celebrates several important milestones. Alongside vibraphonist Steve Nelson and drummer Matt Wilson, two top instrumentalists, Etkin pays homage to one of the first integrated jazz quartets to tour the country. The group will also celebrate the 80th anniversary of the historic Palomar Ballroom concert that ushered in a new musical era. These sets will be great for both newcomers and longtime jazz fans. 

Praised as a great clarinetist and all-around improviser by the New York Times, Israeli-American clarinetist Oran Etkin felt a deep connection with Benny Goodman, whose groundbreaking work in redefining the role of the clarinet and challenging the status quo inspired a generation of musicians. This show celebrates the daring and playful spirit of Benny Goodman, not by recreating his music, but by getting “at the essence of who he was and the spirit that he brought to the music.” 

 For tickets ($35, Students $25 – which includes Champagne tasting, brunch and show), call or visit the box office at The Ridgefield Playhouse, (203) 438-5795, or order online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT.                            

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Submitted by Redding, CT

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