New York during the holidays is a magical time, with lights and decorations and annual traditions all over the five boroughs. One notable event that's ideal for jazz fans and families alike is ‘Bending Towards The Light … A Jazz Nativity,’ which will be performed at the iconic blues and jazz hotspot BB King's on Thursday, December 22 at 7:30pm. (Note: VIPs can get booths on the floor in advance.)
The traditional story will be told in full costume with great jazz players and singers playing all the roles. The show was written and arranged by singer-songwriter Anne Phillips.
The original music written by Ms. Phillips, Bob Kindred and Dave and Iola Brubeck (Dave is pictured at BB King's above), and is combined with well-known carols. (For the record, the soundtrack recording features the late CBS journalist Charles Kuralt as host and jazz greats Lionel Hampton, Dave Brubeck and Tito Puente.)
The Jazz Ensemble:
Bob Kindred, Lew Soloff, Jon Gordon, Art Baron, Dean Johnson, Tim Horner, Adam Asarnow and Candido
Singers:
Anne Phillips, Stephanie McGuire, Amy London, Robert Encila, Dylan Pramuk
Kings:
Houston Person, Maurice Chestnut, Wycliffe Gordon
Special Guests:
Jon Hendricks, Warren Vache, Russell George, Max Pollak, Arturo O'Farrill
Tickets can be purchased through BB King's website.