Ridgefield Playhouse Welcomes Cassandra Wilson Tonight

Coming Forth By Day: A Celebration of Billie Holiday is?Grammy Award winner Cassandra Wilson's tribute to one of the greatest jazz singers that ever lived. Perhaps the greatest jazz singer living today, Cassandra Wilson will offer her special tribute concert to Billie Holiday, on the centennial of "Lady Day's" birth, at The Ridgefield Playhouse tonight, March 26, at 8 p.m. Holiday's greatest hits include "My Man", "Good Morning Heartache", "God Bless the Child" and so many more. Wilson has the goods to honor Holiday: Time magazine recognized Wilson as "America's best singer" and "the true heir of Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan". No. 109 Cheese & Wine will serve a complimentary wine tasting to accompany a local artist's reception in the lobby at 7:15 p.m. This event is part of the Ridgefield Magazine Broadway & Cabaret Series. Bernard's (20 West Lane, Ridgefield) is offering a special $45 prix-fixe menu, or a free glass of wine with dinner, the night of this event when tickets are presented; reservations suggested. This event is part of the Ridgefield Magazine Broadway & Cabaret Series and No. 109 Cheese & Wine Evening of "Art, Wine and Jazz" Series.

The New York Times noted approvingly that Wilson possesses "a contralto as rich and as supple as vintage leather," with a distinctive "earthy majesty". The BBC went further in describing Wilson's spectacular voice: "husky yet smooth, like sand mixed with honey, it's sophisticated, wise, and sexy all at the same time, and seems to plug right in to the history of black American music."

Musician, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, Cassandra Wilson will showcase her blues, country, and folk-tinged singing with selections from her newest recording, Coming Forth By Day, (releasing this February) which highlights the artistry of Billie Holiday. Known for her fresh and creative interpretations, Wilson has earned many honors including two Grammy Awards. She performed one of the leading roles in Wynton Marsalis' Blood on the Fields, the first jazz work to receive a Pulitzer Prize. In Wilson's own words: "I've been in love with Billie Holiday's voice since the moment I heard it, and she has inspired me throughout my career."

For tickets ($76; $1 added to support The League of Women's Voters), call the box office at (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, ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

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