Taye Diggs News

VANESSA WILLIAMS TO PERFORM SATURDAY, APRIL 2, AT PRELUDE BY BARTON G. AT THE ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER WITH PROCEEDS FROM EVENT TO BENEFIT THE BARTON G. KIDS HEAR NOW FOUNDATION

Yesyerday, March 16, the stars came out to celebrate the 19th Annual 'A Night at Sardi's' benefit at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. BroadwayWorld brings you photo coverage below.

Show at Barre welcomes Tracie Thoms, star of RENT (Film version, Broadway, Hollywood Bowl), Quentin Tarantino's Deathproof, and TV's Cold Case, to the cast of FOR THE RECORD: BAZ LUHRMANN. Ms. Thoms will make her debut performance in the sell-out live concert event this Saturday, March 5th, and will be part of the rotating ensemble from then on

Show at Barre welcomes Tracie Thoms, star of RENT (Film version, Broadway, Hollywood Bowl), Quentin Tarantino's Deathproof, and TV's Cold Case, to the cast of FOR THE RECORD: BAZ LUHRMANN. Ms. Thoms will make her debut performance in the sell-out live concert event this Saturday, March 5th, and will be part of the rotating ensemble from then on

The Independent Spirit Awards were held on Saturday in Santa Monica, California, where stage vet Natalie Portman won the title of Best Actress for her work in 'Black Swan.' The film was also named Best Picture and earned an award for best director, Darren Aronofksy.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the cast of Glee has made their choices for which actors should play Rachel Berry's (Lea Michele) dads. While Taye Diggs has been rumored to be a contender, Matthew Morrison is hoping for Nathan Lane and Danny DeVito.

2011 marks the 13th year that guitar virtuoso Andre Feriante will host his annual Valentine's Day Concert at Benaroya Hall's Nordstrom Recital Hall. This award-winning, neo-flamenco/classical guitar virtuoso performs each year for hundreds of fans who savor the soulful and seductive harmonies his music embodies. It's all about romance but his melded styles and multi-guitar format keep the evening lively and upbeat. Although soft and easy is definitely the theme, things will probably get a little spicy when Andre introduces his two newest loves to the audience: the mandolin and the ukulele. Feriante will perform a musical mix of fiery flamenco, classical guitar standards and spoken poetry set to his original compositions in the style of Neruda and Rumi; followed by a series of romantic favorites performed in the classical and jazz styles and a special tribute to his legendary mentor, Andres Segovia. For the last 20-plus years Feriante has used Seattle as a base for his international career. A poet as well as composer, his artistic path has crossed with numerous Seattle-based musicians, and on special occasions they perform together. For the 2011 Valentine's Day Concert that mix includes: tenor Steve Thoreson, pianist Overton Berry, guitarist Erich Fridrich, and jazz vocalist Annie O'Neill. It is during ACTII of Andante Amoroso when Feriante will introduce this eclectic mix of musical professionals for an improvisational set sure to dazzle with their exquisite musicianship. Andre Feriante Andante Amoroso is Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. in the Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall. Tickets are $40 and are on sale now through the Benaroya Hall Box Office, at 206.215.4747 or online at www.benaroyahall.org. Andre Feriante - www.andreferiante.comAfter 20-plus years of performing and recording, award-winning virtuoso guitarist Andre Feriante has left his musical mark on the classical, world music and fusion scenes. A cross-over artist in the vein of YoYo Ma or Sting, his performance program represents a bold but fluid musical fusion, featuring music from Bach to Leonard Cohen, flamenco improvisation to jazz standards, and even poetry by Federico Garcia Lorca, Rumi and Feriante himself. Born in Naples, Italy, Feriante spent his formative years between Southern Italy and Manziana, a village just outside Rome. At age nine he announced his intentions to be a flamenco guitarist. He worked and saved to buy his first instrument, then at 13, he began studying at the Overseas School of Rome. By age 16, he was already performing the works of Bach, Vivaldi, Albeniz and Scarlatti, and by 18, Feriante had launched his musical career, playing concerts in Rome, Berlin and North and South America. He continued his studies with world-renowned classical guitarists Andres Segovia and Jose Tomas (Segovia's assistant) in Madrid, Henry Rivas in Bogota, Columbia and Leon Atkinson in New York. A nylon string player from the classical tradition, Feriante's creative blend of classical, flamenco, and Brazilian styles speaks to people from all walks of life--from society sophisticates and blue-collar aficionados to Latin devotees and jazz hipsters. Often called the "People's Guitarist," Feriante brings his sensual, contemporary sound to an otherwise traditional genre. His bittersweet style and skillful playing is likened to Brazilian singer-guitarist Caetano Veloso; his style and sound have been compared to Andres Segovia; and his lyrical style to that of Leonard Cohen. Critics cite Feriante's music for its dreamlike healing quality, much like a piece of Impressionist art. Graceful, elegant, and ardent, he explores the delicate aspects of love and loss. Since moving to Seattle in the 1980s, Feriante has established himself as a local favorite, having performed throughout the Puget Sound area in public and private concerts for a virtual "Who's Who of Seattle." His music has been featured on NPR's Hearts and Space and in 2008 he was picked for the MSN celebrity feature, "12 Sexy Bald Men," along with Andre Agassi, Seal, Vin Diesel, Taye Diggs and Patrick Stewart. (http://www.andreferiante.com/article/7.html). In addition to his performance schedule, Feriante currently hosts "La Guitarra" on Classic King FM 98.1, the Arts Channel. Feriante has played a wide variety of venues including The King Cat Theatre (where he opened for Olita Adams and David Benoit), The Frye Art Museum, The Paramount Theater, and the Key Arena, where he performed the National Anthem for the Seattle Sonics. Feriante recently performed with the Northwest Symphony at Benaroya Hall with Heart and Alice and Chains.Festival appearances include the Maui Music Festival, Seattle Folklife Festival, Seattle Hempfest and Bumbershoot. And Feriante headlined "La Festa di Manziana" in Rome. He makes regular appearances on Seattle radio and television and was featured on the Classical King FM Compilation Natural Symphony CD, as well as on the Tigerbreath label with Ottmar Liebert, Craig Chaquico and others. He has played at Javeriana University in Bogota, Colombia, and for Jose Carreras at both Carnegie Hall and Benaroya Hall (benefits for the Jose Carreras Leukemia Foundation). Feriante's albums have consistently charted within the top 10, and, "Bohemian Boulevard," debuted at No. 1 on the world and ambient radio charts. It remained in the top 20 for five months and then went on to win "Best World Album" at the New Age Reporter's 2006 Lifestyle Awards. He recently issued his eighth CD, a limited edition, "Best of Feriante," celebrating his 10th year anniversary Valentine show at Benaroya Hall, and on February 14, 2010, at the 12th Annual Benaroya Hall Valentines show, Feriante will officially release his tenth CD, "Sleeping Lady Serenade." A seasoned, expressive performer whose style is as elegant as it is conversational, Feriante's innovative and effortless style appeals to any ear with a love and passion for music. He has dedicated his life to his art, and his ability to communicate through sound never fails to lead his audience on an emotional journey that is as deeply personal as it is universal. Steve Thoreson - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn3RzCboY0ESteve Thoreson is a tenor of the highest caliber. Critics and aficionados alike compare his voice to that of Luciano Pavarotti. A natural talent from North Bend, Washington, Steve grew up winning every singing competition in his region and early on was sent by the Seattle Opera to study in Siena, Italy. His studies have taken him throughout Europe, including to the renowned Swedish vocalist, actress and teacher, Britt Bern. Thoreson has performed extensively in Sweden, in concert, on radio and television. His singing has taken him to twenty seven countries, performing in churches, piazzas, concert halls and sporting arenas. A powerhouse of Norwegian and Native American decent, Steve Thoreson is a major force to contend with in the world of opera. Overton Berry - www.overtonberry.comOverton Berry began his musical career over fifty years ago at the age of 16 when he played USO shows at military bases on the west coast with the first Overton Berry Trio. In the Pacific Northwest, he's considered "a living legend", and his wealth of experience and generations of fans bear witness to this affectionate accolade. His credits include Music Director for the Peggy Lee Concert at the 1962 Seattle World's Fair; Music Director for the House of Entertainment during the Seattle World's Fair; Music Director for the Canadian tour La Hora de Jazz Concerts; Music Director of the Gene Stridel Show, Hollywood Overseas Committee - Viet Nam; and Music Director of the Overton Berry Trio and the TOBE School of Music. He has played extensively in venues around the world including Sans Souci in Tokyo, the Marriott in Cairo, the Peninsula Hotel in Bangkok, the China Hotel in Guangzhou, China and the Sheraton Hotel in Hong Kong. Eric Fridrich www.myspace.com/ericfridrichEric Fridrich brings a sense of versatility and awareness to his singer/songwriter roots. With touches of rock, jazz, folk, blues and Latin, Fridrich delivers a sound rich in pop hooks, jazz tags and blues turnarounds. This Chicago native adds the influences of such artists as Sting, Neil Young, Sinatra, B.B. King, James Brown, James Taylor, Santana and Stevie Wonder, to name a few. Fridrich offers an acoustic guitar featuring many styles, a harmonica with minor modes as well as blues and a unique vocal style that captivates the audience. His music is extremely accessible, as evidenced by open invitations to play in China, France, Australia, Italy, UK, zchech, Caribbean and all over the US. His recent work garnered a 2006 nomination for 'Best New Artist of the Year' from Seattle Weekly, a full-page feature article in "The Collegient," in-studio interview at KBCS-FM, Channel 5 News exclusive interview, along with a slew of national radio exposure. Fridrich's music speaks for itself. Usually a solo performer, you can find him in Chicago with the likes of internationally respected Nate Lerohl (double bass) who adds the German bow in the Duocracy. In Seattle, you'll find Fridrich leading the Eric Fridrich Trio--with bassist Steve Kim and percussionist Johnny Conga, whose illustrious credits include the Jackson 5, Gloria Estaban, among 20 other Grammy Award winners. Annie O'Neill http://www.reverbnation.com/annieoneillis a native of the great northwest who studied vocal jazz at Cornish College of the Arts and has since focused on developing her performance and songwriting skills. Whether it's a sultry ballad, a full force rock jam, or a raw acoustic tune, Annie is capable of entrancing an audience of any size. Annie's debut CD with LiquidCity offers a variety of textures and genres, ranging from hard edge folk rock quartet songs to lilting piano-based arrangements, stripped down acoustic tunes, a capella, to a vintage jazz cover, 'Angel Eyes'. Highlights include Annie's vocal scat style and searing solos on both electric and slide guitars.

Budd Friedman and Mark Lonow's world-famous Improv Comedy Club at Harrah's Las Vegas showcases a different marquee of acts each week. Guy Torry takes the stage tomorrow through Sunday, with supporting acts Larry Brown and Lachlan Patterson. Improv shows are at 8:30pm and 10:30pm every Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets are $29.05 (plus applicable taxes) or $44.95 (plus applicable taxes) for VIP tickets that include special seating, an Improv t-shirt and post-show meet-and-greet with the comics. Special two-for-one tickets are also available for locals. Tickets are available at Harrah's Box Office (702-369-5223) and online at www.harrahs.com.

'Heaven Can Wait' - Addison plans Bizzy and Susan's wedding while trying to keep her distance from the overly flirtatious Dr. Rodriquez. Sam is concerned about the care his longtime patient is receiving, and Sheldon refers Charlotte to his mentor and friend for psychiatric help, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Taye Diggs, Tina Fey, Dennis Haysbert, Susan Sarandon and Donald Sutherland will be presenters at the 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards(R), Executive Producer Jeff Margolis announced today.

Manhattan Theatre Club will present its annual Winter Benefit, an evening of cocktails and dinner followed by a special one-night-only cabaret-style show featuring some of the biggest stars of musical theatre on Monday, January 24, 2011 at The Plaza (58th Street & Fifth Avenue).

This week, in honor of today's InDepth InterView: Idina Menzel, we are taking a look back at some of Ms. Menzel's most memorable appearances over the years, culling clips from everything from RENT to WICKED to GLEE, with some Muppets, music and much more served up for your entertainment enjoyment, as well. All eyes - on Broadway and beyond - are most certainly focused on what Idina will do next, but just look at all she has accomplished thus far!

'Heaven Can Wait' - Addison plans Bizzy and Susan's wedding while trying to keep her distance from the overly flirtatious Dr. Rodriquez. Sam is concerned about the care his longtime patient is receiving, and Sheldon refers Charlotte to his mentor and friend for psychiatric help, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

'Playing God' - The man responsible for endangering Maya's life and killing Dell shows up at Oceanside Wellness with a heart condition, and Sam struggles with his responsibility to help; contrary to Violet's warnings, Pete volunteers at a friend's home medical clinic and ultimately puts a patient's life at risk; and news of Addison's new romance doesn't go over well, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, JANUARY 20 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 10/7/10)

'Playing God' - The man responsible for endangering Maya's life and killing Dell shows up at Oceanside Wellness with a heart condition, and Sam struggles with his responsibility to help; contrary to Violet's warnings, Pete volunteers at a friend's home medical clinic and ultimately puts a patient's life at risk; and news of Addison's new romance doesn't go over well, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, JANUARY 20 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 10/7/10)

'Heaven Can Wait' - Addison plans Bizzy and Susan's wedding while trying to keep her distance from the overly flirtatious Dr. Rodriquez. Sam is concerned about the care his longtime patient is receiving, and Sheldon refers Charlotte to his mentor and friend for psychiatric help, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, JANUARY 13 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

ABC announced early pick-ups for the 2011-12 season of 'Castle,' 'Cougar Town,' 'Grey's Anatomy,' 'The Middle,' 'Modern Family' and 'Private Practice.'

The winners of the PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS 2011 were announced during the live broadcast at the Nokia Theater, L.A. Live on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011 (9:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network.

'If You Don't Know Me By Now' - Addison's mother, Bizzy, aggressively demands her daughter do whatever it takes to save her partner from dying - including working with Dr. Rodriguez once again. Meanwhile Amelia and Pete's medical consultation is complicated when a patient's wife and his mistress disagree on the course of treatment, Charlotte and Cooper try to be intimate with each other again, and Violet considers publishing a personally-revealing book she's written, on 'Private Practice,' THURSDAY, JANUARY 6 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

A star-studded selection of talent from film, TV and music including Malin Akerman, Julie Bowen, Michael Chiklis, Miranda Cosgrove, Kaley Cuoco, Taye Diggs, Lisa Edelstein, Zac Efron, Neil Patrick Harris, Teri Hatcher, the Kardashians, Minka Kelly, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Hugh Laurie, Taylor Lautner, Zachary Levi, AnnaLynne McCord, Leighton Meester, Stephen Moyer, Conan O'Brien, Jerry O'Connell, Jim Parsons, Pauley Perrette, Katy Perry, Natalie Portman, Emma Roberts, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Swift and Kate Walsh are scheduled to attend the PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS 2011, to be broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live in Los Angeles, Wednesday, Jan. 5 (9:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network.