James Naughton to Bring 'Saturday Night' Show to La Jolla

On Monday, October 23 at 8pm, La Jolla Playhouse will present "Monday Night Live," a Fall fundraising event hosted by the Center Stage Club, featuring two-time Tony Award-winning Broadway and film star James Naughton and his show, "Looking for the Heart of Saturday Night."

"This elegant, intimate evening will feature songs by musical greats like Frank Sinatra, Tom Waits, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer and Randy Newman, masterfully performed by James Naughton," according to La Jolla notes.

Arranged by Musical Director John Oddo, "Looking for the Heart of Saturday Night" features a wide array of musical stylings ranging from pop standards to jazz numbers. The night will feature such hits as "My Foolish Heart," "Looking For The Heart of Saturday Night," "I Ain't Got Nothing But The Blues" and "Come Rain Or Come Shine."

From Broadway and regional theatre to television and films, James Naughton has won critical acclaim in drama, comedies and musicals. He has won Tony Awards® as Best Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of media-savvy lawyer Billy Flynn in the Broadway hit Chicago (1997) and for his role as a film-noir era detective in City of Angels (1990), which also earned him a Drama Desk Award. Most recently, he played opposite Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada.

There are four different packages available for the Monday Night Live event. At 8pm, all patrons will be welcomed into the Potiker Theatre to enjoy James Naughton's musical performance. The complete package includes a VIP Pre-Show Martini Party at 7pm and an exclusive Post-Show Dessert and Cocktail reception with James Naughton.

"This fundraiser directly benefits The Playhouse's award-winning New Play Development and Education and Outreach programs, ensuring an ongoing commitment to bringing adventurous work to San Diego and The National Theatre scene. Monday Night Live will be hosted by the La Jolla Playhouse Center Stage Club, a group of audacious, energetic people who are passionate Playhouse advocates. They appreciate the artists who distinguish this nationally acclaimed theatre and help create a wide variety of special events and community outreach activities to support La Jolla Playhouse."

Ticket prices range from $75 to $350. (See fact sheet for price breakdown.) For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Maseume Quartararo at (858) 550-1020 x 132 or visit www.lajollaplayhouse.com.