Tony Winner Ben Vereen Joins Transcendence Theatre's 2014 Artist Series, 8/9

The Transcendence Theatre Company announces Ben Vereen as a part of their 2014 Transcendence Artist Series this summer. This series of concerts is a collection of transcendent performers presented in intimate and breathtaking locations throughout Sonoma County.

Steppin' Out with Ben Vereen has been dazzling audiences around the world. The show highlights Mr. Vereen's unique artistry, combining a tribute to Broadway, Frank Sinatra and a very special tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. featuring hit songs such as "Defying Gravity," "Mr. Bojangles" and "Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries," Steppin' Out with Ben Vereen is a contemporary yet timeless journey. The New York Times dubbed him "an old-school song and dance man who never lets up. He wins you over with his sheer energy, good will and showbiz know-how."

Few entertainers today are as accomplished or versatile as Ben Vereen. His legendary performances transcend time and have been woven into the fabric of this country's artistic legacy. His first love and passion is and always will be the stage.

"The theater was my first training ground. It taught me discipline, dedication and appreciation of hard work and values that will stay with me a lifetime. The stage sharpens the creative instrument and encourages you to go deeper inside and try new things," states Ben.

On Broadway, Ben Vereen has appeared in Wicked, Fosse, I'm Not Rappaport, Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Grind, Pippin, Jelly's Last Jam and A Christmas Carol. His role in Pippin garnered him both the prestigious Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for Best Actor in a Musical.

"We are thrilled beyond belief to share the magic of Ben Vereen with our audiences," says Artistic Director Amy Miller. "Mr. Vereen is a legendary & inspiring force of nature. Beyond our admiration for his extraordinary talents, we know he shares the spirit of our company and the life changing experiences we look to create."

Ben Vereen's one night concert will take place in the majestic open-air Winery Ruins in Jack London State Historic Park on August 9th, 2014. Similar to Transcendence Theatre's "Broadway Under The Stars" concerts, the evening will begin with preshow picnicking on the great lawn of the park starting at 5pm (with food and wine available for purchase), with the performance itself beginning at 7:30pm.

The 2014 Transcendence Artist Series is composed of 5 separate concerts with the additional concerts scheduled to be announced soon.

Transcendence Theatre was named Broadway World San Francisco's 2013 "Theatre of the Year." Over the last two seasons the company has given over $72,000 to Jack London State Historic Park, while winning the Broadway World San Francisco award for Best Special Theater Event in both of its first two seasons.

In addition to the Transcendence Artist Series, Transcendence produces the Broadway Under The Stars in Jack London State Park concert series running from June 27 to September 6. This year that concert series includes performers who have been featured on Broadway in The Book Of Mormon, Wicked, The Phantom Of The Opera, Mamma Mia, West Side Story, Hair, Jekyll & Hyde, Grease, Spring Awakening, Thoroughly Modern Millie, A Chorus Line and many more!

Transcendence has an ever-growing list of sponsors and partners for the 2014 season including Nelson, Benziger Family Winery, Sonoma Index Tribune, Chateau St. Jean, Sotheby's International Realty, Beau Wine Tours, KZST, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Whole Foods Sonoma, The Girl & The Fig, El Pueblo Inn, Classic Party Rentals, JDH Wealth Management LLC, Parkpoint Health Clubs, SomethingAboutSonoma.com, Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance, Julie Atwood Events, The Dance Center Santa Rosa, the Valley Of The Moon Natural History Association, Rotary Club of Sonoma Valley, Friedman's Home Improvements, Jack London State Park, Magical Massage, Olive and Vine, The Glen Ellen Star, Kid Scoop News, the County of Sonoma, as well as 7 sparkling wine sponsors, 15 nightly wine sponsors, and over 23 pouring partner wineries.

Tickets for "Steppin' Out With Ben Vereen" are $42 to $125 and are in limited quantity. To purchase tickets please either visit www.TTCsonoma.org or call (877) 424-1414

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