Review: THE COUNT MEETS THE DUKE at 59E59 is a Musical Triumph

Jazz lovers unite and get your tickets to THE COUNT MEETS THE DUKE: THE ANDERSONS PLAY BASIE AND ELLINGTON at 59e59 Theatres through January 3rd. Presented by Reardon-Anderson Music, LLC, this musical treat is created and directed by Peter and Will Anderson.

THE COUNT MEETS THE DUKE is a fantastic show that highlights the work of two of the greatest jazz musicians and composers, Count Basie and Duke Ellington. The program's stunning display of musical talent includes "The Anderson Twins," Peter Anderson on tenor saxophone and clarinet, Will Anderson on alto saxophone and clarinet along with Jeb Patton on piano, Clovis Nicolas on acoustic bass and Phil Stewart on drums. The Andersons provide a fascinating narrative and there are also interviews of Count Basie and Duke Ellington projected on a video screen. Adding to the ambiance, the stage is decked out with some of Al Hirschfield's famous caricatures. You will be tapping your toes, nodding your head, snapping your fingers and clapping your hands as you enjoy jazz and gain an insight into the musical selections.

THE COUNT MEETS THE DUKE traces the jazz era from the 1930's to the 1960's and highlights the musical camaraderie between the Count and the Duke that lasted for decades. The musical program has pieces by Count Basie including "Cute," "Tickle Toe" and "Midgets" and numbers by Duke Ellington like "Main Stem," and "Ad Lib on Nippon." The program also features an original composition by Will Anderson, "Devil's Advocate." While music takes center stage, you will enjoy information such as the fact that Fats Waller mentored Count Basie. Duke Ellington began his career in DC with "The Washingtonians" and the band traveled internationally for the State Department. Famed jazz bands had their own baseball teams and competed with each other as they toured. And there are nods to other jazz greats of the times like Billy Strayhorn and Johnny Hodges.

The incredible five-piece band will delight you for 90 minutes in the relaxing and intimate space at 59E59 Theatre. Bravo to the Andersons and their fellow musicians for bringing metro area audiences a jazz treat for the holiday season. Don't miss this one.

THE COUNT MEETS THE DUKE: THE ANDERSONS PLAY BASIE AND ELLINGTON is on a limited engagement through Sunday, January 3. The performance schedule is Tuesday - Thursday at 7:30 PM; Friday at 5:30 PM & 8:30 PM; Saturday at 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM & 8:30 PM; and Sunday at 3:30 PM & 7:30 PM. Please note, there is no performance on 12/25 (Christmas Day). Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Tickets are $25 ($17.50 for 59E59 Members) for performances from December 8 - 20; $35 ($24.50 for 59E59 Members) for performances from December 22 - January 3. To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279- 4200 or go to www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Eileen O'Donnell

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