'Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé' at Birdland, Feb.18

Jim Caruso's Cast Party and TheaterMania.com are proud to announce the return of exceptional composer, arranger, vocalist and jazz pianist Billy Stritch, live in-concert to celebrate the release of his acclaimed new record, "Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé," Monday, February 18, 2008 at 7PM, as part of the long-running, critically-heralded and popular concert series Broadway at Birdland.

"Born as a tribute to legendary jazz singer Mel Tormé, 'Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé' features specifically-selected songs from key moments in the classic vocalist's remarkable career, ranging from early moments to all-time classics like 'Lulu's Back in Town' and 'Mountain Greenery,' explain press notes.

An award-winning composer and performer, Billy Stritch has won international acclaim for his interpretations and passion for the Great American Songbook, a healthy mix of fresh perspective, laid-back humor and expert showmanship. He has produced, arranged for and performed onstage with world-renowned icons including Liza Minnelli, Christine Ebersole, Marilyn Maye and Charles Aznavour, and was a guest conductor for The Rosie O'Donnell Show.

As a composer, Stritch co-penned the 1994 Grammy Award-winning song, "Does He Love You?," recorded by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis, which has sold over four million copies nationwide and was named one of the Top Ten Country Songs of that year.  In 2001, he landed the role of piano-playing crooner Oscar in the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of 42nd Street, opposite Ebersole – which led to a long-standing and hugely celebrated professional partnership, across dozens of stages and television shows.

The performance is Monday, February 18 at 7PM at Birdland (315 West 44th Street, between 8th & 9th Aves).

For tickets ($30 + $10 Food/Drink Minimum), call 2120581-3080 or visit www.BirdlandJazz.com

Billy Stritch (photo by Mark Rupp)