Birdland Announces December 2018 Schedule
By: A.A. Cristi Nov. 15, 2018
Birdland will kick-off their exciting month of programming with the following acts:
November 28-December 1 (Wednesday-Saturday) at 7:00PM
David and the Bombshells at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce the return of David & The Bombshells (Tiffany Dissette, Heather Lundstedt O'Neill and Leah Sprecher and their trusty band leader/arranger David Lamoureux) by popular demand! They were created in 2016 by three ladies and one fella looking to bring the musicality, sentiments and novelty of vintage female trio acts to modern audiences today. By blending Top 40 hits with the tight harmonies made famous by the Andrews Sisters, they bridge the gap between old and new, bringing joy to both young and more seasoned audiences. All of their arrangements are completely original and present songs you've heard a million times on the radio in a brand new way.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
November 27-December 1 (Tuesday-Saturday) at 8:30PM and 11:00PM
Discovered by legendary record executive Clive Davis, Curtis Stigers debut album sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide on the strength of self-penned hit singles like "I Wonder Why," "You're All That Matters to Me," and "Never Saw a Miracle." A year later, Stigers cover of Nick Lowe's "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace Love and Understanding" for The Bodyguard Soundtrack sold over 40 million copies worldwide. Further collaborations with Carole King, Al Green, Shawn Colvin, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Bonnie Raitt, and Rod Stewart - as well as multiple appearances on The Tonight Show, David Letterman, The Today Show, etc. - put Stigers directly in the spotlight of popular culture. With One More for the Road and Hooray For Love, his latest releases for the Concord Jazz label, Stigers continues to fulfill a promise made to a younger version of himself: a commitment to artistic growth, and to bringing new tunes to the Great American Songbook.
All tickets $40, $10 food/drink minimum
November 30-December 1 (Friday-Saturday) at 9:45PM
Bruce Harris at the Birdland Theater
Bronx-born-and-raised trumpeter Bruce Harris's love of music began in his home, where the sounds of New York's storied music traditions of bebop and hip-hop captivated his attention early on.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 2 (Sunday) at 6:00PM
Mari Koga
Japanese born New York vocalist Mari Koga sings "Jazz with a Latin Flavor." She began singing pop songs as a teenager until she discovered herself as a jazz singer in her 20's. Mari released a new album, "PERFECT BLUE" in 2015, containing her unique arrangements of jazz standards and Afro-Latin influenced original songs. Audiences have been delighted by her unique repertoire, which ranges from jazz to danceable salsa to romantic bolero, and by her throaty horn-like improvisational scatting style.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 3 and 17 (Monday) at 7:00PM
The Broadway at Birdland concert series is thrilled to announce that Santino Fontana will return to the historic stage. With his rich voice, dynamic versatility, and charisma, Santino Fontana is one of Broadway's favorite leading men.
All tickets $30-85, $10 food/drink minimum
December 3 (Monday) at 8:30PM
Jason Kravits at the Birdland Theater
Whether you recognize him from Broadway (The Drowsy Chaperone, Relatively Speaking) or TV (Kimmy Schmidt, Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Practice), you've never seen Jason Kravits quite like this. Jason invents an entire cabaret, from scratch, right before your eyes. Every song, every lyric, every show-biz anecdote, humblebrag and overshare...made up, on the spot, based on your suggestions. Backed by the most daring band in the business, and featuring very special guests, Jason creates a solo, improvised musical-comedy high-wire act you've got to see to believe. It's the show of a lifetime...every time!
All tickets $25, $10 food/drink minimum
December 4-8 (Tuesday-Saturday) at 8:30PM and 11:00PM
Pharoah Sanders
Pharoah Sanders possesses one of the most distinctive tenor saxophone sounds in jazz. Harmonically rich and heavy with overtones, Sanders' sound can be as raw and abrasive as it is possible for a saxophonist to produce. Yet, Sanders is highly regarded to the point of reverence by a great many jazz fans. Although he made his name with expressionistic, nearly anarchic free jazz in John Coltrane's late ensembles of the mid-'60s, Sanders' later music is guided by more graceful concerns.
All tickets $40, $10 food/drink minimum
December 4 (Tuesday) at 9:30PM
Susie Mosher at the Birdland Theater
The Lineup with Susie Mosher is a wild, anything-goes variety show featuring entertainers from the Broadway, cabaret and comedy scenes. Actress/singer Mosher hosts the spontaneous extravaganza at 9:30pm on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
All tickets $25, $10 food/drink minimum
December 5-8 (Wednesday-Saturday) at 7:00PM
The Jive Aces at the Birdland Theater
Renowned worldwide for their high-energy spectacular showmanship, their viral video "Bring Me Sunshine" and for being the first live band to reach the final rounds of "Britain's Got Talent", The Jive Aces have firmly established themselves the UK's No.1 Jive & Swing band. The live show includes classics like "When You're Smiling", "Mack The Knife" and "Sing, Sing, Sing", plus originals such as "La Dolce Vita" taken from their various albums.
All tickets $20-30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 5 (Wednesday) at 9:45PM
The DIVA Project at the Birdland Theater
Cher. Barbra. Whitney. Bette. Aretha. Dolly. Ella. Celine...all identified by a single name. All blessed with incredible flair and artistry. All celebrated in one electrifying evening. Hosted by Scott Coulter, Broadway and cabaret divas Carole J. Bufford, Natalie Douglas, Alex Getlin, Jessica Hendy, Lorinda Lisitza, Kelli Rabke, Nicole Turner and more will perform the hits and favorites with a terrific band.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 6 (Thursday) at 5:30PM
David DeJesus
Saxophonist David DeJesus has been on the New York City Jazz scene since the late 90's and has established himself as a key player in numerous bands in various genres. In Jazz, David has performed with the Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the Mingus Big Band, the Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars, and Jimmy Heath's Big Band along with many others. In Latin Jazz and Salsa, David has shared the stage with Ruben Blades, Larry Harlow, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Artro O'Farrill and Tito Rodriguez Jr. Currently, David is the leader of the Birdland Big Band, a member of the Grammy nominated Bobby Sanabria Big Band, and the Legendary Ron Carter's Great Big Band.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 6 (Thursday) at 9:45PM
Natalie Douglas "A Very Natalie Holiday" at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is thrilled to announce that singer Natalie Douglas will be bringing musical holiday cheer to the stage. After her smash "Tributes" residency upstairs, New York notable Natalie Douglas brings a brand new holiday show to the Birdland Theater stage. Celebrating all things winter and wonderful, "A Very Natalie Holiday" will include everything from Christmas classics to more contemporary takes on the season, including Natalie's singular interpretations of "Children Go Where I Send You," "O Holy Night," "Merry Christmas Darling," and "It Wasn't His Child."
All tickets $35, $10 food/drink minimum
December 7-8 (Friday-Saturday) at 9:45PM
Alexa Tarantino at the Birdland Theater
Alexa Tarantino is an award-winning, vibrant, young jazz saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer, and educator. She establishes her individual voice which shines through as a dynamic performer and educator.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 9 (Sunday) at 6:00PM
Eyal Vilner Big Band Hanukkah Album Release
Eyal Vilner emerges as one of the leading new voices in the New York big band scene. After performing at many of New York's landmarks and top jazz festivals in Israel, The Eyal Vilner Big Band makes it's debut performance at Birdland with a special holidays show celebrating their latest release - Hanukkah. The album presents a new and original way to celebrate the beautiful repertoire of traditional Hanukkah songs, blending holiday melodies with sounds influenced by jazz and swing, Israeli, Jewish and Middle Eastern music, in addition to Brazilian Choro and Afro-Cuban rhythms.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 9 (Sunday) at 7:30PM
Noah Wilker's One Crazy Night at the Birdland Theater
Singer/songwriter Noah Wilker returns to New York City after a five year hiatus for a one night only special Chanukah show, benefiting a place very close to his heart. Camp Tel Yehudah has been a second home to Noah for the past twenty-five years and he looks forward to reconnecting with the people he has met over those great summers. All proceeds from this very special evening will be donated to the Tel Yehudah scholarship fund and will help more teens experience this amazing community in 2019.
All tickets $36, $10 food/drink minimum
December 10 (Monday) at 7:00PM
Michael Longoria "Merry Christmas Darling" at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce that Broadway performer Michael Longoria will be celebrating his new CD, "Merry Christmas Darling," with a concert. Original Jersey Boy Michael Longoria invites you to his Birdland concert debut, celebrating the Broadway Records release of his Christmas album, "Merry Christmas Darling." Following the release of his debut solo album, "Broadway Brick By Brick," Michael Longoria sings us home for the holidays with a collection of his Christmas favorites. "Merry Christmas Darling," a romantic holiday show with a throwback '60s vibe, will make you want to hang up your stocking, snuggle up by the fireplace, and get into the Christmas spirit. Longoria's winter wonderland love-note includes standards like "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)," woven with modern day classics like "All I Want For Christmas Is You," and "Last Christmas," and featuring a brand new Christmas song, "Merry Me This Christmas." Rona Siddiqui will perform as Musical Director/Pianist.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 11-15 (Monday-Wednesday at 7:00PM and Thursday-Friday at 9:45PM)
Gunhild Carling Sweden's "Queen of Swing" at the Birdland Theater
Gunhild Carling makes a merry, musical, holiday return to Birdland, in the beautiful Birdland Theater! Have yourself a jazzy little Christmas when Sweden's Queen Of Swing puts her unmistakable mark on seasonal songs as well Great American standards. Kick off the holidays in grand Gunhild style!
All tickets $35, $10 food/drink minimum
December 11-15 (Tuesday-Saturday) at 8:30PM and 11:00PM
Stacey Kent
Critically acclaimed, GRAMMY nominated singer, Stacey Kent, sings from the soul, telling her stories with faultless phrasing and a lucid, enchanting voice. Her most recent release, "I Know I Dream: The Orchestral Sessions", won 'Album of the Year' in the vocal category at the 2017 Jazz Japan Awards. The rich musical tapestry contrasts with her previous intimate collaboration with Brazilian music master Roberto Menescal, "Tenderly," (2015 SONY) and the exuberant, "Marcos Valle & Stacey Kent Live," (2013 SONY).
All tickets $50, $10 food/drink minimum
December 12 (Wednesday) at 9:45PM
Villain: DeBlanks at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce the hilarious improv show Villain: DeBlanks, an uproarious improvisational comedy where the cast says words the audience puts in their mouths! The audience provides nouns, adjectives, and verbs (the wilder, the better), and the actors provide the laughs-uncensored and unrehearsed-as they solve the mystery of Philip DeBlanks' untimely demise. Celebrity guests will include Jeremy Shamos and Rebecca Luker. Additional guests will be announced soon. 100% of proceeds from this performance will benefit God's Love We Deliver.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 13 (Thursday) at 5:30PM
Award-winning jazz vocalist Alexis Cole may be the most talented singer to ever hold a top-secret military clearance. A dozen albums into her critically acclaimed career, she may also be the best-kept secret in jazz, a status that's certain to change as more people are discovering her for themselves.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 14 (Thursday) at 9:45PM
Tony Yazbeck and Friends at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce that Tony nominee Tony Yazbeck will bring a holiday-inspired musical variety show to the new stage. He and his musical buddies, including Isabel Leonard (Marnie at the Metropolitan Opera), Clyde Alves (On The Town), and Robyn Hurder (Nice Work If You Can Get It), and many more, will perform some of your favorite holiday tunes and a few beloved Broadway favorites.
All tickets $40-60, $10 food/drink minimum
December 14-15 (Friday-Saturday) at 7:00PM
James Barbour Celebrates the Holidays at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce that James Barbour will return for his 10th Annual Holiday Concert series. Having performed to sold out crowds around the world for the last ten years, this perennial event will hit the stage for two nights of music and cheer. The show, filled with holiday tunes and perennial favorites, will warm your heart and bring a smile to your face. As always, Mr. Barbour will be accompanied by special guest performers from the Broadway world.
All tickets $40, $10 food/drink minimum
December 16 (Sunday) at 6:00PM
The Ron Aprea Big Band and Vocalist Angela DeNiro Pay Tribute to Count Basie
Ron Aprea, who hails from Astoria, NY got his first alto saxophone at age 16 and started taking lessons in a studio across the street from Radio City Music Hall. It was also during this time that Ron would frequent the famed Birdland Jazz Club on Broadway. He spent a lot of time soaking up inspiration from all of the Big Band and Jazz legends that played the club - such as Count Basie and Blakey's Jazz Messengers. Both would prove to be major influences in Ron's career.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 17 (Monday) at 7:00PM
The Broadway at Birdland concert series is thrilled to announce that Santino Fontana will return to the historic stage. With his rich voice, dynamic versatility, and charisma, Santino Fontana is one of Broadway's favorite leading men.
All tickets $30-85, $10 food/drink minimum
December 17-18 (Monday at 8:30PM and Tuesday at 7:00PM)
Steve Ross at the Birdland Theater
Birdland Theater is proud to announce that the "Crowned Prince of Cabaret," Mr. Steve Ross, will bring "Here's To Us: Festive Songs of Love and Friendship" to the new stage. Steve's Christmas collection will include classic songs in the categories of love and friendship including "It's D'Lovely," "Friendship," "Embraceable You," "Our Love Is Here to Stay," "Together," "I Want to Be Seen With You," "People Will Say We're in Love," and "You've Got a Friend." There will also be some holiday treats from Steve's new CD "It' Almost Christmas Eve."
All tickets $40, $10 food/drink minimum
December 18-25 (Tuesday-Tuesday) at 8:30PM and 11:00PM
Freddy Cole Quartet Featuring Special Guest Joel Frahm
The New York Times calls Freddy Cole, "the most maturely expressive male jazz singer of his generation, if not the best alive." People Magazine praises his, "gorgeous autumnal baritone, expressive phrasing and pitch-perfect feel for jazz standards, pop tunes and love ballads." Uncle to Natalie Cole, brother of Nat "King" Cole, pianist and vocalist Freddy Cole doesn't apologize for sounding a little bit like his iconic elder brother as he tantalizes listeners all over the world. Cole's annual visit is the perfect blend of jazz and great American standards.
All tickets $50, $10 food/drink minimum
December 18 (Tuesday) at 9:30PM
Susie Mosher at the Birdland Theater
The Lineup with Susie Mosher is a wild, anything-goes variety show featuring entertainers from the Broadway, cabaret and comedy scenes. Actress/singer Mosher hosts the spontaneous extravaganza at 9:30pm on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
All tickets $25, $10 food/drink minimum
December 19-20 (Wednesday-Thursday) at 7:00PM and 9:45PM
Slim Gambill at the Birdland Theater
Jason "Slim" Gambill, famed Guitarist for Country Supergroup Lady Antebellum, releases his very first solo project that will both captivate and surprise you, as will the accomplished members of his new jazz band. Slim Gambill's debut contemporary instrumental album, "Fake Jazz & Theme Songs," is a bold departure from his typical wheelhouse, and yet marks a long-overdue return to his roots as a jazz and blues musician.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 20 (Thursday) at 5:30PM
The City Rhythm Orchestra Holiday Style!
Join the City Rhythm Orchestra for their annual Christmas show "Holiday Style!", as they cook up exciting and innovative versions of seasonal classics. In addition to their renowned ensemble sound, the group features Steve Ritrovato, Vicki Woodlyn, Rich Cox and Gil Morrow on vocals and many fine soloists. Their holiday repertoire includes songs made famous by legendary performers ranging from Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald to Ray Charles and The Beatles. The evening is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 21-22 (Friday-Saturday) at 7:00PM and 9:45PM
Jonathan Schwartz Presents: Tierney Sutton and Kate McGarry at the Birdland Theater
Hosted by New York's most legendary radio personality, The Birdland Theatre will celebrate the holidays with Kate McGarry (Vocals) and Tierney Sutton, featuring Serge Merlaud and Keith Ganz (Guitars). The shows will be recorded for broadcast as part of Jonathan Schwartz's radio shows which can be found on thejonathanstation.com
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 22-25 (Saturday-Tuesday) at 5:30PM
Klea Blackhurst, Jim Caruso & Billy Stritch In "A Swingin' Birdland Christmas"
Birdland is proud to announce the ninth year of "A Swinging Birdland Christmas," starring Birdland regulars Klea Blackhurst, Jim Caruso and Billy Stritch. This will be a limited engagement of 4 performances, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, December 22, 23, 24 and 25. In the tradition of beloved seasonal specials, Blackhurst, Caruso and Stritch will perform swinging arrangements of "Christmas Waltz," Kay Thompson's "Holiday Season," "Sleigh Ride," and "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm," "Snow," and "It Happened In Sun Valley" among other favorites. The singers will be joined by Steve Doyle on bass and Daniel Glass on drums.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 23 (Sunday) at 7:00PM and 9:45PM
Champian Fulton at the Birdland Theater
Awarded "Female Jazz Vocalist of the Year" by Hot House Jazz Magazine, pianist / singer Champian Fulton returns to the Birdland Theater to celebrate the holiday season with this intimate show featuring songs from her award winning album, "Christmas with Champian," in addition to fan favorites from her 10 other recordings. A perfect balance of Christmas spirit and Jazz sensibility, "Christmas with Champian" is guaranteed to make your season bright.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 24-25 (Monday-Tuesday) at 7:00PM and 9:45PM
Jake Ehrenreich with The Roger Kellaway Trio at the Birdland Theater
Broadway Star and Brooklyn Jewish Hall of Famer Jake Ehrenreich joins with Grammy Winner / Oscar nominee Roger Kellaway in this unique concert based on their critically acclaimed new CD. This uplifting performance features behind the scene stories and new jazz versions of Holiday classics by Jewish Songwriters including White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, Home For Christmas, Let It Snow, Silver Bells, Christmas Time is Here, The Christmas Song and many more.
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 26-29 (Wednesday-Saturday) at 7:00PM and 9:45PM
Clint Holmes at the Birdland Theater
Groove into the holiday season with Clint Holmes as he performs a variety of beloved holiday classics, refreshed with his signature classic charm. A beloved regular in Las Vegas and New York, Holmes has headlined across the U.S., including leading venues such as Café Carlyle. Celebrated for his smooth vocals and finesse on stage, Holmes delivers masterful interpretations of cherished standards and classic popular hits. He earned an Emmy hosting his own variety show, and has received rave reviews for his newest release, "Rendezvous," a star-studded jazz collective produced by eight-time Grammy-winner Gregg Field.
All tickets $40, $10 food/drink minimum
December 26-31 (Wednesday-Monday) at 8:30PM and 11:00PM
The Birdland Big Band with Special Guest Vocalist Veronica Swift
Every Friday, and for two headlining weeks a year, the "BBB" roars into action playing a thrilling and original mix of jazz, funk, Brazilian, Latin and world music for sold-out audiences. Featured weekly guest artists drop-in from television bands (David Letterman, Saturday Night Live) and pop music touring bands (Rob Thomas, Rod Stewart). Come see for yourself why Time Out New York called the BBB, "a completely unique experience... there isn't another band like this anywhere," and yelp.com proclaims, "if you hear one band in NYC make sure this is it... and prepare to be blown away!"
All tickets $50, $10 food/drink minimum
Birdland will also feature the following recurring monthly engagements:
December 1, 8, 15 (Saturdays) at 6:00PM
Singer/pianist Eric Comstock has been called "a song's best friend," and the jazz and pop songbooks are in great hands when he is onstage at Birdland. Whether the song is by Rodgers and Hart or Ellington and Strayhorn, Paul Simon or Bob Dylan, you'll hear the lyric as if for the first time. Joining Eric will be eminent bassist/composer Sean Smith -- in all, a perfect winter Saturday supper!
All tickets $30, $10 food/drink minimum
December 2, 9, 16 (Sundays) at 9PM & 11PM
The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra
Grammy Award winning pianist, composer and educator Arturo O'Farrill -- leader of the "first family of Afro-Cuban Ja
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