A SWINGING BIRDLAND CHRISTMAS, New York's newest holiday entertainment starring Birdland regulars Hilary Kole, Jim Caruso, pianist Billy Stritch and violinist Aaron Weinstein, opened last night, and will play a limited engagement of six performances, every night through Saturday, December 25, with shows at 6pm.
Two-time Tony-winner Christine Ebersole was special musical guest for the opening night. The house was packed with Broadway glitterati, including Liza Minnelli, Linda Lavin and husband Steve Bakunas, producer Lionel Casseroux, and movie critic Rex Reed.
In the tradition of beloved seasonal specials, these four jazzy showstoppers will perform swinging arrangements of "Christmas Waltz," Kay Thompson's "Holiday Season," "Sleigh Ride," and "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm" among other favorites. Joining Stritch, Caruso, Kole and Weinstein onstage are Paul Gill on bass and Tony Tedesco on drums. This week's special musical guests will be Stephanie J. Block on Tuesday, and Klea Blackhurst on Wednesday.ALL PHOTOS BY DEREK STORM
Billy Stritch, Linda Lavin & Aaron Weinstein
Jim Caruso, Billy Stritch & Hilary Kole
Jim Caruso, Billy Stritch & Hilary Kole
Billy Stritch, Hilary Kole & Jim Caruso
Christine Ebersole & Linda Lavin
Jim Caruso & Lionel Casseroux
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