Ina Ray Hutton was the first female conductor of the all-girl genre of the Big Band era. She was renowned in her day-and was the first woman to have her own TV show on KTLA-but her personal life was even more compelling, with family secrets and twists and turns that piqued Ritz's interest. Ritz had 14 of Hutton's original music charts recreated especially for this show. In addition to singing, Ritz also tap dances ala Ina Ray Hutton.
Melissa Ritz received a BA in Dance and MFA in Performance from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas after an accomplished career in the US Air Force. She toured as a vocalist and dancer in Tops in Blue, a division of Air Force Entertainment, to over 20 countries and nearly ever state in the Union. She collaborated with New York City-based director Julie Kline.
The Hollywood Fringe Festival is L.A.'s largest celebration of the performing arts. For more information, visit http://www.hollywoodfringe.org
Performances of Journey of a Bombshell: The Ina Ray Hutton Story will be June 18th at 8pm, June 20th at 3pm & 7pm, and June 21st at 3pm. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at http://www.complexhollywood.com or call 323.465.0383. For more information on the show, visit http://www.JourneyOfABombshell.com
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