L.A. Audiences Gets First Peek at DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

This weekend, Los Angeles gets the first peek at DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER, for four performances only from June 16-19 at The Renberg Theatre at the Village At Gould Plaza, in the heart of Hollywood's theatre district. Scroll down for some great exclusive pictures as well!

One of the more interesting facts about this project is why Jay-Alexander chose to do the show. He barely knew Jennifer and had met her only once or twice, when first introduced for a BroadwayWorld Benefit that was, as part of the evening, re-uniting the original urchins from LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, of which Warren was one. It was their first time singing the material again, together, after 30 years.

Richard met for lunch in L.A. with Producer Chris Isaacson and his star, Jennifer Leigh Warren, and was told the idea of DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER. "I knew this was a $1,000,000.00 idea and if they could secure the proper venue and dates, I was in!"

"It's been a wonderful rehearsal period and a lot of fun working with Jen and Musical Director, Kenneth Crouch. Kenneth, in particular, fascinates me, because he  works mostly in the pop world and I am loving his contributions, ideas and his "ears."

"Jennifer, not unlike Bassey, is a woman with a small frame and a HUGE voice. I also have a penchant for singing actors, which she is."

Jay-Alexander shares that, although he doesn't want the song list leaked, the audience can expect the James Bond themes and some interesting choices, due to the fact that Shirley Bassey sang lots of standards, showtunes and recorded many songs by The Beatles. Also, on the menu, will be the first song ever recorded by a young Bassey.

The stage show plays only four performances this weekend, but was "built" for the future with the idea of doing the material with and for symphonies, theatres, cruises and concert halls.

"I've tried to make the evening world class and musically intelligent. The musicians are fantastic and the scenic elements and lighting are just beautiful. Add to that the dresses that are designed by Ali Rahimi for Mon Atelier, and I would say it's gonna be a pretty glamorous affair. Then, of course, there's that voice of Jennifer Leigh Warren. I still marvel at every rehearsal, when she unleashes all that power and all those colors. Oh, yeah, I like the wigs, too!"

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Photos by Chad Hill Photos

 

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