The Connie Converse Universe at Don't Tell Mama

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Rediscovered Folk Legend Connie Converse Comes to Life in Acclaimed Biographical Cabaret Performance Oct. 21 & 28 at Don’t Tell Mama

Connie Converse, an American singer-songwriter active in the 1950s, was a pioneering figure in the folk music genre, preceding the likes of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Known for her haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, Converse laid the groundwork for the singer-songwriters of the 1960s. Her life took a mysterious turn in August 1974 when she packed her belongings into a VW Bug and disappeared, never to be seen again. It wasn’t until 2009, when her 1954 demo recordings were rediscovered and went viral on Spotify, that her music found new life.

The Connie Converse Universe, the 2024 “Outstanding Musical” winner at the San Diego International Fringe Festival, is a 55-minute folk cabaret produced by Zipperbug Music and directed by Tom Lavagnino. This captivating performance invites audiences to explore the life and music of the enigmatic Connie Converse. Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Hope Levy brings Converse’s work to life, blending music and storytelling in a tribute to the artist while exploring her lasting legacy. Levy also shares her personal reflections, deepening the audience’s connection to Converse’s haunting compositions.

Levy’s career spans musical theater and folk music. She has performed with folk legend Malvina Reynolds and has voiced characters in animated series and video games, including Boss Baby: Back in Business, Shrek (“Welcome to Duloc”), and Avatar. Her background in folk music and theater makes her a fitting performer to bring Converse’s story and songs back to life.

Levy has performed The Connie Converse Universe at festivals, special events, and assisted living facilities in Los Angeles, sharing this unique story with a broader audience. Levy will next perform the show on Oct. 16 at the Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre in Los Angeles, as part of the Hollywood Independent Theater Festival . The show is a testament to an artist whose voice refuses to be forgotten.

WHO: Starring: Hope Levy. Music and Lyrics: Connie Converse. Director: Tom Lavagnino. Produced by Zipperbug Music. Photo credit: Tom Lavignino 

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m. (The Brick Room) and Monday, Oct. 28, 9:30 p.m. (The Original Room).