Holiday Pops, Jorgensen Center | Dec 7, 8 pm

C E N T E R FO R T H E PE R FO R M I N G A R T S 2024 / 2025 SEASON

THE BEST OF LIVE MUSIC, AND ENTERTAINMENT RETURNS TO STORRS! JORGENSEN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS JORGENSEN.UCONN.EDU 860-486-4226

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NOVEMBER 10 My Father's Dragon 15 Some Enchanted Evening with Stella Cole 17 Arsentiy Kharitonov* 22 Bennewitz Quartet & Arsentiy Kharitonov* DECEMBER 7 Holiday Pops 14 Samara Joy, "A Joyful Holiday" with the McLendon Family - Cabaret *The Lenard Chamber Music Series is made possible through the Lenard Chamber Music Endowment. Thanks to the Lenard Endowment, UConn students, non-UConn students, and youth under 18 are invited to attend all chamber events for free.

Tickets & information: jorgensen.uconn.edu Jorgensen Front Cover: Samara Joy Photo: AB+DM

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F O R YO U R I N F O R M AT I O N JORGENSEN BOX OFFICE (860) 486-4226 jorgensen.uconn.edu Hours Mon-Fri, 10-5 pm, and 90 minutes before curtain.

CRT BOX OFFICE (860) 486-2113 crt.uconn.edu Hours Mon-Fri, 11-1 pm, and 60 minutes before curtain.

SPECIAL SERVICE Accessible rest rooms located in the lower Jorgensen & Katter lobbies.

Elevator service from the main Jorgensen lobby down to the lower lobby only.

ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM Free from the front office for Jorgensen and Katter Theatre productions.

LATE ARRIVALS Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the artists’ management.

TOO LOUD? Free hearing protection is available upon request from the front office.

CAMERAS AND RECORDING DEVICES Strictly prohibited.

LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES Can be reported or picked up at each box office.

SMOKING Not permitted within 25 feet of the building.

CHILDREN AND INFANTS Tickets are required for everyone, no matter how young. Minimum 4 years old recommended for Jorgensen Center events and CRT productions.

BAG POLICY For the safety of all, bags and backpacks larger than 10” x 10” are prohibited in the theater. Small bags and purses are permitted. An exception will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after proper inspection.

All bags are subject to search.

REFRESHMENT BARS Enjoy refreshments at your seat. Bars located in the upper Jorgensen and main lobbies of each theater.

GROUP TICKETS Call the respective box office for more information.

REST ROOMS Located in the upper and lower Jorgensen lobbies and the Katter Theatre lobby.

PARKING & TRAVEL Parking is available across from Jorgensen in the North Garage. For a detailed parking map, visit park.uconn.edu

CRT parking is available after 5pm and on weekends in surrounding University lots. Surface lots are free; garages will charge a fee.

PLEASE NOTE: The parking fee for Jorgensen events is now included as part of your ticket price. Patrons no longer have to pay upon entry or exit in the North Garage. All gates have been removed and gateless parking begins one hour prior to showtime through the conclusion of each performance. Please note: this applies to North Garage only.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Hillside Road on the UConn Storrs campus is closed to vehicular traffic between Glenbrook Road and Jim Calhoun Way. Motorists who park in North Garage should access the garage by taking Discovery Drive or Glenbrook Road to the garage entrance on north Hillside Road.

Saturday, December 7, 2024, 8:00 pm University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts Rodney Rock, Director presents

BOSTON POPS ON TOUR KEITH LOCKHART

Julian & Eunice Cohen Boston Pops Conductor endowed in perpetuity

JOHN WILLIAMS George & Roberta Berry Boston Pops Conductor Laureate

KEITH LOCKHART conducting with The Metropolitan Chorale Lisa Graham, Music Director Media Sponsors

Artists Management Partners Worldwide LLC 150 E. 93rd St, Apt 10B New York, NY 10128 (845) 323-7938 amp-worldwide.com

BOSTON POPS ON TOUR

KEITH LOCKHART, Julian and Eunice Cohen Boston Pops Conductor JOHN WILLIAMS, George and Roberta Berry Boston Pops Conductor Laureate KEITH LOCKHART conducting with The Metropolitan Chorale, Lisa Graham, Music Director 2024 HOLIDAY TOUR A Christmas Prelude: Angels from the Realms of Glory Fête de Campagne Pat-a-Pan/Farandole

arr./orch. Cumberland

de La Monnoye—arr. Kay; Bizet

What Sweeter Music?

Rutter

The Adoration of the Magi, from Three Botticelli Pictures Illuminations of Chanukah

Respighi Hyken

Carol of the Brown King Coleman/Elliott Pops commission; world premiere | Images by Ashley Bryan Let There Be Peace on Earth

Jackson-Miller/Miller—arr. Perito INTERMISSION

The Twelve Days of Christmas

arr. Chase

Carol of the Bells Lisa Graham conducting

Leontovych/Wilhousky—arr. Smith

Sleigh Ride

Anderson

Home for the Holidays Medley

arr. Chase

A Visit from St. Nicholas (’Twas the Night Before Christmas) Text by Clement C. Moore | Artwork by Jan Brett

Reisman

All I Want for Christmas Is You A Merry Little Sing-Along

Carey/Afanasieff—arr. Chase arr. Reisman

Steve Colby, Sound Designer | Pam Smith, Lighting Designer, | Susan Dangel and Dick Bartlett, Visual Media Designers

Keith Lockhart Keith Lockhart is the second longest-tenured conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra since its founding in 1885. He took over as conductor in 1995, following John Williams’s thirteen-year tenure from 1980 to 1993; Mr. Williams succeeded the legendary Arthur Fiedler, who was at the helm of the orchestra for nearly fifty years. Keith Lockhart, who occupies the Julian and Eunice Cohen Boston Pops Conductor chair, has conducted more than 2,000 Boston Pops concerts and annual Boston Pops appearances at Tanglewood, as well as 45 national tours and 5 international tours to Japan and Korea. The annual Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular conducted by Mr. Lockhart draws a live audience of over half a million to the Charles River Esplanade and millions more who view it on television or live webcast.

With the Pops he has recorded fourteen albums, eight of them on RCA Victor/BMG Classics; recent releases on Boston Pops Recordings include A Boston Pops Christmas–Live from Symphony Hall, The Dream Lives On: A Portrait of the Kennedy Brothers, and Lights, Camera . . . Music!

Six Decades of John Williams. The list of nearly 300 guest artists with whom Keith Lockhart has collaborated represents performers from virtually every corner of the entertainment world. Having recently completed an eight-year tenure as principal conductor, he is now chief guest conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra in London; he is also artistic director of the Brevard Music Center summer institute and festival in North Carolina. Prior to his BBC appointment, he spent eleven years as music director of the Utah Symphony.

He has appeared as a guest conductor with virtually every major symphonic ensemble in North America and many in Asia and Europe. Before coming to Boston, he was the associate conductor of both the Cincinnati Symphony and Cincinnati Pops orchestras, as well as music director of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra. For more on Keith Lockhart, visit www.bso.org/keith-lockhart or bostonpops.org.

The Boston Pops Led by conductor Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops, known affectionately as “America’s Orchestra,” performs an exciting and eclectic mix of orchestral arrangements from a wide range of traditions including Broadway and the great American songbook, film music, classical, jazz, pop, country, folk, and, of course, holiday classics. The Pops was created in 1885 as the “light classical” summer-season venture of the Boston Symphony. The Boston

Pops Orchestra reached its current iconic status during the 50-year tenure of the legendary Arthur Fiedler, who was succeeded in 1980 by the equally renowned film composer John Williams. Keith Lockhart took the helm in 1995 and recently celebrated his 25th anniversary season. It was Fiedler who started the tradition of Pops performances on the Charles River Esplanade, including the annual Fourth of July celebration, brought the Pops to television with Evening at Pops (1970-2004), and initiated Holiday Pops, which marked its 50th anniversary in 2023. Fiedler welcomed to our stages dynamic, world-class guest artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Julia Child, and Bob Hope. That tradition continues today with Keith Lockhart working with such stars as Brian Stokes Mitchell, The B-52s, Chaka Khan, Nick Jonas, and Rhiannon Giddens. Through it all the orchestra has remained of the most recorded, familiar, and beloved ensembles in the world today.

The Metropolitan Chorale Lisa Graham, Music Director Founded in 1979, The Metropolitan Chorale (metropolitanchorale.org) is an auditioned chorus that is recognized as one of metropolitan Boston’s premier choral ensembles. Since 2004 the ensemble has been under the direction of Dr. Lisa Graham, 2021 winner of the American Prize Dale Warland Award in Choral Conducting. Metropolitan Chorale concerts explore works by many of today’s leading American and British composers, as well as major choral masterworks. In addition to performances at All Saints Parish (Brookline, Massachusetts), the Chorale has been heard throughout the Boston area. Its Artists in Residence program enables the chorus to work with young professional singers.

Under the leadership of Lisa Graham, The Metropolitan Chorale’s membership has grown to encompass 100 members who hail from communities throughout greater Boston. Dr. Graham has expanded the ensemble’s repertory and has enhanced the reputation and reach of the Chorale. Also the Evelyn Barry Director of Choral Programs at Wellesley College, she conducts the Wellesley College Choir, Chamber Singers, and Choral Scholars and teaches academic courses. Active in the Boston musical scene and as a clinician and festival adjudicator, Dr. Graham prepared a vocal ensemble for this season’s Holiday Pops Kids’ Matinee and Sensory-Friendly concerts at Symphony Hall.

CoSt ★rs Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts

2024 - 2025 Co-Chairs: Jane Moskowitz & Ruth Buczynski $750 per person, $1,500 per couple

Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho Mona & Greg Anderson Marianne Barton Deborah Walsh Bellingham In Memory of Dr. Bruce A. Bellingham Honey & Harry Birkenruth Ruth Buczynski Carol Colombo In Memory of Maurice Thompson Susan & John DeWolf Stan & Sandy Hale Judy & Peter Halvorson

Patricia Hempel Shareen Hertel & Donald Swinton Jan Huber Lynn & Harry Johnson Blair T. Johnson &

Blanche Şerban

Janet & George Jones Lin & Waldo Klein James Knox Ann Kouatly Becky & Scott Lehmann Jean & John Lenard Gene Likens & Leola Spilbor

Margarethe & Matthew Mashikian Antonia Moran Vin Moscardelli & Virginia Hettinger Jane & Robert Moskowitz Constance & Rodney Rock Nancy & John Silander Beverly Sims & William Okeson Winthrop Smith In Memory of Anne K. Smith Michael & Susan Zito

Join the CoStars, Jorgensen’s Active Volunteers!

The CoStars is a special group of volunteers who generously donate not only $750 per person, but also their talent and time. The invaluable CoStars support Jorgensen through community advocacy by creative fund-raising activities, and by hosting pre- and post-concert receptions that often feature world-class luminaries. The CoStars have been instrumental in the purchase of the new portable chamber stage and acoustical shell, a new Steinway Model D Concert Grand Piano, funding the JOY! Conservatory Program, the installation of the exterior Jorgensen message center, the renovation of the Jorgensen Gallery, and continued support of Jorgensen programming. By becoming a CoStar, you’ll join with other vibrant, thoughtful and devoted arts lovers who have made Jorgensen’s success a priority.

CoStars receive an honorary membership in the Jorgensen Circle of Friends at the Producers Circle level. Benefits include early ticket ordering privileges for one full year from the date of enrollment; reserved lower-level parking in the North Garage, providing a speedier exit after each Jorgensen event; and recognition in the Jorgensen playbill.

As a Special Thank You... An Invitation to the CoStars CoStar members receive an exclusive invitation to attend the Annual Sneak Peek hosted by Jorgensen Director Rodney Rock. This party offers attendees an exciting preview of the coming season – prior to the public announcement. Join the CoStars and be the first to know what’s new!

If you are interested in becoming a CoStar, please contact Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983, or by e-mail at rodney.rock@uconn.edu.

Jorgensen

Circle of Friends 2024-2025 Become a Friend of Jorgensen!

We invite you to join Jorgensen’s Circle of Friends, a group of generous arts supporters who over the years have made vital contributions to Jorgensen’s special projects, commissioned works, and interior restorations. Your membership in the Circle of Friends entitles you to early ticket ordering privileges for one full year from the date of your enrollment; you will be recognized in the Jorgensen Playbill; and if you contribute at the Directors or Producers Circle levels, you will enjoy reserved parking in the North Campus Parking Garage for each Jorgensen performance you attend.

Please consider making your tax-deductible donation and become a Circle of Friends member today. Simply call 860-486-4226 for more information.

Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts gratefully acknowledges the support of its Friends.

Producers Circle $500/person $1,000 & above/couple Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho* Mona & Greg Anderson* Marianne Barton* Deborah Walsh Bellingham* In Memory of Dr. Bruce A. Bellingham* Honey & Harry Birkenruth* Lynn Brown Ruth Buczynski* Carol Colombo* In Memory of Maurice Thompson* Michael Cucka Susan & John DeWolf* Ms. Joan N. Gionfriddo Stan & Sandy Hale* Judy & Peter Halvorson* Patricia Hempel* Shareen Hertel & Donald Swinton* Jan Huber* Lynn & Harry Johnson*

Blair T. Johnson & Blanche Şerban* Janet & George Jones* Lin & Waldo Klein* James Knox* Ann Kouatly* Becky & Scott Lehmann* Jean & John Lenard* Gene Likens & Leola Spilbor* Tom Martin & Susan Spiggle Margarethe & Matthew Mashikian* Antonia Moran* Vin Moscardelli & Virginia Hettinger* Jane & Robert Moskowitz* Craig & Karen Nass Barbara Rhein & Stan Shaw Constance & Rodney Rock* Stella Ross & Eric Schultz Cheryl A. & Mark J. Roy Nancy & John Silander* Beverly Sims & William Okeson*

Winthrop Smith* In Memory of Anne K. Smith* Dana Wilder Keith Wilson & Marjorie Hayes Karen Zimmer & Roger Ingraham Michael & Susan Zito* *Members of the Jorgensen CoStars

Directors Circle $250/person, $500/couple Mr. Phil Brencher Keith & Paula Enderle Mr. David Johnson David & Carol Jordan Kelly Olander Steven & Barbara Rogers Ms. Joanne Sousa Ms. Nancy A. Swiacki In honor of Janina W. Swiacki & Nancy A. Swiacki

Artists Circle $125/person, $250/couple Anonymous Pat Anderson Mrs. Dorothy Blocker Bennett & Linda Brockman Anne-Marie Campbell Dr. & Mrs. Steven & Elaine Cohen M. Kevin & Jeanne Fahey Betty Hale Betty & Ken Hanson Ms. Cathy Jameson & Ms. Renee Fournier Col. & Dr. Leonard & Judith Kaplan Mary Lacek & Neil Aldin Gerald & Zoe Leibowitz Carl Nawrocki Len Oberg Harriet Walker Patrons Circle $50/person, $100/couple Roger & Tina Abell Roger & Cynthia Adams Ms. Sandra Albom Susan & John Boland Irene & Richard Brown Kevin Conklin Paul D’Italia

Mary & Michael Donnelly Charles Cleary Dr. & Mrs. Ed & Susan Grace Howard & Carol Drescher Peter Jacques Drs. Rebecaa & Jacob Earp Richard & Karin James Mrs. Joy Favretti Art Kirschenbaum & Margaret & Peter Files Cheryl Pomerantz Wendy Leclair Yves & Carol Kraus Joseph & Francine Linonis Mr. & Mrs. Wesley & Mary Lord Donald Kray Jennifer Macionus Shoshana Levinson & Mr. & Mrs. Joeph Madar Chris Crossgrove Donna Matulis Robin Lubatkin John H. Mayer & Susan Phillips Irwin M. Krieger Edith Posselt Yvonne & Joseph Prudente Mr. & Mrs. Alan Miller Robert G. Paris Laura T. Raccagni Peter Polomski Bonnie Ryan Jim & Sari Rosokoff Mr. & Mrs. Eric A. Santini Rabbi Jeremy Schwartz & Ms. Jacqueline Seide Ms. Merle Potchinsky Paul & Annette Shapiro Joann Scott Dr. Jay S. Shivers Mrs. Pamela Sutkaitis Susan Stoppelman Denise Winland Jamie Summers Jeremy Teitelbaum Director’s Fund Adeline Theis Deborah Walsh Bellingham Ms. Susanna Thomas Diane & Joseph Briody Shirley Waldron Karen & John Foley Ann Kouatly Critics Circle $25/person, Jennifer & Peter Morenus $50/couple NICABM Anonymous Nancy & John Silander Joyce Armstrong

Endowed Sponsorship Program

The Endowed Sponsorship Program provides individuals and families with the opportunity to support Jorgensen by sponsoring any concert or other program. Benefits to Endowed Sponsors will include name recognition in the Jorgensen playbill, additional recognition in the community through press releases provided by the University, and an opportunity to visit with the guest artist.

Sponsorship could be a means of celebrating a special holiday or anniversary, or of dedicating an event to a loved one. Most importantly, by contributing to the cost of current programs, sponsors would help ensure that the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts will continue to present wonderful music and other programs in the future. Your gift would benefit not only Jorgensen, but also the community at large.

Patrons interested in sponsoring an event should contact Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983 or rodney.rock@uconn.edu for further information.

Jorgensen Outreach for Youth Funded through private contributions as well as corporate support, JOY! provides school-age children, many from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with access to live performances and special enrichment programs. Now in its 16th season, the JOY! Conservatory program offers instrumental and vocal students in grades 9-12 the opportunity for a rigorous course of study including private lessons, ensemble rehearsals and coaching, and basic musicianship courses. For more information, contact Jorgensen director Rodney Rock at 860-486-1983.

Corporate / Foundation Sponsors SBM Charitable Foundation Diamond / $1000+ Honey & Harry Birkenruth Harry & Lynn Johnson Jean & John Lenard Nancy & John Silander Mrs. Nora Stevens Ruby / $300+ James Knox Becky & Scott Lehmann

The University of Connecticut League, Inc. Sapphire / $100+ Ms. Margaret Dillon & Dr. Larry Bowman Maryellen Donnelly & James Krall Jan Huber Carol & David Jordan Craig Knox In memory of Jane L. Knox

The McChesney Family In honor of James Knox Joanne Sousa Pearl / up to $99 Sabrina & Daniel Bowersett Paul D’Italia Dr. Alain Frogley Karen Jason Elizabeth Kemp Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Linonis Robin Lubatkin Bonnie Ryan

Lenard Chamber Music Endowment Fund The Lenard Chamber Series is made possible through the generosity of longtime patrons Jean and John Lenard and the Lenard Chamber Music Endowment.

Thanks to the generous philanthropy of patrons Jean and John Lenard, chamber music, one of the hallmarks and most dearly loved elements of the programming at Jorgensen, is secure well into the future. Also thanks to the Lenard Endowment, UConn students, non-UConn students, and area youth are invited to attend all chamber music events for free.

Please join this giving community and make your contribution today.

To make a gift, contact Jorgensen Director Rodney Rock at rodney.rock@uconn.edu or 860-486-1983, or visit jorgensen.uconn.edu/online/article/lenard-endowment.

Jane & Robert Moskowitz George & Janet Jones Jean & John Lenard Lauren & Eric Prause Carol & David Jordan Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho Donald Shankweiler & Lin & Waldo Klein Greg & Mona Anderson Ruth Garrett Millikan James Knox Deborah Walsh Bellingham John & Nancy Silander June & Henry Krisch Ruth Buczynski Beverly Sims & Becky & Scott Lehmann Carol Colombo William Okeson Shoshana Levinson & Anne D’Alleva Kenneth & Janet Slavett Chris Crossgrove Kenneth Doeg Judy & Peter Halvorson Julia J. & Carl W. Lindquist, MD Marilyn & Arthur Wright Joan & Austin McGuigan Patricia Hempel

Saturday, December 14, 2024, 8 pm University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts Rodney Rock, Director presents

SAMARA JOY

"A JOYFUL HOLIDAY "

Co-Sponsors

Media Sponsors

jorgensen.uconn.edu

Samara Joy With three GRAMMY wins and a chart-topping debut album already under her belt, 24-year-old Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable Verve Records. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her fans like Anita Baker and Regina King and appearances on the TODAY Show, The Tonight Show w/Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show w/Stephen Colbert, CBS Mornings, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and more, in addition to millions of likes on TikTok — securing her status as perhaps the first Gen Z jazz vocal star. The New York Times praised the “silky-voiced rising star” for “helping jazz take a youthful turn” while NPR All Things Considered named her a “classic jazz singer from a new generation.”

Samara is still relatively new to jazz. Growing up in the Castle Hill neighborhood of the Bronx, it was music of the past — the music of her parent’s childhoods, as she put it — that she listened to most. She treasures her musical lineage, which stretches back to her grandparents Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, both of whom performed with Philadelphia gospel group the Savettes, and runs through her father, who is a vocalist and bassist who toured with gospel artist Andraé Crouch.

Though she’s young, she relishes the process of digging through the music’s history. “I think maybe people connect with the fact that I'm not faking it, that I already feel embedded in it,” Samara says. “Maybe I'm able to reach people in person and on social media because it's real.”

Samara began singing jazz as a senior at Fordham High School for the Arts and was awarded Best Vocalist at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington competition. Following her graduation as valedictorian, she attended the jazz program at SUNY Purchase, where she became the school’s Ella Fitzgerald Scholar and graduated Magna Cum Laude.

While in college, she also won the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, one of the most sought-after honors for a rising jazz performer. The competition’s judges were Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jane Monheit, Christian McBride, and producer Matt Pierson, who would eventually become her manager. In July 2021, the same year she graduated from SUNY Purchase, Samara released her self-titled debut on Whirlwind Recordings.

On her debut album for Verve Records, Linger Awhile, which was produced by Pierson and recorded by Chris Allen at Sear Sound in NYC, Samara is accompanied by esteemed veterans: her former professors, guitarist Pasquale Grasso and drummer Kenny Washington, form the core of the band, which also includes bassist David Wong and pianist Ben Paterson. With ease and a preternatural assurance, Samara swings right alongside them through understated yet powerful renditions of this creative collection of standards.

There are burnished, gleaming versions of chestnuts in “Misty,” “Linger Awhile” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” transporting listeners to some romantic, long-lost supper club. Those familiar tunes are listed alongside some more unusual, if equally vintage selections: “Sweet Pumpkin,” a Ronnell Bright tune performed by the likes of Blue Mitchell and Gloria Lynne, a fresh take on “Guess Who I Saw Today” (a story of infidelity famously told by Nancy Wilson), and “Can’t Get Out Of This Mood,” which Samara uncovered on a collection of Sarah Vaughan rarities, add a lilting, upbeat bent to the album’s selections.

In February 2023, Samara took home two GRAMMYs — Best Jazz Vocal Album for Linger Awhile and the highly sought after Best New Artist statuette. In a relatively short time, Samara has toured throughout Europe and the U.S., making stops at legendary festivals including Newport Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, Barbican Center in London, Nice Jazz Festival, and Philharmonie Paris. 2023 also saw Samara headlining iconic venues including sold out shows in her native New York at The Village Vanguard, The Apollo, Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall, and the Blue Note Jazz Club.

In October 2023, Samara released her holiday EP A Joyful Holiday, 6-song collection of seasonal favorites that included a rendition “O Holy Night” performed with multiple generations of her family. The EP also features a swinging arrangement of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" as well as a new recording of Stevie Wonder’s “Twinkle Twinkle Little Me.” In December, accompanied by members of her family and other special guests, Samara toured the U.S., selling out nearly every performance.

Cementing herself as a rising star in the worlds of both music and fashion, Samara fronted a holiday campaign for the fashion label Theory, a partnership befitting her timeless onstage style and casual elegance.

The campaign also featured Samara’s original song “Now and Then,” a track she dedicated to her late mentor Barry Harris, whose famous jazz workshops she had regularly attended.

In 2024, at the 66th Grammy Awards she added on to her growing collection of accolades by taking home Best Jazz Performance for her single “Tight.” The self-produced track features Joy with her working band (pianist Luther Allison, bassist Mikey Migliore and drummer Evan Sherman), and was recorded at the legendary Electric Lady Studios in NYC. Most recently, the breakout vocalist released the original single “Why I’m Here.” This incredibly triumphant and rousing track from the Netflix film Shirley (starring Oscar winner Regina King), further establishes Samara as a voice to be reckoned with, not just in the world of jazz but effortlessly across genres. Written by Samara and fellow multiple GRAMMY winner PJ Morton, the anthemic song plays over Shirley’s end title credits.

The ascendant, 3x GRAMMY-winning vocalist, who continues to tour all over the world on increasingly larger stages — is still shocked to be performing in front of thousands who hang on every word. “I'm still very much a student, even though I've graduated,” Samara says. “So this is only the beginning... there is much, much more to come.”

~~~

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860.486.4226 860.486.4228 860.486.5795

BOX OFFICE

Jennifer Darius

BOX OFFICE & ADMINISTRATION

Amanda Salas

Box Office Manager Asst. Box Office Manager

2132 Hillside Road Unit 3104 Storrs, CT 06269-3104 jorgensen.uconn.edu

MARKETING/PUBLICITY

SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS

Carina Bies

JORGENSEN ADMINISTRATION

PRODUCTION TECHNICIANS

Renee Fournier

Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Rodney Rock Gary Yakstis

Leann Sanders Diane Briody

Director Operations Manager Administrative Assistant House Manager

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Marketing Manager Marketing Coordinator Technical Manager Technical Assistant Technical Assistant

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SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Alain Frogley, Associate Dean CRT ADMINISTRATION Megan Monaghan Rivas Michelle Polgar Vincent Tycer Annie Suite Morgan Lee

CRT PRODUCTION

CRT Box Office: 860.486.2113 802 Bolton Road, Unit 1127 Storrs, CT 06269-1127 crtboxoffice@uconn.edu crt.uconn.edu

Robert Copley Alison Savino Michael Beschta John Parmelee Daniela Weiser Susan Tolis Michael Demers Matthew Sorensen Jake Neighbors Gino Costabile Lindsay Cummings

Artistic Director & Head, Department of Dramatic Arts Managing Director Associate Artistic Director Box Office Manager Company/House Manager Production Manager Production Stage Manager Technical Director Associate Technical Director Scenic Charge Artist Costume Shop Supervisor Production Stage Electrician Puppet Arts Technical Supervisor Sound Supervisor Properties Manager Dramaturgy Advisor

Mansfield OBGYN and Manchester OBGYN have Merged

We offer many services for your care: Ü Adolescence Ü Pregnancy Ü Menopause Ü Bone Density Testing Ü Robotic Surgery Dr. Roa Alammari Dr. Lawrence Arky Dr. Christine Armstrong Dr. Robert Gildersleeve Dr. Lesley Gumbs

Dr. Rabale Hasan Dr. Lydia Lormand Dr. Yvette Martas Dr. Aziza Omrani Dr. Katharine Sweeney

Lifelong Women’s Healthcare

Virginie Eklund, CNM Ariel Herron, CNM Jaime Liebig, CNM Anastasia Litke, CNM Shannon Morgan, CNM

Lauren Startz, CNM Stephanie Welsh, CNM Pamela Frappier, PA Cory Arnold, APRN

21 Ledgebrook Dr Mansfield, 121 Broadway, Suite 2 Colchester 388 West Center St Manchester 394 West Center St, Manchester, CT 860-450-7227 and 860-649-1120

Explore our podcasts, documentaries, local news and talk shows, amplifying diverse perspectives and stories.

visit ctpublic.org/blackvoices

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Serving the best pizza in Tolland County for 47 years 860-429-7433 Rt. 32, Willington Trading Center www.willingtonpizza.com

10% Discount w/tickets day of the performance only.

Award Winning Restaurant & Pub Brewery!

Willimantic Brewing Company 967 Main Street Willimantic 860.423.6777 Willibrew.com

Willington Pizza Rte 32, Willington Center • 860.429.7433 Italian Cuisine served in a 200-year-old home with lovely antique decor. Seating for 200. National award-winning pizza featured on CBS This Morning and ABC Good Morning America. Desserts.

Open Mon-Thurs 11am–11pm; Fri & Sat 11am– 12am; Sun 11am–10pm. Casual attire.

Entrées $6–$13. No reservations. (MC, V, D, AE) Best Pizza, Tolland County by Connecticut Magazine.

Willimantic Brewing Co. Main Street Café 967 Main Street, Willimantic • 860.423.6777 The Willimantic Brewing Co./Main Street Café is a living landmark restaurant & pub brewery located in Willimantic, in the heart of rural northeastern Connecticut. We offer an extensive menu from fun appetizers, daily specials, gluten free, vegetarian and so much more. Fresh craft beers brewed on site, ciders, cocktails, and guest beers we have something to please everyone. Visit us at www. willibrew.com for more information.

Coyote Flaco Celebrating 20 Years!

Open Monday-Saturday 4pm-9pm, Closed Sunday Coyote Flaco | 50 Higgins Highway www.coyoteflacomansfield.com

50 Higgins Highway, Mansfield • 860.423.4414 We are a family owned and operated restaurant.

We just celebrated our 20 year anniversary this past March and we look forward to serving you for more to come. We invite you to try our cuisine from our made from scratch tamales to our Churrasco.

We have a full bar and are constantly creating new cocktails for you to try. We look forward to seeing you at our tables. For menu and reservation please visit our website www.coyoteflacomansfield.com

Hilltop

39 Adamec Rd, Willington 860-477-1054 Our menu offers Traditional Italian, Prime Rib, Seafood Wraps, Salads, Apps, Brick oven pizzas and Sandwiches.

39 Adamec Rd., Willington• 860.477.1054 Come and visit Hilltop Restaurant, Bar & Banquet to experience a delicious meal, live entertainment, full bar with flat screen TVs, and more, stop in today.

If you’re looking for a place to hold a party or event, call and talk to us about our banquet rooms, Make sure that you call ahead to find out what our Chef’s Specials are. They change daily. hilltopct.net

Beni’s American Bar and Grill 1280 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon Rockville 860.875.4443 Family and Locally Owned American bar & grill featuring fresh seafood, premium steaks, upscale pasta dishes, salads and sandwiches. Indoor, Outdoor, & Lounge Seating. Live Entertainment!

Let Us Cater Your Next Event or Party. We have two banquet rooms available, accommodating 25 and 50 people each (or more!). Full and half trays are available for catering orders! Please allow us at least 24 hours of notice for large orders. Seasonal items, special requests, and some entrees require additional time. www.benisct.com

Dog Lane Cafe One Dog Lane, Storrs • 860.429.4900 Northeastern Connecticut’s European/American cafe, offering something for everyone from early morning to late at night. Our menu and our daily specials emphasize seasonal, local and freshly-prepared food, all made to order. Offering a wide variety of sandwiches, grilled items and freshly tossed salads or help yourself to coffee at our self-service coffee bar. Offering indoor and outdoor seating. Whether you are in a hurry or want to take some time and relax with friends, our style of service lets you set your own pace. Serving beer & wine. doglanecafe.com

Fenton River Grill 135A Storrs Road, Mansfield• 860.786.7870 A dynamic and friendly bar and restaurant located near the University of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut University offering an enticing selection of craft beer, carefully crafted cocktails and an approachable menu including lighter shareable plates, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, and full dinners. Lively Bar, Cozy Atmosphere, Shareable Food, Outdoor Patio, Craft Cocktails.

The Tavern at Spring Hill Inn 957 Storrs Rd., Storrs • 860.477.1199 Welcome to The Tavern at Spring Hill Inn! Come with your family and friends, dine and stay at this beautiful historic inn and tavern. The menu includes many New England dishes like shrimp scampi, lobster and penne a la vodka, along with Tavern favorites such as burgers, and mac and cheese. Whether you’re dining on the terrace or enjoying the comfort from inside there’s something for everyone!

American Bar and Grill 1280 Hartford Tpke, Vernon CT - Exit 67 off 1-84 860-875-4443 • www.benisct.com Open Monday Saturday 11am-10:00pm Sunday 11:30am-9:30pm

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Daily Specials & Wine One Dog Lane, Storrs, CT doglanecafe.com

COME. SIT. STAY.

Delicious food prepared from seasonal, fresh ingredients.

Well-crafted cocktails and 20 beers on tap.

Just 5 Miles from UConn 135A Storrs Road, Mansfield, CT 860.786.7870 fentonrivergrill.com

The Tavern at Spring Hill Inn Fine Food & Spirits

Bring your guests, dine, stay and enjoy!

Open Tuesday-Sunday Sunday Brunch 10-1

restaurant & bar

39 Adamec Rd, Willington, CT Rte 32 Exit 69 off I-84.

860-477-1054 • www.hilltopct.net

Monday-Friday 11am-10pm • Saturday and Sunday Open 8am-10pm Serving Breakfast Sat and Sun 8am-noon

Enjoy a Fantastic Meal with Your Friends2 and Loved Ones2 Steaks, Seafood, Pasta Dishes, Salads, Burgers, Wraps, Brick Oven Pizzas and more.

Open for dining indoor or on our beautiful patio Chefs Specials • Take Out Trays • Banquet Facilities up to 85 guests Live Entertainment Fri and Sat Night Happy Hours: Sun-Thurs 3:30-6:00. Extended Lounge Hours

Serving

Thanksgiving Dinner Call for Reservations

Weekend Breakfast Sat & Sun 8am-noon

Enjoy our Specialty Omelets, our Creative Benedicts, Belgium Waffles, Breakfast Burritos. $6 Mimosas and more!

Enjoy the Flavor of the Neighorhood Local cuisine expertly prepared by people who appreciate good food and honest value as much as you do.

We offer

American Bar and Grill 1280 Hartford Tpke, Vernon, CT • Exit 67 off I-84.

860-875-4443 • www.benisct.com Open Monday-Saturday 11am-10:00pm Sunday 11:30am-9:30pm

Banquet Rooms for guests up to 50 or as allowed.

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Exceptional Seafood, Premium Steaks, Upscale Pasta Dishes, Daily Specials & Speciality Martinis, Wines and many Select Beers.

Pizza available for Take-Out!