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About The New Britain Museum of American Art
The New Britain Museum of American Art’s founding in 1903 entitles the institution to be designated the first museum of strictly American art in the country. The singular focus on American art and its panoramic view of American artistic achievement makes the New Britain Museum of American Art a significant teaching resource available to the local, regional, and national public. The New Britain Museum of American Art welcomes all people to explore American art through our permanent collection, special exhibitions, and incredible programs. More info at nbmaa.org.
FALL 2024 EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
14 Colin Jost 21 The Piano Guys
OCTOBER
3 Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert 8 With Ukraine in Our Hearts* 17 Australian Chamber Orchestra* 19 Capitol Fools
20 Pinkalicious The Musical
26 Michael Feinstein, Because of You: "My Tribute to Tony Bennett" - Cabaret
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
Note: all artists, events, dates, programs and policies are subject to change.
Jorgensen Front Cover: Michael Feinstein
Photo: Stephen Sorokoff
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
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.
LATE ARRIVALS
Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the artists’ management.
CAMERAS AND RECORDING DEVICES
Strictly prohibited.
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.
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.
TOO LOUD?
Free hearing protection is available upon request from the front office.
LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES
Can be reported or picked up at each box office.
PARKING & TRAVEL
Parking is available across from Jorgensen in the North Garage. For a detailed parking map, visit park.uconn.edu
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.
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.
CRT parking is available after 5pm and on weekends in surrounding University lots. Surface lots are free; garages will charge a fee.
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, October 19, 2024, 8 pm
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts
Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
Rodney Rock, Director presents
CAPITOL FOOLS
Lyrics by Mark Eaton
Performers
Jon Bell, Evan Casey, Kevin Corbett, Nancy Dolliver, Tara Gesling, Jack Rowles
Director
Jack Rowles
Musical Director
Howard Breitbart
Executive Producers
Michael Pauken and Jack Rowles
Program will be announced from stage
ABOUT THE CAPITOL FOOLS
The stairway to heavenly political satire originally laid by the Capitol Steps continues upward with the Capitol Fools!
What happens when Washington, D.C.’s premiere, political satire group - The Capitol Steps - calls it quits after nearly 40 years? Most folks would agree that it was a great run, and the story would end there.
But an intrepid group of cast members and a co-writer would not go quietly into that good night. This band of fools reflected on a world without musical, political satire, and didn’t like what they saw. And just like that Capitol Fools was born.
While foolish enough to embark on this new journey, they were smart enough to not reinvent the wheel. Fast-paced, laugh out loud show…check. Equal opportunity offenders…check. Skewering both sides of the aisle…check. If a “Steps-style show” is wrong, they don’t want to be right.
The Capitol Fools cast has a combined 60+ years of experience on stages across the nation and are every bit the show professionals you’ve come to expect. They will give you a memory that will last a lunch time. The spirit, irreverence and D.N.A. of the Capitol Fools live on with the Capitol Fools!
THE COMPANY
Jon Bell is a former member of the Capitol Steps. He toured with the company for 11 years. Prior to putting on a suit to play Barack Obama, you may have seen him singing and dancing in the rock show, "Rockin' Eve's Wrath" as the lead singer "Wrath" at Busch Gardens. Jon is so excited to be part of the Capitol Fools company and to be back on stage and playing again!!
Evan Casey spent a dozen years making funny faces and using silly voices for the Capitol Steps. When not searching for rhymes for "filibuster" and "gerrymander", or harmonizing to the latest debt ceiling crisis, Evan's pedestrian theatre work has been seen across a variety of stages up and down the east coast, ranging from OffBroadway to West Palm Beach, FL. He has garnered numerous award nominations throughout his career, the names of which he has conveniently forgotten for the writing of this bio. His work has been celebrated as “Fair to middling!” by the New York Times, and “A face that is easily forgotten!” by Variety. His most important roles are that of father to his two children, Oscar and Alice, and husband to his wife Tracy, although neither production has been open to review from the press.
After Kevin Corbett’s career as a dancer was tragically derailed by the fact that he was a terrible dancer, he turned to a life in comedy. He spent 20 years performing political satire & song parodies with Capitol Steps. Kevin teaches improvisation, comedy, and filmmaking to students of all ages at Round House Theatre in Maryland and is the director of The Roundlings program (a comedy troupe for high school students). He is also a faculty member at The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington D.C., where he teaches comedy, improv, and commedia dell'arte, to aspiring professionals. Kevin is a two-time Helen Hayes award watcher, a dad joke connoisseur, and a 2nd degree black belt in the ancient art of pranks.
Nancy Dolliver toured the country with The Capitol Steps for over 25 years. If you haven’t heard of her, that’s by design as she’s been hiding undercover behind the many faces (and wigs) of such wellknown people as Monica Lewinski, Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton, Barbara Bush, Sarah Palin, Kellyanne Conway, and other aliases. Nancy’s clandestine work is necessitated by her long career offending audience members from both sides of the aisle and she is pleased to carry forward the political satire torch as a member of the Capitol Fools.
Tara Gesling is thrilled to be joining this cast of jokers on stage! Tara has been seen in many wonderful roles, some of her favorites being: Ulla (The Producers), Mrs. Banks (Mary Poppins), Mame (Mame), Velma (Hairspray), Catherine (Pippin), Pattie (Smokey Joe’s Cafe), and Emma Borden (Lizbeth, A Lizzie Borden Opera)….YES THIS SHOW REALLY EXISTS, just to name a few! Tara is a mom of a beautiful toddler who hates when mommy sings too loud! Enjoy the show!
Jack Rowles (Producer, Director, Performer) is thrilled to be bringing the country together one laugh at a time with Capitol Fools after 20 years of putting the mock in democracy with Capitol Steps. Besides performing, Jack is also directing and co-producing the Fools along with producing partner Michael Pauken. Huge thanks to Mr. Pauken for all you do. And a huge thanks to you, the audience, for supporting political comedy. Keep voting for the funny ones.
Howard Breitbart (Music Director) works extensively as a musical director/arranger/collaborative accompanist throughout the Washington, DC area. After 27 years with the Capitol Steps, Howard is still trying to maintain composure, dignity and a steady tempo while his friends in the Capitol Fools attempt to crack him up. *Please note, he has nothing to do with the conspiracy spreading website Breitbart.com— or does he???
Mark Eaton is the head writer. When approached about a new show, he gave an enthusiastic “well, I guess I have nothing better to do.” Mark is hands down the sexiest, most spiritually advanced and intellectually gifted member of the Capitol Fools — he also got to write his own bio.
Michael Pauken (Producer) handles the business affairs of the Capitol Fools. He is not funny at all but does like to laugh at the antics of the others. In a previous life Michael was the general manager of the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, IL for twenty years, managed theatrical productions such as the long-running Forever Plaid in Chicago, Milwaukee and Seattle, was director of marketing for the League of Chicago Theatres and more recently served as interim executive director for the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center in Georgia. Michael much appreciates that Jack, Mark and the cast have made this opportunity possible.
C oSt 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.
Circle of Friends 2024-2025 Jorgensen
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*
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
Anonymous
Keith & Paula Enderle
Mr. David Johnson
David & Carol Jordan
Tom Martin & Susan Spiggle
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
Pat Anderson
Dorothy Blocker
Bennett & Linda Brockman
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
Anonymous
Roger & Cynthia Adams
Ms. Sandra Albom
Susan & John Boland
Irene & Richard Brown
Anne-Marie Campbell
Kevin Conklin
Paul D’Italia
Mary & Michael Donnelly
Dr. & Mrs. Ed &
Susan Grace
Peter Jacques
Richard & Karin James
Art Kirschenbaum & Cheryl Pomerantz
Donald Kray
Shoshana Levinson & Chris Crossgrove
Robin Lubatkin
Jennifer Macionus
Susan Phillips
Edith Posselt
Yvonne & Joseph Prudente
Mrs. Laura T. Raccagni
Bonnie Ryan
Mr. & Mrs. Eric A. Santini
Jacqueline Seide
Paul & Annette Shapiro
Dr. Jay S. Shivers
Susan Stoppelman
Jamie Summers
Jeremy Teitelbaum
Adeline Theis
Ms. Susanna Thomas
Shirley Waldron
Critics Circle
$25/person, $50/couple
Joyce Armstrong
Charles Cleary
Ms. Joyce Donohoo
Howard & Carol Drescher
Drs. Rebecaa & Jacob Earp
Mrs. Joy Favretti
Margaret & Peter Files
Mrs. Audrey Gough
Yves & Carol Kraus
Wendy Leclair
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Linonis
Mr. & Mrs. Wesley & Mary Lord
Mr. & Mrs. Joeph Madar
Donna Matulis
John H. Mayer & Irwin M. Krieger
Mr. & Mrs. Alan Miller
Robert G. Paris
Peter Polomski
Sari & James Rosokoff
Rabbi Jeremy Schwartz & Ms. Merle Potchinsky
Joann Scott
Mrs. Pamela Sutkaitis
Patricia Tanaka
Denise Winland
Director’s Fund
Diane & Joseph Briody
Karen & John Foley
Ann Kouatly
Jennifer & Peter Morenus
NICABM
Nancy & John Silander
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+
Becky & Scott Lehmann
James Knox
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.
Jean & John Lenard
Elena Sevilla & Paul Aho
Greg & Mona Anderson
Deborah Walsh Bellingham
Ruth Buczynski
Carol Colombo
Anne D’Alleva
Kenneth Doeg
Judy & Peter Halvorson
Patricia Hempel
George & Janet Jones
Carol & David Jordan
Lin & Waldo Klein
James Knox
June & Henry Krisch
Becky & Scott Lehmann
Shoshana Levinson & Chris Crossgrove
Julia J. & Carl W. Lindquist, MD
Joan & Austin McGuigan
Jane & Robert Moskowitz
Lauren & Eric Prause
Donald Shankweiler & Ruth Garrett Millikan
John & Nancy Silander
Beverly Sims & William Okeson
Kenneth & Janet Slavett
Marilyn & Arthur Wright
Saturday, October 26, 2024, 8 pm
University of Connecticut School of Fine Arts
Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
Rodney Rock, Director presents
Saxophones
Kurt Bacher
John Mastroianni
Sam Dillon
Cedric Mayfield
Matt Schmidt
Guitar
Doug Maher
Piano
Tedd Firth, Musical Director
Trumpets
John Walsh
Kellin Hanas
Renee McGee
Luke Wingfield Bass
David Finck
ABOUT THE PRODUCTION
Trombones
Sean Nelson
Dan Hendrix
Ben Griffin
Wes Mayhew Drums
Mark McLean
Michael Feinstein brings to life Big Band Celebrations and the Tony Bennett legacy. Supported by the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, Feinstein pays a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Tony Bennett, bringing his iconic songs to life in a symphony of sound.
The performance will feature hits such as "Because of You", "Rags to Riches", "I Left My Heart in San Francisco", "The Best is Yet To Come", "I Get a Kick Out of You", "Stranger in Paradise" and many more. Feinstein's dynamic interpretations, coupled with the grandeur of the big band, will create an unforgettable night that honors the legacy of Tony Bennett in all its glory.
Michael Feinstein's close friendship with Tony Bennett adds a profound layer to this tribute, as their camaraderie brings authenticity and depth to each note performed. Not only does Feinstein's masterful interpretation of Bennett's timeless repertoire pay homage to an era of classic songwriting, but it also preserves the rich cultural heritage that these songs represent.
The show also brings to bear the history of Carnegie Hall, which has been connected to the big band for decades. Icons from across the 20th and 21st Century have graced the stage of Carnegie Hall, from Benny Goodman to Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong to Ella Fitzgerald and from Frank Sinatra to, of course, Tony Bennett. The musicmaking of Feinstein and the Carnegie Hall Big Band continue this tradition, as this program brings the Hall’s history to life onstage.
"Tony Bennett is one of the most enduring icons of the 20th century. He has created a body of work surpassed by none.” - Michael Feinstein
Please Note: This show is not affiliated with the Tony Bennett Estate
ABOUT MICHAEL FEINSTEIN
In addition to his recognition as one of the leading musical entertainers and piano virtuoso of recent decades, Michael Feinstein’s work as an educator, archivist, interpreter, and Ambassador of the Great American Songbook have established the popular and honored musician as a pre-eminent force in contemporary music. His dazzling career as a top-selling and critically acclaimed recording artist and a star performer on Broadway, and the world’s great concert stages has earned him five GRAMMY® Award nominations, a special Tony Award for Excellence in Theatre for his Feinstein's New York venue, two Emmy nominations of his television specials, and acclaim for his NPR series. His live concerts have spanned the globe including such iconic venues such as The White House, Buckingham Palace, Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, and the Sydney Opera House. In 2022, Feinstein released to rave reviews, Gershwin Country, an album of standards in duet with some of the biggest names in Country Music from Dolly Parton and Alison Krauss to Brad Paisley and Amy Grant. This same year he made his debut at the legendary Café Carlyle in New York to rave reviews and sell-out performances.
In 2007, as an extension of his work as a legendary performer and passionate guardian of his nation’s greatest musical traditions, Mr. Feinstein founded the Great American Songbook Foundation. The Foundation works to preserve and elevate America’s rich musical legacy by curating physical artifacts of its creators and performers; offering programs for the public and research opportunities for scholars, historians, and performers; and providing educational opportunities for student musicians, including the annual high school Songbook Academy®. For over a decade, Michael served as a Founding Member on the Library of Congress’ National Recording Preservation Board; an organization dedicated to ensuring the survival, conservation, and increased public availability of America’s sound recording heritage.
Feinstein earned his fifth Grammy Award nomination in 2009 for The Sinatra Project, his CD celebrating the music of “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” The Sinatra Project, Volume II: The Good Life was released in 2011. He released the CDs The Power of Two – collaborating with Glee and 30 Rock star Cheyenne Jackson – and Cheek To Cheek, recorded with Broadway legend Barbara Cook. For Feinstein’s CD, We Dreamed These Days, he co-wrote the title song with Dr. Maya Angelou.
His Emmy Award-nominated TV special Michael Feinstein–The Sinatra Legacy, which was taped live at the Palladium in Carmel, IN, aired across the country in 2011. The PBS series, Michael Feinstein’s American Songbook, was the recipient of the ASCAP Deems-Taylor Television Broadcast Award, was broadcast for three seasons, and is available on DVD. His most recent primetime PBS-TV Special, New Year’s Eve at The Rainbow Room, written and directed by Desperate Housewives creator Marc Cherry, aired in 2014. For his nationally syndicated public radio program, Song Travels, Michael interviewed and performed alongside music luminaries such as Bette Midler, Neil Sedaka, Liza Minnelli, Rickie Lee Jones, David Hyde Pierce, and more.
Feinstein was named Principal Pops Conductor for the Pasadena Symphony in 2012 and made his conducting debut in June 2013 to celebrated critical acclaim. Under Feinstein’s leadership, the Pasadena Pops has quickly become a premier orchestral presenter of the Great American Songbook with definitive performances of rare orchestrations and classic arrangements. He launched an additional Pops series at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in Palm Beach, Florida in 2014. Michael’s book, The Gershwins and Me–the Los Angeles Times best-seller from Simon & Schuster–features a new CD of Gershwin standards performed with Cyrus Chestnut at the piano.
Feinstein serves as Artistic Director of the Center for the Performing Arts, a $170 million, three-theatre venue in Carmel, Indiana, which opened in January 2011. The theater is home to diverse live programming and a museum for his rare memorabilia and manuscripts. Since 1999, he has served as Artistic Director for Carnegie Hall’s “Standard Time with Michael Feinstein” in conjunction with ASCAP. In 2010, he became the director of the Jazz and Popular Song Series at New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Feinstein’s at the Nikko, Michael’s nightclub at San Francisco’s Nikko Hotel, has presented the top talents of pop and jazz since 2013. His first venue in New York, Feinstein’s at the Regency, featured major entertainers such as Rosemary Clooney, Glen Campbell, Barbara Cook, Diahann Carroll, Jane Krakowski, Lea Michele, Cyndi Lauper, Jason Mraz, and Alan Cumming from 1999 to 2012. Feinstein opened a Los Angeles location, Feinstein’s at Vitello’s in June of 2019 and most recently launched Feinstein’s at the Hotel Carmichael in Carmel, Indiana. He has designed a new piano for Steinway called “The First Ladies,” inspired by the White House piano and signed by several former First Ladies. It was first played to commemorate the Ronald Reagan centennial on February 6th, 2011.
In 2013, Michael released Change of Heart: The Songs of Andre Previn in collaboration with four-time Oscar and eleven-time Grammy Award-winning composer-conductor-pianist Andre Previn. The album celebrates Previn’s pop songs and motion picture classics. Earlier album highlights include Hopeless Romantics, a songbook of classics by Michael’s late friend Harry Warren, recording with legendary jazz pianist George Shearing. His album with songwriting icon Jimmy Webb, Only One Life–The Songs of Jimmy Webb, was named one of the “10 Best CDs of the Year” by USA Today.
Feinstein received his fourth Grammy nomination for Michael Feinstein with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, his first recording with a symphony orchestra. The year before, Rhino/Elektra Music released The Michael Feinstein Anthology, a two-disc compilation spanning 1987 to 1996 and featuring old favorites and previously unreleased tracks.
Michael was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, where he started playing piano by ear as a 5-year-old. After graduating from high school, he moved to Los Angeles when he was 20. The widow of legendary concert pianist-actor Oscar Levant introduced him to Ira Gershwin in July 1977. Feinstein became Gershwin’s assistant for six years, which earned him access to numerous unpublished Gershwin songs, many of which he has since performed and recorded. Gershwin’s influence provided a solid base upon which Feinstein evolved into a captivating performer, composer, and arranger of his own original music. He also has become an unparalleled interpreter of music legends such as Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington, and Harry Warren. Feinstein has received three honorary doctorates. Through his live performances, recordings, film and television appearances, and his songwriting (in collaboration with Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Lindy Robbins, Bob Merrill, and Marshall Barer), Feinstein is an all-star force in American music. For more information, please visit MichaelFeinstein.com.
ABOUT CARNEGIE HALL
Since 1891, New York's Carnegie Hall has set the international standard for excellence in performance as the aspirational destination for artists of all musical genres. From Tchaikovsky, Dvořák, Mahler, and Bartók to George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Benny Goodman, Judy Garland, and The Beatles, every form of music has filled Carnegie Hall—the only prerequisite: that it be the finest.
Today, the venue remains one of the world’s greatest concert halls and an active cultural destination for artists and audiences. Complementing hundreds of performances on its stages each season, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute creates extensive music education and social impact programs that serve more than 800,000 people annually worldwide—plus many more online—playing a central role in Carnegie Hall's commitment to making great music accessible to as many people as possible. For more information, please visit carnegiehall.org
This tour appears by arrangement with IMG Artists and is represented by Toby Tumarkin.
JORGENSEN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Fri, Nov 15, 8 pm
Social media singing sensation Stella Cole and Emmy-nominated crooner Benny Benack III will take you on a jazz-inspired journey through Broadway’s greatest hits from the Golden Age of yesterday to the freshest hits of today. From Hammerstein to Hamilton and everything in between, this multi-disciplinary musical mashup also showcases tap-dancing star, Jabu Graybeal.
Fall 2024 Lenard Chamber Music Series
Arsentiy Kharitonov Sun, Nov 17, 3 pm
“Arsentiy Kharitonov’s Piano Magic Enraptures a Packed Carnegie Hall” – The Observer
Bennewitz Quartet & Arsentiy Kharitonov Fri, Nov 22, 8 pm
“The Bennewitz Quartet is downright wonderful, with a perfect balance of warmth and objective clarity.” - Gramophone
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.
Best of continues in Storrs!
Pinkalicious The Musical Sun, Oct 20, 2 pm
Pre-Show Activities at 1 pm!
“...If you have a lover of pink (or of cupcakes) under your roof, you’ll also appreciate the way this show celebrates family, healthy living and, well moderation in all things. - Chicago Tribune
My Father's Dragon Sun, Nov 10, 2 pm
Based on the stories by Ruth Stiles Gannett
My Father's Dragon is the story of Elmer Elevator, a young boy so disenchanted with his move to the city that he runs away to Wild Island to find Boris, a young dragon in need of a rescue.
JORGENSEN GALLERY
FALL 2024
A Year of Plein Air Painting on Horsebarn Hill
by Blanche Şerban Sat, Sep 14 – Sat, Dec 14
Reception: Thu, Oct 17, 5:30 - 7:30 pm (Prior to Australian Chamber Orchestra)
Fall 2024 Gallery Hours: Mon - Wed, 10 am - 4 pm Thurs, 1 pm - 4 pm Fri, 10 am - 4 pm
Prior to performances and during most intermissions
CRT Box Office: 860.486.2113
802 Bolton Road, Unit 1127 Storrs, CT 06269-1127
crtboxoffice@uconn.edu crt.uconn.edu
SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS
Deanna Fitzgerald, Dean
Alain Frogley, Associate Dean
CRT ADMINISTRATION
Megan Monaghan Rivas Artistic Director & Head, Department of Dramatic Arts
Michelle Polgar Managing Director
Vincent Tycer Associate Artistic Director
Annie Suite Box Office Manager
Morgan Lee Company/House Manager
CRT PRODUCTION
Robert Copley Production Manager
Alison Savino Production Stage Manager
Michael Beschta Technical Director
John Parmelee Associate Technical Director
Daniela Weiser Scenic Charge Artist
Susan Tolis Costume Shop Supervisor
Michael Demers Production Stage Electrician
Matthew Sorensen Puppet Arts Technical Supervisor
Jake Neighbors Sound Supervisor
Gino Costabile Properties Manager
Lindsay Cummings Dramaturgy Advisor
Manchester OBGYN
Dr. Roa Alammari
Dr. Lawrence Arky
Dr. Christine Armstrong
Dr. Robert Gildersleeve
Dr. Lesley Gumbs
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
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
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
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!
Monday-Friday 11am-10pm • Saturday and Sunday Open 7am-10pm Serving Breakfast Sat and Sun 7-noon 39 Adamec Rd, Willington, CT Rte 32 Exit 69 off I-84. 860-477-1054
Enjoy a Fantastic Meal with Your Friends and Loved Ones
Open for dining indoor or on our beautiful patio Chefs Specials • Take Out Trays • Banquet Facilities up to 85 guests Steaks, Seafood, Pasta Dishes, Salads, Burgers, Wraps, Brick Oven Pizzas and more. Voted
Live Entertainment Fri and Sat Night Happy Hour Daily 3:30-6:30. Extended Lounge Hours
Enjoy our Specialty Omelets, our Creative Benedicts, Belgium Waffles, Breakfast Burritos. $6 Mimosas and more! Weekend Breakfast Sat & Sun 7am-noon
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
Exceptional Seafood, Premium Steaks, Upscale Pasta Dishes, Daily Specials & Speciality Martinis, Wines and many Select Beers. Pizza available for Take-Out!
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 American Bar and Grill Banquet Rooms for guests up to 50 or as allowed.