Saint Luke Church, 1500 W. Belmont Ave., will host an all-Chicago production of "Bending Towards the Light: A Jazz Nativity" at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. This 20th annual production features jazz arrangements of traditional Christmas carols along with original compositions.
In a production filled with grace and humor, the cast includes a Tap Dancing King, a Latin Percussion King and a Trumpet King who share the stage with Mary, Joseph, angels and shepherds brought to life by vocal soloists, a vocal jazz quartet, a choir —all supported by an eight piece jazz band.
The ensemble consists of master jazz musicians whose careers have included performing and recording with the leading jazz artists of our time. Bobby Lewis takes on the role of Trumpet King and Geraldo de Oliveira holds forth as the Latin Percussion King. Bobby Schiff on the piano, Jerry Coleman on the drums, Tim Coffman, trombone, and John Whitfield on the bass join Ken Jandes and Andy Tecson, saxophones, to support the voices of Dawn Lauber, Gayle Bisesi, David Molnar, Nick Falco and Mary Brandenstein.
Two dancers will add to the excitement. Lane Alexander will play the role of the Tap Dancing King and Laura Roche will choreograph and perform a reflection on the spirit of Mary.
The entire event is designed to benefit Northside Housing and Supportive Services (formerly Lakeview Emergency Shelter). The expenses for the concert have been underwritten by generous patrons, so admission to the concert will be free to the public. A free will offering at the door after the concert will receive donations for the shelter. Since the concert is totally sponsored, every dollar collected will go directly to the shelter.
For more information, contact Saint Luke Church at (773) 472-3383 or stluke@ais.net. |
