Swingin' into Christmas
‘The Nutcracker Swings’ benefits Pasadena Jazz Institute
By John Sollenberger 12/17/2009
TCHAIKOVSKY’S HOLIDAY CLASSIC BALLET, “THE NUTCRACKER,” HAS ACHIEVED iconic status as holiday entertainment. Decades later, jazz master Duke Ellington put his stamp on it by making it swing.
Saturday night you can catch Ellington’s version of the epic piece, along with a full plate of holiday music benefitting a fine local cause, when “The Nutcracker Swings” takes the stage at the Pasadena Convention Center’s Grand Ballroom.
The event benefits the Pasadena Jazz Institute’s Jazz Camp for Kids summer program, introducing youngsters to the joys of the genre. Drummer Paul Lines (pictured), PJI artistic director, serves as music director of the event.
Ellington’s handiwork is brought to life by stellar group of musicians, including the Pasadena Jazz Orchestra, redwhite+bluezz All Stars, the Sacred Nation Gospel Choi and the Pasadena Jazz Institute (PJI) Junior Superstars, gifted young musicians from the Jazz Camp for Kids. Special musical guests include James Tormé (son of singing legend Mel Tormé), Renee Olstead, Sylvia St. James and California Philharmonic founder and conductor Maestro Victor Vener.
The program also includes highlights from Vince Guaraldi’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” other Christmas favorites and a visit by Santa. Local personality Bryan Gallyot emcees the family-friendly event. Executive Producer is André Vener, son of Victor and owner of redwhite+bluezz Wine Bar.
Festivities start at 6 p.m. with dining accompanied by the PJI Junior Superstars, followed by the concert at 7 p.m. A full-service, three-course meal is $35 per person. A self-service buffet is offered with entrees ranging from $10 to $18. Wine and a cash bar are also available. Tickets for the event range from $30 to $70 per person.
The Pasadena Convention Center is at 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. Call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com or nutcrackerswings.com for tickets.
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