Kelly Strayhorn Theater
November 25
8 p.m.
Two jazz giants from the past and present — both with deep Pittsburgh ties — will converge for the 10th anniversary of Suite Life.
Marking the 102nd birthday of Billy Strayhorn, who is renowned for his signature work with Duke Ellington, the tribute concert will spotlight the legacy of one of Pittsburgh’s most prolific musical pioneers while also highlighting the theater’s work in the community. Born in Ohio on November 29, 1915, Strayhorn lived in Homewood and attended Westinghouse High School and Pittsburgh Music Institute.
Offering a “Pay What Makes You Happy” admission, the event will feature birthday cupcakes and a cash bar.
Serving as bandleader is the world-renowned drummer, composer and arranger, Poogie Bell, who was born in Pittsburgh in 1961 and has played with everyone from Chaka Khan to Herbie Hancock to David Bowie. Accompanied by an all-star 12-member ensemble, Bell will remix and reimagine Strayhorn classics, putting a contemporary twist on the iconic composer.
Sharing Strayhorn’s legacy with new generations of musicians and fans, the performance will showcase his rich harmonic sense, versatility and timeless compositions.
The concert will be preceded by the Suite Life Soirée at Hotel Indigo, chaired by Strayhorn’s niece Cheryll Chakrabarti, and benefiting the Strayhorn Legacy Fund.
