Pittsburgh CLO has revealed the cast and creative team of summer season opener Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill, with Gabrielle Lee as Billie “Lady Day” Holiday, directed by Tomé Cousin.
The leading lady of the show in the intimate Greer Cabaret Theater. May 17-June 30, is making here Pittsburgh CLO debut, after credits that include national and European tours and off-Broadway, and regional theater roles. A concert artist, she also has provided backing vocals for Steely Dan, Aloe Blacc, Angelique Kidjo and Harry Belafonte.
Lee will perform the role of Billie Holiday for all performances May 17 – 31 and, starting on June 1 – June 30, she will share the role with Ayana Del Valle. Del Valle, who this spring played the role at the Cider Mill Stage in Endicott, N.Y., will perform as Lady Day on Wednesday evenings and Saturday matinees, while Lee will continue to perform all other performances.
The cast also includes music director and conductor Kenney Green-Tilford, as Jimmy Powers, Lady Day’s accompanist and confidant.
Getting his own credit, as Holiday’s dog, Pepi, is “Scrappy Mason,” making his onstage debut. “Coming from a showbiz family, Scrappy can’t wait to share his talents with you! Scrappy would like to say ‘Woof Woof’ (that’s puppy speak for ‘enjoy the show!’)”
Pittsburgh’s Alwana Mallory will understudy as Billie Holiday, and serve as assistant stage manager.
The team also includes Tim Brady (production stage manager), Heidi M. Fleischer (scenic designer, content creator), Andrew Ostrowski (lighting), Claudia Brownlee (costumes), Tenel Dorsey (hair and makeup) and Bob Bollman (sound).
For tickets and details, visit https://www.pittsburghclo.org/shows/lady-day-at-emersons-bar-grill. For “Removing Barriers” access, visit https://www.pittsburghclo.org/plan/removing-barriers.
Categories: Company, Our Posts, Show Previews
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