About the play: It’s March 1959. Just four months
before her death, the legendary Billie Holiday is performing one of her final
performances in South Philadelphia. She sings at a run-down bar accompanied by
Jimmy Powers on the piano and shares stories about her life. The audience
experiences more than a dozen musical numbers interlaced with sass, humor, and
nostalgic moments that portray the riveting lady who was Lady Day.
This version of the play written by Lanie Robertson and directed by Ramona
Ramdeen, stars Desiree Montes, an AEA Equity Singer, Actress, Dancer, and
Voice-Over Artist who contributed to the Central Florida entertainment industry
for over 15 years. With musical direction by Jacksonville’s own Meachum L. Clarke,
who will also play Jimmy Powers, Holiday’s longtime friend and
accompanist. Meachum L. Clarke is a gifted
singer/songwriter, musical director and worship leader known for his
contemporary gospel ensemble True Purpose.
“I am so honored to portray a performed that has inspired me in my own
career,” Montes said. “Billie Holiday was not only a beautiful
singer, but also a powerful woman of color who opened doors for many others,
like me.”
About Players by the Sea: For over 55 years, Players by the Sea
Theatre has enriched the community through excellence in live and innovative
theatre. Players by the Sea presents productions that are engaging,
thought--provoking, emotionally stimulating and entertaining through the
extraordinary support and dedication from community volunteers - actors,
directors, designers, backstage crews, carpenters, visual artists, etc. Players
by the Sea is an artistic home for anyone who wants to engage with the
community through interactive and incredible storytelling.
“Lady Day
at Emerson’s Bar & Grill”
DATES: December 9, 2021 —
Dec. 12, 2021
TICKETS: Tickets are $35 and are available online, or by calling (904)-249-0289.
LOCATION:
Players By
The Sea Theatre
106 6th Street North
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
(904) 249-0289
