BENDING TOWARDS THE LIGHT ... A JAZZ NATIVITY AT BIRDLAND

BENDING TOWARDS THE LIGHT ... A JAZZ NATIVITY AT BIRDLAND

"Bending Towards The Light ... A Jazz Nativity," the joyful musical holiday show that warms the hearts of families of all faiths, swings into BIRDLAND (315 West 44th Street, NYC - 212-581-3080 - http://www.birdlandjazz.com/ ) for five performances beginning Sunday, December 23rd at 5:00 pm, with additional performances on Monday & Tuesday, December 24th & 24th at 5:00 & 8:00 pm. Each performance will run 75 minutes without an intermission.

A colorful presentation with a cast of 16, that delights children as well as jazz fans, the JAZZ NATIVITY boasts an all-star band featuring Latin percussionist Candido and tenor saxophonist Bob Kindred; vocalist Hilary Kole in the role of Mary; Jon Gordon as the saxophone playing shepherd; Misael Sanchez of the Newark Boys Chorus School in the role of the Shepherd Boy; Brenda Feliciano as the archangel and, as kings, jazz greats Benny Powell on trombone and Lew Soloff on trumpet. Tickets are $40 with a $10 food/drink minimum.

Written and arranged by singer-songwriter Anne Phillips at the suggestion of the late John Garcia Gensel of St. Peter's Church, JAZZ NATIVITY first premiered in 1985. Since then, it has been a popular Christmas offering across the country.

The show combines well-known Christmas carols with original music by Ms. Phillips, Bob Kindred and Dave and Iola Brubeck. The original soundtrack recording features the late CBS News journalist Charles Kuralt as narrator, with Lionel Hampton, Dave Brubeck, Tito Puente, Benny Powell, Toots Thielemans and many other jazz greats in the band. The recording is available online at www.jazznativity.com and www.cdbaby.com.

BENDING TOWARDS THE LIGHT - A JAZZ NATIVITY is directed by Tad and Beth Jones. Music Director is Bob Kindred. Conductor is Anne Phillips. The show is produced by Kindred Spirits, a not-for-profit organization.