Duke Ellington Reimagined

Explore the extraordinary musical legacies of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, whose nearly 30 years of creative collaboration helped to shape the sound and spirit of American music as we know it today. Trailblazing American pianist Lara Downes will perform the world premiere of The Strayhorn Concerto, built on three of Strayhorn’s most expressive songs — “A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing,” “Strange Feeling,” and “Something to Live For” — arranged by composer Chris Walden. Two-time Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell (Kiss Me, Kate, Ragtime, Shuffle Along, Man of La Mancha) joins in the fun as well, bringing his rich voice and captivating performance style to this wonderful American music.