A black woman wearing a flower in her hair and a purple dress soulfully sings at a microphone stand.

Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill

Written By Lanie Robertson

Music + Lyrics By Various Artists

Directed By Chanel Bragg

Music Director Deryk George

September 6, 2023 to November 26, 2023
Judith Hardes Theatre

Have you ever witnessed a legend? Behold the tour-de-force portrait of the iconic jazz songstress.

In a tattered Philadelphia bar, it’s 1959 and Billie Holiday is performing, and storytelling, for one of the last times before her tragic death months later. In this haunting yet humorous cabaret, the prolific vocalist interweaves personal and professional anecdotes with memorable canon including “What a Little Moonlight Can Do,” “God Bless the Child,” “Strange Fruit,” and “Ain’t Nobody’s Business If I do.” Through her distinct and frank form of expression, audiences will empathize and admire the soulful lady throughout an evening that hits all the right notes.


 

Tickets start at $55! Need assistance finding the best seats at the best price? Our Box Office is here to help! Just call 602–254–2151 and we'd be happy to assist you.

Looking to bring a group of 10 or more? Theatre is always better with friends and we have great group rates for you! Click here for details.


1 act no intermission: 1 hour and 35 minutes

Content Warnings: cigarette smoke, haze effects, strong adult language, and implied drug use

 

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The Artists

Yolanda London
As Billie Holiday
View Bio
Jari Haile
As Billie Holiday Understudy
View Bio

The Artists

Yolanda London
As Billie Holiday
View Bio
Jari Haile
As Billie Holiday Understudy
View Bio

Select Mask Required Performances

Select performances have been designated "Mask Required" to ensure all audiences have an opportunity to attend a performance in an environment they are comfortable in: Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 1:30 PM

ASL/Audio Describe Night

Audio Description and American Sign Language Interpretation are available for each production. ASL/Audio Describe Night is Thursday, September 28, 2023 for Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill.