"How I Became a Jazz Singer" – an evening of stories, laughter, and song!
Hailing from Lincoln and Omaha respectively, Jackie Allen and Susie Thorne perform original takes on iconic songs from the 40s through the 70s from artists and icons who have inspired them and shaped them as artists. With humor and poignancy, hear how parallel stories shaped their love of vocal music and specifically jazz. Enjoy iconic songs from musicals and jazz to classic pop that they recorded and stylistically made their own.
Concerts are appropriate for all ages. Expect to come away entertained and enlightened.
Joined by Nebraska’s top rhythm section musicians:
Jeff Jenkins - piano (Freddie Hubbard, Clark Terry, Dakota Stanton)
Hans Sturm - double bass (Stanley Jordan, Roscoe Mitchell, Dick Hyman)
Joey Gulizia - drums and percussion (Mannheim Steamroller)
“Exceeded our expectations…high level legitimate music performance with comedy theater…a wonderful example of professionalism, preparation and communication that comes off as if the two have been performing together their whole lives.”
- Scott Shinbara, Director of Levine Performing Arts Theater, Omaha, NE
“Jackie Allen and Susie Thorne bring a world of talent and a world of travel to an engaging and appealing new show, full of beautiful music and of humor, too.”
- Mike Kelly, Omaha World Herald
“Their great singer-relationship shines through, and they are funny together. Jackie and Susie are very talented, and you can feel the rapport between them. We invited them back!”
- Lee Rockwell, Director, First Friday Jazz Series, Lincoln, NE