“It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing” and Birdland was swinging hard when Sophisticated Ladies, the Tony Award-winning revue of Duke Ellington's music celebrated its 30th anniversary. The Broadway musical was nominated for eight Tony Awards and ran for 767 performances at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. Thirty years ago, it was an ebullient show and the shine has not faded.

Duke Ellington’s granddaughter, Mercedes Ellington, and Bruce Heath, two of the original show’s assistant choreographers, hosted the evening and shared memories of the long road to Broadway. Pianist Frank Owens led the Duke Ellington Band, which included members of the original production’s orchestra, and Owens performed a moving, introspective piano solo of “Solitude,” examining the many sides of solitude.

Ellington’s 50-year career included more than 3,000 songs and numerous performances worldwide. Sophisticated Ladies honored that music and this celebration included songs sung with heart and emotion by original cast members Adrian Bailey, P.J. Benjamin, Terri Klausner, Valarie Pettiford and Ty Stephens.  Klausner’s “Hit Me with a Hot Note and Watch Me Bounce” was vibrant and Pettiford held nothing back on “I’m Beginning to See the Light.” Bailey and Stevens were smooth on the moody “Something to Live For.” Saluting the late Judith Jamison (who was in the original cast), Stevens delivered “Sophisticated Lady.”

The band sizzled playing the Duke’s signature songs “Caravan,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Mood Indigo,” "Satin Doll" and “It Don't Mean a Thing.” These musicians heard  “Just give that rhythm everything you've got” and they listened, delivering a joyful noise heard all the way to Broadway.

Elizabeth Ahlfors
Cabaret Scenes
April 25, 2011
www.cabaretscenes.org