[Photo credit: Sierra Madre Playhouse]
Clayton Cameron’s Rhythmos Quintet will kick off the jazz offerings on Sept. 1, led by the renowned drummer known as the “Brush Master” for his sophisticated stylings and unique treatment of jazz standards.
Guitarist Greg Porée, who also serves as the lead curator of Jazz @ The Playhouse, will return on Sept. 7, showcasing his soul-stirring melodies influenced by a diverse range of music.
Porée’s career includes work with legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Diana Ross.
The Dave Tull Trio, featuring the acclaimed songwriter and drummer, will perform on Sept. 8, fresh off the success of Tull’s recent album, which reached high positions on Billboard charts.
Tull became Barbra Streisand’s drummer in 2016, playing on five tours and her Grammy-nominated live Netflix concert video.
Pianist Yuko Mabuchi will pay tribute to jazz classics while embracing a broad spectrum of musical styles on Sept. 15, including a medley of Japanese songs.
Luis Conte and his Super Bien Septet will conclude the jazz series on Sept. 22, promising to transform the playhouse into a Havana-style jazz club with their Latin jazz stylings. Conte was a member of the Dancing with the Stars Orchestra for nine years, adding to his impressive musical pedigree.
Beyond jazz, the playhouse will launch a new partnership with contemporary music ensemble Wild Up on Sept. 9, and experimental pop artist Jett Kwong will showcase her talents on the Chinese guzheng, vocals, and electronics on Sept. 14.
Silent film enthusiasts can look forward to a double bill featuring comedic giants Buster Keaton, Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle, and Charlie Chaplin on Sept. 20, with tickets priced at $20.
TAIKOPROJECT, a Taiko drum trailblazer, will perform alongside Gamelan Merdu Kumala on Sept. 21, offering audiences a unique fusion of percussion styles at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The month’s programming will conclude with the playhouse’s inaugural dance presentation, featuring Viver Brasil Dance Company on Sept. 28 at 11 a.m.
Ticket prices for the Jazz @ the Playhouse series range from $12 to $35, with varying prices for other performances throughout the month.
Sierra Madre Playhouse, described as a “jewel” by Pasadena Weekly and “a landmark theater” by ABC7 Los Angeles, has garnered acclaim for its varied repertoire and thought-provoking programs.
The intimate 99-seat venue, which has earned multiple Ovation Awards, NAACP Awards, and Los Angeles Times Critics’ Choice honors, offers audiences a close connection to performances.
Originally opened in 1910, the playhouse has undergone numerous transformations, retaining its distinctive movie theater façade and recognizable marquee while evolving into a vibrant artistic institution. As one of San Gabriel Valley’s only performing arts centers presenting a broad spectrum of genres, Sierra Madre Playhouse continues to draw audiences from across the Southland.
For more information on the September lineup and to purchase tickets, call (626) 355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.
