Allyssa Jones: News

Last night, the "S" Word premiered for a very enthusiastic, very full house. Thanks so much for the folks at Riverside Theatre Works for inviting me to present my first solo cabaret. Thanks also to the Surnda Foundation and the Boston Arts Academy for providing me with the resources to write and produce the show.

It was the night of my life. I think I was so nervous about it because I knew that something huge was happening to me artistically. I was right. Last night, I experienced a magic I haven't felt for a long time as a solo singer. For a number of years, the club gigs have felt like work (as have the GB dates). I rediscovered my passion for pure singing when I joined the New England Spiritual Ensemble, but something was still missing from my solo work. Talking with friends over the last year ignited a curiosity about the cabaret format as an option, Ute Lemperer being the foremost model of what cabaret can be.

So after last night, I can see my future as a performer very clearly. First, I see myself continuing to celebrate my heritage and my classical training with the NESE. Next, I will always seek to grow as a jazz musician and perform in jazz venues, again in celebration of my heritage- and of course because I love jazz so deeply. And finally, I will make a home for myself in cabaret, simply because it is the only place where I can weave together my favorite songs and original material with stories and conversation. What's beautiful about this plan is that, whatever I do, wherever I sing, there will be a listening audience. The point of the experience will be the music, period.

So what does this mean in the short term? In addition to NESE performances, I will continue to take GB gigs in order to fund my sophomore CD (way overdue!). Also, I will be pitching the S" Word to venues in New England and Chicago.

I am really excited about this new direction. As I embark on this journey, hope to hear your thoughts about my work. As always, thank you for your support!

It was a total surprise, especially for a die-hard jazz and funk singer. When Tara Brooke Watkins, Artistic Director of Riverside Theatre Works, approached me with the offer of a solo cabaret performance during their 2007-08 season, I was shocked. First it was, "why me?" I had never done a show like this before. What did she see that made her think I could pull it off? Then it was, "Why not me?" Years ago, my father told me that there is a one-woman show in me, one that tells a relevant story through great music.

So here I am, one month away from the scariest debut I've ever faced. I'm still editing the script and settling on songs, hoping I'll be happy with comes out. Honestly, as of today, I have no idea what's going to come out. But I do know this-

Whatever happens, it will be one hysterical good time.

So, please join me on March 14th at Riverside Theatre Works. Details about the show are on my calendar page. Hope to see you there!

The original songs are written, the standards chosen. We're going to be laying everything down in about a month, and I'm EXCITED! This new project really captures what it meant for me (and others I know) to become and be thirty-something.

Of course, there is plenty of groove and attitude for listeners of any age.

The release party has been rescheduled for February (Valentine's weekend), but a holiday preview show is the works. It will be a "velvet rope" event for mailing-listers only, so sign up now and spread the word.

In the meantime, I will be performing quite a bit with the New England Spiritual Ensemble, with a scattering of conducting and jazz gigs (featuring my new trio). Check the site often for updates. Hope to see you out there!

Allyssa