Philadelphia Theatre Company is presenting Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill through April 30, 2023. Billy Holliday’s last performance was in Emerson’s Bar & Grill, a dive-bar in Philadelphia in 1959. Philadelphia Theatre Company has set its stage to mimic an intimate nightclub setting with small high-top tables and a bar. Seating is on a first come, first served, basis, so arrive early, get seated, and have a drink before the show. Laurin Talese brings her classically trained voice to the stage to emulate the late Billie Holiday’s. Singing over a dozen numbers in the persona of Lady Day, Ms. Talese captivates the audience in this intimate setting with her powerful voice and spot-on interpretation of a performer who is having a difficult time “holding on.” The numbers are roughly a recitation of her struggles in life and are frequently washed down with a glass of "whiskey." Her performance is riveting and certainly enhanced by her pianist, Musical Director, Will Brock, who portrays Billie Holliday’s right hand-man Jimmy Powers. Both performers are outstanding.
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