Park Square Theater presents Words By… Ira Gershwin and the Great American Songbook, which runs through Dec. 29.
This is Joe Vass’ follow-up to his popular The Soul of Gershwin . Words By focuses on George’s older brother, lyricist Ira Gershwin.
“Ira Gershwin could write glibly or wittily or movingly when called on,” said Vass. “But sung to his brother’s music, even Ira Gershwin’s most outwardly conversational song lyrics can hit with the impact of poetry.”
In addition to beloved songs that were brotherly collaborations of Ira’s lyrics and George’s music are wonderful songs that Ira wrote with composers Harold Arlen, Vernon Duke, Jerome Kern and Kurt Weill.
Well known local actor Ari Hoptman plays Ira Gershwin); and the musical cast includes Jennifer Grimm, as Chanteuse, and T. Mychael Rambo, as Crooner. Joe Vass also serves as musical director and lead a band comprised of esteemed local musicians: Christopher J. Bates, bass; Jay Epstein, drums; and Christopher Olson, guitar.
Here’s a trailer for the show:
Park Square is located at 20 W. 7th Place, downtown St. Paul. For tickets, call the box office at 651-291-7005.
