This musical journey is dedicated to the golden age of jazz and Big Band. Carmen Bradford is a GRAMMY Award-nominated jazz artist, following in the footsteps of the Bradford family legacy. Distinguished tap dancer Leo Manzari has appeared with multiple Pops orchestras across the world and on shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and The View.

As temperatures rise, triple-threat Byron Stripling returns to Southam Hall to lead the NAC Orchestra in Harlem Nights: From Ella to Ellington, a swingin’ evening inspired by Harlem’s heyday at famed musical hot spots like the legendary Cotton Club and The Savoy.

Maestro Stripling, who is a trumpeter and vocalist himself, will be joined onstage by the incredible Carmen Bradford, a third-generation jazz vocalist and 2022 GRAMMY Award-nominee. Bradford was discovered and hired by William “Count” Basie at the age of 22 and was a featured vocalist in his orchestra for nine years. Her dynamic tones take audiences back in time as she pays tribute to jazz queens like Ella Fitzgerald and more.

Jazz and dance go hand in hand, and the NAC is delighted to have one half of the Manzari Brothers tap duo, Leo Manzari, join this performance. His mesmerizing footwork and graceful movement add a distinctive finishing touch to this spirited program. After all, it don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing!

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