TAKING A CHANCE ON LOVE: Vernon Duke's Broadway

Klea turns her passion for musical-theatre history towards the “checkered” (his own word!) Broadway career of composer Vernon Duke. Vernon Duke was the creator of such indisputable standards as “April in Paris” and “Autumn in New York,” although each was unfortunately nestled in a gargantuan flop—Walk a Little Faster and Thumbs Up! respectively. Duke's legacy as a Broadway composer ultimately rests on 1940's Cabin in the Sky, but there are countless musical treasures written throughout his career—songs from Banjo Eyes, starring Eddie Cantor and Dancing in the Streets, starring Mary Martin. “Infusing Duke's songs with oxygen” (NY Times), Klea performs forgotten gems as well as beloved Duke treasures. “Between her powerful pipes, intelligent and humorous patter, and sublime lyrical interpretations, this is one of those rare 'must rush-out-and-see' shows that you will kick yourself for missing.” (Talkin' Broadway.com).

Three versions of this show
are available for booking:

Version 1:
Performed by Klea Blackhurst with Michael Rice (Musical Director/Arranger) at piano.
Length of show: 70 minutes with no intermission.

Version 2:
Performed by Klea Blackhurst, Michael Rice on piano, one bass player, one guitar player.
Length of show: 70 minutes with no intermission.

Version 3:
Performed by Klea Blackhurst, Michael Rice on piano, one bass player, one guitar player plus string quartet and woodwinds.
Length of show: 70 minutes. (String quartet and woodwinds can be university music students—see master classes).