Music at Asbury presents Julia Breanetta Simpson in "Satin Dolls: Unsung Women of Jazz"
Step into the spotlight of history with Satin Dolls: Unsung Women of Jazz — a vibrant musical celebration of four trailblazing women whose creativity and brilliance helped shape the sound and soul of American jazz. From Ivie Anderson’s velvety tones as Duke Ellington’s unforgettable vocalist, to Helen Humes’ dynamic swing with Count Basie, from Anita O’Day’s daring ‘blue-eyed soul’ to Della Reese — the trailblazing entertainer whose magnetic presence and enduring talent captivated audiences around the world. Through rich storytelling and timeless music, this new production shines a long-overdue light on a few of the remarkable women whose voices once defined the sound of jazz — celebrated in their day, yet too often diminished by history. Experience an inspiring celebration of genius, joy, and the everlasting spirit of jazz, presented by Julia Breanetta Simpson and her band, led by music director Mario Sprouse.
New Rochelle resident Julia Breanetta Simpson has appeared around the country at regional, dinner and stock theatres in such productions as Ain't Misbehavin', Dreamgirls, For Colored Girls, One Mo' Time, Tintypes, and When the Nightingale Sings. She has also appeared in off-Broadway theatres and other venues in New York including New World Stages, the Triad, and the Metropolitan Room. Her solo show, “Harlem On My Mind,” was selected for inclusion in the 2019 United Solo Theatre Festival, the world’s largest solo theatre festival, held in New York City Sept - November. Julia earned her BFA degree in Musical Theatre at Syracuse University and is a proud member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA and M.A.C. Ms. Simpson performs throughout the Tri-State area in her one-woman shows "Harlem On My Mind," "How Sweet the Sound," “Julia and the Duke,” and “Classy and Sassy: A Cabaret Tribute to Lena Horne.” Julia Simpson is the founder and CEO of Breanetta Productions, whose mission is to honor and celebrate contributions made to society and world culture by African Americans through plays, musicals, and concerts that inspire, educate and entertain. Her recordings can be found on cdbaby.com.
”Julia Breanetta Simpson . . . led the audience in song, history and dialogue through a glorious evening. Her velvety notes sailed and floated." -The Post Eagle
Music at Asbury was launched in November of 2014 by Lu Gmoser, founding producer of Asbury Summer Theatre, and Dr. Earl F. Groner. As a program of Asbury-Crestwood United Methodist Church, Music at Asbury is designed to serve as a social service to the community, offering free performances by some of New York City and the Hudson Valley’s finest musical artists.
Concerts are held in the sanctuary at Asbury United Methodist Church, 167 Scarsdale Rd, Tuckahoe, NY; venue is fully handicapped accessible and ample parking is available. Admission is free of charge but reservations are strongly recommended; please visit www.MusicAtAsbury.com or call 914-779-3722 to reserve a general admission seat.
“Satin Dolls” is underwritten in part by a 2025 Challenge Grant from ArtsWestchester.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3482727-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3482727-2
