Archive for February 22nd, 2011

Genius: A Musical Tribute to Ray Charles starring Leonard E. Barrett, Jr.

Written and Created by Lannie Garrett

Piano and Music Direction by Justin Adams

This tribute show tells the story of one of the world’s most fascinating and brilliant artists of all time, Mr. Ray Charles.

Thank you to Leonard for stepping in to fill the shoes of Mr. J. Jones (our original star of this production). J. is unable to perform due to some health issues, so the FABULOUS singer, entertainer, Leonard E. Barrett, Jr. has graciously stepped into the role with aplomb. He’s amazing!

ABOUT RAY CHARLES AND THE SHOW

GENIUS: A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO RAY CHARLES, traces his life, from his very poor, but love filled childhood, to losing his sight at 7, his teenage entry into the adult music world, his triumphs and lows and the unmatched musical legacy he created. The show tells Ray’s life story through anecdotes and some of the most beloved songs in American history, including: “I Got a Woman,” “Busted,” “Hallelujah,” “I Just Love Her So,” “Crying Time,” the iconic, “What’d I Say,” and many more. Ray Charles defined and created what the world now knows as “soul” by blending gospel, blues, country, pop and gospel into a sound that is distinctively Ray Charles. He was a man that could take any song and infuse it with soul and magic and make you feel each word and lyric like no other artist in U.S. history.

The intention of this show is not to imitate or impersonate Mr. Charles, but to channel his energy and spirit in a nostalgic, fun and loving way. Leonard will honor him in a way that brings Ray’s legacy and light to the stage.

Lannie discovered Leonard when she attended a show, in which he was starring, at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. She was so impressed with his talent that she asked him to star in a show she’d written about Nat King Cole for Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret. The show and Leonard were a hit! His gorgeous voice, charisma, stage presence and connection to his audience made the show come to life.

ABOUT LEONARD BARRETT, JR.

Kirk Montgomery, Entertainment reporter for KUSA TV said: “He’s an astonishing entertainer with a voice that is like silk dipped in caramel.”

Leonard E. Barrett, Jr. is a favorite of Denver area theater goers. Barrett’s performances have garnered him rave reviews and a loyal following of avid fans.

Leonard has won numerous awards including an Ovation Award for Best Actor in a Musical by the Denver Post in 2004, Best Actor in a Musical voted by the readers of the Denver Post in 2007, Westword’s Best Season for an Actor in 2007, Best Year for an Actor in 2008 voted by the readers of the Denver Post, and more.

RAVES!

“He’s a consummate showman.” – John Moore, Denver Post Drama Critic

“…star quality is on full display…completely immersed in the role, masterful, powerful and tender, he controls the stage whenever he’s on it.” – Juliet Wittman, Westword Drama Critic

SHOWTIME AND TICKETS

TICKETS: $20