Shining a Spotlight on the Neighborhood Star
Have you ever had one of those moments where you’re just minding your own business, sipping on your favorite craft brew, when suddenly the stage lights up and a voice so powerfully captivating takes over the room? Well, let me tell you, that’s exactly what happened to me at The Up & Under Pub last week. I’m still reeling from the electric performance I witnessed – a true testament to the vibrant performing arts scene thriving right in our own backyard.
A Hometown Hero Shines Bright
As I settled into my seat, nursing a cold IPA, the air was buzzing with anticipation. And rightfully so, because Baltimore native Tanea Renee was about to take the stage as the one and only Billie Holiday in the production of “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill.” I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical at first – how could anyone possibly capture the essence of such an iconic musical legend? But from the moment Tanea stepped into the spotlight, all my doubts were instantly shattered.
Her performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. With a voice that dripped in world-weary soulfulness and a commanding stage presence that commanded your full attention, Tanea seamlessly embodied the persona of Billie Holiday. As she effortlessly belted out classics like “God Bless the Child” and “Strange Fruit,” I was transported back in time, feeling the weight of Billie’s tumultuous life story in every note.
Tanea Renee’s riveting portrayal of the jazz legend was a true testament to her talent and dedication. “I’ve come full circle and my purpose is to embody and do justice to the life of Billie Holiday,” she shared in a local TV interview, and boy did she deliver.
A Spellbinding Journey Through Billie’s Life
The setting of “Lady Day” transported the audience to a small bar in South Philly in March 1959, just four months before Billie Holiday’s untimely death. As the show progressed, we were given a glimpse into the tumultuous life that shaped Billie’s iconic sound. From the brothel that her mother, affectionately known as “The Dutchess,” ran on Pratt Street, to her tumultuous relationship with her first love, Sonny Monroe, Tanea wove together Billie’s personal struggles and triumphs with flawless precision.
At one point, Tanea as Billie reminisced about how she survived her childhood trauma by immersing herself in the music of legends like Louis “Pops” Armstrong and Bessie “Moms” Smith, listening to their records in the sporting houses of Baltimore. It was in those moments that I truly felt the depth of Billie’s connection to the city that shaped her, and Tanea’s ability to convey that emotional resonance was nothing short of spellbinding.
A Directorial Debut that Shines
Enhancing Tanea’s captivating performance was the skilled direction of Nikkole Salter, making her debut as a director. As a Pulitzer Prize-nominated playwright and seasoned stage actor, Salter’s signature style was woven throughout the production, ensuring that Tanea’s Billie Holiday was a fully realized, three-dimensional character.
Salter’s confident direction allowed Tanea to truly shine, highlighting the nuances of Billie’s unique phrasing and heady, articulate vocal style. The lighting design by Jorge Arroyo also played a crucial role, with its spectacular solo lighting of Tanea as Lady Day.
By the time the show reached its haunting conclusion, with Billie singing the hushed tones of “Don’t Explain” as vintage photos of her musical idols were projected behind her, I was left utterly captivated. This was no mere performance – it was a deeply immersive journey that transported me through the highs and lows of Billie Holiday’s extraordinary life.
A Theatrical Gem in Our Backyard
As I made my way out of the pub, I couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride for the incredible talent thriving in our own community. The Up & Under has always been a hub for showcasing local artists, but this production of “Lady Day” was something truly special. It’s a reminder that world-class performing arts aren’t limited to the bright lights of Broadway or the cultural capitals of the world – they’re right here, in our own neighborhoods, waiting to be discovered.
So the next time you find yourself in need of a night of captivating entertainment, do yourself a favor and check out what’s happening on the stages of your local pubs and theaters. You never know when the next Tanea Renee might take the spotlight and leave you spellbound. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
