The incomparable Brian Stokes Mitchell headlined the South Orange Performing Arts Center’s annual benefit Gala on May 30, thrilling those in attendance with songs from his album, “Simply Broadway”.
Mr. Mitchell has been one of Broadway’s top leading men for over 20 years with inspired performances in Jelly’s Last Jam, Kiss of the Spider Woman, Ragtime, King Hedley II, Man of La Mancha, and Kiss Me, Kate for which he won a Tony Award. He has also found success in film and television over the years on Trapper John, M.D., Fraiser, Ugly Betty, The Prince of Egypt, Glee, Jumping the Broom, and of course- The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air as “Trevor Collins”.
The 2012 album, “Simply Broadway” focuses on the simple elegance of musical story telling with only 2 instruments: piano and voice. Mr. Mitchell and his accompanist, Tedd Firth, recorded this album in the same studio at the same time which fills the songs with magic and nuance that easily transfers to a live performance.
As SOPAC’s major yearly fundraiser for their arts and education programming, this gala is crucial in continuing the center’s focus of enriching its community with diverse artistic experiences. Since 2006, SOPAC has been a major facility for theater, dance, music, film and visual arts -hosting dynamic events as well as participating in various outreach programs.
For more information on Brian Stokes Mitchell ,including recordings and performance schedules, visit www.brianstokes.com
For more on the South Orange Performing Arts Center, visit www.sopacnow.org
