Della Reese host benefit performance of ‘Bonita and Billie’

March 25, 2009 - PRLog -- Charles S. Dutton in association with Vintage Hollywood presents, a special benefit performance of  'Bonita and Billie', starring award-winning actress Bonita Brisker in the illustrious role as Billie Holiday, hosted by Della Reese Lett, at 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 29, at the Vintage Hollywood Private Club and Theater, located at 4000 W. Washington Blvd. (at 10th Ave.), Los Angeles, CA.   Proceeds will benefit the Understanding Principles Church Foundation.

The event begins with a Cuban cuisine, cash bar, and warm welcome from Della Reese at 5:00 pm.  Guests will then attend a special performance at 6:00 p.m.  Following the performance,   there will be a dessert reception, providing a unique opportunity to chat with Reverend Della Reese.

Written by Bonita Brisker, this ode to Billie is based on the untold stories of Lady Day’s public and private life.  In ninety minutes, Bonita recreates the age of jazz, singing Holiday’s signature tunes, 'Good Morning Heartache',  'Strange Fruit',  'God Bless the Child', and several others.     'Bravo…Uncanny' the LA Times reported on her performance.  

'Bonita and Billie' is directed by Denise Dowse, the multiple award-winning director, garnering several from the NAACP Theater Awards and Dramalogue, receiving her most recent for Malcolm Jamal -Warner’s one man show, 'Love and Other Social Issues'.

Musical direction by T.C. Campbell.  Mr. Campbell has composed, conducted and recorded for such artists as Della Reese Lett, Peabo Bryson, Jeffery Osborne, Cameo, and many others.

Tickets for the benefit are $40 (tax deductible), which include champagne, dinner and show and free raffles.  Reservations can be made by calling (310) 926-8968.  For additional information call Karen T. Bolt at (310) 984-1549