Harold Arlen's "Wonderful Wizard Of Song" Celebrates 10th Anniversary

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. - May 11, 2016 - PRLog -- The Wonderful Wizard of Song, The Music of Harold Arlen premiered, complete with a 17 piece orchestra, at the FordAmphitheater in Los Angeles, June 9th, 2006. The tribute was created by the Oscar-winning composer's son Sam Arlen, vocalist George Bugatti and famed producer Nigel Wright.

Following an 18-city tour across America, the concert was transformed into a full-fledged musical, produced by Perry Damone, son of legendary crooner Vic Damone. That new version first appeared at The Debbie Reynolds Theatre, in Las Vegas, before continuing to a run in New York.

In January, 2013 the show directed by Broadway veteran Gene Castle,opened officially at The St. Luke's Theatre in New York, where it ran a year and a half.

Wonderful Wizard of Song is an inside look into Harold Arlen's personal and professional life; insight into how some of Arlen's most iconic songs from The Cotton Club, Broadway stages and Hollywood screens came to be.

"Harold wrote over 550 songs, working with famed lyricists from Johnny Mercer and Dorothy Fields, to Ira Gershwin and even Truman Capote. We did all we could to include the big hits, but not overlook Arlen's less-well-known, still important works," said co-creator George Bugatti of the musical.

"Bringing the show back to its roots in LA, to celebrate its 10th anniversary, we're really excited to have Karon Kate Blackwell join our tribute," added Sam Arlen. "Karon brings a depth and understanding of my father's material, powerfully delivering the remarkable emotion of his compositions." Ms. Blackwell will perform many of the iconic torch songs including: Come Rain or Come Shine, The Man that Got Away and (of course) the Oscar winning Over The Rainbow.

Tickets are available at Catalina's box office, 6725 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, at catalinajazz.com or by calling (323) 466-2210.

HAROLD ARLEN'S "WONDERFUL WIZARD OF SONG"
Ticket prices: $35 and $25, plus dinner or two beverage minimum
Show time: 8:30 PM (doors open 7:00 pm for dinner)