Jazz on a Summer’s Evening – A Tribute to Anita O’Day

Jazz on a Summer’s Evening – A Tribute to Anita O’Day

Published 8 August 2021

Melanie O’Reilly celebrates the legendary jazz singer Anita O’Day, capturing the essence of an unconventional musical genius. In this jazz theatre piece,  Melanie narrates and sings the story of O’Day, who wanted to be a jazz singer and refused to let anything stop her.   The show, created and devised by Melanie,  tells of a bold unconventional musical genius who shattered the traditional role of a “girl singer” with her smoky swinging style and brilliant sense of rhythm.   Overcoming the setbacks of poverty and addiction, O’Day becomes one of the world’s most enduring jazz artists – anointed for her legendary performance at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival captured in the ground-breaking film documentary “Jazz on a Summer’s Day”. 

Taking place at The Wexford Arts Centre on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 August (please note Saturday is now SOLD OUT) – Purchase your ticket here