North Tidewater News

The City of Newport News is gearing up to host the 26th Annual Ella Fitzgerald Music Festival, a celebration of the legendary "First Lady of Song." The festival, set to take place on April 26-27 at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, will feature a lineup of incredible national artists paying tribute to Ella Fitzgerald's timeless talents.

Kicking off the festivities on Friday, April 26, will be a performance by René Marie & Experiment in Truth. Described as a versatile artist who blends jazz with elements of various genres, René Marie's music is hailed as an exploration of the human experience through captivating melodies.

On Saturday, April 27, powerhouse Grammy-winning vocalist Lisa Fischer and jazz pianist Taylor Eigsti will grace the stage. Fischer, known for her decades-long career as a backup singer for music icons, will showcase her vocal prowess in a unique fusion of Caribbean soul and progressive rock, promising a memorable musical experience.

Ella Fitzgerald, a Newport News native, achieved remarkable success during her career, garnering 13 Grammy awards and selling over 40 million albums. In recognition of her legacy, Newport News honored her by naming a street and a theater after her in the city.

The Ella Festival will be held at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, a vibrant cultural space that includes the Ella Fitzgerald Theater among its facilities. Tickets for the performances are available online, with options for individual or combined concert passes.

For jazz enthusiasts and fans of Ella Fitzgerald, the upcoming festival promises a weekend filled with exceptional music and a tribute to a remarkable musical icon.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.downinggross.org or call 757-247-8950.