I thank the increasing number of you who’ve attended Exodus To Jazz shows this season. Beginning with Eldar in September, continuing with the Johnny O’Neal and Bobby Militello/Paradigm Shift shows and culminating with Freddy Cole’s Holiday Show, the enthusiasm for live jazz has become increasingly evident. In addition to the support of the regular ETJ patrons, I appreciate the increasing number the people attending shows for the first time. I thank you all for coming and for encouraging your friends and family to attend.

In addition to the presenting the stellar talent of artists like Cyrus Chestnut, Jeremy Pelt, Gabriel Alegria and Annie Sellick, I will periodically add to the series plays with a strong link to the legendary jazz icons. As with “MONK ”, I hope to further entertain you with theatrical productions that provide insight into their lives. Additional plays I am pursuing include They Were All Gardenias (Billie Holiday), BIRD (Charlie Parker), The Gospel According To Max Roach (Max Roach) and Hot Fingers (Jelly Roll Morton).

I look forward to welcoming you to the upcoming line-up of shows and to receiving your comments regarding the addition of “MONK” and other plays to the series.