‘Life Is Beautiful’ Concert Event Returning March 27

DANBURY — Celebrate the joy of jazz music and dance and enliven your senses with an evening of artistic performance by smooth and urban jazz sensation Sherry Winston and her jazz band, along with special guests, all to benefit local charities and community groups in the greater Danbury area. The 7th Ann Sherry Winston “Life Is Beautiful” Concert will be Thursday, March 27, at 7:30 pm, at Ives Concert Hall, 181 White Street.

The concert promises a sensuous flavor that will appeal to a wide range of tastes: classic jazz, smooth jazz, rhythm and blues, jazz dance and a “bit” of hip-hop. The multi-faceted production will combine the funky melodies of three-time Grammy nominated flutist Sherry Winston, along with “Doc” Gibbs, master percussionist and musical director for Emeril Lagasse’s Emeril Live! Doc will showcase his virtuosity and exotic rhythms with hand drums along with traditional and unusual percussion instruments.

The show will also feature r&b vocalist Lori Williams, who has performed with recording artists Vanessa Williams, the Shirelles and Eric Benet; and pop vocalist Timmy Maia, a Waterbury native. The dance team of Monique & Jay will showcase their jazz interpretations of the evening’s music.

Tickets are $35 for reserved orchestra seating, $25 general admission, and $15 for senior or students. All are invited to attend a reception with the artist following the performance.

To purchase tickets, contact one of the local non-profit agencies below. Please note, 100 percent of the ticket purchase will benefit the agency of your choice: AIDS Project of Greater Danbury, 778-2437; Catholic Family Services of Greater Danbury, 743-4412; Concerned Black Men for Youth, 740-4490; Command Performance, 825-3131; Hispanic Center of Greater Danbury, 798-2855; or Minority Business Association, 740-1660.