Eisa Davis, who played the mom in Passing Strange, a musical play that probably needs no introduction to readers of this blog, and the equally awesome Angela’s Mixtape (Eisa’s autobiographical show that focuses on her aunt, activist Angela Davis) is a featured artist at Manhattan’s Symphony Space next month.
On Monday, Feb. 22, as part of Symphony Space-New York Times “Speaking of the Arts” series, The New York Times’ culture writer Daniel J. Wakin will speak with five composers who work with very different types of music. Eisa will represent the singer/songwriter genre, while Joan Tower will talk about concert music, Arturo O’Farrill about Afro-Latin jazz, Henry Threadgill about jazz and Jeanine Tesori about musical theater. Tickets for that event, at 7:30, are $25 and available here.
Then on Friday, Feb. 26, Eisa will return to the Symphony Space stage to perform old favorites and new songs with some of her “favorite musicians.” No word yet on who those favorites are, but I’m sure she’s trying to line up some of her friends from Passing Strange. Showtime is 7:30, and tickets are $25 and available here.
Eisa has a warm and lyrical vocal style, a magnetic stage presence and a charming personality. Don’t miss either event, as they’re bound to be entertaining and insightful. Both performances are at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, Manhattan. Call (212) 864-5400 or visit the web site for further information.