Sequoyah Institute Performing Arts Series jazzes up NSU with Doc Severinsen performance – Oct. 22

For a nostalgic trip down memory lane, the second performance in the Sequoyah Institute Performing Arts Series is a must-see. For those who can picture Ed McMahon calling, Heeeeeeeeeres Johnny, followed by the unmistakable, always entertaining band, led by Doc Severinsen, be prepared for a blast from the past.

Joining forces with the NSU Jazz Band, under the direction of Dr. Clark Gibson, Severinsen will be putting on a power-packed performance including works from Ellington and Basie standards, pop, jazz, ballads, big band classics and, of course, The Tonight Show Theme Song.

The performance is Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the NSU Center for Performing Arts, 605 N. Grand Ave.

As a little girl, it was a special treat if I got to stay up late with my dad and watch Johnny Carson and The Tonight Show, Dr. Anita Thompson, executive director of the Sequoyah Institute said. So, Johnny Carson, Ed McMahon and Doc Severinsen have a special place in my heart.

It has been said that under Severinsens direction, The Tonight Shows orchestra became the most visible big band in America. He continued to lead the orchestra until Carsons retirement in 1992; however, during this time, he also put out numerous albums of his own, showcasing his amazing talent on the trumpet.

At his current age of 88, Severinsen shows no sign of slowing down, with performances scheduled for all around the world.

If my students didn't know who he was before, they do now, and they're really excited, Gibson said. What a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity this will be for them to experience.

Thompson is also excited for the opportunity to incorporate NSUs talents within a performance of the series.

I am absolutely thrilled that he was willing to come and play with the NSU Jazz Band. It is an opportunity for our students to work with a legend, Thompson said.

Tickets are $18-20 for adults, $16-18 for seniors, 60 and older, as well as NSU employees, alumni and retirees. Tickets for youths 18 and under are $8-10. NSU students can order free standard tickets with a valid NSU ID number or can purchase premium seats for $6. Group discounts are also available for groups of 12 or more.

To purchase tickets or for more information, contact the NSU Sequoyah Institute Box Office, located in the Woods House at 529 Seminary Avenue or by calling 918-458-2075. Online ticketing is also available at www.nsuok.edu/si.

The Sequoyah Institute's Performing Arts Series is made possible from a grant from the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Published: 2015-10-06 13:46:18.850000