On February 23rd, 2023, Pittsburgh’s Penn Hills Library will host a Black History Month event to learn about the life and legacy of jazz legend and Pittsburgh icon Billy Strayhorn. Learn how this incomparable composer, arranger lyricist an pianist influence is felt in music to this day. Strayhorn family member Thelma Morris will lead the talk. Thelma is the spouse of Dr. Gregory Morris, executor of the Billy Strayhorn estate since 1967. The Penn Hills Library is located at 1037 Stotler Road in Pittsburgh, PA. Seating is limited for this event, so contact Ms. Tisa Ott to register at ott2@einetwork.net.
On February 16th, auditions will be held for the upcoming big stage play opening at Pittsburgh Public Theatre, Billy Strayhorn- Something To Live For. It will be held 9am to 5pm at Pearl Studios, 500 8th Avenue, New York, New York.
This is a new musical by Rob Zellars, featuring the music and lyrics by Billy Strayhorn. Casting and Literary Director Brian Pope and Play Director Kent Gash are expected to attend. The audition will be looking for among other main parts, Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington candidates to consider. Other audition characters to be considered include Aaron Bridgers, Lena Horne, Mercer Ellington, Ivie Anderson, Billy’s Mother and Lennie Hayton.
Please prepare a short song of any style and one contemporary monologue of any genre. All materials should not exceed 4 minutes. You need to make sure to bring a picture and resume. If you cannot attend, please contact Brian Pope at bpope@ppt.org. You can also send a picture and resume to: Brian Pope- Attn. Casting, Pittsburgh Public Theatre, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh PA-15222. Find more information about this audition to be held at: