On November 29th, 2025, Suite Life, the Kelly-Strayhorn Theatre’s annual family holiday tradition, celebrated its 2 Pittsburgh legends Billy Strayhorn and Gene Kelly. Along with the Pittsburgh community honoring their legacy, everyone who came enjoyed grooving to the Cuban beat of percussionist and composer Hugo Cruz, who incorporated Latin percussion to reimagine the artistry of both Billy Strayhorn and Gene Kelly. With the direction of Pria Dahiya, the lighting design by El Wolhardt, and many other renowned special musical guests, the evening lived up to its promise of giving the enthused audience a fresh take on the beloved standards that both Kelly and Strayhorn are admired for.

Added to this wonderful show, were words given during the opening reception by Paul Ellington, the grandson of Duke Ellington, and remarks made to open the concert from Billy Strayhorn family member Thelma Morris. Thelma spoke about the continuing legacy efforts of the Billy Strayhorn Foundation, providing deserving student/musicians with scholarships, the Strayhorn historical legacy being continued thru various stage and media projects, and celebrating Billy Strayhorn’s 110th birthday quoting the “Four Freedoms” he lived by: Freedom from hate unconditionally. Freedom from self pity. Freedom from fear of possibly doing something that may help someone else more than it would him. And freedom from the kind of pride that could make a man feel that he is better than his brother.

(Photo: courtesy of Thelma Morris): Strayhorn family member Thelma Morris, Duke Ellington grandson Paul Ellington, longtime Strayhorn family friend Gail Carter, and Jennifer Sciullo, Assistant Director of Development at Carnegie Mellon University