June 15 – Live Jazz in the Arts District with Robin Watson

A Free multi-media Art Show Opening at the Dancing Krow not only features the work of several local artists, it also includes a live performance by award-winning jazz pianist and composer Doug Lalli. The exhibit runs from 11 A.M. to 4 P.M., and Doug will be playing his own compositions and selections from the Great American Songbook from 1 to 4 P.M.

Titled “The Straight Path,” the exhibit theme is dedicated to avoiding crimes against equality, family, humanity, fairness, and integrity. As Dancing Krow gallery owner, artist, and show curator Karen Schuman explains, “Wisdom is offered to me through shamanic training and world traveling is my inspiration. Making art pieces on concepts such as ‘forgiveness’ or ‘balance’ is my study of relationships with life. I work with many materials; from hand-dyeing fabrics to painting, sewing, beading, collage. As I cultivate a piece, concepts develop further into the abstract, to ultimately create a story that is personal to me, but still open to free interpretation.”

The musical performance at the Dancing Krow offers the perfect ambiance to take in the painting, sculpture, and multi-media pieces presented by Karen and other local artists. As a composer and musician, Doug Lalli also creates colorful pictures with sparkling melodies and lush chords.

Originally from the East Coast, Doug has performed with artists like Zoot Sims, Spanky Davis, and Anita O’Day as well as local players such as Rusty Jones, Tim Davis, and Jim Cox. During the past ten years he founded the Eastgate Cafe Jazz Jam Session and has continued to play with the band in its new location – Tre Sorelle, 1111 Lake Street, Oak Park.

After performing at the gallery in the afternoon, Doug will be joined by guitarist Dave Gulyas and vocalist Robin Watson for a Live Jazz Concert from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A cousin of Ella Fitzgerald and known to her many fans as “JazzLady Robin,” Watson has a unique place in the Chicago jazz community. Accompanied by the D&D Jazz Duo (Doug Lalli on keys and Forest Park resident Dave Gulyas on guitar), you’ll see why Robin is known for bringing down the house wherever she performs.

To reserve your tickets for the Live Jazz Concert, please contact Wendy Lalli at 708-613-5662 or email your order to wrlalli@gmail.com. Seats are $20 and include refreshments. Since space is limited, please reserve your tickets soon. At 5:30 PM all guests listed on the reservation list can pay $20 in cash at the door to be seated. If there are any available seats at 5:45 P.M. they’ll be sold at a first come, first served basis.