The Brownville Concert Series will present “Brassy, Bassey, and Broadway,” a cabaret show featuring award-winning performer Leanne Borghesi, Aug. 14-16.
Borghesi, a Manhattan Association of Cabaret Award winner and acclaimed vocalist, has performed on film and on stages around the country, including at New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Brownville Concert Series President Jeffrey Meade said the performance is expected to attract visitors from across the region and country.
“Brownville is a very small town. I think 150-some people live there,” Meade said. “You know, no gas station, no grocery store to speak of, but it’s full of venues.”
Meade said the series regularly draws visitors from Lincoln, Omaha, Kansas City and surrounding communities.
“Brassy, Bassey, and Broadway” is a 75-minute performance featuring swing jazz, bawdy comedy and elaborate costumes. The show will highlight music from iconic Broadway and jazz composers while celebrating the art of cabaret.
Meade said cabaret differs from other musical genres because of its emphasis on the meaning and storytelling behind the songs.
“Cabaret is where you understand the words and they have meaning in your life,” Meade said. “You can really listen to the words and understand the music. And I think that’s what makes it different from other popular genres.”
The cabaret performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 14-15. A concert performance will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16.
Meade said performers often create special programs specifically for the Brownville Theater, giving audiences a unique experience.
“Oftentimes, our performers prepare actually a special program for the Brownville Theater that may not be exactly like one they would give in a nightclub in New York City,” Meade said. “Over the years, because they do three separate days here, they enjoy the time to work up new acts.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit brownvilleconcertseries.org.