Experience the Soul of Billie Holiday: An Interview with Reginald Douglas (#21)
This issue also includes tons of anniversaries, new businesses, hiring positions, upcoming events, promotions, photos from DC's Art All Night, and tons more.
Today let’s dive deep into the magic of “Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill”, a remarkable production currently captivating audiences at the Mosaic Theater. Led by the brilliant direction of Reginald Douglas, this immersive experience takes us back to 1959, showcasing the extraordinary life and music of Billie Holiday. It explores the themes of resilience and artistry that make this show a must-see.
Harriet The Hedgehog: The immersive nature of this production is truly special, featuring live music and cocktails in a nightclub setting. How did you approach creating this intimate atmosphere?
Reginald Douglas: It was a fantastic collaboration with our set designer Nadir Bey and lighting designer Jesse Belsky. We envisioned transforming the Atlas Performing Arts Center into a nightclub. We wanted the audience to feel like they were in the room with Billie, as she states, "You are all my friends." Our aim was to create a space that felt intimate and reflective of the timeless story of survival and resilience that Billie represents.
HH: Roz White, who plays Billie Holiday, has received much praise for her portrayal. How did you know she was the right person for this role?
RD: Working with Roz has been a dream. She’s a DC native and a proud Howard alum, and her experience includes touring with the “Tina Turner Musical”. Her performance is incredible—she brings humor, emotion, and a deep understanding of Billie’s character. Beyond her amazing acting and singing abilities, Roz’s admiration for Billie Holiday enriches her portrayal, making it a very human performance.
HH: The show explores not only Billie Holiday's incredible talent but also her hardships. What drew you to this story, and how do you balance celebrating her triumphs with delving into her personal traumas?
RD: At Mosaic, we strive to produce plays that highlight diverse experiences, particularly those that are underrepresented, such as the Black women's experience. We want our productions to entertain and provoke thought. This play delves into the pain Billie faced but also showcases her triumphs, reminding us of the sacrifices made by artists to stand on stage each night and share their stories.
HH: The production has been extended due to its popularity and is recommended for a Helen Hayes award. What do you think has resonated so deeply with audiences?
RD: We’re thrilled with the recognition and the audience feedback. I believe the universal language of music plays a significant role in this. Even those who don’t typically attend theater are drawn in by the music and the unique atmosphere. The combination of live performance, depth of themes, and the immersive setup creates a powerful experience that resonates with many.
HH: Looking ahead, are there any upcoming productions at Mosaic that you’re particularly excited about?
RD: Yes! We’re excited to kick off our 10th anniversary season with “The Art of Care”, a world premiere devised play centered on community and compassion. It features interviews with diverse voices and invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences. This production will run from October 31st to November 24th, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience it.
HH: Thank you, Reginald, for sharing your insights into “Lady Day” and giving us a glimpse behind the scenes of this unforgettable production. It’s clear that the story of Billie Holiday, brought to life so brilliantly by Roz White and your talented team, resonates with audiences in a powerful way.
With “Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill”, Mosaic Theater not only pays homage to a legendary artist but also invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of resilience and artistry. *Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill* is currently playing at Mosaic Theater, and I highly encourage you to experience this incredible show. Tickets are still available, but act fast as this production is in high demand.
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More good news:
Washingtonian Magazine included Maketto’s Egg Tarts on their list of ‘10 Comforting Fall Dishes from DC-Area Restaurants’.
Tiffany’s Bar and Bistro is coming to 709 H Street NE.
Taqueria Los Perez #4 is coming to 1344 H Street NE.
Aurora Hair Salon celebrates 4 years.
Hiraya celebrates 1st year.
Little Miss Whiskey’s celebrates 15 years!
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Atlas Performing Arts Center (www.atlasarts.org/)
October 5: Atlas Presents Akua Allrich: A Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba Tribute 2024
October 27: Cafe Flamenco featuring DC’s own Furia Flamenca. This event features traditional flamenco dance and live music.
DC Pilates (dcpilates.net)
October 26 - 27: Reformer 1 Instructor Training Course
Mosaic Theater (mosaictheater.org)
September 5 - October 13, 2024: Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill By Lanie Robertson | Directed by Reginald L. Douglas
Pie Shop (pieshopdc.com)
October 5, 8:00 PM: Under The Rug w/ Basic Printer
October 6, 8:00 PM: Male Tears w/ Ari Voxx
October 8, 8:00 PM: Flake w/ Muhnday, Bellweather
SolidState Books (solidstatebooksdc.com)
Thursday, October 3 from 6:00 -8:00 PM: Knits n' Yarns
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Granville Moores (granvillemoores.com)
Mussels Monday - $13 Mussels from 5 pm to 9 pm
Irregardless (irregardlessdc.com)
Kids Night on Tuesdays 5-7 pm – special kids menu
Wine Wednesdays 5:30 pm – 10% off glasses and bottles, happy hour excluded
Lydia on H Street (lydiaonhdc.com)
Mondays Date Night: Complimentary glass of Wine/Champ + Free Appetizer with Purchase of an entree.
Milk and Honey (themilkandhoney.com)
Get 20% off Takeout, Pick-up, & Online ordering when you use code: MILKHONEY20
Mosaic Theater (mosaictheater.org)
Use code LADY20 for 20% off tickets
Sol Mexican Grill DC (solmexicangrilldc.com)
Taco Tuesday: $2.75 tacos all day!
SWEAT DC (sweatdc.com)
Free week of group fitness classes at SWEAT DC. Click link to redeem your free week pass.
The Little Grand (litttlegranddc.com)
Happy Hour Wednesdays (5 - 6:30 pm) at the bar and out the window cheese and pepperoni slices. Plus half price beer on tap and wine BTG.
The Haymaker Bar (thehaymakerbar.com)
Taco Tuesday: Shrimp tacos (2 for $12 or 3 for $17); Carnitas tacos (2 for $111 or 3 for $15); and Watermelon margaritas ($11). Specials from 5 - 10 pm.
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SWEAT DC is hiring front desk associates. Morning, Evening, & Weekend shifts available. Must be available for at least 2 shifts per week.
Nomad is hiring Servers and Bartenders. Hiring event on October 3 from 6 - 8 pm.
Lydia on H is now hiring hosts, servers, and bartenders. Minimum 1 year experience required but willing to train enthusiastic candidates. Send resume to chefvic@lydiaonhdc.com
Freshfarm is hiring Controller and Senior Manager of Institutional Giving.
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