‘Back From Black’ examines Winehouse’s ‘too-short career’

WATERBURY — British singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse was an unfortunate member of the 27 Club, joining Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

They were all popular artists, writers, actors, musicians and athletes who died at 27, often as a result of alcohol and drug abuse, including suicides, homicides and car accidents. Their fame came too quickly and ended too soon.

A spotlight will be focused on Winehouse, on her life and struggles, her triumphs and successes, from May 5 to 22 at Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury in “Back From Black.”

In her too short, meteoric career, Amy began writing songs when she was only 15, won five Grammys in one year, wrote autobiographical music from her soul, called her music “intense and emotional,” proclaimed “Hello, world, I'm here,” and wanted her fans to connect directly with her.

Her death was termed “death by misadventure.”

Her musical genres ranged from soul, rhythm and blues, jazz, Motown, punk and hip-hop. VH1 ranked her at #26 on their list of 100 Greatest Women in Music. She sang at Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday party in London and crooned with Tony Bennett on a duets album, singing “Body and Soul,” her father's favorite tune.

Bob Dylan has called her “the last real individualist around.” She loved the 1960s girl groups, especially the Ronettes, whose look she imitated.

Lady Gaga credits Amy for paving the way for unconventional women. Her fragile hold on reality may have contributed to her addictions to drugs and alcohol and her eventual tragic death.

Her family established a foundation in her honor to help young people deal with similar problems and emotional issues.

To experience Alexa Renee as Amy and learn about her life and career, come to Seven Angels Theatre, 1 Plank Road, Hamilton Park, Waterbury, to hear her soulful voice and discover the musical legacy she left for the world.

The Connecticut premiere show is directed by Sarah Knapp, with musical direction by Steven M. Alper of a seven-piece band. The musical journey also stars Joshua Nacionales and Moses Jacob.

For tickets ($50), call Seven Angels at 203-7574676 or go online at SevenAngelsTheatre.org. Performances are Thursday at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Masks are recommended.

Winehouse was an international superstar who crumbled under her success. She was outspoken and unfiltered, answered to her own conscience, and was always an original voice, one the world lost too soon.

Alexa Renee