From Mardi Gras to Sunday Brunch, Empress Theatre hosts it all
Empress Theatre and its sister venue, Empress Marquee Lounge, might be situated in the heart of downtown Vallejo, but the performances that await audiences should transport them beyond theater walls.
In one weekend alone, the historic fixture will take audiences to the streets of New Orleans for a Mardi Gras evening, complete with a second line parade and Creole classics.
The very next day, audiences need only exchange their purple beads for a string of pearls as they immerse themselves in a Breakfast at Tiffany's Brunch in the lounge.
From dinner to brunch, what better way to spend the weekend than by enjoying the sounds, scene and culinary delights of these beloved cultural landmarks?
The Mardi Gras festivities commence at the Empress Theatre Feb. 10 at 8 p.m., with a pre-concert party at 6:30 p.m. for those too eager to wait. Headlining the event is an extraordinary band comprised of some of the most talented musicians in the industry.
Pianist/vocalist Greg Rahn, known for his captivating performances, will set the stage on fire with his two-fisted piano styles, drawing inspiration from boogie woogie and New Orleans jazz.
Grammy-winning violinist Carlos Reyes, trombonist Mike Rinta (Sly and the Family Stone), bassist/vocalist Tim Eschliman (Etta James), drummer Jeff Campitelli (Joe Satriani), trumpeter John Halblieb (Cold Blood) and guitarist Frank Acosta (Beaufunk) complete this powerhouse ensemble.
Filled with infectious, toetapping rhythms and soulful melodies, the dynamic band will have audiences dancing and grooving to their irresistible beats. The only requirement for attendees is that they don their sparkliest and most vibrant carnival-themed costumes, masks and Mardi Gras beads.
The signature Creole flavors of seafood jambalaya, jerk chicken, black beans and dirty rice, will complete the Louisiana immersion and are available to add on to the ticket.
As for Sunday, rest, relaxation and R&B are part of the experience that await brunch-goers at Breakfast at Tiffany's on Feb. 11.
Offering an elevated alternative to a typical Sunday brunch, Empress Marquee Club will feature the amazing vocalist Kellie Fuller, accompanied by the talented pianist Mike Greensill.
Fuller is a rare talent who effortlessly transcends genres and decades, performing beloved songs and hidden gems spanning from the early 1900s to the 1980s.
Bringing her own blend of humor, intimacy, and energy, Fuller enlivens the stage and the audience with her performance.
Fuller's musical journey has been shaped by her mentor, guitarist/vocalist Jan Tangen, who had an illustrious music background working with legends like Paul Horn and Joe Pass. After taking a hiatus to raise her children, Fuller returned to her music career, joining forces with acclaimed piano player and arranger, Mike Greensill.
Along the way, she has been mentored by renowned vocalists Wesla Whitfield and Terry Bradford, who have praised her glorious voice, captivating stage presence, and irresistible charm.
It doesn't take a trained ear to hear Fuller's vocal versatility as she effortlessly navigates jazz, blues, R&B, and gems from The Great American Songbook with equal measures of style and grace.