"Radio Rhapsody" is one of the most entertaining evenings
I've ever spent in a concert hall."
- Tim Ashley. The Guardian/ Observer (London)
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A Fantastic Entertainment!
An original full-length 1930s-style radio show created by Maestra Marin Alsop and Didi Balle, playwright and director, featuring a cast of seven, a swinging symphonic orchestra, Paul Whiteman's arrangements, a detective serial, commercial spoofs, and live sound effects. Perfect for a Pops Concert! Radio Rhapsody,” a musical tribute to The Paul Whiteman Orchestra, premiered at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. The centerpiece? George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." Inspired by Whiteman’s radio shows in the 1930s and 1940, the fictional broadcast set in the Biltmore Ballroom features a cast of six actors and a live sound effects man. The theatrical 1933 radio show features fantastic vocal and dance orchestrals, zany commercial sponsors, and an original radio serial: “LuLu Pinkerton, Dime Detective.” |
Audio Excerpt - BBC Introduction
Audio Excerpt - "Rhapsody" Intro
Audio Excerpt -
The Biltmore Rhythm Kings - "That's My Weakness" Audio Excerpt -
"Lulu Pinkerton - Dime Detective" |
Original Commission
The Concordia Symphony Orchestra (Marin Alsop, Conductor) New York City World Premiere Lincoln Center Alice Tully Hall Outstanding Premiere Performances: City of London Sinfonia; Barbican Center for the Performing Arts, London. Broadcast Live by BBC. Recording available. Tour. St. Louis Symphony; Powell Hall Colorado Symphony; Denver Center for the Performing Arts Eugene Symphony Orchestra; Hult Center for the Performing Arts |
