A special tribute to legendary composer and bandleader Duke Ellington will be presented by The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts, in collaboration with the American Tap Dance Foundation. The celebration will be co-hosted by Mercedes Ellington, Duke Ellington’s granddaughter and Founder and Artistic Director of The Duke Ellington Center for the Arts, along with Tony Waag, Founding Director of the American Tap Dance Foundation.
Enjoy live performances by The Duke Ellington Center Big Band, with guest musicians, dancers, and vocalists. The program features a rare full performance of Such Sweet Thunder—Ellington’s twelve-part jazz suite inspired by the works of William Shakespeare—alongside other iconic selections from Ellington’s catalog. Composed with Billy Strayhorn in under three weeks, Such Sweet Thunder channels Shakespeare’s drama, wit, and poetry through the bold language of jazz.
Mercedes Ellington and Tony Waag will guide the event with stories and reflections on Ellington’s lasting impact, bringing together music, dance, and spoken word in a vibrant celebration of one of America’s most influential artists.
Tickets Available Here!
VIP $150
Advance $45
Member/Senior/Child/Student $25
Reserve Your VIP Tickets Today!
Sophisticated Lady – $150
• One (1) VIP Ticket to Such Sweet Thunder at Symphony Space
• Name listed in printed Concert Program & DECFA Website
• Digital thank-you from Mercedes Ellington
Mood Indigo – $300
• Two (2) VIP Tickets to Such Sweet Thunder at Symphony Space
• Name listed in printed Concert Program & DECFA Website
• Digital thank-you from Mercedes Ellington
• Signed Program by Mercedes Ellington