Festival Will Mark Bass Hall’s 10th Birthday

By Mark Lowry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Texas

Mar. 5–On May 8, 1998, Bass Performance Hall officially opened with a gala event that featured Carol Burnett, Frederica von Stade and Van Cliburn on its stage, while the audience included folks such as then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush, then-Disney Chairman Michael Eisner and pretty much anyone with the surname Bass and the pocketbook that goes with that name.

Gosh, has it really been 10 years since those horn-blowing angels began welcoming musicians, comics and other performers?

Looks like it. Performing Arts Fort Worth has announced the lineup for its 10th Anniversary Festival, covering the musical genres of gospel, country, jazz and show tunes. Here’s a look at what’s gonna go down:

“Learning How to Fly,” spotlighting talent from Bass Hall’s Children’s Education Program. This will include the Fort Worth All-City Gospel Choir, the Paschal High School Jazz Band, the Youth Orchestra of Greater Fort Worth and more. 7 p.m. April 29. Tickets are $10-$25.

Texas country singer-songwriter Jack Ingram. 8 p.m. April 30. Free, but ticket required (see box).

“A Night of Hot Jazz and Cool Stars,” with smooth flugelhorn man Chuck Mangione and jazz singer Dianne Reeves. 8 p.m. May 1. $45-$75.

“Bass Hall 10th Birthday Bash,” headlined by Tony- and Oscar-winning actress and singer Liza Minnelli, above. 8 p.m. May 3. $75-$125.

“A Gospel Celebration” with Kirk Franklin. 2 p.m. May 4.

A Great Hall Celebrates: Bass Hall 10th Anniversary Festival

April 29-May 4 at Bass Hall

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday

817-212-4280;

www.basshall.com

The Jack Ingram show is free, but tickets must be picked up in person at the Bass Hall box office at 525 Commerce St.

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