The evening, which was created and will be hosted by critic and author Rex Reed, will take place June 4 and 5 at 8 PM. The concert premiered in New York last year as part of the 92nd Street Y's Lyrics and Lyricists series. Reed will narrate, taking audiences through the life of Ira Gershwin from childhood through his work with his composer brother, George. The evening will focus on his prolific output as a lyricist following his brother's early death, and the star-studded cast will perform 27 songs, including "I Can't Get Started," "My Ship," "The Man That Got Away," and "Long Ago and Far Away," as well as many lesser-known gems, with music by composers including Harold Arlen, Kurt Weill, Jerome Kern, Vernon Duke and Harry Warren.
The performers will be backed by a five-piece jazz combo under the direction of Tedd Firth.
The Ford Amphitheatre is located at 2580 Cahuenga Boulevard East in Hollywood. For tickets call (323) 461-3673 or visit fordtheatres.org.