Don't Miss This Once-in-a-Lifetime Evening
In Support of Axelrod PAC and Bell Theater Cultural Arts and Education Programs
Sunday, September 22, 2024
Pre-Concert Reception & Auction – 5 p.m.
Concert – 7 p.m.
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What the World Needs Now…
A Celebration of Dionne Warwick
will feature conductor Luke Frazier and the
American Pops Orchestra with special guests
Deborah Cox, Cheyenne Elliott, Nova Y. Payton, Michelle Williams & Remember Jones.
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The Axelrod Performing Arts Center honors legendary vocalist Dionne Warwick with its inaugural New Jersey Arts Icon Award at a gala concert on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at the new Bell Theater at Bell Works in Holmdel.
The 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and the 2023 Kennedy Center Award winner is regarded as one of the most successful female vocalists of all time, the winner of six Grammy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Adored nationally and internationally as a consummate artist, her soulful vocal style bridged the gaps between pop, gospel, R&B and rock and roll. As the muse for songwriters Burt Bacharach and Hal David, she made classics of songs like “Don’t Make Me Over,” “Walk on By,” “Alfie,” “Do You Know the Way to San Jose,” “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” “Say a Little Prayer,” and “What the World Needs Now,” among many others.
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The concert What The World Needs Now... A Celebration of Dionne Warwick will feature conductor Luke Frazier and the American Pops Orchestra with Miss Warwick and special guests Deborah Cox, Michelle Williams, Nova Y. Payton, Cheyenne Elliot, and Remember Jones.
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In addition, 12 talented students from the Axelrod Performing Arts Academy’s junior division will join Dionne Warwick on stage for a heartwarming rendition of That’s What Friends Are For, adding another layer of inspiration to this extraordinary evening. "We are absolutely thrilled to have our academy students perform with the legendary Dionne Warwick," said Mary-Kate Schmidt, director of the Axelrod Performing Arts Academy. "This opportunity allows them the chance to work closely with industry legends and gain invaluable insights into professional dynamics, stage presence, and collaboration." TICKET INFORMATION BELOW.
The Honoree
Special Guests
Deborah Cox
A multi-platinum artist, Broadway star and Grammy nominee, Deborah brings her powerhouse voice to the gala. With chart-topping R&B hits and standout roles in Aida, Jekyll and Hyde, and The Wiz, Michelle played the lead role in the new musical The Bodyguard, based on the hit film starring Whitney Houston, Dionne Warwick's cousin.
Cheyenne Elliott
Dionne Warwick’s granddaughter, Cheyenne, is a rising star in R&B. She has released several smash singles including, Let There Be Love, a duet with Dionne, and Too Good at Goodbyes. Her dance club song, With You, reached #16 on Billboard’s Dance Chart. "I have grown up with my grandmother’s music,” said Elliott. “As an adult, being able to perform and understand her catalog and what she has done for the music industry is something I will cherish forever."
Remember Jones
Remember Jones, a Jersey Shore favorite with a national following, brings his one-of-a-kind soul/pop style with a throwback vibe to the gala. Known for his theatrical performances and big-band sound, Jones has a talent for connecting with audiences."What an honor to be considered an artist that can make people feel the way Dionne Warwick has throughout her legendary career!" said Jones. “The stories she has told through her voice have inspired me through my life and will continue to remind me of why I love to entertain."
Nova Y. Payton
A classically trained vocalist, Nova performed with legends like Stevie Wonder, Yolanda Adams, and Roberta Flack, and the American Pops Orchestra with the group 3 Mo'Divas. A Helen Hayes Award recipient, Nova also had the honor of performing the national anthem for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington D.C.
American Pops Orchestra
Under the direction of conductor Luke Frazier, the American Pops Orchestra has redefined the American songbook with its innovative approach to classical and contemporary music. Known for dynamic performances, they bring a fresh yet timeless sound to every piece they play. Their involvement in the gala ensures a rich, orchestral experience that will elevate the evening’s performances to extraordinary levels.
​All Ticket Levels Include Pre-Concert Reception
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$750 VIP
Also includes Best Seats, Meet and Greet with Artists,
and Post-Concert Dessert Reception
($650 is Tax Deductible)
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$350
Also includes Preferred Seating and Post-Concert Dessert Reception
($250 is Tax Deductible)
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$250
($150 is Tax Deductible)
Bell Theater is a part of the Axelrod Performing Arts Center, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization
Axelrod Performing Arts Center, 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park, NJ 07723
Bell Theater, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel, NJ 07733 (Concert Location)