As Master of Ceremonies, Dave Damiani told stories of various jazz greats he’d seen through the decades, peppered between crooning standards and interviewing the likes of producer Chris Isaacson and Catalina herself. “This is my family,” Catalina confessed as she showed gratitude to the appreciative fans, leading them out to Sunset Blvd to observe the lighting of the sign.
Joining in the festivities were longtime acts like Jane Monheit, who jumped on stage for a spontaneous and festive tune, while Christena Rich delivered an impassioned “Stand By Me”.
Tyrone “Mr. Superfantastic” got the joint jumping with a smoking read of “Route 66”, while John Papadakis tapped into his inner Tony Bennett for a heartfelt “The Good Life”
The overall mood was festive and celebratory, with both Catalina and Manny promising that the best is still yet to come.
As one who has been attending Catalina’s since it opened with Dizzy Gillespie, I can attest that this place not only deserves a new sign, but a star on the Hollywood Walk.
Upcoming shows at Catalina’s include Jane Monheit 09/15-16, John Papadakis 09/21 and Marcus Miller 10/05-08