Wayne Center for the Arts to host ‘A Jazzy Christmas’ with pianist Theron Brown

Wayne Center for the Arts announced A Jazzy Christmas, a holiday performance led by pianist, bandleader and educator Theron Brown. Joined by local musicians including featured vocalist Gabriela Allemana, Brown will perform in the WCA auditorium.

Two Dec. 6 performances — a matinee at 3 p.m. and a concert at 7 p.m. — will give audiences multiple opportunities to attend.

Brown’s performances are known for their spontaneity and musical storytelling, and this holiday edition will have a mix of jazz favorites, original compositions and perhaps a holiday tune or two.

Born in Zanesville, Brown grew up immersed in the musical traditions of his church community, guided early on by his pastor father and the Gospel sounds that filled the sanctuary. After discovering jazz through the music of Thelonious Monk, Brown pursued jazz studies at the University of Akron, launching a career that now spans stages from The Cleveland Orchestra to Snarky Puppy and venues including the Kennedy Center and Tokyo Kokusai Forum Hall.

Brown gained national recognition for his portrayal of a young Herbie Hancock in Don Cheadle’s film "Miles Ahead." Today, he resides in Akron, where he is embedded in the arts community, serving as artist coordinator for the I Promise School, founder of the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival, and as an educator at Firefly Music School and Kent State University. His recordings, including "Spirit Fruit," "No Concepts" and his latest album, "Mr. Magnetic," reflect his distinct blend of jazz, Gospel and expressive storytelling.

Tickets are $30 each, with students admitted free with a reservation, and are available at www.wayneartscenter.org/WCP. Wayne Center for the Arts is located at 237 S. Walnut St. in Wooster.