Presented by Izzy Asper Jazz Performances in co-production with Jazz Winnipeg

When Stephen Sondheim died at 91 in 2021, he was one of the 20th century’s most celebrated and influential lyricist-composers. His work included beloved Broadway shows like West Side Story, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Sunday in the Park with George, and Into the Woods.

A consummate storyteller, Sondheim’s lyrics are “scrupulously literate and resonant with complex ideas or emotional ambivalence” (New York Times), providing a window into the psyche of both character and lyricist.

Zachary Rushing, a Seattle-born jazz singer and songwriter now based in Winnipeg, names Sondheim among his most important musical influences. Blessed with an ethereal voice and a natural warmth and expressiveness on stage, he is the perfect person to bring these songs to life for a Winnipeg audience.

Izzy Asper Jazz Performances is pleased to partner with Jazz Winnipeg for this fabulous evening of song. The Club on the lower level of the Fort Garry Hotel feels a lot like a New York jazz club, one of Izzy Asper’s favourite places to be.

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Zachary Rushing is a jazz vocalist, songwriter, lyricist, and arts administrator living on Treaty One Territory. His musical world encompasses many genres and styles, but is always deeply rooted in the Great American Songbook.

Whether performing originals, standards, or covers of favourite composers ranging from Cole Porter to Stephen Sondheim, Zachary is a natural storyteller with a gift for interpreting lyrics. Often drawing comparisons to Mel Torme, his smooth and velvety singing style lends itself to songs of a golden vintage.

Zachary can be heard working in various groups around Winnipeg both as a bandleader and sideman. You may also catch his alter ego, Lady Muse, fronting the funky band Lady Muse & The Inspirations. When not performing, he spends his work days fostering community in the local music scene as the Programs Manager at Jazz Winnipeg. He lives in Wolseley with his partner and two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Doors are at 6pm

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Jazz at the Fort Garry is located in The Club Room on the lower level of The Fort Garry Hotel. The venue is wheelchair accessible with assistance - please inform the hotel's front desk staff if you'd like to use the elevator to access the lower level.

Paid parking is available at the hotel or get free street parking after 5:30pm.