Ellis Hall Plays Ray, Motown and Beyond at the Festival of Arts

The popular Concerts on the Green music series, sponsored in part by Cambria Estate Winery, continues at the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts on Saturday, July 25th from 1–2:30pm with legendary performer Ellis Hall. Hall is an accomplished and prolific performer, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist with a career spanning over four decades. He has solidified a reputation for soul-searing Rhythm & Blues, and has electrified audiences throughout the world.

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Ellis was diagnosed with glaucoma as an infant and loss his sight early on. Ellis attended the Perkins School for the Blind where he mastered the bass, guitar, keyboards, piano, and drums. In the 80’s and 90’s, Ellis performed with a multitude of musical icons including Tower of Power, Kenny G, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire. In 2001 Ellis met the legendary musical icon Ray Charles, who was so taken with Ellis’ performance power that he took the artist under his wing. The following year, Ray signed Ellis as the only other artist on his label Crossover Records. Following this major honor, Ellis went on to work with Ray on the astounding album “Straight Ahead,” featuring an array of guest artists and garnering a top single “Gotta Get the Money” which landed at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Ellis’ time with Ray, whom he fondly called Papa Ray, left an indelible impression. Following the icon’s death in 2004, he created a show in honor of The Master called “A Tribute to Ray Charles, Motown, and Beyond.” He envisioned it as homage to his mentor that would celebrate their shared R&B roots and deep passion for the heart and soul of music. He considers the show not an imitation or emulation, but a soul celebration, and includes his own original works for the enjoyment of his audience.

“Ellis Hall has performed for, and alongside, some of the biggest musicians and celebrities of the last forty years,” said Susan Davis, director of special events for the Festival of Arts. “You won’t want to miss this concert!”

Ellis Hall will perform on Saturday, July 25th from 1 – 2:30pm on stage at the Festival green. Concerts on the Green are free with Festival of Arts Admission. Limited seating available in reserved section for $25 per person per concert. Includes Festival admission. Call (800) 487-3378.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL OF ARTS FINE ART SHOW

Recently voted one of the top five art festivals in the nation by USA Today readers, the Festival of Arts is one of the oldest and most highly acclaimed juried fine art shows featuring the artwork of 140 award-winning artists. Patrons may enjoy the work of exhibiting artists, demonstrations and art workshops, daily art tours, live music, special events, on-site restaurants and much more. For a full listing of events, visit LagunaFestivalofArts.org.

DATES & TIMES

July 5 – August 31, 2015

Open daily from 10am – 11:30pm

Early closing August 29 at 3:30pm

TICKET INFORMATION

General Admission: Weekdays $7, Weekends $10

Students & Seniors: Weekdays $4, Weekends $6

Free Admission for Children 12 and under, Military, and Laguna Beach Residents.

SPONSORS

The Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters are sponsored in part by Fidelity Investments, Mazda, KOST Radio 103.5, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, and Orange County Register.

LOCATION

Festival of Arts Grounds
650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

FOR INFORMATION & TICKETS

(800) 487-2787

www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org