Judy Collins Shines Incandescent at Mercyhurst University
There are talented musicians and artists — and then there is Judy Collins
Thursday, Apr. 26
There are talented musicians and artists — and then there is Judy Collins, a piano virtuoso-turned-music legend, a social and environmental activist and writer, a mentor, painter and a mental health advocate. How do you fit so many gifts into one person? In Collins' case, you spread out your career over the course of almost 60 years and do more living each decade than most people can manage over their entire lifespan.
Judy Collins is bringing her incandescent presence to the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, courtesy of the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture, for an evening filled with song. "We're excited to conclude our 2017-18 MIAC Live season with legendary singer-songwriter Judy Collins, whose imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and poetically poignant original compositions have thrilled audiences worldwide for over five decades," Brett Johnson, director of MIAC, said. He went on to mention that at nearly 80 years of age, Collins has hardly slowed down at all; she is as "creatively vigorous as ever, writing, composing, and touring worldwide."
The format for the evening will center around Collins' formidable 50-album body of work, which all began in 1961 with her debut album A Maid of Constant Sorrow. Though she is often classified as a folk performer, Collins' musical repertoire spans genres, including rock and roll, show tunes, Americana and country.
While the show has officially sold out, Johnson mentioned that would-be concertgoers are invited to pay close attention in the event that additional tickets are released on the evening of; these seats would be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis to patrons waiting in the cancellation line.
Patience, patrons — the sublime has a tendency to take its time, and in Judy Collins' case, it is well worth the wait. — Cara Suppa
7:30 p.m. // 501 E. 38th St. // Adults: $30; Seniors: $25; Students/Youth: $20 // http://miac.mercyhurst.edu/events/an-evening-with-judy-collins
