After a three-year wait that has felt exponentially longer, singer-extraordinaire Rizo returns with her band to Open Space for Arts & Community for a much-anticipated show at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 1.
An island favorite who most recently performed on Vashon in 2020, the NYC-based artist transforms nightclub pop into a soulful, theatrical event not to be missed.
A provocateur with an electric wit, Rizo is a vessel for the spirits of Edith Piaf and Freddie Mercury.
The New York Times once referred to Rizo (né Amelia Zirin-Brown) as “a formidable belter who can sustain phrases and notes even when sprawled on her back on a piano and scissoring her legs.” That writer was not alone in their enthusiasm. Rizo has collaborated with Moby, Reggie Watts, and Yo-Yo Ma, the latter on his “Songs of Joy & Peace” album, which won a Grammy Award.
She’s received a New York Foundation for the Arts fellowship, a Time Out London theater award, and a 2013 London Cabaret Award. She also co-composed music for Adam Rapp’s Los Angeles, as well as theme songs for the Fuse network and E! Entertainment. All of which is to say: Our Lady of Perpetual Creativity is, by design, many things to many people.
Taking a cue from Piaf, Rizo fully embraces the role of chanteuse. In recordings, she is a mysterious figure, a siren ushering you through tableaus of heartbreak, lust, and the murkiness in between. Live, she is an eyeful.
“Freddie Mercury embodied songs with his voice and body,” she has said, admiringly. Like the Queen singer, she too can make even the simplest sentiment feel voluminous.
“We’re so honored to be included in Rizo’s tour this spring,” said Open Space for Arts & Community’s executive director, Chuck Zimmer. “I’ve already heard from past audience members who have circled April 1 on their calendars because they’re so excited. It’s going to be a special night.”
All ages are welcome. General admission is $25, but tickets are available beginning at $15. Youth tickets are free. Tickets are available online and at the door. This is an open door event, meaning nobody will be turned away because they can’t afford a ticket. Masks are recommended.
Learn more and reserve your tickets at openspacevashon.org.
