Holiday, celebrate

It’s not likely that we will ever forget jazz vocalist Billie Holiday—and for good reason. Her instantly recognizable voice and turbulent life have been celebrated in movies (Lady Sings the Blues starring Diana Ross), in music (U2’s “Angel of Harlem” is a tribute to Holiday) and now on the stage (Blueprint of a Lady: The Once and Future Life of Billie Holiday, which plays at the Mondavi Center this weekend). Blueprint of a Lady is a multi-media performance that tells Holiday’s story through music, movement, and photographic and filmed images. Grammy-nominated vocalist Nnenna Freelon, award-winning choreographer Ronald K. Brown (and his dance company, Evidence) and filmmaker Robert Penn have pooled their talents to create a stunning cross-disciplinary presentation. Performances begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Stick around after each performance for a question-and-answer period with the artists. Tickets are $29-$39 for general admission, and $10-$14 for children and students. Call (866) 754-ARTS or visit www.mondaviarts.org for more information.