If you’re at all familiar with local dance or theater, it’s likely you’ve experienced the work of Emmy-winning choreographer Suzy Miller. But did you know she used to be a singer?
“See, back in the hippie day I was a Joni Mitchell-esque guitar and banjo playing boho chick,” Miller explained in an e-mail. “Then the ’80s happened. After a decade of aerobic teaching (‘Keep breathing! Feel the burn!’), cigarette smoking (hey it was the ’80s), and assorted other woohoo ’80s behaviors, my pipes were shot.”
Yikes! It looked like Miller’s singing days were long gone, but as it turns out, she went on, “I’m now a bluesy raspy alto.”
Who knew? I’ve never heard Miller’s voice—which I imagine sounds amazing, like a chain-smoking angel’s—but you can, starting Friday, April 27, when Miller makes her singing debut at the Spot in Arroyo Grande. In a new show called “Miller and Miller by Miller,” Miller—we’d better refer to her as Suzy from now on—will collaborate with local singer and guitarist Mark Miller (of no relation) in a show produced by Mark’s wife, Mary Meserve-Milller, local director and creator of the “Legends” series.
“The show ranges from gorgeous four-part harmonies to raucous blues, with poignant ballads and hilarious comedic songs, and even a fairytale rap,” Suzy said.
Special guests Karen Kahn Pearson and Cody Pettit will join in the intimate evening of intriguing new twists on favorites songs by the likes of Simon and Garfunkel; Bruce Springsteen; James Taylor; Amy Winehouse; Cat Stevens; Lady Gaga; The Beatles; Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young; and plenty more. Each evening will also feature a surprise guest, like maybe Cadence Mitchell, Sydni Abenido, Jenna Butz, or Kayla Anderson—but that’s just speculation.
“This show is a big departure for me, but I figure the ‘is this gonna be a train wreck’ factor could really work for sales,” Suzy wrote, throwing in a cute smiley face as if to say “but don’t quote me on that.”
Whoops.
Come experience the work of Suzy, Mark, Mary, and more at the Spot, 116 West Branch St. in Arroyo Grande, from April 27 through May 6. Shows are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. General admission is $20; students and seniors pay $15. Visit thespotag.com or call 474-5011.
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