Smile Theatre is proud to present a concert show by singer Jill Diane Filion and pianist John Hughes in which they perform an elegant and eclectic program of memorable melodies from the 20s, 30s and 40s that are sure to bring a “smile” to your heart! You’ll also be treated to some lesser known, but just as loveable tunes from the greats: Jerome Kern, Harold Arlen and Cole Porter.
The Artists
Jill Diane Filion, vocals
Jill was born… and soon after, discovered performing! She appeared in her first musical, Oklahoma, at the age of 13 in a small feature dance role. While living in Vancouver Jill was busy in both the musical theatre and opera worlds. Favourite experiences include Eliza in My Fair Lady, Marion in The Music Man, Valencienne in The Merry Widow and Mae Jones in Street Scene. Jill toured BC with the Vancouver Opera Touring Ensemble for three seasons, as Musetta in La Boheme, Gretel in Hansel & Gretel and Josephine in Pinafore! Jill also performed at the Charlottetown Festival in 1989 and 1992. In 1993 Jill joined the International Touring Company of Phantom of the Opera and the Toronto company in 1994. Recent credits include Nimue in Camelot, Frenchie in Cabaret and Fermina in Man of La Mancha. Jill made her debut at Smile Theatre last season as choreographer for Home for the Holidays and Everything’s Coming up Rosie.
John Hughes, keyboard
John recently returned from Sudbury where he played keyboard for A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum. In 2004 he was a rehearsal pianist for Guys and Dolls and Anything Goes at the Stratford Festival. His recent credits as musical director/pianist include Real Live Girl, Guys and Dolls, A Grand Night For Singing, Me and My Girl, and many others. John is one of the city’s busiest vocal coaches and is seen frequently as audition accompanist for Mirvish Productions, the Stratford and Shaw Festivals, the Disney Company and many other theatre companies. In addition, he also coaches and accompanies at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts.
For more information about Smile Theatre and about booking Moonlight Serenade please contact Kevin Etherington, by phone: 416-599-8440 or by email: kevin@smiletheatre.com