Music

A Roarin' Good Time: Eau Claire Jazz hosts fourth Gatsby’s Gala

Samantha Kobs, photos by Randy Lee |

It’s that time of year again when the leaves begin to fall, the air feels crisper, and everyone starts rummaging through their closets for their best flapper dress or single-button dinner jacket. Well, maybe not everyone, but at least all of those who choose to attend one of the most exciting events of the year – the annual Gatsby’s Gala. Nov. 10 will mark the fourth year of the annual event that celebrates and emulates a literary canon classic (not just any canon classic) – The Great Gatsby. This over-the-top, one-night-only event will be packed full of live music and performers, specialty drinks, hors d’ouevres, and of course, lots and lots of dancing. UW-Eau Claire’s own Jazz I and II ensembles will be sharing their modern takes on jazz classics and a few modern hits with a 1920s twist. This year’s special guests include Dr. Frank Watkins, Christine Hitt, Shannon Kaeding, Matt Koxlein, and Weapons of Brass Destruction. If you think you can handle the heat, then get a sitter and get your anti-prohibition on. Tomfoolery begins at 8pm in the Ojibwe Ballroom, on the third floor of the Davies Center. Tickets are on sale at www.eauclairejazz.com or at the Davies service desk.

Gatsby’s Gala • Nov. 10 • Ojibwe Ballroom, Davies Center, UW-Eau Claire • 8pm • $35, $20 (student) • all ages