Johnny O'Neal plays at library tribute

10/8/2009

Another event in the month-long celebration of the centennial of Art Tatum's birth takes place Saturday when jazz pianist Johnny O'Neal plays at the Toledo-Lucas County library.

The celebration is from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Main Library, 325 North Michigan St. It will feature the Detroit native O'Neal, who portrayed Tatum in the film Ray. During filming, O'Neal's song “Yesterdays” made it into the movie.

Special guests will be Charles McDaniel and Keith Bernhard & More Jazz Messengers.

Proceeds benefit the Art Tatum African American Resource Center at Kent Branch Library.

Tickets are $30 per person and $50 per couple. VIP tickets to meet O'Neal between 7 and 7:30 p.m. are $45 per person and $65 per couple. Tickets are available at all library locations.