Often regarded as the beginning of the modern civil rights movement, Rosa Parks’ famous refusal to give up her bus seat is commemorated in this world premiere of John Clayton’s piece “Suite Rosa.” Be the first to hear the soulful sounds of pride and dignity as the CJO showcases the movement that helped inspire some of your favorite jazz legends such as John Coltrane and Max Roach.

Choreographed by Alexis Wilson and restaged from “Rosa,” Clayton’s masterpiece celebrates the courage of this American hero and her upcoming 100th birthday in a fantastic presentation of spiritual swing music.

Last summer, after growing up quite a bit, he taught me the two-step to Frank Sinatra’s Fly me to the Moon for my grandparent’s 60^th wedding anniversary. This time I was able to share a dance with my high school sweetheart and fiancé Jason.

I only hope the uncle I look up to so much is able to teach me how to dance for my wedding. Jason and I plan to share our first dance to Eva Cassidy’s interpretation of Irving Berlin’s Blue Skies.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtG_W0sR2vA

This summer, the Columbus Zoo is teaming up with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. They will be bringing the sweet sounds of Jazz to the wonders of the Water’s Edge Events Park at the zoo. This is the fifth annual celebration, and it is certain to be unforgettable. This season consists of four separate shows all starting at 8pm.

Summer 2010 JazZoo! Schedule:

• July 16: “Chicago & the Sounds of the ’70s” featuring Bruce Wermuth
• July 23: “Sinatra & the Big Bands” featuring John Fredo
• August 6: “Satchmo & the Duke” featuring Dwight Lenox
• August 13: “Gershwin Under the Stars” featuring Michael McElroy and Capathia Jenkins

I am sure Jason and I will be there on June 23^rd to celebrate Sinatra and the Big Bands. Who knows, maybe we will even sneak in a dance. Either way, tickets for adults are $27 if you pay in advance and $30 if you purchase them the day of the concert. Students can get tickets for $15. What’s even better, the tickets to the concert include all day admission to the zoo.

-Jessica