Broadway Star Melissa Errico Brings a Night of Dark Romance to Long Beach

The Carpenter Center is set to transform into an enticing old-style Hollywood lounge as Tony Award-nominated singer Melissa Errico takes the stage with her concerts titled "A Noir Romance" on November 13 and 14. This exciting event is part of the venue's popular Cabaret Series, known for its intimate setting where audiences can enjoy performances from tables just a few feet from the artist.

During these exclusive shows, Errico will enchant the audience with music inspired by the dark themes of film noir, including tales of doomed romances, mysteries, and unfulfilled dreams. These motifs were commonly found in classic noir films, creating a compelling backdrop for the evening.

Errico describes the experience as "a dark and sexy night," where she aims to evoke the feeling of being in love with someone you shouldn't, making choices that lead you down unexpected paths, while sipping drinks in a smoky jazz club atmosphere. "It has everything to do with a fantasy, of being in love with the wrong person, of taking a wrong turn in your life," she elaborates.

To heighten the experience, Errico plans to channel the glamour of classic Hollywood, drawing inspiration from film star Rita Hayworth, who was a well-known figure during the noir era. She wishes to transport the audience to a time when jazz clubs were filled with romance and intrigue.

Errico, known for her roles in Broadway productions like "My Fair Lady", "High Society", "Dracula", and "Les Misérables," has a longstanding passion for American noir films, which she indulged in during the pandemic. This obsession led to her 2022 album "Out Of The Dark: The Film Noir Project," featuring songs from iconic noir films such as the 1944 classic "Laura" and the 1952 drama "The Bad and The Beautiful," alongside some original pieces. These songs will be a highlight during her shows in Long Beach.

Additionally, Errico will embrace the persona of a femme fatale to fully embody the spirit of the night. This character emerged as she immersed herself in noir films during quiet evenings at home while her family slept. "When the kids were in bed, I opened my laptop and walked into these noir movies," she reflects. "This is the foundation of my concert, a sort of winky, funny take of a housewife who has entered her noir film."

A Noir Romance

When: 7 p.m. November 13-14

Where: The Carpenter Center, 6200 E Atherton St, Long Beach

Tickets: $58.75-$68.75

Information: carpenterarts.org

Melissa, Errico, Noir