Community Corner

Arlington Regent Theatre To Host Residency For Grammy-Nominated Singer

The Regent Theatre has signed a partnership agreement with vocalist Debo Ray for five concerts throughout 2023.

Debo Ray’s residency is set to begin on May 12 at 8 p.m. with a tribute to Stevie Wonder to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his record "Innervisions."
Debo Ray’s residency is set to begin on May 12 at 8 p.m. with a tribute to Stevie Wonder to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his record "Innervisions." (Amber Fisher/Patch)

ARLINGTON, MA – Arlington’s historic Regent Theatre has signed a partnership agreement with Grammy-nominated vocalist Debo Ray to host a residency.

Ray was featured in Terri Lynne Carrington’s Grammy-winning project, Social Science. She was nominated in the category Best Jazz Instrumental Album at the 63rd annual Grammy Awards ceremony in 2021 for her work as a featured artist on the album.

Ray’s residency is set to begin on May 12 at 8 p.m. with a tribute concert to Stevie Wonder to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his record "Innervisions."

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Ray, an assistant professor at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, has performed with a variety of artists such as Grammy award winner Terri Lyne Carrington and her band, Social Science, and the world music group, Women of the World.

She has performed and recorded across multiple genres including jazz, rock, R&B, hip hop, funk-metal, as well as in musical theater and opera.

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“We are committed to supporting rising local artists, and excited about showcasing Debo Ray on our stage with her top-notch band starting this spring,” Regent co-owner, Leland Stein, said in a news release. “The vibe and timing seem right for our musical partnership, and I have no doubt our audience will be immediately captivated by Debo’s talent and charm, enhanced by the Regent sound and visual experience.”

Ray’s Stevie Wonder tribute concert will feature songs from Wonder’s music catalog including a complete performance of the album "Innervisions." Ray will perform original songs along with classic rock hits and holiday favorites in subsequent shows in July, September, October, and December.

“We really want to make each performance a 'show' in the fullest sense of the word,” Ray said in the news release. “Along with the great music, we’ll be featuring dancers, lighting, and video to make things extra special. I’m very grateful for the opportunity provided by Leland and the Regent to perform on one of the area’s coolest stages. And I’m honored to be the first artist selected for their partnership/residency since 2005.”

Arlington residents can purchase tickets to Ray’s Stevie Wonder tribute concert, “A Little Wonder,” on Friday, May 12 at 8:00 p.m., by calling 781-646-4849, or visiting the Regent Theatre’s website.


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