Jazz and pop singer Denise Anya headlines “Leather and Lace,” a fundraiser show for the Chautauqua Playhouse on Jan. 11. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - In its 50th season, Carmichael’s Chautauqua Playhouse will kick off a golden anniversary year with an evening of jazz, rock and country music on Jan. 11.

The fundraiser event is produced by Pocket-area resident Denise Anya. The “Leather and Lace,” theme reflects Anya’s diverse musical taste.

Anya and guest singer Lahre Shiflet will be backed by a four-piece band.

“Part of me is lacy and all-girl,” explained the Tennessee-native. “But I’ve lived through tough times. You could say I have a right to sing the blues but I also want to sing for joy: joy from the love and music that’s in my heart.”

Anya has been a frequent jazz performer since moving to Sacramento 10 years ago. The career government worker began singing as a schoolgirl. In her teens, she was part of a city-wide Chattanooga gospel choir. 

“I didn’t imagine I’d ever be a soloist,” Anya said. “I sang because I loved it. Music is a life-long journey for me.”

Anya was 10 years old when she met gospel legend Mahalia Jackson.

“My schoolteacher accompanied her on the road,” Anya said. “He knew our church pastor, who invited (Jackson) to sing for our congregation. I’d heard her on records. Seeing her in person was a totally emotional experience. That’s why I love singing live. As an artist, you can give yourself so fully to a real audience.”

Anya forged a Carmichael connection last summer, when she and local rockabilly singer Todd Morgan united in jazz/rockabilly fusion.

“I discovered a deep love for country music,” Anya said. “Todd and I were friends and my idea was to bring his and my styles together. The show highlighted our diversity and let us both uplift the human spirit. We completely sold out our show at the Spiritual Life Center Church (Arden Arcade).”

Anya will bring her all-pro Good News Experience Band to the theater housed in the La Sierra Community Center. Players include pianist Jimmy Malone, David Lichman (bass) Jim Caselli (drums) and Russel Brown on guitar.

“We’re a diverse group. We’ll present a diverse repertoire,” she promised.

The singer has huge affection for the venue.

“I’ve acted in great shows at Chautauqua; I’ve also helped with production and costuming,” Anya said. “I love the connection this playhouse has with community. It gives children and adults a rare creative outlet. I sure wish I’d had encouragement like this when I was growing up.

“For an arts non-profit to maintain this energy for 50 years is phenomenal,” Anya added. “I’m excited to help their fundraising. It’s an intimate venue (95 seats) and a cozy ambiance is perfect for chilly January. We hope to sell out every seat.”

“Leather and lace” kicks off at 7 p.m. on Jan. 11. Tickets are $20. Parking is free. The Chatauqua Playhouse receives 60 percent of ticket proceeds. The theater is located at 5325 Engle Road, Carmichael. Reserve online at www.cplayhouse.org/box-office-info.html or call 916 489 7529.