Gershwin With a Twist!

Brian McGurl

Exquisite Artistry to Rip-Roaring Fun

First introduced at Elon University in North Carolina, this unique concept has been a big hit with the student body, faculty and the general public. We feature one or two students in four different cameo roles plus the finale- performing both lead and harmony parts. When 200 screaming 19 and 20 year olds bounced in their seats at Elon University to not one, but several of the “twist renditions”, we knew we had discovered something exciting and impactful.

Educational Value, Blending Generations

From guest student performers to educational outreach to the performance itself, Gershwin With A Twist! brings generations together. Ragtime to Reggae. Rhapsody to Rap.

A Rhapsody In Gershwin - blending segments of The Rhapsody in Blue with four jazzed up Gershwin pop hits
Gershwin meets Elvis - Lady Be Good is the flip side of Heartbreak Hotel
Fascinating Rhythm - performed in three styles ending with Rap

Somebody Loves Me - A quick change: Flapper Dress to Poodle skirt
Summertime - Opera meets Funk
I Got Rhythm - Broadway - to 60s Jazz - to Jamaica - "Mahn!"

THE STARS OF THE SHOW

Brian McGurl is a highly skilled pianist, creative arranger, actor and vocalist. His one-of-a-kind jazz/pop/classical fusion instrumental and vocal arrangements have garnered rave reviews from audiences and critics nationwide - including from renowned pianist Roger Williams. Born and raised in Lebanon, New Hampshire, Brian began studying classical piano at the age of six. By the time he was 19 he was making his full-time living as a pianist and has since performed in many capacities – including as a soloist, in dance bands, jazz ensembles, with symphonies and in numerous theatrical stage productions. Brian has produced, co-written and starred in over 25 different musical stage productions - several that have toured nationally.

Michele Pruyn is a diverse vocalist, solid actress and an engaging stage personality. Originally trained as an opera singer, her wide-ranging vocal flights have consistently wowed audiences and industry professionals - taking notice of her unique talent and mastery of styles. Michele is the lead vocalist in the long running tour of “The Sounds Of Harry James & The Andrews Sisters”, portraying the role of Patty. She is also the front female vocalist with several well-known big bands, including The Tommy Dorsey Band, The Jimmy Dorsey Band, The Harry James Band, The Naples Jazz Orchestra and The Paramount Swing Orchestra. Michele has traveled extensively in her career including a recent six-week tour to New Zealand, Vancouver and Hawaii with the Tommy Dorsey Band.

Michele Puryn

"I'm so grateful your Gershwin show was the opening of our Concert Series. The accolades and standing ovations our audience gave you were the icing on the cake!"
- Executive Director, Citrus Hills, Hernando, FL