Submitted by the San Juan Community Theatre

Portland artist, singer and actress Merideth Kaye Clark sings Joni Mitchell’s iconic BLUE album, played from beginning to end in the original keys at San Juan Community Theatre on Friday, July 7 at 7:30 p.m.

A veteran musical theater performer (including a role as “Elphaba” in the first national tour of the Broadway musical, Wicked) Clark combines her theater work with concerts across the country, performing in many styles.

In her BLUE concert tour, Clark also plays the guitar and dulcimer (as Mitchell did for the 1971 album) and is accompanied by pianist Mont Chris Hubbard. Broadwayworld.com’s Krista Garver says “Clark’s voice is every bit as light and dancing as Mitchell’s, but her softer-‐edged high notes gave the songs a soul that drew me in. Clark’s openness and happiness on the stage is pure delight, the joy and empathy she has in and for Mitchell’s work coming out in every note.”

In addition to Friday’s performance in the Whittier Theatre, Clark and Hubbard will host an “Acting a Song” workshop in the Gubelman Theatre on Saturday, July 8 from 10 a.m. to Noon. Islanders may prepare and memorize a short song (one verse and one chorus) to perform in a small group and receive feedback and adjustments from Clark and Hubbard. Registration is required ($35 per student; free admission to observe and learn) and is limited to eight students, ages 16 and up.

Clark’s visit to Friday Harbor is part of SJCT’s Off the Rock series, which is dedicated to showcasing contemporary performance, both onstage and in an educational setting.

Tickets for Friday’s concert are $16 for adults; $10 student reserved; and $5 student RUSH at the door. The SJCT box office is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.