Join us all year to celebrate 20 years since the re-opening of historic Cliff Bell’s! It’s amazing how fast these past two decades have gone! From the early late-night, cigarette-smoke-filled, standing-room-only days to the more refined dinner theatre we are today, we are incredibly thankful. Thankful for the people of Detroit for supporting us and live Jazz as we cross this milestone under the current ownership of Paul Howard, Carolyn Howard and Scott Lowell, their management and staff. We also give thanks to the musicians of Detroit and around the world especially those who have been performing here since the early days and now consider this home base for live Jazz in Detroit, thank you all!
We’re kicking off our anniversary with three nights of Jam Sessions hosted by some of the original guardians of our stage. Drummer, educator and composer Sean Dobbins performs and hosts the exact date of the anniversary February 5th. One of the greatest pianists to every play on our stage, Mike Jellick will be returning from New York on Friday February 6th. And closing out the weekend on Saturday Feb. 7th is De’Sean Jones who has, over-the-years, grown into one of the most fascinating innovators and collaborators that Detroit offers.