Farewell to Divaville

Friends-

Divaville has been a part of my life for the last 20 years, and it has been my joy and privilege to share these great old vocalists with you. Now, though, after two decades, it is time for me to say goodbye to the show. The final episode of Divaville will air February 25, 2015.

Perhaps you’re thinking: "Wait... 20 years!??" It's true: I first discovered my love of old jazz vocalists not long after I graduated from college. Divaville was then a goofy personal sandbox in which to play and explore. When I moved from North Carolina to Oregon in 2007, I was overjoyed that KMHD agreed to air the already long-established show. In that way Divaville was very much a bridge to a new life for me: the same beloved vocalists in a brand new setting.

I have happily spent these last 20 years as a volunteer (I have never been paid to host Divaville) and I love this music dearly. I know that you love this music, too; your response to this show has been wildly enthusiastic --more so than I could have ever imagined-- and my gratitude is immeasurable. Please know that this decision wasn't easy for me. I recognize that Divaville's remarkable longevity is due wholly to your support and devotion.

Now, because YOU have been at the heart of this show, I would very much like for your voice to be a part of the final episode. If you have specific fond memories or stories to share about Divaville, please record your thoughts by using the 'voice memo' function on your cell phone, then email that audio file to me at christa@divaville.org. Submit your audio by February 20 and I'll include some of my favorite comments in the last episode on February 25.

And finally, some really exciting news: Tony Starlight has graciously agreed to host a big Divaville Farewell Concert for us! Join me on Wednesday, March 25 at the Alberta Rose Theatre when some of Portland's finest musicians --Rebecca Kilgore, Robert Moore, Valerie Day, Mike Horsfall, and 3 Leg Torso-- will pay tribute to Divaville and send the program off in style. (Tickets are on sale now -- $20 general admission, or $50 VIP seating with a pre-concert reception.)

Again, thank you so much for your love, support and understanding. You have made the last 20 years a joy. I'm excited to see what the future holds.

Long live Betty Hutton-

Christa

PS: I should mention that if you also listen to me on All Classical Portland, rest assured that nothing is changing there; I will still be on-air at 89.9 from 9a-1p weekdays. One of the benefits of my decision to end Divaville is that I will now be able to devote more time to "On Deck with Young Musicians," a project of mine which airs Saturdays at 5p and celebrates young musicians in our community. It is important work, and a good program. I hope you'll check it out.
 

Divaville's "Theme Song"

Written and performed by Reece Marshburn and Marianna Thielen

From left to right:

Bing Crosby
Betty Hutton
Frank Sinatra
Peggy Lee
Bobby Darin
Louis Armstrong
Fred Astaire
Cab Calloway
Dean Martin
Sammy Davis, Jr.
Carmen Miranda
Nat King Cole
Judy Garland
Billie Holiday
 

Upcoming Events!
 
Divaville Farewell Concert

Join me on Wednesday, March 25 at the Alberta Rose Theatre when some of Portland's finest musicians --Rebecca Kilgore, Robert Moore, Valerie Day, Mike Horsfall, and 3 Leg Torso-- will pay tribute to Divaville and send the program off in style.

Tickets are on sale now -- $20 general admission, or $50 VIP seating with a pre-concert reception.