CeCe Teneal’s performances are equal parts soulful and joyful. Courtesy Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts
DURING THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON, I HAD THE PLEASURE OF EXPERIENCING THE CHARM OF JUDSON’S LIVE FIRSTHAND DURING CECE TENEAL’S HOLIDAY HEARTSTRINGS EXPERIENCE. PUBLISHER’S NOTE: THIS WAS NOT SPONSORED OR HOSTED.
To say it was magical would be an understatement—it was a celebration of music, ambiance and culinary delight that outshone even the classic romance of a white Christmas snowfall.
Judson’s Live is the epitome of an intimate venue, with its moody lighting and cozy tables arranged in a way that encourages connection and immersion. The ambiance exudes a cool, effortless sophistication that immediately transports you to another world, one where the outside hustle fades into a distant memory. My husband and I purchased a table right by the stage—so close that at one point, I was genuinely worried CeCe might hand me the mic and expect me to belt out a few bars. While I’m confident in my car performances, the idea of trying to match her soulful tones in public was both thrilling and absolutely terrifying.
The evening unfolded like a perfectly wrapped holiday gift. We settled into our seats, the warm glow of candlelight and the soft hum of pre-show conversation setting the tone. We began our evening with drinks: a pair of Old Fashioneds, expertly crafted and perfectly balanced, accompanied by a holiday mocktail featuring hints of cranberry and rosemary. The mocktail was a standout, a seasonal blend that managed to evoke holiday cheer in liquid form. It was clear from the first sip that Judson’s Live takes its bourbon bar seriously, with offerings to satisfy both seasoned enthusiasts and casual sippers.
The culinary experience at Judson’s is just as memorable as the music. We tried all the appetizers, and each bite was a testament to the chef’s artistry. The menu changes out seasonally, but you’ll find a variety of delectable flatbreads, small plates and sweet treats. The cheese flight, an assortment of cheeses accompanied by honey, jams and other accoutrements, felt like a mini exploration of gourmet pairings, and a comparable item is always available.
By the time the lights dimmed and CeCe took the stage, we were fully immersed in the magic of the evening. Her presence was electrifying, equal parts soulful and joyful, as if she were channeling the very spirit of the holiday season through her voice. From the first note, she had the entire room captivated, making everyone feel as though she was singing just for them. I don’t know how she managed it, but her warmth was so genuine that it was both comforting and unnerving, like locking eyes with Santa Claus while realizing he knows exactly how many cookies you’ve eaten.
CeCe’s performance was a masterclass in jazz, with each song a seamless blend of holiday classics reimagined and jazz standards performed with her signature flair. Between songs, she engaged the audience with anecdotes and humor, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that felt like a gathering of old friends rather than a concert.
Throughout the performance, the intimacy of Judson’s Live truly shone. The proximity to the stage allowed us to connect with CeCe’s music on a deeply personal level, every note and nuance amplified by the closeness. The venue’s acoustics were impeccable, capturing the richness of her voice and the crisp instrumentation without losing a single detail. It felt as if the music wrapped around the audience, creating a cocoon of sound that was both comforting and exhilarating.
As the evening came to an end, CeCe left us with a final message of joy and gratitude that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the season. We lingered for a while, as guests can (up to an hour after the show for more drinks and light fare). Judson’s Live had a harmonious blend of atmosphere, culinary excellence and world-class music that left us feeling both inspired and content.
Publisher’s Note:
Want to experience this magical evening for yourself? CeCe returns this holiday season with another incredible engagement at Judson’s Live. Am I going again? Absolutely I am, and I hope to see you there too.