International keyboardist, recording artist and composer, Alex Bugnon performed brilliantly, as a huge crowd of well-wishers attended the Grand Opening of Arturo's Jazz Theatre & Restaurant on Thursday, May 17. Bugnon also performed two shows on Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19, 2007.


Individuals spotted in the crowd included, Brenda Lawrence (Mayor of Southfield), television's Judge Greg Mathis, Thomas Hearns (former boxing great), Dave Bing (former Detroit Piston Guard), Keith Washington (r&b singer), Jewel Ware (Chair, Wayne County Commission), Greg Reed (entertainment lawyer) Danny Bakewell (executive publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel) and Bob "Butterbean" Love (former Chicago Bull player).


Arturo's, located at 25333 W. 12 Mile Rd. just west of Telegraph Rd. (in the Star Theatre Complex) in Southfield, MI, stands at the vanguard, dedicated to bringing top national and international jazz acts to its venue in metropolitan Detroit. Many are already calling Arturo's, Michigan's only true national and international jazz establishment. With its intimate seating, incredible acoustics, delectable food and free parking, Arturo's offers its patrons a unique experience, punctuated by the vibrancy of how jazz was meant to be seen, heard and felt.


"I am honored to be the opening act for this beautiful jazz theater and restaurant that is dedicated to bringing national jazz acts to this area," said Bugnon, shortly after taking the stage. "Just look at the incredible pictures on the wall of Miles, Coltrane and other legendary jazz artists, all looking down on us. There is no doubt in my mind that this venue is the best place in America to see and hear live jazz."


Following Bugnon, Arturo's brings in internationally renowned keyboardist, Keiko Matsui for six shows in three nights (May 31 - June 2, 2007). "To open this type of place is a dream come true," said Arthur Blackwell, owner of Arturo's. "I love jazz, and I am dedicated to bringing in the great names of jazz to be seen and heard in this very intimate setting."