Doc Hop joins legendary vocalist Franchesca White for a nostalgic holiday spectacular reminiscent of holiday specials from TV’s golden age.
Armed with a golden voice, dynamic percussion chops, and a sharp comic timing, Franchesca White (“Just Fran Channel” on You Tube) is no stranger to Los Angeles’ theater and social media audiences. She is possessed of a powerful delivery of song that cannot deny her gospel roots (she is a pastoral princess, after all). Yet, though the church may be a starting point, her vocal range, reach and resonance echo Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, and Jill Scott. Not to be limited however, Lady Fran imbues both her lyrics and her melodies with a deep interpretation that make clear her intention to sell the song. Sinatra did the same thing generations ago, and today the special-needs teacher does the same, and more!
Doc Hop (Dr. Wayne C. Hopkins) surprises many each time he pops onto the screen. Native to South Carolina, Hopkins has made a long journey to this special, evoking his 30+ year career as an accompanist to church choirs, operatic soloists and jazz cabaret ingenues. Known to many, quite innocently as a “multi-platform professional,” he shocks audience with his mastery of the keys. Hop is an unlikely cross between a slinky lounge lizard and a disciplined virtuoso. Influenced as much by the gospel greats of yesteryear, he was also heavily influenced by the luscious yet funky orchestral sound of big TV specials, award shows and theme songs of the 1970s-1980s. If you need someone who can create a unique fusion of the themes from The Jeffersons & Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous; or you wish to mix John Legend with Bill Conti, DocHop is your guy! Incidentally, he teaches piano to adult beginners at UCLA, in case you’re interested.
A Very Special Christmas
Imagine a star-studded network holiday special hosted by two of America’s sweethearts decked out in a Bob Mackie wardrobe, backed by a full orchestra, and singing familiar tunes in their own unique style. This was the norm long before American Idol and Masked Singer created instant stars. This special pays homage to those big ticket events while pushing forward in the Post-Pandemic age. Good music, harmony and humor will never go out of style, they will just change costumes for the next big number, and on with the show.
Fran and Wayne sing their way through a mix of popular Christmas Songs, arranged carols, hot gospels and sultry R&B classics that you’ve heard before - but not quite like this. Watch A Very Christmas for love and laughs year round!
