Jimmy Keys, internationally known pianist and comedian, will add some hilarity to your summer fun when he performs at the Franklin Opera House on Friday, August 9, at 7:30 PM. Jimmy Keys was born in Kent, England, and as a young child he studied classical piano. At the age of 12, Jimmy started playing in school bands. He soon graduated to the local music scene, working in clubs and pubs with numerous pop, soul, and rock groups, singing and playing keyboards.

Later, he “went professional” and headed off to Germany with a local group to seek fame and fortune, following after dozens of other post-Beatle bands. In the early ‘70s he went on to work with many top artists, including Ben E. King, Eddie Floyd, and Percy Sledge. Later, with his own band, he worked extensively throughout Europe and the Middle East.

In 1981, he decided to return to his first love, the piano, and became a solo entertainer. Since then he has developed a unique and highly entertaining comedy and musical act. He’s a cross between Elton John (in that he sings and plays the piano) and Robin Williams (in that his comedy is off-the-wall). His show is packed with comedy, impressions and favorite Broadway songs, wrapped around some of the most exciting piano playing and audience participation that you will ever witness.

From the mid-eighties to the year 2000, Jimmy was very famous on the island of Bermuda. He became the main entertainer in the Neptune Club at the Southampton Princess Hotel and was a favorite with locals and tourists alike.

Since moving to the United States in 2000, Jimmy has been very busy, playing at high profile clubs and other venues all over the United States and Canada. He has opened for major headliners including Willie Nelson, Tom Jones, Wynona Judd, Huey Lewis & the News, and Hootie and the Blowfish.

Good seats are never a problem at the historic Franklin Opera House, an intimate 300-seat theater located in downtown Franklin, in the City Hall building. There are no obstructed-view seats in either the orchestra section or in the balcony, and ample free parking is all around.

Tickets for Jimmy Keys are now on sale at FranklinOperaHouse.org, by visiting the box office Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM, or by calling 934-1901. Reserved tickets are priced at $20 each.