The Shaker Archives - Page 68 of 77

March 17, 2014

Carnegie Carnegie hosts homage to Pete Seeger

Ferla-Marcinizyn Guitar Duo at Carnegie Carnegie Hall with contralto Daphne Alderson

The Ferla-Marcinizyn Guitar Duo will perform at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall on Monday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m. The concert will feature special guest Daphne Alderson and conclude with homage to legendary folk singer, activist and song writer Pete Seeger. Seeger died on January 27 of this year at the age of 94.

Jim Ferla and John Marcinizyn have been performing together since 1989. Their repertoire spans five centuries and includes music by traditional and contemporary composers as well as folk, jazz, and popular arrangements. They have performed throughout the United States as both soloists and ensemble players, including at the Smithsonian, the University of Akron, Arizona State, the Chautauqua Institution, Oberlin College, Florida State University, New York University, and Notre Dame. The have been heard on NPR, Voice of America, USIA, Chukyo TV-Nagayo, Japan, and locally on WQED-FM.

The Duo will be joined by frequent collaborator contralto Daphne Alderson. Daphne Alderson’s diverse, eclectic career as lyric contralto includes opera, oratorio, chamber music and cabaret throughout the United States, Canada and Italy. She performed two world premieres for the Library & Music Hall’s annual benefit: Songs that Oscar Taught Me (2009) and All Judy, All Heart (2010), tributes to Oscar Hammerstein, II and Judy Garland respectively.

“It’s really wonderful to come back to the Carnegie. It’s such a beautiful hall, and I look forward to being mostly unplugged!” said Alderson.

“Those of us who had the privilege of hearing Daphne sign at Carnegie Carnegie Hall are thrilled to welcome her back,” says Executive Director Maggie Forbes. “And I am blown away by the eclectic program that Jim, John and Daphne have put together for March 31!”

The program includes works ranging from virtuoso classical guitar pieces to French Renaissance and Portuguese art songs to traditional English folk songs to works by John Lennon, Hoagy Carmichael, an original composition by John Marcinizyn, as well as the tribute to Pete Seeger.

In addition to their extensive performance careers all three musicians are committed educators. Ferla teaches guitar at Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh; Marcinizyn, who also plays the banjo teaches guitar and composition at Carnegie Mellon and Seton Hill University and also teaches a class on slide guitar techniques at the Duquesne University Guitar and Bass Summer Workshop. Alderson, who is married to Marcinizyn, teaches voice at Seton-Hill University.

The Ferla-Marcinizyn Guitar Duo is the penultimate concert in the ACFL&MH’s 2013-2014 Listen Locally series. Matt Murchison Mutiny (euphonium, flute, piano, bass, and drums) will perform the final concert on of the season on April 28.

Tickets for the Listen Locally are $15 and may be purchased in advance at the ACFL&MH during library hours or at the box office the night of the concert. A reception with the musicians follows the concert. Please visit www.carnegiecarnegie.org or call 412-276-3456 for more information.

********************

Listen Locally

at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

The Ferla-Marcinizyn Guitar Duo

With Daphne Alderson, Contralto

Nowhere Man (1965) John Lennon (1940-1980)

Dance of the Corregidor Manuel De Falla (1876-1946)

La Vida Breve

Trovas (Ballads) Francisco de Lacerda (1869-1934)

Em Cima Do Alto Monte

Nem de Chorar Sou Senhora

Quando Tu Abres Os Olhos

O Amor E Como A Sombra

Silhouette John Marcinizyn (b.1963)

Lo Que Vendra Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)

Tango I

INTERMISSION

Tant que vivray Claude de Sermissy (1490-1562)

Que ne puis-je la fougere Giovanni Battista Pergolesi (1710-1736)

Scarborough Fair Traditional English

Anthem Ralph Towner (b. 1940)

G Blues Joe Pass (1929-1994)

I found a new baby Jack Palmer (1900-1976)/Spencer Williams (1889-1965)

Where Have All The Flowers Gone Pete Seeger (1919-2014)

We Shall Overcome

Turn, Turn, Turn

March 17, 2014

City Theatre presents 2012 Smith Prize Winner GROUNDED

“Gripping” —The New York Times

“A searing piece of writing”—The Guardian

“Compelling and provocative” —San Francisco Chronicle

Directed by Jenn Thompson

March 29 – May 4, 2014

PITTSBURGH, PA (March 17, 2014)—City Theatre continues its 2013-2014 season with Grounded, a high-intensity drama by George Brant. Directed by Jenn Thompson, Grounded runs from March 29 to May 4, 2014 in City Theatre’s Hamburg Studio, with an Opening Night performance on Friday, April 4 at 8pm.

This powerful one-woman show follows a gutsy fighter pilot whose unexpected pregnancy puts her career on hold. When she gets back in the game, flying has a whole new meaning: operating remote-controlled drones in Afghanistan from an air-conditioned trailer near Las Vegas. Hunting terrorists by day and being a wife and mother by night, the pilot’s struggle to navigate her dual identities is her toughest mission yet.

“Grounded is a riveting drama filled with powerful storytelling about the dualities of war and family,” says Tracy Brigden, City Theatre’s Artistic Director. “Both relevant and original, George Brant’s award-winning script tackles issues of surveillance, drones, and the ambiguities of warfare in the twenty-first century. This vivid play demands a strong female actor who can own the show, and we’re thrilled to welcome Kelly McAndrew back to perform. Last seen at City in Precious Little, Kelly embraces commanding roles with intensity and authenticity.”

Kelly McAndrew returns to City Theatre, having last been seen in 2011’s Precious Little. Most recently she has been seen Off-Broadway in Almost, Maine (Transport Group) and Good Television (Atlantic Theatre Company). On Broadway, she played Maggie the Cat in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Additional Off-Broadway credits include: Still Life (MCC), The Cataract (The Women’s Project), and Book of Days (Signature Theatre). Other New York theatre credits include: My California (Here Arts), Greedy (Clubbed Thumb), Topsy Turvey Mouse (Cherry Lane Mentor Project), Trout Stanley (Culture Project), Lyric is Waiting (kef productions). Recent regional credits include: Other Desert Cities (The Guthrie), Good People (Pittsburgh Public), August: Osage County, Alive and Well, Dividing the Estate, and Sight Unseen (The Old Globe). Other regional theaters include: ART, Huntington, Cincinnati Playhouse, Denver Center, Shakespeare on the Sound, Arena Stage, Baltimore Centre Stage. TV: “Smash,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: SVU,” “Gossip Girl.” Film: Appropriate Behavior (Sundance 2014), In the Family (2011 SPIRIT nomination), Everybody’s Fine (with Robert DeNiro), Superheroes, New Guy, Out of the Darkness. Training: UMKC. Member: TACT.

George Brant’s plays include Elephant’s Graveyard, The Mourners’ Bench, Any Other Name, Salvage, Grizzly Mama, Three Voyages of the Lobotomobile, and Dark Room. A Core Writer at the Playwright’s Center, his scripts have been produced internationally by Trinity Repertory Company, the Studio Theatre, the Gate Theatre of London, Cleveland Play House, Page 73, and the Traverse Theatre, among others. He has received a Kennedy Center National Playwriting Award, the Smith Prize, an Edinburgh Fringe First Award, a Creative Workforce Fellowship, an NNPN Rolling World Premiere, two OAC Individual Excellence Awards, and the Keene Prize for Literature. He has been awarded writing fellowships from the MacDowell Colony, the McCarter Theatre Center, Blue Mountain Center, the Djerassi Resident Artist’s Program, and the Michener Center for Writers. He is published by Samuel French, Oberon Books, and Smith & Kraus.

Grounded features Kelly McAndrew as the Pilot. The creative team includes Anne Mundell (Scenic), Sabrina Zain (Costume), Martin Vreeland (Lighting), Toby Algya (Sound), and Larry Shea (Projections).

CITY THEATRE PRESENTS

Grounded

By George Brant
Directed by Jenn Thompson

When: March 29 – May 4, 2014

Preview Schedule

Saturday, March 29 at 5:30pm

Sunday, March 30 at 7pm

Tuesday, April 1 at 7pm

Wednesday, April 2 at 7pm

Thursday, April 3 at 8pm

PRESS / OPENING NIGHT

Friday, April 4 at 8pm

Regular Run Schedule

Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7pm

Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm

Saturdays at 5:30 and 9pm

Sundays at 2pm

Weekday matinees will be performed on Wednesday, April 9 and Wednesday, April 16 at 1pm.

There will be no performances on Wednesday, April 30 and Thursday, May 1.

Where: City Theatre, 1300 Bingham Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 (South Side)

Tickets: $35 to $55

Box Office: 412.431.CITY (2489) or citytheatrecompany.org

Audiences under 30 may reserve $15 tickets in advance for all performances except Fridays 8pm and Saturdays 5:30pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, rush tickets are available two hours prior to show time and based on availability.

Seniors age 62 and older may purchase $22 rush tickets at the Box Office beginning two hours before show time. Based on availability.

Groups of 10 or more are eligible for discounts. Call Kari Shaffer at 412.431.4400 x286.

As a participating Blue Star Theatre, City Theatre offers 25% off to U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their immediate families. Inquire for details.

City Theatre is now in its 39th season. Located on Pittsburgh’s historic South Side, City Theatre specializes in new plays, commissioning and producing work by playwrights including Daniel Beaty, Jessica Dickey, Christopher Durang, Michael Hollinger, Willy Holtzman, Tarell McCraney, and Theresa Rebeck. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Tracy Brigden, Managing Director Mark R. Power, and a 45-member Board of Directors, City Theatre’s mission is to provide an artistic home for the development and production of contemporary plays of substance and ideas that engage and challenge a diverse audience. CityTheatreCompany.org

March 17, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (3/20 – 3/23)

by Michael Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant contributor.

Get Dirty Earlier

Every year, Attack Theater hosts THE event of the season, The Dirty Ball. It’s not until April 12, but you can get dirty earlier by going to the Kick Off for the Dirty Ball at a Happy Hour with Attack Theatre at the Up Modern Kitchen on Tuesday March 18^th.

Up-Modern Kitchen is located at 5500 Walnut Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

For more information go to www.attacktheatre.com

Grown Man Business

Pittsburgh Comedian Aaron Kleiber will be “Talking Shop” with Brian Gray on the eponymous podcast. Kleiber recently made his national television debut on “Gotham Comedy Live,” but is known locally as for his multiple film roles (P.S. He’s hilarious in “Escape from Saint Quentin’s”), his comedy hosting skills (Monday’s at Pleasure Bar, Wednesday’s at the BeerHive…etc.) and his extremely funny concert film DVD (“Grown Man Business”).

Listen to him yuk it up with improviser and talk show host Brian Gray in a live recording of the “Talking Shop” podcast Thursday, March 20 at the Arcade Comedy Theater at 8:00. The event is only five dollars! Five dollars!

For more information, go to www.arcadecomedytheater.com

Hollywood Un-glamourized

It’s 30’s Hollywood and it’s tough out there for actresses of color. Lynn Nottage’s “By the way, Meet Vera Stark” is a hilarious satire about race set in the glamorous days of Old Hollywood.

“By the way, Meet Vera Stark” opens Friday, March 21 at the Studio Theater at Point Park University’s Pittsburgh Playhouse.

For more information, head to www.pittsburghplayhouse.com

By the way, Meet Annette Dashofy

Celebrate the debut of the Zoe Chambers Mystery Series, “Circle of Influence” at the Mystery Lover’s Bookshop in Oakmont. Dashofy is a former member of the staff at the Mystery Lover’s Bookshop. She’s about to go from stocking the shelves to flying off the shelves. Come meet the Pittsburgh mystery writer on Saturday March 22 before she goes on a national tour!

You can find out more about the book, the author and the store at http://www.mysterylovers.com/books/events/20140322dashofy.php

Not in Kansas Anymore

Things get even weirder for Dorothy Gale. Turns out Dottie Gale (Adrienne Fischer) is really in a mental institution and meets three lunatics each representing the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. Rage of the Stage Players presents the “Wizard of Oz” with a darkly comic twist.

Playwright James Michael Shoberg might be on his own acid trip when he wrote this popular play. It returns to Off the Wall Theater for a second time.

You can find Off the Wall Theater at 25 W. Main Street, Carnegie. For more information go to www.insideoffthewall.com/archives/1691

– MB.

March 14, 2014March 14, 2014

“The Gods Must Be Crazy” – review of AN ILIAD at Pittsburgh Public Theater

by Michael Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant contributor

A one man show is a lot like eating an apple. If the first bite is mushy and tasteless, you’re stuck with it. It’s not going to get any better. The Pittsburgh Public Theater’s production of “An Iliad” is a crisp, clean bite. More than that, its ambrosia; it is the food of the gods.

The one man show rests on the shoulders of one performer, Teagle F. Bougere (always use the middle initial to distinguish him from all the other Teagle Bourgere’s out there). Luckily, Bougere has broad shoulders.

“An Iliad” was written by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare, with a little help from Homer.

Teagle F. Bougere as The Poet in AN ILIAD. Photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater.

Homer is known by one name (like Cher). He may not have even been a real person, but the Iliad is attributed to the storyteller, real or fictitious. Peterson is a real, she is the former resident director to Los Angeles’ Mark Taper Forum. O’Hare is also a real, but he is best known for his fictitious identities such as the Vampire King of Mississippi, Russell Edgington, in television’s “True Blood,” and Dr. Sevard from the Oscar-nominated “Dallas Buyers Club.”

The playwriting duo worked from Robert Fagles translation of the Iliad, an epic poem of the horrors of war, written with lyrical beauty. Metaphors spill out like the blood of a freshly-stabbed Trojan soldier.

The show is directed by Jesse Berger, Artistic Director of NYC’s Red Bull Theater, and known to Pittsburgh audiences as the director of “Circle Mirror Transformation” and some other Public shows. Drachmas to donuts, “An Iliad” will be a defining moment in his career.

“An Iliad” is a story of war and remembrance. It’s a story of heroes and villains. Actually, it’s the story of the Olympian gods playing chess with living pieces. All the mortals suffer with trauma and grief, pain and death. The gods are most definitely crazy.

It begins on a near-barren stage. It looks like the Production Stage Manager, Fred Noel, and Assistant Stage Manager, Kelly Haywood, weren’t finished constructing the set. The Poet (Bougere) trod on a, dare I say, Spartan stage. After a while, the seemingly random location, a dilapidated warehouse, becomes an integral centerpiece.

Before he recants his tale, he invokes the Muses, and bids them to aid him in the telling of his story. After seeing the entirety of the play, it can be easily assumed that the Muses smiled upon him.

The Iliad is an epic poem, a story about the final days of the nine-year Trojan War. The protagonist does not take sides. He talks of heroes both Trojan and Greek; the virtuous Achilles and righteous Hector.

Our poet does not speak in dactylic hexameter, but the modern cadence of an American storyteller like Spalding Gray. This version of the Iliad is more Moth than myth. It’s both funny and tragic in a way all good stories are.

There is a long moment when the Poet recites the names of wars fought around the globe. It’s a somber diatribe about the human condition. It seems to go on for far too long, and then you realize, that’s exactly the point. Wars go on and on, from the sea of Troy to the French-Indian War, the Korean War, to Afghanistan and back again; a continual battle drum beating rhythmically as steady, constant and unknowable as the human heart.

The play is history and literature combined with masterful stagecraft. It is a stunning performance. Bougere is amazing, transforming into warriors, kings, gods and goddesses before your eyes. His Achilles is a commanding force of nature; his Priam is grief-stricken old man; his Hermes is fleet and fey. It is a song that should be sung in schools, educational and dramatic; a great work for the ages.

Go to “An Iliad” and let the Poet take you on a sensual odyssey.

“An Iliad” runs from April 6 at the O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA.

For more information, tickets and pricing contact the Pittsburgh Public Theater at www.ppt.org

Teagle F. Bougere as The Poet in AN ILIAD. Photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater.

March 14, 2014

Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh and Wigle Whiskey join forces for pairing dinner

On Tuesday March 25, 2014 Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh will present a 4-course Wigle Whiskey Pairing Dinner with their Strip District neighbors, Wigle Whiskey. Executive Chef Jeremy Voytish has prepared a menu featuring classic Italian dishes to be paired with the many nuances of various locally distilled whiskeys.

WATCH/LISTEN: ‘Burgh Vivant’s interview with Executive Chef of Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh, Jeremy Voytish.

Reservations required. $48 per person plus taxes and gratuities.

Antipasti: Gorgonzola stuffed Arancine with shaved Proscuitto San Danielle, extra virgin olive oil. PAIRING: Ginever – Double Barrel Negroni

Primi: Bucatini all’Amatriciana, bucatini pasta, crushed tomatoes, smoked bacon. PAIRING: Wheat – Aged, Neat

Secondo: Grilled Lamb Scottadito, spinach and herb spaetzel, whiskey balsamic reduction. PAIRING: Rye – Aged, Rocks

Dolci: Sicilian Cassata Cake, Landlocked rum soaked cake, sweet ricotta & pistachio crema, chocolate rum pastry cream, candied orange. PAIRING: Rum – Hot Rum Cider

Reservations may be made by calling 412.552.0150

WATCH/LISTEN: ‘Burgh Vivant’s interview with chef, restauranteur, and author Lidia Bastianich.

March 13, 2014

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre presents “Don Quixote” with orchestra

2013-2014 Season Finale Features Festive, Grand-scale Classic April 11-13, at the Benedum

PITTSBURGH, PA – A ballet for the adventurous and imaginative, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre concludes its 2013-2014 Season with the daring “Don Quixote,” presented with the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Orchestra April 11-13, at the Benedum Center.

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production of “Don Quixote,” staged by PBT Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr, features elaborate sets, bold costumes and classical choreography with a Spanish flair. Inspired by the literary classic, “Don Quixote” has mesmerized audiences with complex choreography, balletic bravado and virtuoso variations for more than a century.

WATCH/LISTEN: ‘Burgh Vivant’s interview with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director, Terrence S. Orr

“Don Quixote” premiered in 1869 at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow with choreography by Marius Petipa, considered the “father of classical ballet.” This production was later restaged by Alexander Gorsky, and the resulting Petipa/Gorsky version has endured today. The intricate footwork and bravura performances of “Don Quixote” showcase the technique, artistry and athleticism of PBT dancers. At the height of its virtuosic variations, the show-stopping grand pas de deux of the wedding scene is considered to be one of the most technically-demanding sequences in classical ballet. Set to one of Ludwig Minkus’ most masterful ballet scores, the vibrancy of the production comes to life through charismatic characters, comedic touches and tour de force dancing.

“’Don Quixote’ features some of the most exciting dancing in classical ballet,” said PBT Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr. “This is a rich and festive production that brings together themes of love, hope and adventure and, throughout, keeps the virtuosic choreography front and center.”

The novel “Don Quixote de la Mancha” by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes was published in two installments in 1605 and 1615. The story follows the extravagant Spanish nobleman Alonso Quixana as he seeks adventure under the pseudonym Don Quixote. Along with his sidekick Sancho Panza, Don Quixote bravely sets out to revive chivalry. The novel has long been considered a classic because of its comedic approach to themes of courage, idealism and deception. The ballet portrays episodes of this classic novel.

Danced in three acts, “Don Quixote” tells the story of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza as they set out to find Dulcinea, Don Quixote’s version of the ideal woman. In a village, they encounter Kitri, the daughter of Lorenzo. In the midst of the excitement surrounding Don Quixote’s visit, Kitri runs away with her lover, Basilio, to escape an arranged marriage to the vain nobleman Gamache. Don Quixote and Sancho Panza follow, believing that Kitri is Don Quixote’s Dulcinea. When they find the lovers, however, Don Quixote realizes that Kitri belongs with Basilio. In one of the ballet’s most famous scenes, Don Quixote foolishly attacks a windmill he thinks is endangering his Dulcinea. Lorenzo and Gamache eventually catch up with the runaways and try to force Kitri to marry Gamache. Basilio, her true love, pretends to commit suicide, and Kitri cleverly convinces her father to allow her to wed her lover’s “corpse.”

Lorenzo finally gives in to his daughter’s wishes, and at once Basilio “comes back to life.” Lorenzo and Gamache reluctantly accept Kitri’s choice, and Kitri and Basilio are happily married at the ballet’s conclusion. Don Quixote congratulates the happy couple and continues his lifelong quest for honor and adventure.

Tickets start at $25.75, and can be purchased online at www.pbt.org, by calling 412-456-6666 or visiting the Box Office at Theater Square.

Show Times:

· Friday, April 11, at 8 p.m.

· Saturday, April 12, at 2 p.m.

· Saturday, April 12, at 8 p.m.

· Sunday, April 13, at 2 p.m.

March 12, 2014

Pittsburgh CLO announces RING OF FIRE cast

Pittsburgh CLO is proud to announce the cast for the rousing musical hit Ring of Fire, which will run May 22 through August 17 at the CLO Cabaret. Tickets start at $34.75 and are available at CLOCabaret.com, by calling 412-456-6666 or visiting the Box Office at Theater Square.

Cast (In Alphabetical Order)

Jay Hitt is a gifted singer/songwriter and accomplished guitarist who last appeared at the CLO Cabaret in Always…Patsy Cline. He was voted Best Acoustic Musician by the readers of Pittsburgh City Paper twice. His song, “Tracy Loves Ray” was named Best Song in the Canadian Narrative Music Contest, where he also received an Honorable Mention for “Through The Window.” Mr. Hitt is the recipient of Best Song awards on Broadjam.com, Songwriter Universe and Songoftheyear.com. With the release of his seventh CD, “Greetings from the Wilderness,” Mr. Hitt continues to “honor his gifts, work at his craft, respect his audience and achieve excellence,” as one reviewer put it.

Paul Koudouris is a graduate of Point Park University’s Conservatory Theatre Program making his Pittsburgh CLO debut. Regional Theatre: RENT (Roger), All Shook Up (Chad), Chess (Anatoly), Oklahoma! (Curly) and A Night with Janis Joplin (Guitarist/Singer). Mr. Koudouris has also released an original pop/folk music album which can be found at www.paulkmusic.com.

Mitch Marois just completed his BFA in Musical Theatre at Carnegie Mellon University. As a member of Theatre Plastique he appeared in Saints!, winning Best Musical at the 2013 New York Fringe Festival. A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, Mr. Marois has appeared in productions of 4 Saints in 3 Acts, Romeo and Juliet, You Can’t Take it With You and The Wild Party (Lippa) while at CMU. He also choreographed and assisted on productions of The Drowsy Chaperone, Urinetown! The Musical, Mozart’s La Finta Giardiniera, Once on This Island, The Wild Party and various dance concerts.

Jon Rohlf is a Musical Theatre graduate from Point Park University where he last performed as “Band Leader” in Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson. Other Point Park credits include “Huck” in Huck Finn and “Floyd” in Dark of the Moon. Other roles include “Antony” in Sweeney Todd and “Kyle” in Legally Blonde The Musical among others.

Nicole Stefonek is a Wisconsin native who holds a BFA in musical theater performance from St. Mary’s University of Winona, MN. After graduating and performing extensively throughout the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, she moved to New York City where she wrote and performed for numerous Off-Broadway and cabaret venues. Favorite productions include: The Jamal Lullabies (P.S.122 NYC), What the Folk?! (The Duplex Cabaret), Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding (Minneapolis), The Rocky Horror Show (Minneapolis) and Side Show (St.Paul).

Erika Strasburg is a Carnegie Mellon University graduate making her Pittsburgh CLO Cabaret debut. Other Pittsburgh credits include A Musical Christmas Carol and Pittsburgh CLO’s Gallery of Heroes program, Quantum Theatre and City Theatre Company.

Santino Tomasetti is a graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Credits include “Holiday Songbook” at Lincoln Center (writer) and Vietnam at 50 for the New York Historical Society. Mr. Tomasetti is joining Pittsburgh CLO for the first time.

The Creative Team

Guy Stroman (Director & Choreographer) directed and choreographed Forever Plaid for the inaugural production of the CLO Cabaret. He also directed and choreographed that show for the fifth anniversary of the theater, as well as Plaid Tidings in 2007 and 2013. He has directed numerous productions of plays and musicals around the country and in New York, including: Driving Miss Daisy and The Glass Menagerie, both starring Sandy Duncan, The King and I, starring Lou Diamond Phillips (Best Director Award), Twelfth Night, Loot (Best Production Award), 1776 (Best Director Award), Man of La Mancha (Audience Favorite Award), and Shakespeare’s R&J, to name a few. Mr. Stroman originated the role of Frankie in the original Forever Plaid in New York, London’s West End, and Los Angeles, where he won the L.A. Drama Critics Award for Best Actor.

Chris “Red” Blisset (Music Director) is joining Pittsburgh CLO for the first time. Other credits include: Stand By Your Man (two national tours – Actor, MD), Ring of Fire (Director, MD, Actor, all over the country), Pump Boys and Dinettes (Director, MD, Actor, all over), Cotton Patch Gospel, The Full Monty, Twelfth Night, Keep on the Sunny Side, Smoke on the Mountain, Plaid Tidings, Honky-Tonk Highway and Civil War (Actor/Musical Director/Director in various projects). He can be seen coast-to-coast and on YouTube doing stand-up comedy. He comes from New York City where he is developing the new musical Basquiat.

The Story

“WALK THE LINE” IN AN EXPERIENCE SURE TO LIFT YOUR HEART & STIR YOUR SOUL!
Ring of Fire is a journey into the heart of America, courtesy of one of our most beloved musical poets–Johnny Cash. In Ring of Fire, a remarkable cast of performers and musicians will pay homage to his music with the strength, humor and honesty that made Cash one of the greatest songwriters and most revered storytellers in American music. Ring of Fire features over 30 of the music legend’s songs such as “Country Boy,” “A Thing Called Love,” “Five Feet High and Rising,” “Daddy Sang Bass,” “I Walk the Line,” “I’ve Been Everywhere,” “The Man in Black” and his final hit, “Hurt.”

Performance Schedule for Ring of Fire

Wednesdays   7:30pm
Thursdays      1:00pm* & 7:30pm * Thursday matinees – 6/26, 7/31, 8/14
Fridays           7:30pm
Saturdays       2:00pm & 7:30pm
Sundays          2:00pm

Tickets

Tickets start at $34.75 and are available online at CLOCabaret.com, by calling 412-456-6666 or at the Box Office at Theater Square. Groups of 10 or more can call the Group Sales Hotline at 412-325-1582 to learn more about special discounts, priority seating and corporate discounts. Visit pittsburghCLO.org for more information.

2014 CLO Cabaret Series

Ring of Fire will join the world premiere of Judge Jackie Justice and the hilarious return of Dixie’s Tupperware Party to complete the 2014 Cabaret Series. Three-Show Cabaret Series Subscriptions are on sale now and can be purchased for $100 (a 25% savings!) by calling 412-281-2822. Individual tickets for Dixie’s Tupperware Party will be on sale at a later date.

Pittsburgh CLO media members may access photos and other show materials by visiting the Press Room at pittsburghCLO.org. When prompted, simply enter “pressroom” as the username and “pittstadium” as the password.

March 12, 2014

University of Pittsburgh STAGES presents IN THE HEIGHTS

IN THE HEIGHTS at University of Pittsburgh Stages asks, “What does it mean to belong?”

Washington Heights is a tight-knit community where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. Find out what it takes to make a living, what it costs to have a dream, and what it means to be home in the heights.

Director Lisa Jackson-Schebetta is interested in moving away from the standard Broadway production staging, instead favoring a more abstract approach to the play’s themes. She says, “In the Heights characters identify primarily as Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican or African-American. Its score consists of hip-hop, latin jazz, merengue and salsa. The characters, story, music and dance communicate the rich and complex interplay of African, Hispanic, American and Caribbean histories. The show engages with the questions: How does a person belong . . . in a city, in a nation, to a family, to a history?”

UP Stages is collaborating with a number of professional artists, including musicians of diverse heritage, Pittsburgh-based actor Ricardo Vila-Roger, and the STAYCEE PEARL dance project (SPdp). Additionally, Jackson-Schebetta is collaborating with multiple departments at Pitt to host a research and practice symposium on April 4^th and 5^th that will examine many of the key themes addressed in In the Heights. The symposium is free and open to members of the university and larger Pittsburgh community.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts offers BA, MA, MFA and PhD degrees in Theatre Arts. All faculty members are active in teaching, research, and artistic projects. For more information about the University of Pittsburgh Stages visit www.play.pitt.edu

IN THE HEIGHTS

Written by QUIARA ALEGRíA HUDES,

Music & Lyrics by LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA,

Directed by LISA JACKSON-SCHEBETTA

Charity Randall Theatre, 4200 Fifth Ave

March 27, 2014 – April 6, 2014

Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8PM
Sunday Matinees at 2PM

TICKETS: Call 412-624-PLAY or visit www.play.pitt.edu

March 12, 2014March 12, 2014

Pittsburgh Opera presents one of the world’s most beloved operas, LA BOHÈME

photo by David Bachman.

Pittsburgh, PA… Pittsburgh Opera continues its 75th anniversary season with one of the world’s most beloved operas, Puccini’s LA BOHÈME. On stage at the Benedum Center March 29 – April 6, this story of Bohemian friends struggling through poverty and illness in 1830s Paris is cherished for its romantic, yet tragic story, and soaring music that includes many familiar melodies. A roster of outstanding singers leads the production, anchored by a marvelous set designed by Tony Award-winner Michael Yeargan (for Light in the Piazza, 2005).

LA BOHÈME brings the role and company debut of Leah Crocetto as Mimí; the 2010 Metropolitan National Council Auditions Grand Finals winner, she has been effusively praised for her “voice of size, beauty, and agility” (Chicago Tribune) and “gorgeous, well-supported sound” (San Francisco Chronicle). Due to scheduling issues, the role of Rodolfo will be shared by David Lomelí (Lucia di Lammermoor, 2011) and Eric Barry, in a company debut. (Mr. Lomelí appears March 29, April 1 and 4; Mr. Barry appears in the April 3 Student Matinee and April 6.) Pittsburgh Opera also welcomes Troy Cook, in his company debut as Marcello; Pittsburgher Sari Gruber (Don Giovanni, 2012) returns as Musetta, bringing “comedic grace and vulnerability to the role, as well as glorious vocal talent” (Austin Chronicle). Pittsburghers in the cast also include Kevin Glavin (The Barber of Seville, 2010) in a reprise of his hilarious dual role of Benoit/Alcindoro, and Dimitrie Lazich, who debuts as Schaunard. Resident Artist Phillip Gay appears as Colline.

Music Director Antony Walker returns to conduct the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra and Chorus. Tomer Zvulun (debut) and Helena Binder (Fidelio, 2005) are co-directors on LA BOHÈME. Resident Artist George Cederquist is assistant director.

Pittsburgh Opera’s LA BOHÈME also brings the annual Student Matinee on Thursday, April 3 at the Benedum Center. In this performance, Resident Artists take lead roles and perform with Maestro Walker and the orchestra for about 2800 school children from around the region. Jasmine Muhammad appears as Mimí and Meredith Lustig appears as Musetta, alongside Eric Barry (Rodolfo), Kevin Glavin (Benoit/Alcindoro), Phillip Gay (Colline) and Dimitrie Lazich (Schaunard) from the mainstage cast. Resident Artist George Cederquist is stage director for the Student Matinee.

Tickets to LA BOHÈME start at $12, with all performances at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, 7th Street and Penn Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh. For additional information, videos, photos, musical samples, cast biographies, and the full story of LA BOHÈME, visit www.pittsburghopera.org. To purchase tickets, call 412-456-6666 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

Facts about the opera

LA BOHÈME was conducted at its premiere by a young Arturo Toscanini; he also conducted it 50 years later in a recording with the NBC Symphony Orchestra. It is the only recording of a Puccini opera by the original conductor.

In 1957, a missing act for LA BOHÈME was found among librettist Luigi Illica’s belongings. Between the second and third acts, Musetta’s patron Alcindoro has cut her off and moved her furnishings into the courtyard to be sold. The Bohemians throw a party in the courtyard, and Musetta introduces Mimí to a viscount there. Rodolfo
becomes jealous when Mimì dances with the man, explaining Rodolfo’s Act 3 remarks about Mimì’s flirtatiousness, and Mimì’s dismay at Rodolfo’s jealousness.

Modern interpretations of LA BOHÈME include Baz Luhrmann’s 1990 Tony Award-winning Broadway show, set in 1957; Jonathan Larson’s 1996 Broadway smash hit RENT, in which the characters deal with AIDS; and Robin Norton-Hale’s 2009 production, set in modern-day London and taking place in the very pub where the performances were given, using audience members as extras for the Café scene.

The story, in brief
In their Latin Quarter garret in Paris, the near-destitute painter Marcello and poet Rodolfo try to keep warm on Christmas Eve by burning pages from Rodolfo’s latest drama. Their roommates Colline, a philosopher, and Schaunard, a musician, bring food, fuel, and money. When the landlord Benoit comes to collect the rent, they ply him with wine, then throw him out. As his friends leave for the Café Momus, Rodolfo remains behind to write. A pretty neighbor, Mimì, knocks at the door: her candle has gone out on the stairway. Rodolfo relights it, but Mimì then realizes she has lost her key. In the confusion, both candles are blown out. As they search for the key in the dark, their hands meet. They instantly fall in love. Expressing their joy in finding each other, Mimì and Rodolfo embrace and join Rodolfo’s friends at the Café.

Marcello’s former sweetheart Musetta makes a noisy entrance at the café on the arm of the elderly but wealthy Alcindoro. Trying to regain Marcello’s attention, she sings about her popularity. Sending Alcindoro off on an errand, she falls into Marcello’s arms and tells the waiter to charge everything to Alcindoro.

At dawn by a tavern on the snowy outskirts of Paris, Mimì searches for the place where Marcello and Musetta now live. When the painter emerges, she tells him of her distress over Rodolfo’s incessant jealousy, and says she believes it’s best that they part. When Rodolfo appears, Mimì hides, though Marcello thinks she has gone. The poet tells Marcello that he wants to separate from Mimì, citing her fickleness. Pressed for the real reason, he breaks down, saying that her illness will only grow worse in the poverty they share; he’s desperately afraid she will die. Overcome with tears, Mimì comes forward to bid her lover farewell. While Mimì and Rodolfo recall past happiness, Musetta quarrels with Marcello, who has caught her flirting. The painter and his mistress part, hurling insults at each other, but Mimì and Rodolfo decide to remain together until spring.

Later, both of them separated from their sweethearts, Rodolfo and Marcello lament their loneliness. Colline and Schaunard bring a meager meal. To lighten their spirits, the four stage a dance, when suddenly Musetta bursts in to tell them that Mimì is outside, too weak to come in. Rodolfo carries her in, while Musetta asks Marcello to sell her earrings for medicine and Colline goes off to pawn his overcoat. Left alone, Mimì and Rodolfo recall their first meeting and their happy days, but she is seized with violent coughing. The others return and Mimì drifts into unconsciousness. When Rodolfo at last realizes that she is dead, he throws himself despairingly on her body, calling her name.

The 2013-14 Pittsburgh Opera season is generously supported by PNC.
Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield is the production sponsor.

American Eagle Outfitters is the Friday Night Sponsor.
Larrimor’s is our 75^th anniversary partner during LA BOHÈME.

Cast and Artistic Team (abbreviated list; cast is listed in order of vocal appearance)

Marcello Troy Cook +

Rodolfo David Lomelì (3/29; 4/1, 4/4)

Eric Barry (4/3, 4/6)

Colline Phillip Gay *

Schaunard Dimitrie Lazich +

Benoit Kevin Glavin **

Parpignol Christopher Toeller

Alcindoro Kevin Glavin **

Musetta Sari Gruber

Conductor Antony Walker

Co-Directors Tomer Zvulun +
Helena Binder

Set Designer Michael Yeargan

Costume Designer Martin Pakledinaz #

Lighting Designer Andrew Ostrowski

Asst. Conductor Glenn Lewis

Chorus Master Mark Trawka

Associate Coach/Pianist James Lesniak

Hair & Makeup Designer James Geier

LA BOHÈME set is owned by Pittsburgh Opera; costumes from Seattle Opera.

+ Pittsburgh Opera debut

* Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist

** Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist alumni
# Deceased

Tickets and Group Discounts

Tickets for all performances of LA BOHÈME start at $12. Group discounts are available. For tickets, call (412) 456-6666 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org. For discounted group tickets (6 or more), contact Randy Adams at 412-281-0912, x 213.

Related Events

Opera Up Close: LA BOHÈME

Sunday, March 16 – 2:00 p.m.

George R. White Opera Studio, Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters (2425 Liberty Ave.)

Opera Up Close: LA BOHÈME includes an in-depth musical analysis of the opera, with Maestro Walker and other directors and artists from the production. Admission is $5; free to members of FRIENDS of Pittsburgh Opera. For more information, call (412) 281-0912 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

Bohemian Rhapsody

Thursday, March 20 – 5:30 p.m.
Larrimor’s Downtown, One PNC Plaza, 249 Fifth Ave.

Pittsburgh Opera and Larrimor’s celebrate their 75th anniversaries together in this fun and fashionable event. Highlights include French-inspired cocktails and foods; palm readers, fortune-tellers, can-can dancers reminiscent of Moulin Rouge, and music from La bohème by Pittsburgh Opera’s Resident Artists. Admission is free but RSVP is required: call Katie Gaines at 412-281-0912, ext. 225 or e-mail kgaines@pittsburghopera.org. For more information, visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

LA BOHÈME Previews on WQED-FM 89.3 and WQED.ORG

Saturday, March 22 – 12:30 p.m.; Friday, March 28 – 7:00 p.m.

Hosted by WQED’s Stephen Baum and Anna Singer, and broadcast over the airwaves as well as the WQED website, the LA BOHÈME preview gives listeners an engaging introduction to the singers, music and story of the opera. For more information, visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

FRIENDS of Pittsburgh Opera South Hills Chapter event
Sunday, March 23 – 4:00 p.m.

Private Home in the South Hills

Join FRIENDS of Pittsburgh Opera for a talk entitled “From the Floor to the Flyrail: Secrets of Scenery” given by Pittsburgh Opera Head Carpenter Sean West, at the home of South Hills Chapter members. Admission is free; a donation of hors d’oeuvres or wine is welcome. RSVP by March 21 at 412-563-3808. Directions to the home will be given at RSVP. For more information, call Marilyn Egan at (412) 281-0912, ext. 242 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

Pre-Opera Talks

Benedum Center Main Floor

Ticketholders are invited to attend a Pre-Opera Talk on LA BOHÈME one hour before each performance’s curtain in the Orchestra Section (Main Floor) of the Benedum Center. Learn about the composer and the story of the opera. Free to all ticketholders.

Audio Description: LA BOHÈME
Tuesday, April 1

Benedum Center Main Floor

Ticketholders with visual impairments are invited to use Pittsburgh Opera’s Audio Commentary service at our Tuesday performances. Trained volunteers describe the scenery, costumes, and stage action via headphones. Those wishing to use Audio Description should reserve seats to the Tuesday, April 1 performance: contact Randy Adams at 412-281-0912, ext. 213 or groups@pittsburghopera.org. Braille and large-print opera programs are also available in the Benedum Grand Lobby.

Meet the Artists of LA BOHÈME

Tuesday, April 1

Immediately following the opera, in the Benedum Lower Lobby

Ticketholders for the Tuesday, April 1 performance of LA BOHÈME are invited to gather in the Benedum Lower Lobby immediately following the performance for interviews with General Director Christopher Hahn and the stars of the opera. This event is free to all Tuesday performance ticketholders.

March 10, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli – Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (3/13 – 3/16)

Every week we find the Top Five Fun Things to do in Pittsburgh. Things are going to get a little green for St. Patrick’s Day. Here is the list for March 13 – March 16.

God Hates Jags

Get your laugh on the track when local Comedian Davon Magwood records his comedy, live in front of a studio audience at the Rex Theater on Friday, March 14. Susie Meister, Stoph Orlok Edison, Lana Aurora Roskin and Mitch Beardczykowski will also be performing. Magwood is best known in and around Pittsburgh as the creator of the “God Hates Jags” T-shirt, created when Magwood had a Twitter feud with the Westboro Baptist Church.

For more information, go to http://www.showclix.com/event/s20140314dmag

Belly up

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the family at the Student/Teacher Hafla. The Hafla mixes Arabic and Celtic music, with a little Spanish, Indian and fusion flavors thrown in to add some extra spice. The event features live music (Tom Moran, Amun Raqs, Rich Ermlick and the Irish Players), a DJ (DJ Pandemic) and belly-dancers and bagpipers. The event will be Emceed by WQED’s Kweilin Nassar.

The doors open at 7:30 with a show at 8:00 on Saturday, March 15 at the Wilkins School Community Center, 7604 Charleston Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218. For more information visit www.jemeenabellydance.com .

Once More with Feeling

An Irish musician meets a Czech immigrant and they make beautiful music together in “Once.” See “Once” at least once this weekend. The Tony Award winning show (it won 8 Tony Awards, including best musical in 2012) is at the Benedum Center downtown.

Put on your green shirt and go down to The Benedum Center, 719 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. Call 412-456-6666 or click here: http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/37640/once

Angels in Outfield

The story of America’s first black airmen is a powerful important story in our history. “Black Angels Over Tuskegee” tells the tale of some of WWII’s most courageous heroes, fighting Nazis abroad and prejudice within the United States.

Fly over to the Byham Theater, 101 6^th Street, Pittsburgh. For more information, go to: http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/38917/black-angels-over-tuskegee

An Important Comedy

The Prime Stage Theater group is producing Oscar Wilde’s famous and funny “The Importance of Being Earnest” at the New Hazlett. It’s a trivial comedy for serious people.

Come to the city, pretend you’re someone else and catch “The Importance of Being Earnest,” at the New Hazlett Theater, Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh.

Call 724-773-0700 or go to http://newhazletttheater.org
Bonus item:

Hello Judy!

Pittsburgh native Judy Knaiz discusses her Hollywood career at a live on-stage interview with Brian Edward from ‘Burgh Vivant (the website you’re currently in). Knaiz played Gussie Granger (AKA Ernestina Simple) in the 1969 film musical “Hello Dolly,” with Barbara Streisand and Walter Matthau. The interview is followed by a screening of the aforementioned film, “Hello Dolly.”

Say “Hello, Judy!” and see “Hello Dolly” at the George R. White Theater at Point Park University, 414 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA.

This ‘Burgh Vivant sponsored event is free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. RSVP to its@burghvivant.org

-MB