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May 8, 2015

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (5/14 – 5/17)

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

Here are the Top Five Things to do in Pittsburgh the week of May 14 through May 17.

Superior Motors

The bones come to rest. Barebones has a permanent space with its new black box theater aptly named the Barebones Black Box Theater. They are debuting Miki Johnson’s “American Falls” in their brand new space. Patrick Jordan, patriarch of barebones, directs a fantastic cast of locals such as Cary Anne Spear, Sarah Silk and Connor McCanlus. You can find the new Barebones Black Box Theater at 1211 Braddock Avenue, Braddock, PA 15104 (the former site of the Superior Motors car dealership). For more information, go to http://barebonesproductions.com/

Motor City

You think your neighbors are trouble? Welcome to “Detroit.” Lisa D’Amour’s version, at least. In a suburb just outside a city that might be “Detroit,” Ben and Mary see sudden signs of life at the deserted house next door and invite their new neighbors Sharon and Kenny over for a barbecue. Things get strange.You can get to “Detroit” by way of the Maker Theater, 5950 Ellsworth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa 15232. For more information, go to http://www.12peerstheater.org/

Bet on Black

Race to the Coffin Comedy presents “Comedy Roulette” featuring Tim Ross, John Pridmore, James J. Hamilton, Andy Picarro and hosted by John Dick Winters. It’s a benefit show supporting Artisan Tattoo and all proceeds will go to Jason Angst and family. “Comedy Roulette” spins into Club Café on May 15 for a 10 pm show. For more information, go to http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=5811015&pl=opus

Mid production

Spring is just beginning but “Midsummer” is going by quickly. It’s not too late to catch this show at the City Theater. When a divorce lawyer finds a small time crook in her her basement wine bar, the unlikely pair goes on an alcohol- and adventure-filled romp, discovering that there are second chances at life—and love. It’s not a musical, but a play with songs. Bask in the joy of “Midsummer” at the City Theatre, 1300 Bingham Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. For more information, go to http://www.citytheatrecompany.org/

Don’t Fence me in

August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fences” is at the Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company runs until the end of the month. Set in the Pittsburgh’s Hill District in the 1950s, “Fences” evokes the early rumblings of the civil rights movement. The play follows Troy Maxson’s struggle to accept the generational changes that allowed his son to succeed in ways Troy never could. Director Mark Clayton Southers brings the Hill downtown to 937 Liberty Avenue, 3^rd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information, go to http://www.pghplaywrights.com/

-MB.

May 5, 2015May 5, 2015

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (5/7 – 5/10)

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

Here are the Top Five things to do Pittsburgh this weekend, May 7 through May 10 (Mother’s Day Weekend).

Dance! Dance! Dance!

Kelly Strayhorn Theater presents a multi-venue festival showcasing exciting new work by young choreographers from Pittsburgh and around the country at the “newMoves Contemporary Dance Festival.” The festival features performances along with workshops, artist discussions, parties, and more.
You can join them for a pre-show mixer one hour before each of performance. It kicks off Thursday, May 7 at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. For more information, go to http://kelly-strayhorn.org

Well, Hello!

Dolly Gallagher Levi returns to Yonkers and the stage in “Hello, Dolly!” You’ll hear the classic numbers include “Put On Your Sunday Clothes,” “Ribbons Down My Back,” “Before the Parade Passes By,” and, of course, “Hello Dolly.” Catch the classic at the Grand Theater, 207 S. 2^nd Avenue, Elizabeth, PA 15037. For more information, go to http://www.monriverarts.org.

Why be Normal?

The Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, “Next to Normal” explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. Find out what lies beneath the surface, in “Next to Normal” at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie, PA 15106. For more information, go to http://www.stage62.org/show/?action=view&productionID=31

Build a Better Mousetrap

London’s longest running play comes to Pittsburgh. Agatha Christie’s “Mousetrap” opens May 8. Find out about all the mysteries of Monkswell Manor. Opening night is also “Cheese Night.” “Mousetrap” is at the New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. For more information, go to http://www.primestage.com/shows_and_tickets/index.html

Fringe on Top

Pittsburgh’s innovative performing arts festival returns for a second year. If you’re looking for a unique theater experience on the fringe, check out their slate of shows like “Bortle 8,” “Gypsy Funk,” “Who is Bob Friendly” and “Songs from a Lost Civilization and Other Stories.” There’s also a performance of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” If you’ve never seen a play about Hockey before, it’s time to check (get it) out “Intentional Icing.” The Fringe is happening all over the North Side this year. For a map, a schedule or more information, go to http://www.pittsburghfringe.org/

-MB.

April 28, 2015August 12, 2019

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (4/30 – 5/3)

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

Here are the Top Five Things to do in Pittsburgh the weekend of April 30 through May 3.

Harmonic Blasphemy

The Pittsburgh New Works Festival celebrates 25 years with special performances of two previous “Best Play” Donna Award winners — “Harmonic Convergence” (1995) by Scott Sickles (General Hospital) and “The Blasphemy of Bees” (2009) by Christopher Dimond (Pittsburgh CLO‘s “Judge Jackie Justice”). Both playwrights have gone on to exciting professional writing careers and both will be returning for this evening’s event to participate in a post-show talkback! It’s at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall on Friday, May 1 on 25 W. Main Street, Carnegie, PA 15106. For more information, go to http://www.pittsburghnewworks.org/

Brass Ones

Brass bands invade Pittsburgh at “Pittonkatonk” It will feature the Pitchblack Brass Band, Black Bear Combo, Detroit Party Marching Band and many more. Come out and hear the music play on Saturday at 3:00 at the Vietnam Veterans Pavilion in Schenley Park. For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/events/736736263113518/

Aunt Hill

Two students, Charley Wyckham and Jack Chesney, are in love with two young ladies, Amy and Kitty. But a protective uncle won’t let them anywhere near the boys. Charley and Jack talk their friend Babbs into posing as “Charley’s Aunt.” Naturally, comedic trouble ensues. “Charley’s Aunt” is at the McKeesport Little Theater,1614 Coursin Street, McKeesport, PA 15132. For more information, go to http://mckeesportlittletheater.com/

Postcards from Paris

Have you heard? “Jacques Brel is Alive & Well and Living in Paris.” Okay, that’s the title of PICT’s new show. It’s a desperately romantic story told with music, but it’s not a musical really. It’s at the Pierce Studio, Trust Arts Education Center, 805-807 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. For more information, go to http://www.picttheatre.org/

Braddock Rises

Barebones Theater opens “American Falls.” The play is a modern day “Our Town,” as it follows the lives of six living people & two dead ones in American Falls, Idaho. Rush over to their new theater space at the barebones theater, 1211 Braddock Ave, Braddock, PA. For more information, go to http://barebonesproductions.com/

-MB.

April 27, 2015April 27, 2015

Review: PETER PAN, Pittsburgh Musical Theater

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

It’s not every day a boy comes flying through your window looking for his shadow, but Peter Pan (Michelle Coben) is no ordinary boy. Actually, in the Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s “Peter Pan,” as many before it, Pan is no boy whatsoever. However, in this review, Pan will be referred to in a masculine pronoun, even though Corben is female.

Wendy Darling (Jillian Ferguson) and her brothers Jonathan (Brecken Newton Farrell) and Michael (Benjamin Godley-Fisher) are preparing for bed, just as their parents (played by Katie Oxman and Tim Hartman) are preparing for a night on the town. Mrs. Darling, however, has a sense of trepidation about leaving the house, mostly because she believes she saw a boy hovering out the second story window. Mr. Darling scolds the dog, Nana (Rush Hodgin), and escorts her out of the children’s bedroom. The watchdog was the only thing keeping the elfin boy and his sidekick Tinkerbell out of their room.

Right after Wendy and her brothers are tucked into bed, Pan shows up to capture his wayward shadow. When Peter Pan flies into the Darling home for the first time, it’s a magical moment.

Peter and Wendy meet. It is a fateful turn of events for both of them. Wendy agrees to fly off with him to Never Land. Accompanied by her younger siblings Michael and John, who are best distinguished by their props, a top hat and teddy bear, respectively, the four prepare for their journey to Never Land (“Second star to the right, and straight on till morning.”)

After a sprinkling of pixie dust, you just need to think happy thoughts, and, before you know it, you’re flying! Flying! Even though the wire is fairly visible, it’s easy to believe in the magic, because, deep down, everyone wants to believe in the magic of Peter Pan.

Soon, we’re off to Never Land where we encounter mysterious mermaids, exotic Indians and an infamous pirate and his inept crew. The pirate, of course, is Captain Hook (Tim Hartman). Hook and his first officer Smee (Quinn Patrick Shannon) are aided by a ghastly group of scoundrels. Arrr, matey, this crew of pirates includes a Pittsburgh Steeler. Charlie Batch is one of Hook’s dastardly deckhands.

There are mermaids, pirates, Indians, dancing animals and fairies. Author and playwright J.M. Barrie threw everything into his classic story about a boy who doesn’t want to grow up. He pretty much stuck in every conceivable character from a child’s imagination. The 1954 musical version still holds up. It’s an exciting show with fun for the whole family. It appeals mostly to children and those adults who refuse to grow up (me!).

Coben is a perfect Peter Pan. She carries a large portion of the show deftly conveying Peter’s personality, with and charm.

Hartman is a delightful Hook. In the manner of the best one-handed pirate captains, he minces and chortles, preens and roars, chewing the scenery with muster. Shannon’s Smee is a great comedic foil to the craven captain.

Ferguson manages to keep up with both hero and villain. She’s a darling Wendy Darling.

With a few notable exceptions, it’s a very, very young cast. Don’t let them fool you. They are very talented kids.

The first scene drags a bit, until Pan shows up. Then, the show zips by.

Barrie’s classic story, even makes you cheer on the contemptuous fairy Tinkerbell, who nearly gets Wendy killed, but redeems herself by drinking poison meant for Peter. Tink is played by a trick of green laser light and a tinkling of the piano, but she is a visceral and vital part of the show. After drinking the aforementioned poison, Peter breaks the fourth wall and everyone is clapping along to save her life. It’s important to note, fairies only survive if you believe in them. I believe.

The costumes are exquisite thanks to Kim Brown of Spotlight Costumes. Tiger Lily (Victoria Buchtan) looked like a dancing sunset. The Indian chieftain and her Indians look particularly beautiful in their flowing polychromatic costumes, especially during Lisa Elliot’s finely crafted choreography.

With elegant costumes, excellent make-up (by Christopher Patrick), great singing and dancing, “Peter Pan” is fun for the whole family.

You don’t need much else to enjoy the show. After all, as the author and playwright J.M. Barrie once said, “All you need is faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust.”

(“Peter Pan” runs through May 3 at the Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh for more information, go to http://www.pittsburghmusicals.com)

-MB.

April 21, 2015April 21, 2015

PICT Classic Theatre to offer adult acting classes

Pittsburgh, PA – PICT Classic Theatre, now in its nineteenth season, is pleased to unveil a series of Adult Theatre Classes— its newest program under the PICT Educates banner. Aimed at connecting the PICT professional theatrical community with the Pittsburgh community at large, PICT will offer classes in its new studio in the South Side for adults with an interest in acting.

PICT’s offices moved to 2403 Sidney Street on the South Side in early February, and the new facility provides space for administrative staff as well as a rehearsal studio. “We have always felt it would be an interesting addition to the Pittsburgh theatre scene,” explains PICT’s Artistic & Executive Director Alan Stanford,” and now that we have our own facility in which to operate, we are happy to offer classes.”

The adult classes, led by professional actor James FitzGerald and supported by members of the PICT family of artists, will be held in one-hour sessions on Mondays at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. from May 4 through November 30. These intimate classes, with a maximum of ten participants each, are designed to allow theatre professionals to hone their skills and to give theatre enthusiasts a chance to engage directly in the process.

Three different classes will be offered, each of which will be practical, not theoretical. First is Come As You Are and Get What You Need, which is an open-format class held every-other Monday at 6 p.m. (starting May 4) where participants bring any material they would like to improve, including traditional theatrical pieces for actors or speeches for the business professional. Next is Audition Preparation, held on alternating Mondays at 6 p.m. (starting May 11), which gives direct input into a person’s type, perceived strengths and ideas for audition material that might best suit the participant. The third is a Mock Audition, which will be held at 7:30 p.m. every Monday (starting May 4 and ending November 30), and an accompanist will be available in this class once a month. Classes are $10 each and must be purchased online by noon the day of the class. Walk up participants are not permitted.

The aim of offering classes for adults is to create an environment for the professional community and recent graduates to maintain and develop their individual talents. “This is not just for professional actors,” says Stanford. “This is for anybody who wants to partake, and it is an opportunity for adults who love theatre to experience the practice and skills required to be a professional.”

Guest Professionals: Jim FitzGerald, Karen Baum, Alan Stanford, Daina Michelle Griffith, Marty Giles, Ken Bolden

Mondays at 6pm and 7:30pm, 1 hour each, starting 5/4 and ending 11/30.

Ages 18+. Anyone under 18 must contact PICT for special permission to attend classes.

PICT 101 – Come As You Are and Get What You Need:

An hour long session with a working professional from the PICT family of artists who will offer advice, feedback or instruction on anything you might bring to the table for them to discuss or review. Rotating Mondays 6pm starting 5/4

PICT 102 – Audition Preparation:

An hour long session with a working professional from the PICT family of artists who will offer audition preparation insights into character traits, casting protocol and how to leverage your own core talents so you are best prepared for any type of audition opportunity. Rotating Mondays 6pm staring 5/11

PICT 103 – Mock Auditions:

An hour long session with a working professional from the PICT family of artists who will offer feedback on your headshot/resume, choice and length of material, and ways in which they believe you could improve your audition experience. Accompanists are available one class a month. Mondays 7:30pm starting 5/4

Schedule

Mondays

6pm-7pm (Come As You Are; Audition Preparation – in repertory)
7:30pm-8:30pm (Mock Audition)- Pianist & Keyboard available one class a month; check website for details and sign up to receive email.
Full Schedule: 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 6/1, 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/24, 8/31
9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30

Visit picttheatre.org or call our office at 412-561-6000 to purchase. Email classes@picttheatre.org for assistance.

PICT Classic Theatre is committed to the creation of high-quality, professional thought-provoking theatre of substance. As a theatre company, PICT promotes the community and region with education outreach, and also by consistently employing world-class talent who choose to call Pittsburgh their home. From the timeless truths that explore the depths of human nature, to the sharpest Irish wit— long after the curtain falls, PICT Classic Theatre seeks to remind audiences of the first moment they ever felt the power of a great performance.

April 21, 2015August 12, 2019

Preview: Bill’s Bar & Burger

On Thursday, April 16th, The Westin Convention Center Pittsburgh held an opening preview of its new restaurant BILL’S BAR & BURGER. The evening included samplings on Bill’s burgers and appetizers, with selections from the bar and music by DJ Digital Dave. Bill’s is filling the space previously occupied by the Original Fish Market, which bid farewell to the ‘Burgh late last year. For those of you missing the seafood, Bill’s will include a sushi bar overseen by Matt Lieu, former chef of the Original Fish Market. Bill’s Bar & Burger will have is official opening April 22nd.

From New York City to Atlantic City to the Steel City.

A lovely chat and a selection from the bar with Mary Gallagher of Willis Group Holdings.

Bartender Lisa Harris shows off a party favor and a smile.

April 20, 2015

THE ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF KENY MARSHALL AS THE DIRECTOR OF EXHIBITIONS

Pittsburgh, PA, April 20, 2015 —

The Andy Warhol Museum has appointed Keny Marshall as its Director of Exhibitions. Most recently Marshall was a consultant working with artists and museums to design, fabricate, and install interactive artworks and complex installation projects. His past experience has prepared him to ensure the quality of the exhibitions The Warhol mounts in Pittsburgh and globally. He assumes his role at The Warhol on April 28, 2015.

Marshall earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Louisiana State University, and he holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Tennessee. As a consultant, he worked on a variety of multifaceted projects in Pittsburgh including systems maintenance of the 2012 steel and fog sculpture Cloud Arbor, a collaboration among artist Ned Kahn, landscape architect Andi Cochran, and the Pittsburgh Children’s Museum; and specialty fabrication for Scott Hocking’s 2012 Mattress Factory installation Coronal Mass Ejection.

Marshall has also worked with a number of museums to oversee various facets of exhibition production and installation, including at Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas; Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles; State Museum of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg; and The Warhol’s sister institution Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh.

“We are very fortunate to have Keny join The Warhol as our new Director of Exhibitions,” says Patrick Moore, The Warhol’s managing director. “Keny’s experience working for a range of art and natural history institutions prepares him for the breadth and diversity of The Warhol’s collection, which includes both traditional art objects and unusual archival items.”

“I am thrilled to be joining The Warhol at such an exciting time,” says Marshall. “The museum has a refreshing approach to exhibitions that is both inventive and entrepreneurial, enabling audiences worldwide to connect with Warhol’s work in new ways. I look forward to working with such an innovative institution and this singular collection.”

April 20, 2015April 20, 2015

Review: OTHELLO, Pittsburgh Public Theater

by Michael “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

The green-eyed monster rears his ugly head in William Shakespeare’s “Othello.”

One lone malcontent, Iago (Jeremy Kushnier) decides to stir up a big, boiling pot of trouble when he decides he dislikes the new command structure in his regimen. The vicious ensign launches a treacherous campaign to undermine his new general, Othello the Moor (Teagle F. Bougere).

WATCH/LISTEN: ‘Burgh Vivant’s interview with Broadway actor and musician Jeremy Kushnier.

Teagle F. Bougere as Othello and Jeremy Kushnier as Iago. Photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater

Iago struts and frets about the stage with malicious glee. First he poisons the mind of Roderigo (Christopher Michael McFarland) when he learns that the Moor has married Desdemona (Amanda Leigh Cobb) in a secret ceremony. Iago and Roderigo approach Othello’s newfound father-in-law, a Venetian senator named Barbantio (Edward James Hyland), who was unaware that his daughter married the black general. Barbantio is unhappy with the new marriage, but when Desdemona gives an impassioned speech about her new husband, the senator racism melts away. If only all senators can be dissuaded from racism as easily (Hello, 21^st Century America, I’m looking at you).

The Duke of Venice (David Whalen) orders Othello to Cyprus to quell an uprising of Turks. Othello takes his Venetian army to the isle. Along with his assemblage of soldiers, he takes his new lieutenant Cassio, Iago, and Iago’s wife Emilia (Jessica Wortham), who also happens to be Desdemona’s attendant.

By the time they arrive in Cyprus, the Turkish soldiers have withdrawn when a frightful storm destroys their fleet. The Venetian forces celebrate, all but Iago, who uses the peacetime to wage an internal war. He pollutes Othello’s mind with thoughts of jealousy. Othello demands proof of his wife’s infidelity, and, as luck would have it, Desdemona drops a handkerchief.

Yes. A handkerchief! The fate of so many lives revolve around a tiny square piece of cloth. But this handkerchief is nothing to sneeze at (so to speak).

Iago plants the hanky on Cassio and seals his fate. “Othello” is a famous tragedy, so we know things aren’t going to end well. In the final act, the body count rises. Not as many die here as in “Macbeth” or “Hamlet,” but it’s a bloody final act.

And while the play is titled “Othello” but it is clearly Iago’s show. Kushnier does a superb job as the malevolent adversary. Iago is one of Shakespeare’s most sinister villains, often considered such because of the unique trust that Othello places in him, which he betrays while maintaining his reputation of honesty and dedication. Othello frequently refers to his ensign as “Honest Iago.” The incongruity of the appellation causes raucous laughter.

Actually, for a tragedy, “Othello,” under Ted Pappas’s direction, is played big and broad, and there are plenty of laughs. Most of the humor stems from Iago’s ignoble acts. He slithers about drawing the unsuspecting into his lair. Kushnier is a masterful villain. His scenes with the unwitting Roderigo are a joy to watch. Thanks to the talents of both men.

Teagle F. Bougere as Othello and Paul Terzenbach as Cassio. Photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater.

Any lesser actor would let Kushnier usurp the show from the titular star of the tale, but Bougere is more than a match for him. Othello’s jealousy is visceral, palpable. His rage shakes the stage. He commands the stage, chewing the sparse scenery. Some may find the show over-the-top, but Shakespeare is meant to be played to the highbrows and the cheap seats.

Because it is a show about soldiers, there are very few women around. Two of the roles are stereotypes (Madonna and whore), the fair and chaste Desdemona (a solid performance from Cobb), and the sly and lascivious Bianca (deftly played by Robin Abramson).

Teagle F. Bougere as Othello and Amanda Leigh Cobb as Desdemona. Photo: Pittsburgh Public Theater.

However, there is a third woman, Iago’s wife, Emilia. Her role is the juiciest of the female roles, even though could easily be considered “info-dump,” because she parses out a good deal of exposition in the play’s final moments. Wortham finds nuances in the character. It’s another terrific performance in a show filled with terrific performances.

Normally, the Pittsburgh Public Theater wows the audience with scenic design. Scenic Designer James Noone’s set is magnificent and austere. It’s a bit more Spartan than usual, but it works well for this production.

William Shakespeare’s birthday is April 23. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate.

(“Othello” runs till May 17 at the O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information, go to www.ppt.org)

-MB.

April 20, 2015

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (4/23 – 4/26)

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

Here are the Top Five Things to do in Pittsburgh the weekend of April 23 to April 26

Beetlemania

AcoustiCafe is topping itself. On April 23, there will be a tribute to the Beetles and a bunch of Birtish Invasion bands. You’ll get acoustic and electric renditions of Beatles songs by local songwriters, they will have the music of The Kinks, the Rolling Stones, the Zombies and more, featuring Josh Verbanets, the Nox Boys, Chet Vincent, Clinton Clegg, Nathan Zoob and much, much more. It’s all at Mr. Smalls. 400 Lincoln Avenue, Millvale, PA 15209. For more information, go to http://www.mrsmalls.com/NewPHP/home.php?section=events&eventLink=April

A Whale of a Time

On the outskirts of Mormon country, Idaho, a 600 lbs. recluse hides away in his apartment eating himself to death. Desperate to reconnect with his long-estranged daughter, he reaches out to her, only to find a viciously sharp-tongued & wildly unhappy teen. It’s “The Whale” at Off the Wall Theater, 25 W. Main Street, Carnegie, PA 15106. For more information, go to www.insideoffthewall.com .

Pull and All-Nighter

It’s the 18^th annual “Art All Night” event and it takes place April 25 through April 26 (Yes! ALL NIGHT LONG). Come down to 4001 Willow Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201 (Lawrenceville). There will be music, art and comedy. For more information, go to http://www.artallnight.org/

Stella!

Point Park University revives Tennessee Williams’ classic play, “A Streetcar Named Desire” will be at the Richard Rauh Theater at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 222 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more information, go to http://www.pittsburghplayhouse.com/

Forever and a Day

On April 24, one day after the birth of William Shakespeare, actor Stoney Richards will present a tribute to the Bard in “Jon Sincler: A Hired Man.” It’s a one act play written and performed by Richards. It will be at 7:00 pm at the Third Street Gallery, 220 3^rd Street, Carnegie, PA 15106. For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/events/1606787296228980/

-MB.

April 14, 2015April 14, 2015

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Dos THIS WEEKEND (4/15 – 4/19)

by Mike “Buzz” Buzzelli, ‘Burgh Vivant.

Here are the Top Five things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend (April 15 to April 19)

Burning Bridges

Solve the mystery of “Bridges Burned” or just meet the author, Annette Riggle Dashofy will be signing her mystery book, “Bridges Burned.” The author will be at the Barnes and Noble at South Hills Village signing her Zoe Chambers mystery. You can Annette’s John Hancock and maybe even a “To Kill a Mockingbird” prize pack. Thursday at six, you should head to the Barnes & Noble, South Hills Village, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241. P.S. B &N is having a sale this week (April 11 – 19), and you can save 25% on books, toys, games, gifts, music and movies. So, it’s a win-win.

Always Bet on Black

The Race to the Coffin Comedy Tour dudes are at it again with “Comedy Roulette: Stand–Up vs. Improv.” Host John Dick Winters is pitting a group of Pittsburgh’s best comedians against Pittsburgh’s best improvisers. It should be a knock down drag out fight, but only your sides will be hurting…from laughter. It’s at Club Café, 56-58 South 12^th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 (South Side). For more information and tickets, go to http://tktwb.tw/1Ewphp1

He’s a Moor, not a Moop!

William Shakespeare’s “Othello” comes to Pittsburgh. It’s a classic tragedy about love and jealousy, and it’s got an amazing cast directed by Ted Pappas. Catch the Moor, at the O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. For more information, go to http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/40793/othello

No, not that Anne Hathaway!

Brush up, your Shakespeare, because the Mrs. is in town. Meet “Mrs. Shakespeare,” a one woman show starring playwright and actor, Yvonne Hudson. Will’s wife will regale you with her husband’s songs a, sonnets and soliloquies as she spins a story of her marriage and motherhood. I’m dying to find out if the Bard used to hog the covers! The show is April 18 at 7:00 pm at the Prime Stage Studio, 840 Saw Mill Run Blvd. (Lower Level), Pittsburgh, PA 15220. For more information, go to http://www.primestage.com/shows_and_tickets/2nd_stage.html

It’s the Balm!

Even Heroin addicts, prostitutes and thieves all need a good place to relax, like Frank’s Café, a greasy spoon diner in NYC’s Upper Broadway neighborhood in Lanford Wilson’s “Balm in Gilead.” “Balm” was Wilson’s first full length play, and now, decades later, you can find these reprobates at the Colonial Theatre, on the Robert Morris University Campus, Moon Township, PA 15108. For more information, go to http://studentlife.rmu.edu/colonial-theatre/

_MB.