'Burgh Vivant

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

March 10, 2014

Phipps to come alive with the sounds of music for Spring Flower Show

Pittsburgh’s premier public garden brings melodies into bloom for beloved seasonal showcase.

Pittsburgh, Pa.—Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens invites visitors to take a toe-tapping journey through a musical world where melodies bloom like flowers at Spring Flower Show. Opening on March 22, 2014, this colorful new display combines music and garden design for a sensational seasonal showcase filled with sights, sounds and scents that are sure to have guests of all ages singing.

From one room to the next, musical genres from swing and big band to blues and rock ´n roll will be represented through whimsical sculptures made out of up-cycled instruments; surprising planters like an upright piano; and carefully orchestrated plantings designed to mimic the rise and fall of musical notes. Popular songs will also be piped through some of the rooms, adding to the multi-sensory experience.

The stars of the show, of course, will be the thousands of vibrant tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other favorites, in addition to some beautiful varieties of snapdragons, primula and pansies. Arranged in spectacular groupings according to color and theme, plants will be carefully placed to add scope to and enliven each scene, from blue and purple flowers representing the blues genre to rainbow-hued blooms.

Spring Flower Show, designed by Hays Landscape Architecture Studio and sponsored by PNC, runs through April 20. Hours are 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily and until 10 p.m. on Fridays. Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and students, and $11 for children (2 – 18). Members and kids under 2 enter free.

About Phipps: Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, Pa. is a green leader among public gardens with a mission to inspire and educate all with the beauty and importance of plants; to advance sustainability and promote human and environmental well-being through action and research; and to celebrate its historic glasshouse. Learn more: phipps.conservatory.org.

March 2, 2014March 2, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (3/6 – 3/9)

Here are the Top Five Fun Things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend, March 6 through the 9.

Main Street Poetry

The Carnegie Carnegie in Carnegie (that’s a lot of Carnegie’s in one sentence) will host “In This Valley” a poetry reading by Bernadette Kazmarski. Kazmarski will read poetry inspired by her everyday experiences and encounters in Carnegie (I sincerely hope there are poems titled “Dog with the pink mohawk,” “Ode to the G2,” or “That guy they threw out of Riley’s”). Thursday, March 6^th you can find out for yourself at a reception that will include her visual art as well.

“In This Valley” is at the 2^nd Floor Reception Hall of the Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie, PA. For more information go to www.carnegiecarnegie.org.

Make an Unplanned Plan

Unplanned Comedy returns to the Union Pig and Chicken with two shows Saturday March 8.

8PM – Improv teams go head-to-head-to head as ALMOST INFAMOUS and RUCKUS compete against DEATH IN OXFORD for a comedy championship. Is there a prize? I’m sure they’ll mime a sash and tiara (it’s all about the space work).

And at 9:30PM…

MONDO! Mondo speaks, they make a scene. Inspired by one audience suggestion, Mondo, WTAE Anchor, Michelle Wright, tells of personal views, opinions, and remembrances as fodder for the cast’s high-octane, off-the-cuff, improvised scenes.

Plan your weekend around “Unplanned Comedy.” It’s at the Union Pig and Chicken, 220 N. Highland Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. For more information, hit them up on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/1462317480652767/?fref=ts.

Get him to the Greek

Homer takes over at the Pittsburgh Public Theater. The Poet, Teagle F. Bougere, tells the story of gods, monsters and the thrilling tales of the Trojan War in “An Iliad.”

One actor plays the Greek classic’s famous characters Achilles, Hector, Agammemnon, and the beautiful Helen of Troy.

Set sail for “An Iliad” opening March 6 at the O’ O’Reilly Theater, Pittsburgh Public Theater. Call 412-316-1600 or click http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/36123/an-iliad

Finding Utopia

The Pittsburgh Savoyards are singing about Capitalism in “Utopia Limited” the story about princess from a far-off land. It was Gilbert and Sullivan’s second-to-last collaborative effort, and it’s the second-to-last pick of the week.

Jump on the HMS Pinafore and head over to the Andrew Carnegie Free Library Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie for “Utopia Limited.”

For more information, check out the Pittsburgh Savoyards at http://www.pittsburghsavoyards.org/wordpress/

Jazz Hands

Start spreading the news, Conductor Jack Everly will swing his baton in front of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra when they perform “All That Jazz: A Symphonic Celebration of Kander & Ebb.”

John Kander and lyricist Frank Ebb are responsible for writing some well-known show tunes, including “New York, New York,” “All That Jazz,” and “Cabaret.”

Maybe this time, you’ll go to Heinz Hall to see the symphonic celebration. Please do tell mama, because she may want to join you for “All That Jazz: A Symphonic Celebration of Kander & Ebb” at Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh.

For more information, go to http://culturaldistrict.org/production/36212/all-that-jazz-a-symphonic-celebration-of-kander-and-ebb

March 2, 2014

CLO Ambassadors to Hold 17th Annual Wine Tasting & Silent Auction

Preview party at Nine on Nine kicks off upcoming fundraiser

Pittsburgh (February 27, 2014) – The Pittsburgh CLO Ambassadors hosted a Wine Tasting and Silent Auction preview party for sponsors and members of the press on February 24, at Nine on Nine in Pittsburgh. The preview party was held to raise awareness for the Ambassadors’ 17^th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, which will take place Friday, March 7, 2014, at the Duquesne Club, and will feature wines from Capital Wine & Spirits.

Event guests will have the opportunity to sample premier wines as well as bid on unique silent auction packages. This year’s packages include a walk-on role in a Pittsburgh CLO production, tickets to local cultural and sporting events, autographed memorabilia, fabulous getaways and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

“Since its inception, the Wine Tasting and Silent Auction has raised more than $900,000 to benefit programs including the Pittsburgh CLO Academy, the New Horizons Program, Creative Vision and the Gene Kelly Awards,” said Wine Tasting and Silent Auction Co-Chair, Lisa Woods of Burns White, LLC. “The CLO Ambassadors are pleased to have this opportunity to support quality arts education for young people in our communities.”

“Lisa and I would like to invite and encourage everyone who recognizes the critical role the arts play in children’s lives to attend this wonderful event on March 7. Pittsburgh CLO Education programs reach more than 50,000 students in the region every year,” added Co-Chair Stephen Bloomburg of Post & Schell.

This annual event sells out quickly. Tickets for the Wine Tasting and Silent Auction are available at two price levels and can be purchased online at pittsburghCLO.org or by phone at 412-281-3973 ext. 234.

Individual Ticket

Includes:

Connoisseur Ticket

Includes:

$90

· One ticket to the event

· Commemorative wine glass

$150

· One ticket to the event

· Three raffle tickets

· Listing in the event program

· Commemorative wine glass

Raffle tickets are also being sold in conjunction with the event. The winner of the Grand Prize will receive a trip for two to Paris which includes a Luxury hotel stay of two nights with breakfast in a Luxury Apartment courtesy of La Réserve Trocadéro Paris, roundtrip airfare on Delta Air Lines and travel planning services courtesy of Travel Leaders/Travel in Luxury. Second Prize is a $1,000 gift certificate courtesy of Henne Jewelers and Third Prize is dinner for two courtesy of Six Penn Kitchen and two tickets to Monty Python’s Spamalot courtesy of Pittsburgh CLO.

Raffle tickets are available for $20 each or 5 for $50 and can be purchased in advance or at the event. The winner need not be present.

This year’s Connoisseur Sponsors are PNC Financial Services, RR Donnelley and Capital Wine & Spirits. The Chateau Sponsors are Burns White, Federated Investors, First National Bank, K&L Gates, Mine Safety Appliances Company, Reed Smith, LLP and UPMC. The Corporate Sponsors are Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, Dollar Bank, Post & Schell and Schneider Downs & Co. The Supporting Sponsors are Jim & Kristin Brennan, Dawood Engineering, Nick & Anne Liparulo, Peace Dental, and Swank Construction Company LLC.

February 27, 2014

Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Richard E. Rauh Conservatory announces IN THE HEIGHTS

This spring, Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s Richard E. Rauh Conservatory will present the award-winning musical IN THE HEIGHTS.

IN THE HEIGHTS tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood – a place 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. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. IN THE HEIGHTS is the winner of the 2008 Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Score, Best Choreography and Best Orchestrations. This student production will bring out all hopes and dreams of this amazing story. This is one you don’t want to miss!

Performance Dates: MARCH 6-9TH GARGARO THEATER, 327 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15220.

Tickets begin at just $10 individual performance tickets are available by calling (412) 539-0900 X232. More information is available by visiting www.pittsburghmusicals.com <http://www.pittsburghmusicals.com>.

About Pittsburgh Musical Theater

Pittsburgh Musical Theater (PMT) was founded in 1990 with the vision of creating a regional musical theater company committed to quality productions of the best of Pittsburgh’s own professional talent at a price affordable to all residents, especially children and families. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) performing arts organization, the mission expanded to include a strong commitment to education, training, and outreach programs through its Richard E. Rauh Conservatory for Musical Theater. General music education and appreciation programs are offered for student’s ages 4-18. The Pre-College Program, a highly structured, accredited program, is designed for high school students with serious aspirations for careers in the performing arts.

WATCH/LISTEN: ‘Burgh Vivant’s interview with Pittsburgh Musical Theater General Manager and Conservatory Director, Colleen Petrucci.

February 26, 2014

CARNEVALE comes to Lidia’s Italy Pittsburgh

Lidia’s Italy, located at 1400 Smallman Street in the Strip District, will host a special dinner on Tuesday, March 11 at 6pm to celebrate the traditional Italian “Carnevale” festival.

Also known as Mardi Gras, the festival is celebrated in Italy and elsewhere around the world before Easter, as a final party prior to Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. In Italy, the celebration features parades, masquerade balls, music and parties. Festivities can last for several weeks before the official Carnevale date. The amount of grandeur and splendor of the festivities depended on a good harvest, famine or plague.

Masks are also an important part of the Carnevale tradition in Italy, especially in Venice. At Lidia’s, attendees will be given masks to celebrate the dinner in authentic style. Carnevale is a farewell celebration, a time to get it out of your system, so to speak, hiding behind the masks that have become a symbol of the Venetian Carnevale. It is always a time to indulge in culinary delights.

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

In Venice and throughout Italy little soft fired pastries are served. In Venice these are called bugie or little lies, that are consumed behind the masks of anonymity. These sweet treats have different names throughout Italy, called chiacchiere in Milan, crostoli in Friuli or cenci in Tuscany.

For the Carnevale dinner, executive chef Jeremy Voytish will prepare a special 5-course menu including:

Antipasti: Pasta sfoglia con salsicce e pancetta (Ricotta and flour pastry stuffed with house-made sausage, pancetta and Montasio cheese) & Carpaccio con rucola e Grana Padano (Beef carpaccio with wild arugula and shaved Grana Padano)

Primi: Scampetti con polenta (Stone ground white corn polenta, sweet shrimps, EVOO)

Pasta: Bucatini all’Amatriciana (Bucatini pasta with a crushed tomatoes, garlic, and house cured pancetta)

Secondo: Vitello Saltimbocca (Veal cutlet, prosciutto, sage, brown butter)

Dolci: Frittelle di mele alla vaniglia (Crispy apple fritters with vanilla)

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

Seats for the dinner are $60 per person, with an option of wine pairing for an additional $25 dollars. For more information or to reserve a ticket please contact 412-552-0150 or visit www.lidias-pittsburgh.com