'Burgh Vivant

February 6, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top-5 To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (2/6 – 2/9)

Every week we find Five Fun Things to do in Pittsburgh. If you want to plan your weekend, here are some suggestions on how to spend it.

Laugh Locally, Support Globally

“Local People for Global Causes” will be raising money for an organization called Clash International which will sponsor an upcoming reading of a play by Matt Henderson titled, “A Long Walk on the Beach.” The Improv troupe “Yeah, Those Guys,” will also be performing at the event. Clash’s goal is, “to facilitate community-driven and capacity-building agricultural and business education programs for farmers in Ghana’s rural communities.”

You might as well laugh locally, while you’re supporting a global cause.

Help yourself and the world with a good time at the Grey Box Theater, 3595 Butler St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201. For more information, go to www.clashinternational.org/events

It Ain’t Easy Being Green

An ogre, with the aid of his trusty, talkative donkey, rescues a beautiful princess with a secret in “Shrek the Musical.” This fractured fairy tale has fun, laughs and good times with 19 new songs.

Laugh as the tallest man in theater (Tim Hartman) plays the diminutive Lord Farquaad.

Shrek the Musical opens February 6 and runs to February 16 at the Byham Theater, 101 6th Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222.

For more information, check out http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/38787

Under Where?

A reclusive Dutch librarian (played by film, television and theater actor Randy Kovitz) discovers a travel guide that has been returned 113 years overdue. His obsession with finding the person responsible takes him out of his insular world and on a globe-trotting quest. As he follows a chain of clues that go back thousands of years, he finds connections to ancient myths and kindles his own dormant spirit in Glen Berger’s “Underneath The Lintel.”

“Under” opens Wednesday February 5, 2014 at the Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre 937 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

For more information, go to http://12peerstheater.org/

Deadbeat Club

Comedian Bubbs Harris from Florida and JC Ratliff from Tennessee form a group called the Deadbeats of Comedy. They will be performing with local comedians John Dick Winters, Ed Bailey and Day Bracey, and, frankly, you will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. Be cautious and prepare to laugh on Saturday February 8.

The Deadbeats will tell tall tales at the Rock Club, 1054 Herron Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

For more information, go to the Facebook events page at https://www.facebook.com/events/470373726406769/?ref=ts&fref=ts
Captioned!

About the Exhibit:

Most of the artwork in this exhibition was created by Florence Sarah Winship, while her name may not be immediately recognizable, she was a prolific illustrator creating hundreds of children’s books and coloring books for Western and Whitman Publishing.

Featuring iconic celebrities of the day such as Dinah Shore and Doris Day as well as scenes from daily life, coloring books are a snapshot of a time gone by, and a chance to view a generation through the rose colored glasses of their childhood.

The festivities begin at 7pm on February 7th at the ToonSeum. Tickets will be available online for $15.00 or $20.00 at the door.About the Exhibit:

The festivities begin at 7pm on February 7th at the ToonSeum. Tickets will be available online for $15.00 or $20.00 at the door.Return to the nostalgic era of the 50s with an exhibition of original coloring book art from Western Publishing with the ToonSeum. But wait, there’s more. They’ve added a modern, comic twist to the exhibit, “Color Me Happy.”

Executive Director Joe Wos said, “The ToonSeum has invited some of Pittsburgh brightest and funniest comedic minds to create their own captions for the artwork on display!”

Jimmy Krenn, Rick Sebak, Terry Jones, Gab Bonesso, Rob Rogers, Aaron Kleiber, Eric Heyl, Mike Buzzelli (ring any bells?), and those wacky people from the Arcade Comedy Theater have supplied captions for the exhibit.

You can be part of the opening reception Friday, February 7, 2014. Come down and create your own caption for the show! The ToonSeum is at 945 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. For more information, click here http://www.toonseum.org/

February 3, 2014

Phipps Executive Director Richard V. Piacentini Receives Carnegie Science Award

Sustainability leader honored with Catalyst Award for innovations in green building and operations.

Pittsburgh, Pa.— As the visionary behind Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens’ innovative Center for Sustainable Landscapes (CSL), Executive Director Richard V. Piacentini has been named as the recipient of a Catalyst Award — one of more than 20 honors bestowed upon individuals and organizations in western Pa. who have distinguished themselves by making unparalleled contributions to science and technology in various disciplines through the 2014 Carnegie Science Awards.

Since his tenure began in 1994, Piacentini has not only made great strides to revitalize Phipps but he has also taken the lead on its transformation into a global model of sustainability with the building of the first LEED®-certified visitor center in a public garden, the first LEED-certified greenhouses, and the Tropical Forest Conservatory, the most energy-efficient structure of its kind in the world when it opened in 2006. Phipps’ latest accomplishment under his leadership is the CSL, a net-zero energy and net-zero water facility that has been designed to meet the progressive Living Building Challenge™. Already a recipient of LEED Platinum and Four Stars SITES™ certification from the Sustainable Sites Initiative™, it is also expected to be the first building anywhere to achieve all three of these rigorous standards.

“In a time when many of the environmental problems we face can be attributed to the fact that we are not only disconnected from nature but also live in a society that values the importance of ‘me’ over ‘we,’ it is not enough to simply build greener,” says Piacentini. “With the CSL, we hope to push the envelope even further, inspiring transformative experiences in the space as we celebrate our innate bonds to nature, and illuminate the many possibilities of sustainable building and landscaping. I am truly honored to have received the Catalyst Award in recognition of this work, which will benefit generations to come.”

To be presented to Piacentini at a ceremony held at the Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland on May 9, the Catalyst Award recognizes individuals or organizations who have come to exemplify an area of science because of the actions that they have taken to create public awareness over a broad swath of society, pioneered by people like Rachel Carson in the environment, Red Whittaker in robotics, and Alan Russell in regenerative medicine. Now in its 18th year, the Carnegie Science Awards have honored the accomplishments of 400 plus awardees who have improved the lives of others through their work.

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.

January 29, 2014

Pittsburgh Opera presents Gregory Spears’s PAUL’S CASE

A new production, based on Willa Cather’s 1905 story of a Pittsburgh boy

Pittsburgh, PA… Pittsburgh Opera continues its 75th anniversary season with Gregory Spears’s PAUL’S CASE, a new opera with a Pittsburgh connection, starring the Resident Artists of Pittsburgh Opera’s acclaimed singer training program. The second work in Pittsburgh Opera’s American Opera Series,* PAUL’S CASE is on stage at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters February 22 – March 2, as the company’s 2013-14 Second Stage Project. Based on Willa Cather’s short story of the same name, PAUL’S CASE is the story of a high school “dandy” who yearns for a more exciting life away from gritty, industrial Pittsburgh. Paul’s fantasies have been fed by the glamorous musical performances he witnesses as an usher at Carnegie Music Hall. When Paul is suspended from school, he steals money and flees to New York City. After a stay in the Waldorf-Astoria, a shopping spree, and a fling with a Yale freshman, Paul’s escape is discovered by his father and by the media. Paul’s ambitions come crashing down in a wrenching finale.

Pittsburgh Opera’s new production of PAUL’S CASE features its Resident Artists. Daniel Curran is Paul; Alex DeSocio is Paul’s father. Phillip Gay performs the dual roles of Principal and Waldorf-Astoria Bell Boy. Resident Artist Samantha Korbey and Rebecca Belczyk (Dark Sisters, 2014) take on triple roles, as teachers, singers, and maids, while Nicole Rodin portrays a teacher and a maid. Christopher Toeller (The Magic Flute, 2013) is the Yale Freshman. Resident Artist George Cederquist is the stage director for PAUL’S CASE. Head of Music Glenn Lewis conducts.

Composer Gregory Spears is expected to participate in Opera Up Close February 16 [see “related events”] and will attend the opening night performance.

* Pittsburgh Opera’s American Opera Series is supported by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and includes PAUL’S CASE (Jan. 25 – Feb. 2), PAUL’S CASE (Feb. 22 – Mar. 2) and ORPHÉE (Apr. 26 – May 4).

Facts about the opera and the composer

PAUL’s CASE premiered in April 2013 at Urban Arias in Washington, DC, and was developed by American Opera Projects. The work blends minimalist and Baroque stylings to create a unique new chamber opera sound.

PAUL’S CASE received excellent reviews both from The Washington Post at its world premiere in April 2013, and from the New York Times, from the Prototype Festival in January 2014.

Gregory Spears and librettist Kathryn Walat took a fresh look at Willa Cather’s 1905 story, and drew timeless parallels from Paul’s character when they created the opera. To quote Gregory Spears, “he [Paul] seems to be saying ‘yes’ and ‘no’ to life throughout this piece. He’s so full of life, and a fascinating character, yet at the same time, he ultimately says ‘no’…. There’s something about that paradoxical feel of him…so fascinated by the world, and at the same time, feeling as if he needs to reject it – this powers the enigma that’s at the core of the Cather story.” See more remarks from Gregory Spears and Kathryn Walat here.

The story, in brief

Pittsburgh, 1906. Paul appeals his suspension in front of three teachers and the high school principal. The teachers are infuriated by his dandyish behavior and appearance, epitomized by the red carnation he wears. Paul is dismissed; he bows gracefully and exits.

Later that evening, Paul’s father is calculating figures at his desk, while Paul changes into a uniform – he works as an usher at Carnegie Music Hall. The father decries his son’s disdain for middle-class values, while Paul tells of his love for all things exotic and theatrical. Paul’s English teacher arrives unexpectedly at the Music Hall with two tickets given to her by a steel magnate. Waiting for the show to begin, the English teacher recounts a life full of disappointments. Two opera singers take the stage; Paul and the English teacher are enchanted. Paul’s father, still simmering at home, warns that this will be Paul’s last night working at the theater, on account of his recent suspension from school.

Paul’s father sends him to work as a cash-boy clerk. Distraught, Paul describes his contempt for the banalities of workaday life in Pittsburgh. He steals the firm’s weekend deposit and catches the next train to New York City.

Three hotel maids prepare a sumptuous suite at New York’s Waldorf Astoria. Paul enters triumphantly, and smugly catalogs his purchases from an afternoon shopping spree. At dinner in the Waldorf Astoria’s dining room, he encounters a Yale freshman in town for a weekend visit, and the two join up for a drunken night on the town.

Waking with a hangover the next day, Paul asks for the Pittsburgh newspapers, in which the maids read of his theft. Paul discovers that he has been spotted at a New York hotel and that his father is coming to take him back home. He then unwraps his final purchase, a shiny revolver, and contemplates his final actions. He puts the revolver away, and heads for the Newark train yard.

Arriving on an embankment overlooking railroad tracks, Paul buries a red carnation in the snow. He falls asleep and is later awakened by a distant train whistle. As the locomotive approaches, he leaps in front of it. Paul’s teachers and father lament Paul’s death as he dissolves into the landscape.

Tickets to PAUL’S CASE are $40, with all performances at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, 2425 Liberty Avenue, in the Strip District. For additional information, videos, photos, musical samples, cast biographies, and the full story of PAUL’S CASE, visit www.pittsburghopera.org. To purchase tickets, call 412-456-6666 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

The 2013-14 Pittsburgh Opera season is generously supported by PNC.
Paul’s Case is generously sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Filstrup and the Filstrup Foundation.
The National Endowment for the Arts provides project support for Pittsburgh Opera’s

2014 American Opera Series.

Giant Eagle Foundation is the Resident Artist Program Sponsor.

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

Paul Daniel Curran *

Principal/Bell Boy Phillip Gay *

History Teacher/Opera Singer 1/Maid 1 Rebecca Belczyk

Drawing Teacher/Opera Singer 2/Maid 2 Samantha Korbey *

English Teacher/Maid 3 Nicole Rodin *

Father Alex DeSocio *

Boy (Yale Freshman) Christopher Toeller

Conductor Glenn Lewis

Director George Cederquist *

Costume Designer Antonia West

Lighting Designer Jerry Sherk

Director of Musical Studies Mark Trawka

Assistant Conductor James Lesniak

Hair & Makeup Designer Nicole Pagano

PAUL’s CASE is a new production by Pittsburgh Opera.
+ Pittsburgh Opera debut

* Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist

** Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist alumni

Tickets and Group Discounts

Tickets for all performances of PAUL’S CASE are $40. 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

Brown Bag Concert
Saturday, February 8 – 12:00 p.m.

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

These casual, one-hour concerts feature our Resident Artists in the George R. White Opera Studio at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters. Guests can meet the performers after the concert. Free and open to the public; no RSVP required. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (412) 281-0912 or visit www.pittsburghopera.org

Opera Up Close: PAUL’S CASE

Sunday, February 16 – 2:00 p.m.

An in-depth look at the music and story of Gregory Spears’s PAUL’S CASE with singers and directors from the production, in the George R. White Opera Studio at Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters. Panelists include PAUL’S CASE composer Gregory Spears; Willa Cather scholars Dr. Timothy Bintrim of St. Francis University and Dr. James Jaap of Penn State

New Kensington, Resident Artist stage director George Cederquist; and Pittsburgh Opera Director of Artistic Operations Bill Powers. Admission is $5; the event is free to members of FRIENDS of Pittsburgh Opera and donors at $50 and above. For more information, visit www.pittsburghopera.org.

PAUL’S CASE Previews on WQED-FM 89.3 and WQED.ORG

Saturday, February 15 – 12:30 p.m.; Friday, February 21 – 7:00 p.m.

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

Audio Description: PAUL’S CASE
Tuesday, February 25

Ticketholders with visual impairments are invited to use Pittsburgh Opera’s Audio Description 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, February 25 performance: call Randy Adams at 412-281-0912, ext. 213 or groups@pittsburghopera.org. Braille and large-print opera programs are also available.

Meet the Artists of PAUL’S CASE

Tuesday, February 25

Immediately following the opera, in the George R. White Studio, Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters

Ticketholders for the Tuesday, February 25 performance of PAUL’S CASE are invited to remain in the George White Studio 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.

Pittsburgh Opera celebrates its 75^th anniversary in 2013-14 with OPERA FOR A NEW AGE, a mix of long-beloved operas and new favorites. Established by five intrepid women in 1939, Pittsburgh Opera is viewed as one of the most vibrant opera organizations in the U.S., with a rich artistic tradition, outstanding educational programs, an acclaimed artist training program, and a progressive outlook toward the future. Its green initiative culminated in LEED® Silver certification for its Strip District headquarters, and its capacity as a true community partner has increased significantly under General Director Christopher Hahn’s leadership. Tickets for the 2013-2014 season start at just $12.

2013-14 Season
AIDA •• October 12 – 20, 2013
THE MAGIC FLUTE •• November 9 – 17, 2013

DARK SISTERS •• January 25 – February 2, 2014

SECOND STAGE PROJECT: PAUL’S CASE •• February 22 – March 2, 2014
LA BOHÈME •• March 26 – April 6, 2014
ORPHÉE •• April 26 – May 4, 2014
For ticket information visit our website www.pittsburghopera.org or call (412) 281-0912

January 29, 2014

2014 CARNEGIE SCIENCE AWARDS RECOGNIZE LEADERS IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND EDUCATION

Cohon and Nordenberg to Receive Chairman’s Award

PITTSBURGH, PA – January 30, 2014 – Today Carnegie Science Center announced the winners of its 2014 Carnegie Science Awards, sponsored by Eaton, at its annual Announcement Reception.

The program honors awardees from more than 20 categories, including Corporate Innovation, Emerging Female Scientist, Entrepreneur, Leadership in STEM Education, and others. These individuals and companies have distinguished themselves by making unparalleled contributions to science and technology in various disciplines.

This year, the Science Center is conferring its highest commendation, the Chairman’s Award, on Jared L. Cohon, former president of Carnegie Mellon University, and Mark A. Nordenberg, chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh.

“These two individuals have had an unparalleled impact on our region’s scientific vitality,” said Ann Metzger, Henry Buhl, Jr., Co-Director of Carnegie Science Center. “As concurrent leaders of two great local universities, President Cohon and Chancellor Nordenberg forged an unprecedented relationship of mutual respect and collaboration, which has helped open the door to a new era of scientific exploration, entrepreneurial strength, and academic excellence in Pittsburgh.”

Carnegie Science Center established the Carnegie Science Awards program in 1997 to recognize and promote outstanding science and technology achievements in western Pennsylvania. Celebrating its 18^th year, the Carnegie Science Awards have honored the accomplishments of more than 400 individuals and organizations that have improved lives through their commitment and contributions in science and technology.

“The Carnegie Science Awards spotlight some of the most innovative minds today,” said Ron Baillie, Henry Buhl, Jr., Co-Director of Carnegie Science Center. “These individuals are making a global impact starting with our own region. We know they are already inspiring a new generation of leaders. One of our central missions is to promote education in science, technology, engineering, and math–or STEM. The Carnegie Science Awards winners exemplify the highest levels of success in STEM fields and in STEM education. We are proud to recognize these outstanding awardees and look forward to their continued contributions.”

“Eaton has supported the Carnegie Science Awards through a premier sponsorship for the past 11 years and has seen remarkable leaders and organizations recognized for their contributions to science, technology, engineering, and math,” said Mark Horner, senior manager, Global Communications, Electrical Sector, Eaton. “We congratulate Carnegie Science Center, and all of the winners and nominees, for their commitment to discovery, innovation, and education.”

Awardees will be honored during a formal celebration at Carnegie Music Hall on Friday, May 9, 2014. Three student winners, who will be selected at the Science Center’s 75th annual Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair, also will be recognized.

WINNERS, in addition to Cohon and Nordenberg:

Advanced Manufacturing – Fred Patterson, Kennametal Inc.

Advanced Materials – Jay Whitacre, PhD, Carnegie Mellon University

Catalyst – Richard V. Piacentini, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden

Corporate Innovation – Center for Innovation in Restorative Medicine, UPMC

Elementary Educator – Danielle Kephart, Divine Redeemer School

Middle Level Educator David Andrews, Butler Area School District

High School Educator – Dale Moll and Tim Linkenheimer, Blackhawk High School

Leadership In STEM Education – Michael T. Lotze, PhD, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute

University / Post-Secondary Educator – Thomas D Eatmon, Jr., Allegheny College

University/ Post-Secondary Student – Taylor D. Canady, Carnegie Mellon University

Emerging Female Scientist – Peijun Zhang, PhD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Start-Up Entrepreneur – Don Charlton, The Resumator

Entrepreneur – Christine Robins, BodyMedia

Environmental – Xu Liang, PhD, University of Pittsburgh

Information Technology – Ron Bianchini, PhD, Avere Systems

Life Sciences – Angela Gronenborn, PhD, University of Pittsburgh

Science Communicator – Elaine Vitone, Pitt Med magazine

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Elementary Educator- Carol Fraser, Highlands School District

High School Educator – Brian E. Ludwig, Riverview School District

University/ Post-Secondary Educator- Steven Abramowitch, PhD, University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering

Start-Up Entrepreneur – Jay Whitacre, PhD, Carnegie Mellon University

Start-Up Entrepreneur – William J. Federspiel, PhD, University of Pittsburgh, McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine

Entrepreneur – Jesse Schell, Schell Games

Entrepreneur – Luis von Ahn, Duolingo

Environmental – Ravi Chidambaran, Aquatech International Corporation

Science Communicator – Mary Ann Thomas, Trib Total Media

About Carnegie Science Center

Carnegie Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination, reaching more than 700,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes and off-site education programs.

About Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh

Founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1895, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh is a collection of four distinctive museums dedicated to exploration through art and science: Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and the Andy Warhol Museum. Annually, the museums reach more than 1.2 million people through exhibitions, educational programs, outreach activities and special events.

January 28, 2014

NOMMO Productions presents Roger Humphries documentary in red carpet premiere

PITTSBURGH, PA—January 28, 2014— NOMMO Productions announces the Red Carpet screening of Roger Humphries Pass It On, a film documentary directed by Billy Jackson. Honorary Co-Chairmen Mayor-Elect Bill Peduto and Bill Strickland will head this black tie event. The fundraiser will benefit four Pittsburgh non-profits who educate musically gifted youths: The Afro-American Music Institute, The Roger L. Humphries Music Scholarship Fund, The Jazz Workshop of Homewood and The Lighthouse Arts, Inc. The fundraiser is scheduled for February 22, 2014 at the Manchester Craftmen’s Guild, 1815 Metropolitan Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.

Billy Jackson, the film director and producer, chose Roger Humphries as a subject, primarily because of Mr. Humphries’ altruistic outlook on developing and nurturing young talent. According to Mr. Jackson, “Roger is a musical icon, yet accessible and down to earth. His humble spirit and commitment to “Passing It On,” is inspiring and unique given his stature and years in the music business. I wanted to share Mr. Humphries’ worldview with others. Perhaps it will inspire us all to give back that which we have been given in some tangible manner. I hope that the film is viewed by many, is well received and that I have channeled Roger’s grace and humbleness in a way that is true to him.”

Roger Humphries is a Pittsburgh native who began performing as a jazz musician since the age of three and a half. As a musical prodigy, he began playing professionally at the tender age of 14 and has played with such greats as Stanley Turrentine, Horace Silvers and Ray Charles, among others.

Mr. Humphries’ discography began in 1963 with Stanley Turrentine and Shirley Scott; and includes the following year’s huge hit with Horace Silver, “Song for My Father.” Roger continues to record and recently released his latest CD “Keep the Faith.”

As a part of this historic evening, VIPs will enjoy cocktails, butlered hors d’oeuvres with a ”Jazz Jam Session” by CAPA Performing Arts students. Following the premiere is an exclusive Presentation of Award crafted by the acclaimed artist Thad Mosley, as well as a dessert and coffee reception. Ticket pricing for the VIP Cocktail Jazz Jam Session is $125. General admission ticket pricing is $50 with a limited number of young professional rate tickets offered at $30. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. for VIP, and 7:30 p.m. for general admission and young professionals.

“I am grateful and honored that someone is interested in documenting my life,” said Roger Humphries. “I am a musician who loves what he does and has stayed true to his gifts and talents. Although I have the option to live and work anywhere in the world, I chose to live and raise my family right here in Pittsburgh. I am blessed to make a living doing what I love and I equally feel a responsibility to uplift and nurture the children who are coming up in later generations. I have committed my time, my energy, my passion and my finances to ensuring that a musical tradition is passed on to young talented artists. I am humbled and thankful to Billy Jackson for this great honor.”

For event information call (412) 294-9892. Tickets are available online at www.rhpassiton.com and www.mcgjazz.org. Additional ticket locations are Stedeford’s Records, 417 E. Ohio Street, North Side; Centre of Attraction, 2019 Centre Avenue, Hill District; and Dorsey’s Records, 7614 Frankstown Avenue, Homewood.

ABOUT BILLY JACKSON AND NOMMO PRODUCTIONS

Billy Jackson, Producer and Director, is a national award-winning documentarian and principal owner of NOMMO Productions. NOMMO Productions is a closely-knit team of seasoned associates committed to producing excellent, broadcast quality media. NOMMO has produced documentary, dramatic and promotional films for a client base that included Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, New York Department of General Services, BET and Alcoa. Jackson taught film courses at Emerson College and Pittsburgh Filmmakers, as well as, served as consultant, cinematographer and/or producer for government, industry, independent production houses and television stations.

NOMMO has produced the award-winning films Enough is Enough: The Death of Jonny Gammage, Didn’t We Ramble On? and We are Universal. More information is available at www.NOMMOProductions.com.

January 27, 2014

Lidia’s Pittsburgh offers special couples cooking class

and just in time for Valentine’s Day

PITTSBURGH, PA (January 27, 2014) – Looking to spend some quality, romantic time with your Valentine? How about a couples-only cooking class, learning to make mouth-watering dishes together, directly from one of the most acclaimed chefs in the city?

On Saturday, February 8, just in time for Valentine’s Day, Lidia’s-Pittsburgh executive chef Jeremy Voytish will host a 2-hour Couples Cooking Class at the restaurant (1400 Smallman Street) teaching couples how to make romantic and delicious dishes that they can then prepare together in their own homes.

The Couples Cooking Class will begin at 3pm in the restaurant’s loft. Couples will learn how to make these easy-to-prepare dishes:

· Three Cheese Honey Crostini

· Belgian Endive, Apple and Walnut Salad

· Chocolate Ravioli with Sage Butter and Crumbled Pistachios

· Chocolate Hazelnut Espresso Mouse, Toasted Hazelnuts

After the hands-on class, couples will then enjoy a 5-course dinner at Lidia’s-Pittsburgh as prepared by Chef Voytish and showcasing the recipes from the class along with a delicious Bistecca alla Pizzaiola served with white corn polenta.

“Cooking together can be a great way for couples to connect and to really enjoy each other’s company,” said Chef Voytish. “These dishes are not only easy to prepare and delicious, but each one of them has a romantic twist.”

Space for the Couples Cooking Class is limited and reservations are required. The price is $95 per person for demo and dinner. Tax and gratuity are additional. For more information or to reserve, please call 412.552.0150 or email privatedining@lidias-pittsburgh.com

For more information on Lidia’s-Pittsburgh, please visit www.lidias-pittsburgh.com

January 27, 2014

Clash International’s inaugural fundraiser to be held at Lawrenceville’s Grey Box

Pittsburgh, PA– January 23, 2014 501(c)(3) non-profit organization Clash International will hold their inaugural fundraiser Local People for Global Causes on February 8, 2014 from 7-10 PM at The Grey Box Theatre in Lawrenceville.

The evening will include live performances by local artists Danielle Maggio, Michael Donati, and Pat Griffin, and Yeah, Those Guys improv group, as well as a premiere short play reading of local playwright Matt Henderson’s work “A Long Walk on the Beach” and a silent art and craft auction showcasing the work of local artists. Light refreshments will also be served and a number of gift certificates for local businesses will be raffled off.

All proceeds from the event will go to Clash: Rural Ghana– an initiative to facilitate community-driven, capacity-building agricultural extension programs to northern Ghana’s most remote communities in an effort to promote economic self-sufficiency and food security.

Clash International is a non-profit organization founded by Pittsburgh-native Cynthia Caul and Mankama Sulemana that seeks to build personal and sustainable business relationships with independent artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs in developing countries that will enhance their businesses. In a nutshell—to clash fearlessly, peacefully, and relentlessly. To learn more about Clash: Rural Ghana, and how you can be involved, visit clashinternational.org

January 27, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Pittsburgh’s Top 5 To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (1/30 – 2/2)

Every week we pick Five Fun Things to do in Pittsburgh. Here’s the list for January 30^th to February 2^nd (Groundhog Day).

Citizen Artist

If you missed Vanessa German’s spoken word poem about Pittsburgh at Bill Peduto’s inauguration at Heinz Hall, you missed a spectacular love letter to the city. It was about all the citizens of our fair city and how we can work together. One particular citizen, Vanessa German herself, has an exhibit at the Concept Art Gallery. On Thursday, January 30, Vanessa will be performing and answering questions about her exhibit.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to talk to Vanessa, go to Concept Art Gallery, 1021 Braddock Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more details, point and click http://conceptgallery.com

Mad about Madagascar

Are you in the mood for a mystery, a ghost story or a period piece? You can have all that and more at Quantum Theater’s “Madagascar.” Three Americans find themselves alone in the same hotel room overlooking Rome’s Spanish Steps at three different periods in time.

You can travel to “Madagascar” and check into the Carlyle, 306 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more information, click www.quantumtheatre.com/season/Madagascar.

Disorder in the Court!

Turn on the boob tube mid-afternoon and you will see a myriad of courtroom shows. Divorce Court, Judge Judy…etc. ad infinitum. It’s rife for parody. “Judge Jackie Justice” is here to serve the people. It’s a courtroom musical comedy brought to you by Van Kaplan, Christopher Dimond and Michael Kooman.

The musical courtroom of Judge Jackie Justice is now in session at the CLO Cabaret, at the Cabaret at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more information, click www.trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/39605/judge-jackie-justice

Girls Night Out

Sally Brooks is a comedian, writer and all around swell gal. The comedian will be telling sassy personal stories about her life and lack thereof in her fun-loving, smart-assed kinda way. Sally has performed all over the country, sharing the stage with comedians like Bobcat Goldhwait, Kevin Nealon, and Greg Proops. She is creator of the “Suburban Housewife” web series that has over 1.5 million hits on YouTube. Sally has also headlined the “Girl’s Night Out Tour.”

January 31^st you can catch Sally at the Arcade Comedy Theater, 811 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more information, go to www.arcadecomedytheater.com

Comb Out

Kim El will also be telling great personal stories in a performance that combines spoken word, songs and poetry in “Straightening Combs.” Kim promises to take the audience on a intimate journey as seen through the eyes of an African American woman coming of age in Pittsburgh’s Hill District.

You can find “Straightening Combs” at the Off The Wall Theater, 25 West Main Street, Carnegie. For more information go to www.pittsburghtheaterrental.com/straightening-combs

January 20, 2014January 20, 2014

The “Buzz” from Buzzelli: Top 5 To-Do’s THIS WEEKEND (1/23 – 1/26)

Every week we pick Five Fun Things to do in Pittsburgh. Here’s the list for January 23 – 26

Sisters are doing it for themselves

Follow the lives of some Sister-Wives in “Dark Sisters.” An opera about Eliza and her quest to escape her life as a member of the FLDS Church (Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a polygamous sect based in the Southwestern United States). Forget the Viking women, the queens and the goddesses, this opera is thoroughly modern. The story is derived from the 1953 raid at Short Creek, AZ and the 2008 raid at the yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado , TX.

The Pittsburgh Opera produced show will be held in the CAPA Theater, 9^th Street and Fort Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh.

For more information, go to www.pittsburghopera.org

Side by Side by Sondheim

Been awhile since you heard Stephen Sondheim? Come to “Company,” and bring “Another Hundred People.” Watch a group of New Yorkers navigate married life and its alternatives. Check out the show that swept the Tony Awards back in 1970. Rediscover why Stephen Sondheim is an American treasure.

Head down, side by side, to the Pittsburgh Public Theater, the O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or visit www.ppt.org for more information.

Pride Goeth

There’s a new play being performed by Dreams of Hope youth theater ensemble. Follow the personal and historical journeys of the LGBT community at its inception in “Before Pride.” Inspired by the ensemble’s interviews with community leaders in Pittsburgh, historical research, and the troupe’s own experiences, “Before Pride” asks, “Where have we come from and where are we going?”

The Dreams of Hope Youth Ensemble worked with local artists Adil Mansoor, Paul Kruse, Monica Stephenson, and Maree ReMalia to develop original text, music, and dance for this hour-long performance.

Tickets are pay-what-you-can at the door. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot

Friday and Saturday, January 24th 25th, 2014 at 8pm
The Alloy Studios – 5530 Penn Avenue

http://www.eventbrite.com/e/before-pride-registration-9817417159

I love Rock and Roll

Thursday Jan 23, 2014, come out to honor Rich Engler for the thousands of concerts he brought to Pittsburgh as co-owner of DiCesare-Engler Productions. It’s the “Inaugural Pittsburgh Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame Celebration for 2014 with Inaugural Inductee Rich Engler.”

Enjoy energetic performances by an All Star Rock’n Roll band with Donnie Iris, B.E. Taylor, The Clark’s Scott Blasey,J oe Grushecky, Frank Czuri, Rick Witkowski, Hermie Granati, Joffo Simmons & Art Nardini.

Buy autographed rock’n roll memorabilia at the silent auction. Proceeds will benefit the Cancer Caring Center

Tickets – General Admission $150 – Doors open at 6:30 PM with a VIP reception & tickets $200. Doors open at 5:30 Hard Rock Cafe Station Square Pittsburgh, or just hit them up on the Internet at http://www.hardrock.com/locations/cafes3/cafe.aspx?LocationID=87&MIBenumID=3

Five, Six, Seven, NATE!

If you’ve got kids who are theatrically inclined, take them over to the South Hills Village and meet Tim Federele author of “Nate than Better Ever” and “Five, Six, Seven, Nate.” “Better Nate than Ever” is the story of a Pittsburgh kid who goes off to NYC to audition to be in “E.T. The Musical.” Is that a thing? That should be a thing!

Federele live in NYC but he’s an original Pittsburgher (and the story sounds slightly autobiographical).

Come to the launch party and bring your kids! He will also be signing copies of his cocktail book for adults, “Tequila Mockingbird.”

Details can be found here: http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/82521

And now a Sixth Thing….
Closet Free Comedy

Jason Dudey brings his friends, Dana Goldberg and Ian Harvie (Ian Harvie – Superhero) on a national tour showcasing LGBT comedy at its finest and funniest. You can find them Friday January, 24 at Cruze Bar, 1600 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh in the Strip.

For more information, Facebook them at www.facebook.com/events/352524584891243/?fref=ts

January 17, 2014

Music on the Edge presents STRIKE DUO in cooperation with Andy Warhol Museum

This January, Pitt’s Music on the Edge and The Andy Warhol Museum will present Strike Duo (piano and percussion) in a program that highlights leading creative voices in contemporary music. The duo will perform at the Warhol on January 25 at 8 p.m.

Nick Barnard of MusicWeb International describes Strike Duo members Jeffery Meyer (piano) and Paul Vaillancourt (percussion) as “exceptionally fine players both individually and in tandem.” Their program in Pittsburgh will explore a variety of music ranging from Chen Yi’s folk music inspired China West Suite to Mario Davidovsky’s Synchronisms No. 6, a classic of electroacoustic repertoire. The program will also include Brooke Joyce’s Sacred Trees, mark Mellits’ Tight Sweater (Remix), Eric Moes’ Cross Chop (for solo drum set), and Jim David’s Duo Toccata.

Paul Vaillancourt is Associate Professor of Percussion at Columbus State University. He has been a featured soloist with the St. Petersburg Chamber Philharmonic, the National Arts Center Orchestra, the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra, and at the Banff and Aspen Music Festivals. Recent concerto performances have included Michael Daugherty’s Raise The Roof with the CSU Wind Ensemble and Jennifer Higdon’s Percussion Concerto with the CSU Philharmonic. He has had various performances broadcast by NPR, CBC and Radio-Canada and is in demand as an instructor and composer of Scottish pipe band drumming.

Born in Chicago, Jeffery Meyer has established an international reputation as both a conductor and pianist. Since 2002 he has been the Artistic Director of the St. Petersburg Chamber Philharmonic in St. Petersburg, Russia one of that city’s most innovative and progressive ensembles. He has appeared with orchestras in the United States and abroad, including ensembles such as the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, Cayuga Chamber Orchestra, Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra, Sichuan Symphony, and the Orchestra Sinfonico “Haydn” di Bolzano e Trento. In recent concert seasons, the versatile Meyer’s busy schedule has included conducting, performing as piano soloist, as a chamber musician, and conducting from the keyboard.

Tickets are available through the University of Pittsburgh Stages Box Office, by calling 412-624-7529, or visiting music.pitt.edu/tickets. Tickets in advance: general admission is $15; students and seniors are $10. At the door: general admission is $20; students and seniors are $15. (No free student tickets at The Warhol.)