The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Press Room

Ahmad Jamal Headlines National Jazz Appreciation Month

2010-03-10T15:00:00Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust in association with MCG Jazz presents a rare and unforgettable performance of big band arrangements and compositions with Ahmad Jamal featuring the MCG Jazz Orchestra. This special event, part of the Trust's National Jazz Appreciation Month celebration, takes place at the Byham Theater on Saturday April 9, 2010, at 8pm. BNY Mellon is the lead sponsor. Cohen & Grigsby is the lead sponsor of the Trust Presents series.

The celebration continues all month long with grooveMODERN, a series of Tuesday night jazz performances at the Cabaret at Theater Square presented by the Trust's Department of Education and Community Engagement. grooveMODERN is an exploration of jazz, soul and rhythm featuring Soul Cycle; Dwayne Dolphin and Sean Jones, the Orrin Evans Trio, and the Jeff "Tain" Watts Quartet. grooveMODERN is sponsored by BNY Mellon.

Tickets for Ahmad Jamal with the MCG Jazz Orchestra ($25.50 - $45.50) and all of the grooveMODERN performances ($20 - $25) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets, please call (412) 471-6930.

Soul Cycle
9pm, Tuesday, April 6, at the Cabaret at Theater Square. $20. Doors open at 8pm.

Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Soul Cycle brings an infectious blend of jazz, funk, and world music to Mosaic, their eagerly awaited third release Inspired by artists as diverse as Herbie Hancock, Richard Bona, James Brown, Chopin and Bach, Soul Cycle has developed a distinctive brand of world fusion, incorporating sounds from jazz, funk, R&B, gospel, reggae, Latin, Jewish, African, and classical music.

Dwayne Dolphin/Sean Jones.... The Jazz Funk Sessions
8pm, Tuesday, April 13, at the Cabaret at Theater Square. $20.

Dwayne Dolphin is a veteran player of multiple basses - including the acoustic, electric, and piccolo bass - and has performed all over the world with the legendary masters of jazz and funk music. Dwayne's career began more than 25 years ago with the Wynton Marsalis Quintet. Most recently, Dwayne has been a regular member of the legendary funk outfit, Fred Wesley and the JB's. Fred Wesley was one of the founding member of James Brown's famous band, creating classics that have influenced generations of rhythm and blues enthusiasts.

Sean Jones has developed into one of jazz's top young trumpeters, known for both his lyrical fluidity and high-tier technical facility. Dolphin and Jones play together regularly, so this collaboration should be even more precision since they both know one another's strengths and performing styles. This collaboration will include new compositions by Dolphin and Jones, along with some classic soul jazz covers.

Orrin Evans Trio - Phillie Sounds
8pm, Tuesday, April 20, at the Cabaret at Theater Square. $20.

Orrin Evans has been recognized as one of the most distinctive and inventive pianist of his generation. In a short span of time Orrin has earned the titles of pianist, composer, bandleader, teacher, producer and arranger. The New York Times described the pianist as "...a poised artist with an impressive template of ideas at his command", a quality that has undoubtedly assisted in keeping Orrin at the forefront of the music scene. His recording and performing resume includes Wallace Roney, Pharoah Sanders, Antonio Hart, The Mingus Big Band, Roy Hargrove, Nicolas Payton, Brandford Marsalis, Gary Bartz, Eddie Henderson, Sean Jones, Tim Warfield, and Ravi Coltrane

Jeff "Tain" Watts Quartet
8pm, Tuesday, April 27, at the Cabaret at Theater Square. $25.

One of the most in demand jazz drummers in the world today, Pittsburgher Jeff "Tain" Watts initially majored in classical percussion at Pittsburgh's Duquesne University, where he was primarily a timpanist. He later enrolled at the Berklee School of Music, where he pursued jazz studies alongside such talented players as Branford Marsalis and Kevin Eubanks.

Jeff played with the Wynton Marsalis Quartet from 1981-1988, winning three Grammy Awards with the ensemble. After working with George Benson, Harry Connick. Jr. and McCoy Tyner, he joined the Branford Marsalis Quartet in 1989. Along with explosive power, blinding speed and mastery of complex rhythms and time signatures, Watts brings a rare sense of elegance, tried-by-fire composure, and a gritty street funk to his music. A true jazz innovator, Watts never fails to deliver the percussive magic that has been his trademark since his emergence on the contemporary jazz scene.

Pittsburgher Dave Budway will also be part of the quartet. David Budway is one of the most distinctive pianists on today's international jazz scene. While deeply rooted in classical music and rock and roll music, his masterful command for the modern jazz vocabulary has propelled him into the midst of present-day jazz pioneers. He is quickly becoming a highly sought-after accompanist, arranger, film composer, and songwriter.

About Ahmad Jamal
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ahmad Jamal is an acclaimed virtuoso jazz piano and keyboard master, and composer. He began playing piano at the age of three, when his uncle Lawrence challenged him to duplicate what he was playing on the piano. Jamal began formal piano training at the age of seven with Mary Cardwell Dawson, whom he describes as greatly influencing him. Since 1960, he has been a Steinway Artist.

Miles Davis, Randy Weston, Keith Jarrett, Jack DeJohnette, and Gary Peacock all cite Ahmad Jamal as a major influence in use of rhythm and space as well as his innovative use of multi-tonal melodic lines and his unique extended 'vamps'. The element of surprise in his performances are an important part of Jamal's unique improvisational music style.

Clint Eastwood featured two recordings from Jamal's But Not For Me album - "Music, Music, Music" and "Poinciana" - in the 1995 movie The Bridges of Madison County. The French government has inducted Ahmad Jamal into the prestigious "Order of the Arts and Letters" by French Culture Minister Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres, naming him Officier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in June 2007.

About the MCG Jazz Orchestra
The MCG Jazz Orchestra is a 17-piece big band comprised of top musicians from the Pittsburgh region under the direction of executive producer Marty Ashby. MCG Jazz's mission is to preserve, present and promote jazz through their performances; and continue to strengthening the long time Pittsburgh jazz community and contribute to the overall cultural and artistic diversity of the region.

Media contact
Lauren Bracey: 412-471-3591, bracey@pgharts.org
Janis Burley Wilson: 412-471-6078, burleywilson@pgharts.org

Press Images
Click on the images below to download print-quality files.

Ahmad Jamal
Credit: Photo courtesy University Musical Society

Dwayne Dolphin
Credit: Courtesy of Dwayne Dolphin

Sean Jones
Credit: Courtesy of Sean Jones

Orrin Evans
Photo credit: Daniel Sheehan

Jeff "Tain" Watts
Photo credit:Oliver Link

Steppenwolf's August: Osage County

2010-03-08T21:15:14Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - August: Osage County, the 2008 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play that bitingly funny and sensationally entertaining tale of the Weston Family of Pawhuska, Oklahoma, is coming to the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, Pittsburgh, PA from April 6-11, 2010. August: Osage County is part of the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

The play stars Academy Award-winner Estelle Parsons in the role of the family matriarch, Violet. Ms. Parsons played Violet in the Broadway production of August: Osage County from June 2008-May 2009, where The New York Times raved, "Estelle Parsons gives a superb performance...sends chills down your spine. It may prove to be a crowning moment in an illustrious career."

Tickets ($21-$55) are available at the Box Office at Theater Square, by calling 412-456-6666 and online at pgharts.org. Tickets are on sale now for groups of ten or more at 412-471-6930. For subscriptions to the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series call 412-456-1390.

Joining Ms. Parsons are Shannon Cochran as Barbara Fordham, Jon DeVries as Beverly Weston, Libby George as Mattie Fae Aiken, Steve Key as Little Charles, Emily Kinney as Jean Fordham, Laurence Lau as Steve Heidebrecht, Marcus Nelson as Sheriff Deon Gilbeau and understudying Bill and Steve, Paul Vincent O'Connor as Charlie Aiken, Jeff Still as Bill Fordham, DeLanna Studi as Johnna Monevata, Angelica Torn as Ivy Weston, Amy Warren as Karen Weston, Avia Bushyhead, understudying Johnna, Jean, Ivy and Karen, Stephen D'Ambrose, understudying Beverly and Charlie, Barbara Kingsley, understudying Violet and Mattie Fae, Bryn Magnus, understudying Little Charles and the Sherriff and Kim Martin-Cotten, understudying Barbara, Karen and Ivy.

Written by 2008 Pulitzer Prize-winner Tracy Letts (Superior Donuts, Man From Nebraska, Killer Joe, Bug), this grand and gripping new play tells the story of the Westons, a large extended clan that comes together at their rural Oklahoma homestead after the alcoholic patriarch disappears. Forced to confront unspoken truths and astonishing secrets, the family must also contend with Violet, a pill-popping, deeply unsettled woman at the center of the storm.

Directed by 2008 Tony Award-winner Anna D. Shapiro, August: Osage County is a rare theatrical event: a large-scale work filled with 13 unforgettable characters, a powerful tragicomedy told with unflinching honesty and the unforgettable breakthrough of a major American playwright. August: Osage County premiered and was produced at Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago in 2007.

Nominated for seven Tony Awards and winning five, including Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Director, along with Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and New York Drama Critics Circle Awards, including Best Play, Best Director and Best Scenic Design, August: Osage County opened at the Imperial Theatre Broadway on December 4, 2007, to wide critical acclaim. The New York Times called August: Osage County "The most exciting new American play Broadway has seen in years," and it was voted The #1 Play of the Year by Time, The Associated Press, Entertainment Weekly, and TimeOut New York. After a sold-out engagement at the Imperial Theatre, the show re-opened at the Music Box Theatre on April 29th, 2008. August: Osage County closed on Broadway on June 28, 2009 after 648 performances and 18 previews, surpassing The Heidi Chronicles, Master Class, The Real Thing, and Doubt, among many others, to become one of the longest running plays in Broadway history.

The show, which the London critics hailed as "the must-see play of the year - possibly a lifetime," opened to rave reviews at The National Theatre on November 26, 2008, where it played a limited eight-week engagement featuring members of the original Broadway company. The London production was nominated for four Olivier Awards, winning one (Best Scenic Design).

The show's creative team includes Tony Award winner Todd Rosenthal (sets), Ana Kuzmanic (costumes), Ann G. Wrightson (lights), Richard Woodbury (sound) and David Singer (original music).

August: Osage County is produced by Jeffrey Richards, Jean Doumanian, Steve Traxler and Jerry Frankel.

Media Contact
Jamie Cuba: 412-325-1201, cuba@pgharts.org

Press Photos
Click the images below to download print-quality files.

Estelle Parsons as Violet
Photo credit: Joan Marcus

Clockwise from left: Angelica Torn, Libby George & Paul Vincent O'Connor.
Photo credit: © Robert J. Saferstein

Touring company of August: Osage County
Photo credit: © Robert J. Saferstein

From left: Libby George & Shannon Cochran.
Photo credit: © Robert J. Saferstein

Estelle Parsons & Shannon Cochran
Photo credit: © Robert J. Saferstein

2010/2011 PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh Season

2010-03-07T11:00:00Z

PITTSBURGH - PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh - presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and Broadway Across America - today unveiled its "practically perfect" 2010/2011 season. One of the city's premier entertainment series, PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh is generously sponsored by The PNC Foundation. The 2010/2011 season presents an array of must-see musical theater productions presented on the Cultural District's world-class stages.

The season starts with Lincoln Center Theater's lavish and flawless new production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's SOUTH PACIFIC, followed by the new musical arena-rock love story, ROCK OF AGES. Broadway's "magical hit musical" - the roof-raising MARY POPPINS produced by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh - will fly into the Benedum Center for an extravaganza at the beginning of 2011. Then, the energetic musical revival that will set you in search of peace and love, HAIR, continues the season, and Pittsburgh will get a make-ogre with the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre, SHREK THE MUSICAL. Next up is what critics have rated among "the best of 2009," the emotional powerhouse musical, NEXT TO NORMAL. And finally - from the first notes to the final breath - Pittsburgh audiences will be captivated as the all-new production of WEST SIDE STORY rounds out this not-to-be-missed season of Pittsburgh premiere musicals.

"The PNC Foundation is proud once again to be the presenting sponsor of this series, which draws over 300,000 visitors to our city's vibrant Cultural District each year and generates an economic impact estimated at more than $30 million annually for the region," said James E. Rohr, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The PNC Financial Services Group. "The PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series contributes to the Pittsburgh's reputation as a major destination for arts and entertainment, bringing world-class Broadway productions close to home for residents of southwestern Pennsylvania."

Subscription packages range from $101 to $456, and information is available by calling 412-456-1390 (local), 800-828-9200 (outside Pittsburgh), or visiting www.pgharts.org. Information about discounted group tickets (minimums and discounts vary by production) is available by calling 412-471-6930.

Media contact
Mark Power - 412-471-8715, power@pgharts.org

PNC BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA - PITTSBURGH
2010/2011 SEASON

The Lincoln Center Theater Production of
Rodgers & Hammerstein's
SOUTH PACIFIC
November 2-7, 2010, at the Benedum Center
"A Flawless Production!" -The New York Times

A stunning reinvention produced by Lincoln Center Theater, SOUTH PACIFIC swept the 2008 Tony^® Awards, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. This breathtaking new production features a cast of 34 and a full orchestra of 26 members - the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production. Set on a tropical island during World War II, this musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. The beloved score includes "Some Enchanted Evening," "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair," and "There Is Nothin' Like A Dame."

ROCK OF AGES
November 23-28, 2010, at the Benedum Center
"Impossible to resist! As guilty as pleasures get!"
-The New York Times

In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big city rocker in LA's most famous rock club, and they fell in love to the greatest songs of the '80s. It's five-time Tony^® Award nominee ROCK OF AGES, an arena-rock love story told through the mind-blowing, face-melting hits of Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more. Don't miss this awesomely good time about dreaming big, playing loud and partying on!

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh present
MARY POPPINS
January 5-23, 2011, at the Benedum Center
"Irresistible! Broadway has found a fresh fountain of youth that will make many a grown-up feel like a kid again! -USA Today

Get ready as the world's most famous nanny flies into the Benedum Center! Combining the best of the original stories by P.L. Travers and the beloved Walt Disney film, the Tony^® Award-winning MARY POPPINS is everything you'd hope for in a Broadway musical - and more. Produced by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, this show includes such wonderful songs as "Chim Chim Cher-ee," "A Spoonful of Sugar," "Let's Go Fly a Kite" and, of course, "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." The New York Daily News hails MARY POPPINS as "a roof-raising, toe-tapping, high-flying extravaganza!" Let your imagination take flight at this magical hit musical!

HAIR
February 15-20, 2011, at Heinz Hall
"Thrilling, emotionally rich production delivers intense, unadulterated joy!" -The New York Times

New York's Public Theater's new Tony^® Award-winning production of HAIR is the most electric celebration on Broadway! This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time has struck a resonant chord with audiences young and old. HAIR features an extraordinary cast and dozens of unforgettable songs including "Aquarius," "Let the Sun Shine In," "Good Morning, Starshine," and "Easy To Be Hard." Its relevance is undeniable. Its energy is unbridled. Its truth is unwavering. It's HAIR, and it's time.

SHREK THE MUSICAL
March 15-20, 2011, at the Benedum Center
"A triumph of comic imagination, altogether irresistible!" -USA Today

SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the Oscar^®-winning DreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre to life on the stage. In a faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre--not a handsome price--shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Throw in a donkey who won't shut up, a bad guy with a short temper, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand...and his name is Shrek. Featuring a terrific score of 19 all-new songs, big laughs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, USA Today proclaims SHREK THE MUSICAL, "A big fat hit!"

NEXT TO NORMAL
April 5-10, 2011, at the Benedum Center
"It is the best musical of the season - by a mile.
It'll pin you to your seat." -Rolling Stone

From the director of RENT comes NEXT TO NORMAL, an emotional powerhouse of a musical with a thrilling, contemporary score about a family trying to take care of themselves and each other. Winner of three 2009 Tony^® Awards including Best Score, NEXT TO NORMAL is the most talked about new show on Broadway having recently been chosen as "one of the year's best" by major critics around the country. The New York Times calls NEXT TO NORMAL "a brave, breathtaking musical. A work of muscular grace and power. It is much more than a feel-good musical; it is a feel-everything musical."

WEST SIDE STORY
May 17-22, 2011, at the Benedum Center
"So exciting it makes you ache with pleasure."
-The New Yorker

More than 50 years ago, one musical changed theater forever. Now it's back to mesmerize audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, the smash hit Broadway revival of WEST SIDE STORY soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by Tony^® Award winner Arthur Laurents, WEST SIDE STORY remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The new Broadway cast album won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album.

2010/2011 SEASON SPECIALS

Subscribers are able to purchase the best seats to these four specials at the best price before they go on sale to the public. Tickets will go on sale 4-6 weeks prior to each production's opening date. These special presentations are in addition to and not part of the 2010/2011 subscription series.

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
August 25 - September 19, 2010, at the Benedum Center

BURN THE FLOOR
December 28, 2010 - January 2, 2011, at Heinz Hall

RAIN - A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES
January 11-16, 2011, at Heinz Hall

MAMMA MIA!
April 19-24, 2011, at Heinz Hall

SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS

The 2010/2011 PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series is presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and Broadway Across America. The PNC Foundation is the sponsor of this series. Season subscription packages are available now at prices ranging from $101 to $456. For subscription information call 412-456-1390 (local) or 800-828-9200 (outside Pittsburgh). To subscribe or renew online, visit www.pgharts.org. To purchase discounted tickets for groups (minimums and discounts vary by production), please call 412-471-6930.

Subscriber benefits include:

Select seat locations
Exclusive ticket exchange privilege
Guaranteed same great seats as previous season for renewing subscribers
Priority ticket offers
A ticket replacement service if you lose your tickets
The Broadway Subscriber Handbook, which includes important phone numbers, parking information, exchange policies and dining discounts to some of Downtown Pittsburgh's finest restaurants
Guaranteed parking all season for an additional price

In addition to the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the Pittsburgh Dance Council, Trust Presents, CD Live, JazzLive, First Night Pittsburgh, Gallery Crawl, Three Rivers Arts Festival, the Pittsburgh International Children's Theater and Children's Festival, among other Cultural District and arts events.

The Trust owns Theater Square and the Cabaret at Theater Square; the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts; Byham, O'Reilly and Harris Theaters; Wood Street Galleries; SPACE, a visual arts gallery at 812 Liberty Avenue; and 937 Liberty, a multi-purpose performance and exhibit space, among other Downtown Pittsburgh arts facilities.

About The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Heinz Hall is the home of The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, which has been a vital part of the City of Pittsburgh's heritage for more than 100 years. With its noble history of the finest conductors and musicians and its strong commitment to artistic quality and excellence, audiences around the world have claimed the PSO as their orchestra of choice. In September 2008, the PSO welcomed its ninth Music Director, Manfred Honeck.

Beginning in the early 1900s with frequent performances in Canada, The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra confirmed its ranking as a world-class orchestra, earning critical acclaim for each tour abroad. Its 32 international tours include 17 European tours, seven trips to the Far East and two to South America. In January 2004, the PSO became the first American orchestra to perform for Pope John Paul II at the Vatican as part of the Pontiff's Silver Jubilee celebration.

About Broadway Across America
Broadway Across America presents first-class touring Broadway musicals and plays, family productions and other live events throughout a network of 43 North American cities. It is also dedicated to the development and production of new and diverse live theatre for productions on Broadway, across America and throughout the world. Broadway Across America most recently produced the Broadway productions of HAIR, WEST SIDE STORY and Irving Berlin's WHITE CHRISTMAS. Upcoming productions include MINSKY'S, PROMISES, PROMISES, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET and the West End production of BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S. Touring productions include Nickelodeon's STORYTIME ADVENTURES featuring Dora the Explorer and DREAMGIRLS.

The Wizard of Oz

2010-03-05T16:36:01Z

Pittsburgh, PA - The greatest family musical of all time, THE WIZARD OF OZ, is coming to Pittsburgh's Heinz Hall for six performances March 30 - April 4, 2010, as a special presentation in the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series. PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh is presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

This magical production, based on the Royal Shakespeare Company's celebration of the 1939 MGM movie, is presented with breathtaking special effects that will sweep audiences away from the moment the tornado twists its way into Kansas to the finale.

Director, Nigel West; choreographer, Leigh Constantine; and set and costume designer, Tim McQuillen-Wright feature the glamour and elegance of art deco Hollywood with their visually stunning Technicolor backdrop in this musical stage production of The WIZARD OF OZ. Following the story plot, Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow are transported "Over the Rainbow" to adventures in Munchkin Land, the Haunted Forest, and the Emerald City. Featuring the classic songs by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, "Over the Rainbow," "Ding Dong the Witch is Dead," and "Merry Old Land of Oz," along with the beloved characters, THE WIZARD OF OZ will have the entire family captivated as they travel down the yellow brick road for an unforgettable evening at the theater.

Twelve local children, all student's at Michele's Dance Center in Wexford, will perform the roles of "munchkins" while this beloved classic is live on stage in Pittsburgh. The children were selected through an audition process by the National Tour. The children who will perform in the Pittsburgh engagement are Madison Bittner, Megan Carcaise, Victoria Carcaise, Payton Carroll, Michael Caye, Elena Diulus, Hannah Feldhues, Josselyn Fester, Alexis Meckler, Savannah Nasse, Olivia Tarchick and Heather Walter.

Tickets ($21 - $59) to THE WIZARD OF OZ at Heinz Hall, March 30-April 4, 2010, are available at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue); by calling the Heinz Hall box office 412-392-4900 and online at pgharts.org. To purchase 10 or more tickets, please call 412-392-4819.

Media Contact
Lauren Bracey: 412-471-3591, bracey@pgharts.org
Diana Roth: 412-471-8717, roth@pgharts.org

Production Photos
Click the images below to download print-quality files.

Dorothy (Cassie Okenka) and Toto (Snickers) in Kansas
Photo credit: © Joan Marcus

Dorothy (Cassie Okenka) and Toto (Snickers) in Munchkinland
Photo credit: © Joan Marcus

The cast of the National Tour of The Wizard of Oz in Munchkinland
Photo credit: © Peter Coombs

Dorothy (Cassie Okenka) and Scarecrow (Adam Jepsen)
Photo credit: © Peter Coombs

Dorothy and Friends (Adam Jepsen, Cassie Okenka, Dusty as Toto, Jesse Coleman and Peter Gosik)
Photo credit: © Peter Coombs

Dorothy (Cassie Okenka) and Professor Marvel (Robert John Biedermann)
Photo credit: © Joan Marcus

Internationally-Acclaimed Golden Dragon Acrobats

2010-03-02T16:57:09Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - "The impossible can be achieved, and once achieved surpassed, then surpassed again," raves the Associated Press. Direct from Cangzhou, Hebei province in China, the Golden Dragon Acrobats represent the best of a time honored tradition that began more than 27 centuries ago. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Golden Dragon Acrobats, for only two performances at the Byham Theater on Saturday, March 13, 2010, at 2pm and 8pm. Cohen & Grigsby is the lead sponsor of the Trust Presents series.

With performers trained in the rigorous art of acrobatics since early youth, Golden Dragon Acrobats, founded by producer and director Danny Chang, has garnered international acclaim, and has been presented with several major awards over the company's history including the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) "Entertainer of the Year" award and the Campus Activities Today's "Performer of the Year" award. Since 1978, the troupe has traveled to all 50 states and to over 65 countries on five continents. The program will feature an exciting line up of acrobatic artistry such as Thousand Hands Dance, Lion Dance, Tower of Chairs and Bicycle Family, among many more not to be missed! "Good old fashioned razzle dazzle...Ripples of amazement all the way to the back row..." -The Dallas Morning News

The ancient art of Chinese Acrobats is an old and long running tradition that began in China more than two thousand years ago. Over its long and rich history it has developed as one of the most popular art forms among the Chinese people. The citizens of China continue to present their acrobatic art to the world today, hoping to portray the hard working nature of their people and the rich traditions of the Chinese culture.

Tickets ($20 - $37) for the March 13 performances of Golden Dragon Acrobats may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.

Media Contact
Lauren Bracey, (412) 471-3591; bracey@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

Click the images below to download print-quality files.

Caption: Contortion Balancing Act
Credit: Golden Dragon Acrobats

Caption: Pink Balancing Pyramid
Credit: Golden Dragon Acrobats

Caption: Spinning Color Wheels
Credit: Golden Dragon Acrobats

Caption: Traditional Bicycle Pyramid
Credit: Golden Dragon Acrobats

Grease starring Taylor Hicks as "Teen Angel"

2010-02-19T21:47:41Z

Pittsburgh, PA - The new Broadway production of the Tony Award nominated musical GREASE™, comes to Pittsburgh at the Benedum Center, March 9-14, 2010. Time Magazine claims, "#1 MUSICAL OF THE YEAR- GREASE is getting a new generation excited about the theatre again. But, you don't have to be an impressionable 13-year-old to get a kick out of Kathleen Marshall's exuberant and winning new revival - IT'S THE ONE THAT I WANT." GREASE™ is part of the PNC Broadway Across America -Pittsburgh Series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

The new production features songs from the 1978 motion picture for the first time in a Broadway production including "Sandy", the Academy Award nominated song "Hopelessly Devoted to You", and #1 hits on the Billboard Top 100 list, "Grease" and "You're the One That I Want". The audience will also enjoy "Summer Nights", "Greased Lightning" and "We Go Together", famous songs from the original stage production.

This rock n' roll celebration of growin' up, cruisin' with friends and goin' steady attracted the talented Platinum-selling recording artist and "American Idol" winner, Taylor Hicks, to star as "Teen Angel. Hicks made his Broadway debut in the role of "Teen Angel" and has been on the road with GREASE™ since the tour began on December 2, 2008. Originating in Chicago in the early 70's, GREASE™ quickly transformed into one of the world's most popular musicals. GREASE™ was nominated for seven Tony Awards in its initial run.

Tickets ($22-$66) and are available at the Box Office at Theater Square, by calling 412-456-6666 and online at pgharts.org. To purchase 10 or more tickets, please call 412-471-6930, PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh subscribers at 412-456-1390.For more information regarding PNC Broadway Across America- Pittsburgh Series please visit www.pgharts.org.

Josh Franklin has joined the cast as "Danny." The tour continues to star Lauren Ashley Zakrin as "Sandy," Will Blum as "Roger," Bridie Carroll as "Jan," Kate Morgan Chadwick as "Frenchy," Laura D'Andre as "Rizzo," Kelly Felthous as "Marty," Allison Fischer as "Patty Simcox," Dominic Fortuna as "Vince Fontaine," Jesse JP Johnson as "Doody," Roxie Lucas as "Miss Lynch," David Ruffin as "Kenickie," Jamison Scott as "Eugene," and Nick Verina as "Sonny."

Drected and choreographed by two-time Tony Award-winner Kathleen Marshall (The Pajama Game, Wonderful Town), GREASE™ features book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Additional songs from the film are by Barry Gibb, John Farrar, Louis St. Louis and Scott Simon. Scenic design by Tony Award nominee Derek McLane (The Pajama Game), costume design by two-time Tony Award winner Martin Pakledinaz (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Kiss Me Kate), lighting design by Tony Award winner Kenneth Posner (The Coast of Utopia, Wicked) and sound design by Brian Ronan (Spring Awakening, Curtains). GREASE™ is produced on tour by Paul Nicholas and David Ian, Nederlander Presentations, Inc. and Terry Allen Kramer by arrangement with Robert Stigwood.

Media Contact
Jamie Cuba: 412-325-1201, cuba@pgharts.org

Press Photos
Click the images below to download print-quality files.

Born to Hand Jive
Dominic Fortuna and Company
Photo by Joan Marcus

GREASE on Tour
Company
Photo by Joan Marcus

Freddy, My Love
Bridie Carroll, Allie Schulz, Kelly Felthous and Kate Morgan Chadwick
Photo by Joan Marcus

Greased Lightnin'
Will Blum, Brian Crum, David Ruffin, Eric Schneider and Nick Verina
Photo by Joan Marcus

Teen Angel
Taylor Hicks
Photo by Larry Busacca

Traditional Irish Music with Cherish the Ladies

2010-02-18T09:00:00Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - Irish-American Celtic music sensations Cherish the Ladies return to the Byham Theater for one performance! Cherish the Ladies blends virtuosic instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, captivating original arrangements and stunning step dancing in an entertaining, humorous and lively celebration of traditional Irish culture. Cherish the Ladies will perform at the Byham Theater on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 8pm. Cohen & Grigsby is the lead sponsor of the Trust Presents series.

"It is simply impossible to imagine an audience that wouldn't enjoy what they do," says the Boston Globe.

Taking their name from the name of a traditional Irish jig, Cherish the Ladies initially won recognition as the first and only all-women traditional Irish band. In a relatively short time, they soon established themselves as musicians and performers without peer and have won many thousands of listeners and fans through their music. With their unique spectacular blend of virtuosi instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing, this powerhouse group combines all the facets of Irish traditional culture and puts it forth in an immensely humorous and entertaining package.

Cherish the Ladies has been named "Best Musical Group of the Year" by the BBC, "Entertainment Group of the Year" by the Irish Voice Newspaper, the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall's "International Group of the Year Award" at the Celtic Connections Festival in Scotland and voted the "Top North American Celtic Act" by NPR Radio's Thistle and Shamrock.

They have shared the stage with such noted entertainers as James Taylor, Joan Baez, Emmy Lou Harris, The Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, The Chieftains and dozens of symphony orchestras. The "Celtic Album", their collaboration with the Boston Pops Symphony led to a 1999 Grammy nomination.

Cherish the Ladies has appeared on CBS This Morning, Good Morning America, Evening at Pops, C-Span, PBS and National Public Radio in the United States and on BBC and RTE radio and television overseas. At the Summer Olympics in Atlanta, they were chosen to represent Irish music and culture at the Official Cultural Olympiad.

Tickets ($20 - $32) for the March 5, 2010, 8pm Cherish the Ladies performance may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.

Media Contact
Lauren Bracey, (412) 471-3591; bracey@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

Click the image below to download a print-quality file.
Photo credit: Larry Shirkey

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet

2010-02-15T22:19:06Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - Described as "a breath of fresh air" by The New York Times and "a company to be reckoned with" by Dance Magazine, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet brings its critically-acclaimed athleticism and grace to the Byham Theater stage in Pittsburgh's Cultural District on Friday, February 26 for a one-night performance.

The evening's program includes dance works by four internationally recognized chorographers: Jorma Elo's Red Sweet, Nicolo Fonte's In Hidden Seconds, William Forsythe's Slingerland, and Twyla Tharp's Sue's Leg - with roller-rink-like music and witty songs by Fats Waller.

Founded on the idea of acquiring repertoire and inviting top choreographers in the field to create works for the company, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet boasts a sophisticated repertoire and broad appeal, combined with a successful blend of entertaining and engrossing contemporary dance. The company is one of the true success stories in American dance today.

Tickets ($19 - $42) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at pgharts.org, or by calling 412-456-6666. First Commonwealth is the season sponsor of Pittsburgh Dance Council. WDUQ 90.5fm is the media sponsor.

About Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
In 1990, accomplished dancer Bebe Schweppe founded the Aspen Ballet Company with hopes of infusing dance education into Colorado culture. Within the next 10 years, she had created professional companies in both Aspen and Santa Fe with the help of Jean-Philippe Malaty and Tom Mossbrucker. Fusing the two company names together, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet was born.

The small ensemble has performed to critical acclaim both nationally and internationally at The Joyce Theatre, Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, The Kennedy Center as well as at venues in Canada, France and Italy. The diversity of the group is magnified by the companies it has supported through Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Presents: The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Pilobolus, Hubbard Street Dance, Twyla Tharp, Mark Morris Dance Group, Sydney Dance Company, Ballet "Quetzalli" de Veracruz, Tango Danza, Peking Acrobats, Les Ballets Africains and India's Nrityagram Dance Ensemble to name a few.

Aspen Santa Fe Ballet has grown to become one of the largest dance presenters in the country, but has nonetheless maintained its fresh and unique signature style. Currently, Tom Mossbrucker serves as Artistic Director for the company with Jean-Philippe Malaty serving as Executive Director.

About Sue's Leg
A tribute to the world of 1930s dance and the music of Fats Waller, the nine-part suite titled Sue's Leg is one of Twyla Tharp's earliest commissioned pieces. Originally performed in 1990 by Chicago's Hubbard Street Dance, Sue's Leg was pulled from Tharp's repertoire until February 2009 when she began to collaborate with the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet. The piece was created for a dancing quartet with soloists featured throughout - with the accompanying Oldies/jazz musical track perfectly complemented by the sounds of the dancers' tap shoes as though a natural element of the music.

About Pittsburgh Dance Council
Each year the Pittsburgh Dance Council, a division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, showcases a world-class season of dance. As the largest presenter of international performances in the city, Pittsburgh Dance Council continues to help make Pittsburgh's Cultural District one of the country's leading arts and entertainment destinations.

Media Contact
Mark Power: 412-471-8715, power@pgharts.org

Showcase Noir & Ladysmith Black Mambazo

2010-02-15T21:57:20Z

PITTSBURGH, PA -- The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust culminates Black History Month with its regular Showcase Noir: African American Artist and Designer Exhibit and Sale and the special presentation of Grammy-award-winning South African a cappella group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Showcase Noir opens at 11am on Sunday, February 28, at the Byham Theater. Ladysmith Black Mambazo performance closes the evening with their 7 p.m. performance. Cohen & Grigsby is the season sponsor of the 2009-2010 Trust Presents series.

Admission to Showcase Noir is free until 6pm. After 6pm, tickets for the Ladysmith Black Mambazo performance are required. Tickets ($20 - $37) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930. For more information on both programs, visit pgharts.org.

Media Contacts
Lauren Bracey, (412) 471-3591; bracey@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

ABOUT LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO
"It isn't merely the grace and power of their dancing or the beauty of their singing that rivets the attention, but the sheer joy and love that emanates from their being," raves composer, musician, singer and producer Paul Simon.

For more than forty years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. The result is a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience representing every corner of the religious, cultural and ethnic landscape. Their musical efforts over the past four decades have garnered praise and accolades within the recording industry and have solidified their identity as a cultural force to be reckoned with. The group borrows heavily from a traditional music called isicathamiya (is-cot-a-ME-Ya). Isicathamiya singing style originated from the South African Zulus. In Europe this singing style is known as a capella. The word itself does not have a literal translation; it is derived from the Zulu verb -cathama, which means walking softly, or tread carefully.

Assembled in the early 1960s, in South Africa, by Joseph Shabalala - then a young farmboy turned factory worker - the group took the name Ladysmith Black Mambazo - Ladysmith being the name of Shabalala's rural hometown; Black being a reference to oxen, the strongest of all farm animals; and Mambazo being the Zulu word for axe, a symbol of the group's vocal ability to "chop down" all things in their path. Their collective voices were so tight and their harmonies so polished that they were eventually banned from competitions - although they were welcome to participate strictly as entertainers.

A radio broadcast in 1970 opened the door to their first record contract - the beginning of an ambitious discography that currently includes more than forty recordings that have garnered three Grammy Awards and fifteen nominations, including one for their most recent recording "Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu". Their philosophy in the studio was - and continues to be - just as much about preservation of musical heritage as it is about entertainment.

In the mid-1980s, Paul Simon visited South Africa and incorporated Ladysmith Black Mambazo's rich tenor/alto/bass harmonies into his Graceland album - a landmark 1986 recording that won the Grammy Award for Best Album and is considered seminal in introducing world music to mainstream audiences. In addition to their work with Paul Simon, Ladysmith Black Mambazo have recorded with numerous artists from around the world, including Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, Dolly Parton, Sarah McLaughlin, Emmylou Harris, Natalie Merchant, Mavis Staples, Ry Cooder and Ben Harper.

The ensemble is regarded as South Africa's cultural emissaries at home and around the world. Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been invited to perform at many special events including events for the Queen of England and the Royal Family, two Nobel Peace Prize Ceremonies, a concert for Pope John Paul II in Rome, and the South African Presidential inaugurations.

Click the images below to download print-quality photos.

ABOUT SHOWCASE NOIR
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust's Department of Education and Community Engagement presents the fifth Showcase Noir: African American Artist & Designer Showcase, on Sunday, February 28. An event that celebrates and provides exposure to the many talented artists and designers of African descent in our region, Showcase Noir has developed a reputation for presenting exceptional pottery, jewelry design, watercolor painting, sculpture, and art of various media. Works will be available for sale; all proceeds will benefit the artists. This free event is complimented with live jazz music featuring Dwayne Dolphin and acid jazz and rare funk grooves spun by DJ SMI.

Showcase Noir opens at 11am and remains open to the public until 6pm. After 6pm, a ticket to Ladysmith Black Mambazo is required.

Participating artists include Firdausi Bey, Roberta Ellis, Kendrah Foster, Rita Gregory, Joseph Holtz, Charlotte Ka, Laverne Kemp, Mary Martin, Harriette Merriweather, Saihou Njie, Errol Reynolds, Charles Smith, Solomon Steelpan Company, Susan Tankersley/Ethnic Designs, Ken Thomas and Richelle Wilson.

Click here to download a zip file of images of work by Showcase Noir artists and designers (12 MB)

Nickelodeon's Storytime Live!

2010-02-04T21:32:10Z

Pittsburgh, PA - The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Nickelodeon's Storytime Live!, a production of Nickelodeon and Broadway Across America, at the Benedum Center for six performances on February 20-21, 2010. Storytime Live! features characters from four of the current top-rated preschool shows on television today: Dora the Explorer, The Backyardigans, The Wonder Pets! and Ni Hao, Kai-lan. Preschoolers and their parents can see their favorite Nick Jr. characters come to life in this action-packed on-stage adventure hosted by Nick Jr.'s Moose A. Moose and Zee. Cohen & Grigsby is the season sponsor of the 2009-2010 Trust Presents series.

Tickets for Nickelodeon's Storytime Live! at the Benedum Center ($15 - $39) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.

Each segment of Nickelodeon's Storytime Live! takes kids and their families on a different brand-new adventure, whether it's leaping into Fairytale Land with Dora and Sleeping Boots, journeying through Filthingham with The Backyardigans, hopping into Wonderland with the Wonder Pets! or jumping on clouds with Kai-lan and the Monkey King.

The Storytime Live! creative team comes with a diverse theatrical background and includes: Director Sam Scalamoni (Associate Director: Lestat and Beauty and the Beast on Broadway); Scenic Designer Josh Zangen; Costume Designer Patrick Bevilacqua (Thomas and Friends: A Day at the Circus, Costume Designer;); and Choreographer Wendy Seyb.

Additionally, the creative teams for each of the Nick Jr. shows contributed to the production of Storytime Live! including Sascha Paladino, head writer for Ni Hao, Kai-lan; Janice Burgess, creator of The Backyardigans; Josh Selig, Billy Lopez and Little Airplane Productions, Inc for Wonder Pets and Valerie Walsh-Valdes, co-creator of Dora the Explorer.

Nickelodeon, now in its 30th year, has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 15 consecutive years.

Broadway Across America (Producer) is owned and operated by British theatre producer John Gore (CEO) and entertainment industry veteran Thomas B. McGrath (Chairman). Broadway Across America presents first-class touring Broadway musicals and plays, family productions and other live events throughout a network of 40 North American cities. Under the supervision of Beth Williams (COO & Head of Production), Broadway Across America is also dedicated to the development and production of new and diverse live theater for productions on Broadway, across America and throughout the world.

Media Contact
Jamie Cuba, 412-325-1201; cuba@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, 412-471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

XANADU is "Heaven on Wheels!"

2010-02-01T16:06:50Z

"The most infectiously silly show to land on Broadway since 'Spamalot', Bursts of joy explode all over the stage!" - The Washington Post

Pittsburgh, PA - Xanadu, the critically acclaimed show called "Heaven on Wheels" by The New York Times, graces Pittsburgh's Benedum Center for six nights of an infectiously entertaining feat beginning Tuesday, February 23, 2010. Winner of Best New Musical 2008- Outer Critic Circle Award, and four 2008 Tony Award Nominations, Xanadu claims the stage with its hilarity on wheels for adults, children, and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired with electrifying tales and endless fun. Xanadu is part of the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

Xanadu takes audiences back to 1980s California, following the magical and beautiful Greek muse, Kira, who descends from the heavens to inspire the greatest of artistic achievements - the first roller disco! The simplistic expectations of this feat quickly transform into a situation of forbidden love with a struggling young artist.

Tickets ($21-$62) are available at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), by phone 412-456-6666 or online at pgharts.org. For group discounts, please call 412-471-6930. For more information about PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series please visit www.pgharts.org.

Xanadu is based on the 1980 cult-classic movie of the same. The film starred Olivia Newton-John as Kira and Gene Kelly as Danny. The musical adaptation made its Broadway debut on June 26, 2007. This is the show's first national tour.

The score, composed by pop rock legends Jeff Lynne and John Farrar, includes the hits, "Magic," "Xanadu," "Party All Over the World" and "I' Alive" -- all top 20 Billboard hits. Lynne wrote and produced all of the music of Electric Light Orchestra (E.L.O). Farrar was also responsible for most of the hits that were performed by Olivia Newton-John in the 1970's. XANADU is directed by Christopher Ashley and choreographed by Dan Knechtges. Production for the show includes Douglas Carter Beane (book), Jeff Lynne and John Farrar (music & lyrics), Christopher Ashley (director), Dan Knechtges (choreographer), David Gallo (scenic design), Howell Binkley (lighting design), Dan Moses Shrier and Carl Casella (sound design) and production by Robert Ahrens, Dan Vickery, Tara Smith, Brian Swibel, Mickey Liddell and Cari Smulyan.

The magical journey, echoed throughout numerous critically acclaimed positive responses, reflects the success of this infectiously original musical, which is owed to the producers, composers, directors, creative teams, as well as Xanadu's cast, which includes Elizabeth Stanley (Kira), Max Von Essen (Sonny), Larry Marshall (Danny), Sharon Wilkins (Melpomene) and Joanna Glushak (Caliope) with an ensemble cast including Tiffany Topol, Kristofer L. Stock, Vincent Rodriguez III, J.B. Wing, Julius Thomas III, Jason Michael Snow, Amy Goldberger and Tallia Brinson.

Media Contact
Jamie Cuba, 412-325-1201; cuba@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, 412-471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

Photos
Click the images below to download print-quality files.
Photo credit: Carol Rosegg

Xanadu: Elizabeth Stanley (Kira) and Company

Xanadu: Larry Marshall (Danny), Elizabeth Stanley (Kira), Max von Essen (Sonny) and company

Munchkin Auditions for The Wizard of Oz

2010-01-27T16:47:55Z

The National Tour of THE WIZARD OF OZ , touching down in Pittsburgh this March, is sounding the alarm and calling for 12 local children to perform the roles of "munchkins" as part of their performing arts education program, while this beloved classic is live on stage in Pittsburgh. The auditions will take place at the Benedum Center on Saturday, February 27, from 10am - 12pm.

This opportunity will provide the children with real-life touring theater experience. They will discover what it's like to be part of a professional company, learn choreography by Leigh Constantine and be outfitted in the costume designs of Tim McQuillen-Wright. It's truly a unique experience and incredible opportunity for aspiring actors/actresses to follow their yellow brick road!

For additional audition details, requirements and restrictions please visit www.wizardofozontour.com and click on "Munchkinland."

THE WIZARD OF OZ is a special presentation of PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh. The presentation opens on Tuesday, March 30, 2010, at Heinz Hall, and continues with seven additional performances through April 4. PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh is a presentation of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

CASTING CALL INFORMATION

DATE: Saturday, February 27, 2010
CHECK-IN BEGINS AT: 9:30am
LOCATION: Benedum Center
719 Liberty Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh
MORE INFORMATION: For complete requirements and restrictions please visit www.wizardofozontour.com

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Groups MUST be pre-registered to participate. There will be no registration the day of the audition. No individual children and/or partial group will be selected nor allowed to audition.
The audition is limited to 10 groups. Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
The winning group will be announced at the end of the audition day.
Press is invited to attend and photograph/film the audition.
Children MUST be eight to 13 years of age, can be no taller than five feet and weigh no more than 100 pounds due to costume restrictions. No exceptions please. A variety of shapes and sizes within these parameters is encouraged.
The audition will consist of singing and dancing.

Singing: Each group should prepare 'Ding Dong the Witch is Dead' prior to the audition. The music is available for download at www.wizardofozontour.com.
Dancing: The groups will learn a section of Munckinland together at the audition and then will perform in their individual groups in front of the judges.

Contact
Diana Roth, 412-471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

NETworks Presentations, LLC (Producer)

Founded in 1995 by Kenneth Gentry, Seth Wenig and Scott Jackson, NETworks has produced and managed over 70 national and international touring productions. Previous productions include Oliver!, Little Women starring Maureen McGovern, Jekyll & Hyde, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Cinderella starring Eartha Kitt and Deborah Gibson, Fosse starring Ben Vereen and Ruthie Henshaw, The Light in the Piazza, My Fair Lady co-produced with Cameron Mackintosh, Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake, Sweeney Todd, The Demon Baber of Fleet Street, among many others. Joining returning hits Annie, The Drowsy Chaperone, Hairspray and The Wizard of Oz this season are Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Young Frankenstein, and the Lincoln Center's production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific. Future titles include Joyful Noise's production of Handel's Messiah Rocks, Spring Awakening and Les Miserables.

The Phantom of the Opera Returns this August

2010-01-25T18:52:36Z

PITTSBURGH - PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh - presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony, and Broadway Across America, proudly announces the return of Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, directed by Harold Prince, to the Benedum Center from August 25th through September 19th, 2010, as a 2010-11 Season Special.

Single ticket prices will soon be announced and will go on sale Monday, May 10, at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue between Sixth and Seventh Streets), online at www.pgharts.org or by calling 412-456-6666. Group orders may be reserved now by calling 412-471-6930.

With some of the most lavish sets, costumes and special effects ever to have been created for the stage, Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA directed by Harold Prince traces the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young composer shamed by his physical appearance into a shadowy existence beneath the majestic Paris Opera House. Adapted from Gaston Leroux's classic novel of mystery and suspense, this award-winning musical has woven its magical spell over standing room audiences in more than 100 cities worldwide and is now longest running show in Broadway history. PHANTOM returns to the Benedum Center to take your breath away.

The full 2010/2011 PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America, will be announced in the coming months.

Contact
Jamie Cuba, (412) 325-1201; cuba@pgharts.org
Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717; roth@pgharts.org

Click the image at left to download a print-quality version of this publicity photo. Photo credit: Joan Marcus

About Broadway Across America
Broadway Across America is owned and operated by British theatre producer John Gore (CEO) and entertainment industry veteran Thomas B. McGrath (Chairman). Broadway Across America presents first-class touring Broadway musicals and plays, family productions and other live events throughout a network of 43 North American cities. Broadway Across America is also dedicated to the development and production of new and diverse live theatre for productions on Broadway, across America and throughout the world. Broadway Across America most recently produced the Broadway productions of HAIR, WEST SIDE STORY and Irving Berlin's WHITE CHRISTMAS. Upcoming productions include MINSKY'S, PROMISES, PROMISES, MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET and the West End production of BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S. Touring productions include Nickelodeon's STORYTIME ADVENTURES featuring Dora the Explorer and DREAMGIRLS. For more information go to BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com.

About The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a non-profit organization whose mission is the cultural and economic development of Pittsburgh's 14-block Cultural District through public and private support. The Trust presents and encourages diverse performing and visual arts programs within the District, and is an impetus for additional development in downtown Pittsburgh.

In addition to the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the Pittsburgh Dance Council, Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents, CD Live, JazzLive, First Night Pittsburgh, Gallery Crawl, Three Rivers Arts Festival, the Pittsburgh International Children's Theater and Children's Festival, among other Cultural District and arts events.

The Trust owns Theater Square and the Cabaret at Theater Square; the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts; Byham, O'Reilly, and Harris Theaters; Wood Street Galleries; SPACE, a visual arts gallery at 812 Liberty Avenue; and 937 Liberty, a multipurpose performance and exhibit space, among other downtown arts facilities. For more information, visit pgharts.org.

Tribune-Review: Preview of Step Afrika!

2010-01-15T15:56:26Z

Kellie Gormly interviewed Step Afrika! founder C. Brian Williams, who said that

The show by Step Afrika! will dazzle the audience with the sophistication of sound the performers create from such simplicity, says C. Brian Williams, founder and executive director of Washington, D.C.-based group. Except for a few drums and some voices, the sound comes from the percussive dancing style, where the performers create intricate rhythms and sounds through a combination of footsteps, claps and spoken word.

Read the full article here.

Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District

2010-01-12T21:26:18Z

PITTSBURGH, PA - The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Department of Education and Community Engagement heats up the Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District with the first free Gallery Crawl of 2010 on Friday, January 22, from 5:30 - 9 p.m. This exhilarating evening of events showcases an array of activities throughout the Cultural District with the trademark, eclectic mix of visual art, dance, music and more.

"Now beginning its sixth year, the Gallery Crawl continues to be a gateway for new patronage in Pittsburgh's Cultural District, while also bringing people together to socialize and explore their shared curiosity for varied art forms," said Kathryn J. Heidemann, Senior Manager of Education and Community Engagement, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

All Gallery Crawl events are free and open to the public. For more information and a map of the Gallery Crawl events, visit pgharts.org or call (412) 456-6666. The Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District is sponsored by First Commonwealth with media support from City Paper and 91.3fm WYEP.

Contact
Dinah Denmark, (412) 471-8716; denmark@pgharts.org

Event Listings and Photos
Click the images below to download print-quality files.

Wood Street Galleries
601 Wood Street

Martin Bonadeo: Alba Magica MMX
For the first time ever, Wood Street Galleries will host Alba Magica, a retrospective of Argentinean installation artist Martin Bonadeo that spans over a decade of his work. Gallery visitors will have the opportunity to interact with Bonadeo's projections, luminal sculptures and electronic objects that explore the ways in which we approach and measure space and time.

SPACE
812 Liberty Avenue

Behind Our Scenes
An exhibition that showcases artists working 'backstage' in Pittsburgh's art scene while providing an opportunity to celebrate and further unite this community of artists.

Images: Left, Clouds by Leslie Clague; Right, Steve and Pam 1960s by Chris Craychee

Shaw Galleries
805 Liberty Avenue

Rouault: Visages
Features all 10 original pochoir prints from the late French Expressionist Georges Rouault's very rare Visages Portfolio (Album of Faces).

Book signing by Pittsburgh Post-Gazette columnist Brian O'Neill
7 - 9pm

Toonseum
945 Liberty

Enchanted Drawings: A Century of Animation
The ToonSeum is Pittsburgh's Museum of Cartoon Art. The ToonSeum presents new exhibitions every two months, the current exhibit presents 100 years of original animation art. From Gertie the Dinosaur to Spongebob!

707 Penn Gallery
707 Penn Avenue

Particulate Behaviors: New Works by Anjali Srinivasan
The exhibit explores the threshold of olfactory sensation, optical phenomena and participatory environments, through installations and objects of spice, glass and emergent technologies.

709 Penn Gallery
709 Penn Avenue

Adam Welch: A Few Objects - On a Theme of Contradiction
Artist Adam Welch presents a range of works involving sculpture, painting and drawing composed with the artist's reoccurring themes of paradox, solipsism, and contradiction.

Image: Finding Order (detail) by Adam Welch

Pennsylvania Culinary Institute
808 Liberty Avenue

Culinary Sculptures
Various sugar and tallow sculpture pieces created by PCI faculty. Hot food and beverages prepared by PCI students available for $1.

820 Liberty Avenue

Resolutions by Urban Tree Forge & moxie DaDA
Resolutions promotes moral courage and strength of mind. Artists have been chosen for their choice in materials and context of self-discovery, as well as their resolve to create and produce from within the urban landscape.

937 Liberty Avenue

Bricolage: For Real For Real
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring only a microphone, an audience, and the true-to-life narratives of local performers, For Real For Real is a gritty new stand-up performance series. Inspired by the Moth storytelling series in New York and Los Angeles, "For Real For Real" is Pittsburgh's own yarn-spinning extravaganza. First floor, 7:30 - 8:30 pm.

Robot Resolution
An exhibition of robotic and mechatronic sculptures and installations by the individual members of Rossum's, a Pittsburgh-based robotic art group. This event is part of the Steel City Robotic Art Project in partnership with the Pittsburgh Technology Council. Second floor, 5:30 - 9 pm.

Pittsburgh Gospel
Pittsburgh Gospel choral performance. Third floor, 8 pm.

Future Tenant
819 Penn Avenue

Do You Understand? Communication through Technology
Curated by Kim Rullo, this exhibit features technological advancements that have opened our world like never before.

CAPA Gallery
111 Ninth St.

Fast Forward
CAPA Gallery proudly hosts an exhibition of work by CAPA Visual Arts alumni.

901 Penn Avenue

Matthew Conboy's Pittsburgh Project
Photographs and video from Matthew Conboy's contemporary rephotographic survey of W. Eugene Smith's Pittsburgh Project (1955-56).

Northside Urban Pathways Gallery
914 Penn Avenue

behind the line
A myriad of line drawings await you with the backdrop of favorite Steel Pan band & hip hop dance performance

August Wilson Center for African American Culture
980 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh: Reclaim, Renew, Remix
An exhibition that not only tells the story of African Americans living in Western Pennsylvania through imagery, film and oral history, but gives visitors their chance to retell it.

Arthur Murray Dance Studio
136 Sixth St.(above Melange Bistro)

Free Dance Lessons!
• Cha Cha, 7pm
• Tango, 7:30
• Salsa, 8
• Swing, 8:30

Backstage Bar
655 Penn Avenue

Live music by Emily Rodgers
Contemporary acoustic folk
5:30-7:30

Theater Square Lobby
655 Penn Avenue

First Commonwealth Hospitality Spot
Stop by to enjoy complimentary sugar cookies and hot chocolate