Award Winning Next to Normal Coming in April

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR

PULITZER PRIZE AND TONY AWARD-WINNING

NEXT TO NORMAL

PITTSBURGH, PA (Feb. 23, 2011) – PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh is thrilled to announce the smash hit Broadway musical and Tony and Pulitzer Prize-Winning Next to Normal is playing at the Benedum Center for a limited engagement April 5-10, 2011. Individual tickets ($21-$57) for Next to Normal are available at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at pgharts.org and by calling 412-456-6666. Groups of 10+ may purchase tickets by calling 412-471-6930.

Alice Ripley, who received the 2009 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance in the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning Next to Normal, reprises her acclaimed performance in the musical’s 36-week multi-city North American tour.

Next to Normal also features Asa Somers (Dan), Curt Hansen (Gabe), Emma Hunton (Natalie), Jeremy Kushnier (Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine) and Preston Sadleir (Henry).

With a thrilling contemporary score, Next to Normal is an emotional powerhouse of a musical about a family trying to take care of themselves and each other.

Winner of the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and three 2009 Tony Awards, Next to Normal features music by Tom Kitt, book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, musical staging by Sergio Trujillo, and direction by Michael Greif. The creative team also includes Mark Wendland (set design), Jeff Mahshie (costume design), Kevin Adams (lighting design), and Brian Ronan (sound design). Musical direction is by Bryan Perri, orchestrations are by Michael Starobin and Tom Kitt, and vocal arrangements by AnnMarie Milazzo.

In 2009, Next to Normal was chosen as “one of the year’s ten best” by The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Time Out New York, New York Daily News, The Bergen Record, and NY1 – more than any other musical from that season.

Next to Normal has had a surprising and highly unlikely route to Broadway. The musical originally opened at Off-Broadway’s Second Stage Theatre on February 13, 2008. The producer, David Stone, who had been guiding the musical since 2005, took the unexpected step of bringing the show to Washington D.C.’s Arena Stage where it was significantly reworked, and then back to New York and to Broadway, where it opened to rave reviews on April 15, 2009. This unusual trajectory from a New York Off-Broadway premiere to an out-of-town regional theatre engagement and then back to New York is unprecedented.

Ben Brantley of The New York Times calls Next to Normal “a brave, breathtaking musical. A work of muscular grace and power. It is something much more than a feel-good musical; it is a feel-everything musical.” Peter Travers of Rolling Stone raves, “Rock is alive and rolling like thunder in Next to Normal. It is the best musical of the season by a mile. Next time you think the Broadway musical is dead, head off to Next to Normal. It’ll pin you to your seat.” And Peter Marks of The Washington Post calls it “a moving, blisteringly honest, and inordinately powerful new musical. It is stocked with beautiful songs that get to the heart of the story – and simply get to the heart. Next to Normal strikes a blow for the American musical’s future each night.”

Next to Normal is produced by David Stone, James L. Nederlander, Barbara Whitman, Patrick Catullo, and Second Stage Theatre.

Individual tickets for Next to Normal range in price from $21 - $57 and are available at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Ticket Line at 412-456-6666, and online at www.pghatrts.org. Groups of 10 or more may receive a discount by calling 412-471-6930. Next to Normal is part of PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural, Pittsburgh Symphony and PNC Broadway Across America.

The April 5-10 performance schedule for Next to Normal is as follows: Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.
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For more information about Next to Normal, please visit http://www.nexttonormal.com/ or www.pgharts.org

Jerry Seinfeld Live in Concert

JERRY SEINFELD RETURNS TO THE STAGE

LIVE IN CONCERT IN 2011

BENEDUM CENTER

PITTSBURGH, PA

Due to popular demand, America’s premier comedian is hitting the road in a return to his first love - stand-up comedy. Hailed as “the master stand-up comic of his generation” and “the best comedian of our time” in a
Washington Post article by Tom Shales, Seinfeld has an uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere.

Seinfeld now sets his sights on performing his material across the country in 2011.

His tour will visit Pittsburgh on Saturday, April 23 at 7pm.

This show is on sale Friday, March 4 at 10am!

Tickets available online at pgharts.org and the Box Office at Theater Square in the heart of the Cultural District or charge by phone 412-456-4800.

*********************
For more information on the upcoming Jerry Seinfeld performance, contact Teri LaPlante at teri@jstouring.com.



A JS TOURING PRODUCTION

Jesse Hulcher Exhibition STRAIGHT OUTTA CompUSA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Jesse Hulcher

STRAIGHT OUTTA CompUSA

February 25 – May 1, 2011

SPACE, 812 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh PA


PITTSBURGH, PA: New technology can help us to communicate. It can help us to be creative, if we need help. But sometimes new technology can be difficult to use. Sometimes there's a learning curve. In this upcoming exhibition at SPACE we’ll see Jesse Hulcher having the time of his iLife as he tries to find a use for the internet.

About Jesse Hulcher

Born in 1980, Raleigh, NC native Jesse Hulcher works with video, audio, text, code and anything that can be made with a computer or bought at Best Buy. Hulcher explores the many ways in which people use media and how they navigate their network of mass-marketing tools for the purposes of individual expression. His work has been exhibited across the U.S., Europe, Japan and more importantly, on the internet. Hulcher earned a MFA from Carnegie Mellon University in 2006. He currently checks his email in San Diego, California.

GALLERY DETAILS

SPACE is located at 812 Liberty Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District.

Hours:

Wednesday & Thursday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

SPACE is a Visual Arts project of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 412-325-7723 or visit spacepittsburgh.org



EXHIBIT DETAILS

Jesse Hulcher STRAIGHT OUTTA CompUSA runs from February 25 – May 1, 2011
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Afro-American Music Institute Celebrates 28th Anniversary



Dr. James and Pamela Johnson, Founders of AAMI

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PITTSBURGH, PA (PittsburghNewsWire.com) -- The Afro-American Music Institute, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, providing systematic specialized Instrumental and vocal training in all styles of the African American music tradition, will be hosting its 28th Anniversary at the beautiful River's Club located downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday, March 26, 2011, starting at 6:00 pm.

The spectacular celebration will feature live music entertainment by AAMI's faculty, advanced students from our Jazz Youth Group, and special guest artists featuring Jazz artist Sean Jones, and popular rhythm and blues group "Smooth Groove." In addition to dancing the night away, the Chefs of the River's Club will be preparing a Soul Food Buffet menu.

The proceeds from the anniversary will benefit youth scholarship and programs at AAMI.

You don't want to miss this great celebration of AAMI's 28th years in the community!

Reservations are required. To RSVP or for additional information, please call (412) 241-6775.


MEDIA CONTACT:

Pam Jordon

Afro American Music Institute

7131 Hamilton Ave

Pittsburgh PA 15147

412-241-6775

AAmusicIn@aol.com

www.AfroAmericanMusic.org

Jazz Artist, Sean Jones





Celtic Group ALTAN Celebrates 25th Anniversary Tour at the Byham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Media Contact:

Veronica Corpuz
(412) 471-6082
corpuz@pgharts.org

Diana Roth
(412) 471-8717
roth@pgharts.org



Artwork is available at http://pressroom.pgharts.org/?p=1004

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents

ALTAN

25th Anniversary Celebration Tour

Thursday, March 10, 2011 at, 7:30 p.m.

Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street



The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is proud to present ALTAN, “the hottest group in the Celtic realm (The Boston Globe)!” Celebrating 25 years, ALTAN has firmly established themselves as one of the most important and enduring live acts to play traditional Irish music in Ireland and throughout the world. ALTAN’s vision remains as fresh as ever in bringing the beauty and joy of traditional music to audiences young and old. “Altan continues to be one of the Celtic world’s great treasures, gifted with a front line that is a sheer powerhouse (LA Times).” This performance of ALTAN, part of the Trust Presents series sponsored by Cohen & Grigsby, will take place at the Byham Theater on Thursday, March 10, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

Over the span of 25 years, ALTAN has established themselves as one of the most important live acts to play traditional Irish music in Ireland and on the world stage. Founding members, the late Frankie Kennedy and his partner Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, lead singer and fiddler with the band, began their musical career while teaching in a school in Malahide in North County Dublin. Frankie and Mairead started out by playing with and meeting older musicians from the Donegal tradition, who shared their music and friendship. The pair learned their music, tried to emulate their style and listened to their general philosophy of life, which, in retrospect was just as important as the music. Later it would be Francie who translated the beautiful Gaelic songs into English on all of the ALTAN recordings to date.

Today, the band members of ALTAN, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh on vocals and fiddle, Dermot Byrne on accordion, Ciarán Tourish on fiddle and whistles, Ciarán Curran on bouzouki, and Dáithí Sproule on guitar, provide the same quality of music since their early beginnings and continue to enthuse and delight audiences worldwide.

ALTAN have proven to be important ambassadors of the music and culture of Ireland, so much so that they were invited to accompany the Irish President, Mary McAleese on several State visits. ALTAN were asked to play at the White House twice by United States former President Bill Clinton, and played again for him when he visited Ireland. The Irish government honored the band by putting them on an official Irish postage stamp (2007), one of the highest honors bestowed upon any living artist in Ireland. The group has performed at the Sydney Opera House, Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert Hall, Alte Opera Frankfurt, Greek Theatre Los Angeles and many more. They have played music and recorded with The Chieftains, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs to name but a few.

Tickets ($20.75, $37.75) for ALTAN on March 10, 2011, at the Byham Theater 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.

Ballet Hispanico Returns to the Byham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:

Veronica Corpuz
(412) 471-6082
corpuz@pgharts.org

Diana Roth
(412) 471-8717
roth@pgharts.org

Electronic images are available upon request.

Pittsburgh Dance Council presents

Ballet Hispanico

Saturday, March 5, 2011, at 8:00 p.m.

Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street

Pittsburgh, PA: The Pittsburgh Dance Council proudly presents the return of the highly acclaimed Ballet Hispanico to the Byham Theater on Saturday, March 5, 2011, at 8:00 p.m. Fusing sensual Latin with classical and contemporary dance styles, Ballet Hispanico displays versitile, enthralling movement combined with a highly emotional performance.

Ballet Hispanico’s program will include choreographic works Tres Cantos, Mad’moisselle and Club Havana. The dance troup will also present an educational workshop in Pittsburgh called Primeros Pasos. “Ballet Hispanico knows when to turn up the volume, and when to turn it down. This dance company can wake up the neighborhood with sudden, brassy shout or it can croon softly in your ear, whispering words of love” (Star Ledger). Ballet Hispanico performed in Pittsburgh during Pittsburgh Dance Council seasons 1991-1992 (PDC 22nd season) and 1997-1998 (PDC 28th season).

Tickets ($19.75-$45.75) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, online at www.pgharts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. First Commonwealth is the proud season sponsor of Pittsburgh Dance Council, and WDUQ 90.5 FM is the media sponsor.



About the Company

Since its inception in 1970, Ballet Hispanico's dancers have roused audiences worldwide with their magnetic energy and eclectic choreography. “Ballet Hispanico dances with elegance and lyricism… [their] graceful phrases look effortless. Audiences will return to see Ballet Hispanico for its enduring graciousness” (Washington Post). Founded by Tina Ramirez and now led by Eduardo Vilaro, the company perform works by the foremost choreographers of our time as well as those of emerging artists. Their works fuse Latin dance with elements of classical and contemporary forms to create a new sphere of concert dance in which theatricality and passion propel every move. Ballet Hispanico has been recognized around the world as the foremost dance interpreter of Hispanic Culture in the United States. “The Latin American experience at last has a voice…” (The New York Times). The company has performed for more than two million people in the United States, Europe and South America with a repertory of over 100 works, which opens dialogue about the Hispanic diaspora in our contemporary world.

Eduardo Vilaro joined Ballet Hispanico as Artistic Director in August 2009, following a ten-year record of achievement as Founder and Artistic Director of Luna Negra Dance Theater in Chicago. Building on Tina Ramirez’ founding vision for Ballet Hispanico, he brings with him a commitment to dance, to education, and to fostering a deeper understanding of the rich diversity within Latino cultures. Mr. Vilaro is an accomplished choreographer and has worked in collaboration with major dance and design artists as well as musicians like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. As a former principal dancer with Ballet Hispanico, he has performed throughout the United States, Europe, Central and South America. He has taught master classes and worked with Ms. Ramirez to create and conduct arts education and outreach programs.

Mr. Vilaro came to New York City at the age of six from his native Cuba, and began his dance training as a teenager on scholarship at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center; he also studied at the Martha Graham Center of Contemporary Dance. He received a BFA in Dance from Adelphi University an MA in Interdisciplinary Art from Columbia College Chicago, where he served as Artist-in-Residence at The Dance Center. Mr. Vilaro serves on the Board of Directors for Dance/USA, the national service organization for professional dance. He was selected as Chicagoan of the Year in 2007 and Alumni of the Year by Columbia College in 2008. Mr. Vilaro is the recipient of an NEA grant and the Ruth Page Award for his choreography.

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, the Dance Council continues to help make our Cultural District one of the country’s leading arts and entertainment centers.

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 Pittsburgh Dance Council, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, Trust Presents, Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater and Children’s Festival, CD Live, JazzLive, First Night Pittsburgh, Gallery Crawl, and Three Rivers Arts Festival, among other Cultural District and arts events. The Trust owns Theater Square and the Cabaret at Theater Square; James E Rohr Building & Arts Education Center; the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts; Byham, O’Reilly, and Harris Theaters; visual arts galleries: Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood Street; SPACE, at 812 Liberty Avenue and 937 Liberty: a multipurpose performance and exhibit space, among other downtown arts facilities. www.pgharts.org
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Artist Colin Noonan: Idle Exhibit in the Cultural District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:

Veronica Corpuz
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
(412) 471-6082
corpuz@pgharts.org


Colin Noonan: Idle

March 4 – April 3, 2011

709 Penn Gallery

709 Penn Avenue at Seventh Street

Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District



Artist reception on Friday, March 4, 6-8 p.m.


PITTSBURGH, PA: Many of life’s every day moments of contemplation take place in an automobile. It’s a private, contained space where one can tap into a range of emotions. Pittsburgh fine artist and car enthusiast Colin Noonan’s collection of classically-inspired paintings drives viewers inward, revealing subtle nuances in color and form inspired by human introspection and expression.


Idle, Colin Noonan’s solo-exhibit of oil portraits on linen, canvas and plywood are purposefully cropped to depict sitters from the torso up. The still lives are further accentuated with tools and equipment from the German Motor Werks Garage, such as an oil pump, and a parts washer. Noonan works with an earth palette consisting of dark umbers and yellowish ochers for more dimly lit subjects. Many of the subjects in his paintings are lit from a lone light source reminiscent of baroque realism.



Idle refers to the state of the portrait subjects. They are not working or producing, but at a stand-still, detached from the narrative of time. The exhibition title also refers to a car being idle, relating to Noonan’s fascination with cars and the studio where he creates his art – the German Motor Werks Garage. These meticulous paintings are created layer by layer in oil, a slow process rooted in classical painting techniques. “I want to create a tangible presence through these people in their environment,” explains Noonan. “In a sense, they are portraits of the people they depict - not so much a narrative as a state of being, an idleness that sets the subjects apart from their environment. This idleness frees them of doing anything and allows them to think anything.”



About Colin Noonan:

Colin Noonan earned a BFA degree in Painting from Brooklyn's Pratt Institute and he studied indigenous and contemporary art at Southern Cross University in Australia. Upon returning to the States, Noonan studied still life with instructor Chris Wright. The classical influence would serve as a starting point for much of his still life paintings. A mechanic's apprenticeship in 2003 put his art career temporarily on hold. Though Noonan’s career as a mechanic was short lived, a car garage in Pittsburgh's Strip District continues to serves as both his studio and muse.


GALLERY DETAILS

709 Penn Gallery is located on 709 Penn Ave. / Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District

Hours: Wed. & Thurs. 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun.11 a.m.–5 p.m.



709 Penn Gallery is a Project of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Education & Community Engagement department.


EXHIBIT DETAILS

March 4 – April 3, 2011

Artist reception Friday, March 4, 6-8 p.m.

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Pittsburgh is Getting a Make-Ogre with SHREK THE MUSICAL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PITTSBURGH IS GETTING A MAKE-OGRE

SHREK THE MUSICAL

TO PLAY ONE WEEK, MARCH 15-20, 2011

AT THE BENEDUM CENTER

Pittsburgh, PA: DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions, Ltd. are pleased to announce that SHREK THE MUSICAL with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori, directed by Jason Moore and Rob Ashford, will play Benedum Center, for one week only, Tuesday, March 15, through Sunday, March 20, 2011. Tickets ($22-$68) and are available at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at pgharts.org and charge by phone at 412-456-6666. Groups of 10+ may call 412-471-6930. SHREK THE MUSICAL is a presentation of the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

The role of everyone’s favorite swamp-dwelling ogre, Shrek will be played by Eric Petersen, who joins the tour from the Broadway production. He recently appeared as the socially challenged Barfee in the National tour of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Haven Burton, also from the Broadway Company will play the feisty Princess Fiona. Haven previously played Margo the Dog Whisperer on Broadway in Legally Blonde and understudied Elle Woods. Alan Mingo, Jr. is Shrek’s lovably annoying best friend Donkey. He was an original company member of The Little Mermaid where he played the role of Sebastian, and prior to that played the role of Tom Collins in RENT on Broadway. David F. M. Vaughn plays the vertically challenged villain Lord Farquaad. He too joins the tour from the Broadway Company. He has also appeared in Les Misérables and Saturday Night Fever.

Rounding out the cast of misfit fairy tale characters, the peoples of Duloc and Far, Far Away are: Joe Abraham, Holly Ann Butler, Carrie Compere, Emily Cramer, Tyrone Davis, Jr., Sandra DeNise, Hayley Feinstein, David Foley, Aymee Garcia, Brian Gonzales, Derek Hanson, Benjamin Howes, Cara Kem, Sean McKnight, Mara Newbery, Denny Paschall, Sarah Peak, Keven Quillon, Morgan Rose, Jason W. Shuffler, Danielle Soibelman, Blakely Slaybaugh and Julius Thomas III.

“We are thrilled to send SHREK THE MUSICAL to theatres across the country,” said Bill Damaschke, President of DreamWorks Theatricals, “and for American families to experience their favorite ogre and fairy tale creatures live on stage.”

An entirely new musical, SHREK THE MUSICAL is based on the story and characters from William Steig’s book Shrek!, as well as the DreamWorks Animation film Shrek, the first chapter of the Shrek movie series.

SHREK THE MUSICAL tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land. Joined by a wise-cracking donkey, this unlikely hero fights a fearsome dragon, rescues a feisty princess and learns that real friendship and true love aren’t only found in fairy tales.

SHREK THE MUSICAL features a book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize® winner David Lindsay-Abaire (Rabbit Hole), music by Olivier Award-winner Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Caroline, or Change), and is directed by Tony Award® nominee Jason Moore (Avenue Q) and Tony and Emmy Award-winner Rob Ashford (Thoroughly Modern Millie, Promises Promises). SHREK THE MUSICAL has set and costume designs by Tony Award® winner Tim Hatley (Private Lives, Spamalot), lighting design by Olivier Award winner Hugh Vanstone (A Steady Rain), sound design by Peter Hylenski (Rock of Ages); choreography by Josh Prince, music supervision by Tim Weil, music direction by Andy Grobengieser, and orchestrations by Danny Troob & John Clancy.

SHREK THE MUSICAL was initiated when Sam Mendes, a big fan of the first Shrek film, suggested the idea of creating a musical to DreamWorks Animation’s Jeffrey Katzenberg around the time the second film was in production. The musical is produced by DreamWorks Theatricals (Bill Damaschke, President of DreamWorks Theatricals and Co-President of Production for DreamWorks Animation) and Neal Street Productions, Ltd. (principals Sam Mendes and Caro Newling).

SHREK THE MUSICAL will play the Benedum Center, March 15-20. Performance times are: Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday at 1:30 and 6:30 p.m.

The chart-topping original Broadway cast album for SHREK THE MUSICAL

is available on Decca Broadway.

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.

(NASDAQ: DWA)

For more information, visitwww.ShrekTheMusical.com or pgharts.org. Join the award-winning Shrekster.com, the Official Fan community of Shrek The Musical delivering news, media and exclusive contests to fans of the Shrek Series and Shrek the Musical. Log in and join your city group for access to the most up to the date news, information and member’s only exclusive content form Shrek and Donkey’s first “whirlwind, big city adventure” across the country: www.shrekster.com/pittsburgh.
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For production images, email Veronica Corpuz, corpuz@pgharts.org

Pittsburgh Premiere of CiRCA, 46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Media Contact:
Diana Roth
(412) 471-8717
roth@pgharts.org

Images available at http://pressroom.pgharts.org/

Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater

presents

the Pittsburgh premiere of

CiRCA

46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes

March 12, 2011, at 2:00 p.m.

March 13, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m

Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street

Pittsburgh, PA: Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater, a division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, presents the Pittsburgh premiere of CiRCA’s 46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes, at the Byham Theater, on March 12, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. and March 13, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Citizens Bank is the season sponsor of Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater.

Wherever CiRCA has taken its breathtaking, heart-stopping show, audiences have flocked to see the impossible happen. Watch as intrepid acrobats battle the clock. Marvel at the astounding ways they bend, fly, juggle and balance. This is fast and furious fun for everyone. Set to upbeat music and featuring multi-skilled performers, this is circus without the boring bits. 46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes: the name says it all. With their beeline approach to high-flying fun, the cheeky Aussies ofCiRCA from Queensland, Australia, push their own limits as they barrel, bolt and balance at breakneck speed. From awesome acrobatics to fantastic free-falls, the competitive camaraderie of four unbelievably skilled performers fuels awe and adoration in this “breathless barrage and banquet of circus pandemonium (City News, Brisbane).” Warning: All laughter, applause and cheering must take place off the clock!

Since 2006, CiRCA has taken its vision of re-imagining circus as a contemporary art form to 18 countries across 5 continents. Brisbane-based CiRCA are hailed worldwide as one of the most dynamic forces in new circus. It might be hard to imagine that a trapeze routine could apparently swing from sensuality to torment, but this is CiRCA's groundbreaking forte. By melding circus with contemporary dance and sparking the combination with a mix of new technologies and good, old-fashioned theatrical flair, CiRCA have evolved a style that probably eludes any concrete definitions. But what they do thrills and delights. CiRCA offers audiences utterly new ways to experience the awe-inspiring world of circus. Combining physically impossible skills with a poetic sensibility, its works amaze, astonish and move audiences. The CiRCA ensemble each have an average of 12 years of training and work throughout the year to develop endless possibilities of new circus acts. “The combination of acts...together with likeable performers, audience participation and breathless pace made for a greatly entertaining and highly-recommended family show (The Argus, Brighton).”

Yaron Lifschitz (artistic director and CEO, CiRCA) is a graduate of the University of NSW and NIDA and is currently completing a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing. Yaron has directed over 60 productions including large scale events, opera, theatre, physical theatre and circus. His work has been seen around the world. Yaron was foundation artistic director of the Australian Museum’s Theatre Unit, Head Tutor in Directing at Australian Theatre for Young People and has been a guest tutor in directing at NIDA since 1995. With CiRCA, Yaron has created works such as by the light of stars that are no longer..., The Space Between and 61 Circus Acts in 60 Minutes. His recent works have been reviewed as being “stunning”, “exquisite” and “the standard to which all other circuses can aspire”. Yaron’s passion is creating works of philosophical and poetic depth from the traditional languages of circus.

Collette Brennan (executive director, CiRCA) has many years experience in arts and education. Collette’s career experience include founding Creative Director of The Edge, State Library of Queensland’s program for children and young people; General Manager of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Out of the Box Festival for 3 to 8 year olds; and Executive Officer of Youth Arts Queensland, for youth arts and cultural development. Collette has previously worked in schools as a drama and history teacher and as a youth arts coordinator.

Individual tickets ($11 at the door, $9.50 in advance) can be ordered online at www.pgharts.org, by calling (412) 456-6666, or in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue. Group tickets can be ordered by calling (412) 471-6930.

Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater, a division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, opens the door for children to experience professional performing arts programming for children which inspires, challenges, educates, and stimulates respect for and an understanding of all cultures in an entertaining and enlightening way. Each year Pittsburgh International Children's Theater presents a Family Series and the Pittsburgh International Children's Festival, which is one of only four international children's theater festivals in the nation.

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 Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater and Children’s Festival, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series Pittsburgh Dance Council, Trust Presents, CD Live, JazzLive, First Night Pittsburgh, Gallery Crawl, and Three Rivers Arts Festival, among other Cultural District and arts events. The Trust owns Theater Square and the Cabaret at Theater Square; James E. Rohr Building & Arts Education Center; the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts; Byham, O’Reilly, and Harris Theaters; visual arts galleries: Wood Street Galleries; SPACE, at 812 Liberty Avenue and 937 Liberty, a multipurpose performance and exhibit space, among other downtown arts facilities. www.pgharts.org
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Jared Jackson is February Dignity and Respect Champion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact: Melissa Marullo

412.969.2530
mam@judith-kelly.com

Jared Jackson Recognized as Dignity and Respect Champion for His Work to Grant Justice and Peace to All

(PITTSBURGH, PA) February 18, 2011 – Even after 42 years, Jared Jackson continues to teach the basic principles of dignity and respect: seeking racial and economic justice, inclusion, and improved education for all at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

“The students I teach are mostly African American, and I enjoy sharing what the bible has to say to us in the context of America today,” Jackson said.

Nominated by his wife, Reverend Cynthia Jackson, Jared is the February Dignity & Respect Champion for his work in seeking justice and peace for all.

“Jared believes we only will have peace when there is dignity and respect afforded to all people,” Cynthia says.

Jared, 80, lives with his wife in Gibsonia. As an assisting priest at The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Squirrel Hill, volunteer professor at the Metro Urban Institute of the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and board member of Pittsburgh Interfaith Network (PIIN), Jared lives dignity and respect daily.

“It is important [to treat others with dignity and respect] because, as human beings, we are sisters and brothers. Experiencing other human beings, how they view life, and sharing that with each other is the joy of our life.”

Jared believes treating one another with dignity and respect would create the peace we seek and the peace our society needs.

The Dignity & Respect Campaign is an awareness campaign designed to join individuals, community leaders, community organizations, educational institutions, businesses, and corporations under the common notion that everyone deserves dignity and respect.
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New Restaurant Announced for Theater Square

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


TODAY’S DATE:

Monday, February 21, 2011

Contact:

Veronica Corpuz
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
412-471-6082
corpuz@pgharts.org

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces new restaurant tenant for Theater Square

PITTSBURGH, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust has reached an agreement with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Richard DeShantz who will open a new dining establishment at 649 Penn Avenue in Theater Square.

Trust CEO and President J. Kevin McMahon notes, “Richard DeShantz has been a tremendous neighbor in the Cultural District. His culinary talents and dedication to providing patrons with a quality experience clearly add to the exciting mix of retail, dining and entertainment in Downtown.”

“The timing of the Trust’s Theater Square space availability aligned perfectly with my desire to open another venue,” says Mr. DeShantz, who will maintain operating the restaurant Nine on Nine, also located in the Cultural District. “The concept for the new space is currently being refined. Our goal is to open later this spring.”

In addition to managing the new Theater Square restaurant, Mr. DeShantz will also oversee the menu of the adjacent Cabaret Theater, including events hosted by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust such as the monthly Wednesday Wine Flights and Craft Beer School. Mr DeShantz will also be one of the caterers for private events in the Cabaret.

Opened in 2004, the space at 649 Penn Avenue was formerly occupied by Café Zao and operated by Mr. Toni Pais, chef and owner of Café Zinho in Shadyside. Mr. Pais closed Café Zao in August 2010.

ABOUT THE PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST’S THEATER SQUARE -- Designed by Michael Graves and Pittsburgh-based WTW Architects, Theater Square opened in April 2003. The $30-million, multipurpose facility has nine floors and measures 330,000 square feet. The building includes the Garage at Theater Square with 790 parking spaces; The Box Office at Theater Square. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a nonprofit organization created to stimulate the economic and cultural growth of Pittsburgh through the development and promotion of a Downtown arts and entertainment district.
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Shakespeare's Shorts in the Bring Your Own Bard (BYOB) Series

For Immediate Release


Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks

Contact:

Jennifer Tober

pittsburghshakespeare@yahoo.com

412.404.8531



“Shakespeare’s Shorts” BYOB

Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks' BYOB ("Bring Your Own Bard") series presents“Shakespeare’s Shorts” on Thursday February 24 at 7 PM at The Te Cafe in Squirrel Hill. Celebrate the shortest month with an evening of short scenes, speeches and monologues from Shakespeare’s greatest plays (or his obscure ones!) “Shakespeare’s Shorts” is an informal scene night in which professional actors and non-actors alike take a crack at their favorite Shakespeare pieces. Extra readings will be on hand in case last minute inspiration strikes.

Readers and audience members alike are encouraged to bring copies of their favorite Shakespeare plays and join in the reading of sonnets, scenes, and songs. Fun for the whole family. (Kids are welcome). A tax-deductible donation is suggested at the door.

THE TE CAFE

www.te-cafe.com

2000 Murray Ave

Pittsburgh, PA 15217

(412) 422-8888



Doors open at 7:00 PM , readings begin at 7:30 PM. Anyone interested in reading should contactpittsburghshakespeare@yahoo.com or 412.404.8531, or visit us on Facebook at Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks.

Baked goods, coffees and teas will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

BYOB serves as a warm-up for PSIP’s free summer production of MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR, a comedy hilariously exploring the themes of marriage, cuckoldry, and revenge. The show will be directed by Tommy Costello and will run FREE in cityparks in September 2011.

Please join us for these BYOBs through June with the following themes:



January: Shakespeare’s Favorites (Thur Jan 27)

February: Short Scenes for a Short Month (Thur Feb 24)

March: War/The Month of Mars (Thur Mar 31)

April: Animals (Thur Apr 28)

May: Let's Go a-Maying (Romance) (Thur May 26)

June: Marking Merry (Thur June 30)



www.pittsburghshakespeare.com. Friend us on Facebook: Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks.

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YWCA Recognized by Avon National Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE




CONTACT: Laura Harwin
YWCA Greater Pittsburgh
412-255-1279

Karyn Margolis
Avon Foundation for Women
212-282-5666
karyn.margolis@avonfoundation.org

Avon Breast Health Outreach Program Awards Grant to the

YWCA for its ENCOREplus Breast Cancer Awareness Program

Local Organization Recognized With Support From National Program

PITTSBURGH, PA (February 17, 2011): The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program has awarded a $50,000 one-year grant to the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s ENCOREplus Program to increase awareness of the life-saving benefits of early detection of breast cancer. It is the 17th year that the program has received funding from the Avon Foundation for Women to support its work on this important health issue and in recognition of the program’s excellence.

The ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh is a community-based outreach program that provides education, screening, and support services. Since 1994, the ENCOREplus Program at the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh has reached close to 90,000 women with information about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and has referred over 9,000 women for mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women in the United States, and the leading single cause of death overall in women between the ages of 40 and 55. According to the American Cancer Society, 10,000 new cases of breast cancer will be detected in Pennsylvania this year and 1,980 lives will be lost. Nationwide, there is a new diagnosis every three minutes and a death from breast cancer every 14 minutes. While advances have been made in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure, early detection still affords the best opportunity for successful treatment. Programs such as ENCOREplus help ensure that all women have access to early detection information and options, even poor and medically underserved women.

“We are proud that the Avon Foundation for Women shares our mission and has chosen to support our program,” said Magdeline E. Jensen, CEO, YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. “With these funds we will be able to continue our important work to reach out to more women and link them to vital early detection screenings for breast cancer.”

Since 1993, the Avon Foundation has awarded more than 1,425 grants to community-based breast health programs across the United States, including the ENCOREplus Program at the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh. These programs are dedicated to educating underserved women about breast cancer and linking them to early detection screening services.

The Avon Foundation for Women and Breast Cancer Crusade

The Avon Foundation for Women, an accredited 501(c)(3) public charity, was founded in 1955 to improve the lives of women and today is the world’s largest corporate-affiliated philanthropy focused on issues that matter most to women. Avon philanthropy focuses its funding on breast cancer research and access to care, efforts to reduce domestic and gender violence, its women's environmental movement to nurture nature, and efforts to provide relief and recovery in times of major natural disasters and emergencies. Since the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade launched in 1992, Avon breast cancer programs in more than 50 countries have raised almost $700 million for research and advancing access to care, regardless of a person’s ability to pay. In addition to receiving generous support from Avon Products, Inc., and its sale of Avon “pink ribbon” products, the Foundation raises funds through a variety of events and walks, such as the U.S. Avon Walk for Breast Cancer series, which is the Foundation’s largest fund-raising source.

The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program

The Avon Breast Health Outreach Program is administered by Cicatelli Associates Inc. to support community-based, non-profit breast health programs across the country. The Fund's National Advisory Board selected the ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh as one of 125 new grant recipients nationwide in the 2011 cycle of Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund grants. These organizations were chosen based on their ability to effectively reach women, particularly minority, low-income, and older women, who are often medically underserved.

For more Information

For more information on the ENCOREplus Program of the YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, please call Yvonne Durham at 412-365-1915.

For more information about breast cancer, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org, or the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER or www.cancer.gov.

To learn more about the Avon Foundation for Women, call 1-866-505-AVON or visit www.avonfoundation.org, where you can access free printable Breast Health Resource Guides in English and Spanish. For information or to register or support the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer events, visit www.avonwalk.org or call 1-888-540-WALK.
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Live Nation Welcomes Adam Carolla to the Byham Theater

ADAM CAROLLA


BYHAM THEATER – PITTSBURGH, PA

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Pittsburgh, PA – Live Nation welcomes Adam Carolla to the Byham Theatre on Thursday, March 31st, 2011 at 8:00 p.m.


The Adam Carolla Show has been playing to sold out audiences on stages all around the country. The show features Adam performing his trademark comedy bits such as "What Can't Adam Complain About" and "Why I Hate LA" together with a hilarious presentation featuring pictures and video of all the great stories fans have come to love about Adam and his buddies growing up in North Hollywood. Celebrities often join the show as well to be interviewed by Adam via Skype from locations all over the world.


The Adam Carolla Show remains the internet's most downloaded daily broadband show since its debut in March of 2009... #1 on iTunes with over 150,000 daily listeners, Adam Carolla is the only star in Hollywood who puts out fresh content every day on his own website – AdamCarolla.com.

Adam is also a New York Times bestseller with his recent book “In Fifty Years We’ll All Be Chicks”.

About Live Nation Entertainment:

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE-LYV) is the largest live entertainment company in the world, consisting of five businesses: concert promotion and venue operations, sponsorship, ticketing solutions, e-commerce and artist management. Live Nation seeks to innovate and enhance the live entertainment experience for artists and fans: before, during and after the show. In 2009, Live Nation sold 140 million tickets, promoted 21,000 concerts, partnered with 850 sponsors and averaged 25 million unique monthly users of its e-commerce sites. For additional information, visit www.livenation.com/investors.

Tickets are $30.25, $35.25 and $50.25 are available at LiveNation.com and www.pgharts.org. Tickets also available at the Theater Square Box Office and by calling 412.456.6666.

All tickets subject to applicable service charges and fees.

Dates and times subject to change without notice.



Marketing contact: Jessica Lawson / jessicalawson@livenation.com

Pittsburgh Illustrators Take Center Stage for PICT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Melissa Hill Grande


mgrande@picttheatre.org

412-561-6000 x203

Pittsburgh Illustrators Take Center Stage

Local visual artists create stunning, original images for Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre’s 2011 productions

Pittsburgh, PA – February 7, 2011. Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre is featuring the works of five Pittsburgh-based illustrators in its 2011 season. The featured artists are: Sarah Miller, Mark Brewer, LeRoy “King of Art”, Michael McParlane, and Mario Zucca. Their creations can be seen in the newly-published PICT 2011 brochure, and on the PICT website, www.picttheatre.org.

Sarah Miller created the artwork for PICT’s Antony and Cleopatra. Miller has been working in graphic design and illustration since 2005, and is a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Her work includes campaigns for Sandcastle Water Park, Purity Mineral Makeup, and Right By Nature. Miller is also an accomplished tattoo artist, and has won awards for her illustrations as well as her tattoos.

The artwork for The Importance of Being Earnest was created by LeRoy “King of Art”. Mister LeRoy’s works have been published in The New Yorker, Andy Warhol’s Interview, and PLAYGUY, and he has been exhibited in international venues such as Rhona Hoffman Gallery, Chicago, Stefan Stux Gallery, New York, Torch Gallery, Amsterdam, and Panza Gallery in Pittsburgh. He has earned degrees from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, The Cooper Union, and Indiana University.

2007 PICT illustrator Mark Brewer (Private Lives) returns for the 2011 season to create the artwork for House & Garden. Brewer’s publication credits include The Wall Street Journal, Wine & Spirits, Barrons, The New York Times and The Washington Post, as well as on the covers of such magazines as Newsweek, The American Conservative, Weekly Reader, Politics, and Golfstyles.

Scottish-born artist Michael McParlane created the artwork for Race. He started his career in the newspaper industry in Great Britain, eventually becoming an art director in Canada and a project manager for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary before moving to Pittsburgh. McParlane works primarily as an editorial illustrator, and is working on a children’s book.

Artwork for The Mask of Moriarity was created by Mario Zucca. Zucca’s clients include The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, ESPN: The Magazine, Tennis Magazine, Crayola, Klutz, Quirk Books and the Pittsburgh City Paper. His work has appeared locally at C-Space Gallery, Future Tenant, and Panza Gallery, and honors include selections into American Illustration 28 and 29.

Copies of the 2011 PICT brochure are available in many locations around Pittsburgh, or by emailing mgrande@picttheatre.org.

The Pittsburgh Irish and Classical Theatre was founded in 1996 to diversify the region’s theatrical offerings by providing Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania audiences with high-quality, text-driven, affordable productions of classical theatre and the works of classical and contemporary Irish playwrights and to significantly improve employment opportunities for local talent in all facets of theatrical presentation and production. PICT is a Small Professional Theatre (SPT) affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, and a constituent member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG) and the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council. PICT is the Professional Theatre in Residence at the University of Pittsburgh and PICT productions at the Charity Randall and Henry Heymann Theatres are presented in cooperation with the University of Pittsburgh – Department of Theatre Arts.

A Day With The Nevilles at Woodville Plantation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2011

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:

Rob Windhorst

412-221-0348
rwindhorst19@comcast.net

QUICK FACTS:

Event: A Day With the Nevilles

Date: Sunday, February 27, 2011

Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Place: Woodville Plantation, 1375 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA 15017

Cost: $5.00 for Adults, $3.00 for Kids Age 6-12, Free for Kids Under 6



WOODVILLE PLANTATION HOSTS “A DAY WITH THE NEVILLES”


BRIDGEVILLE, PA (February 14, 2011) – Step back in time at Woodville Plantation as this living history museum explores the lives of the upper class in the 18th century. On Sunday, February 27, 2011, guests are invited to “drop in” on the Neville family and their friends as they go about their daily routine at Woodville Plantation.

Visitors will learn how the 18th century gentry spent their days and entertained. Living history re-enactors will demonstrate activities that would have occurred in the Neville household on a daily basis; such as games, sewing and dining at the period-correct hour of 2 pm.

Admission is $5.00 for Adults, $3.00 for Kids Age 6-12, Free for Kids Under 6


The site will be open for special extended hours from noon until 5 pm during this event.

Woodville Plantation, the home of John and Presley Neville, is Western Pennsylvania’s link to the late 18th century. Built in 1775, this living history museum interprets life during the period of 1780-1820, the era of the New Republic. Guided tours of the house are available every Sunday from 1 to 4 pm.

Just 7 miles and 15 minutes south of Pittsburgh, Woodville is conveniently located 1/4 mile north of Interstate I-79 Exit 55 (Kirwin Heights Exit) on Route 50, near the intersection of Thoms Run Road. For further directions or for more information, please visit Woodville’s website at http://www.woodvilleplantation.org or call 412-221-0348.
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Private Collection of Brownsville Historic Photographs Donated

CONTACT: Maren Meszaros Phone: 724.785.9331


Marketing/Public Relations Associate Fax: 724.785.8626

E-mail: barcinfo@barcpa.org

BARC Heritage Center Receives

1,140-Image Private Collection

BROWNSVILLE, Pa. – A collection of 1,140 historic photographs of Brownsville has been donated by a former resident, Norman "Bill" Patterson of Erie, to Brownsville Area Revitalization Corp. (BARC).

Patterson's donation will become part of BARC's permanent collection in the Heritage Center at 69 Market St., a museum focused on Brownsville’s role in the westward expansion of the U.S., coal and coke-era heritage and steamboat and railroad industries.

Patterson has digitally restored and enlarged photographs assembled by his lifelong friend, the late Harold Richardson, an inveterate collector of Brownsville memorabilia. Their mutually intense local pride has resulted in an irreplaceable portfolio of imagery of the riverfront town, before and after 1900.

"There comes a time when a private collection needs to become available to the wider audience that would appreciate it," Patterson says. "It is time to ensure that fate for my 'Old Brownsville' photographs. I can think of no better or more appropriate home than in the Flatiron Building."

Noted author and local columnist Glenn Tunney and BARC board member Norma Ryan are cataloguing the collection. Select images will be on display at upcoming community events.
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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR INTERVIEWS:

Dennis Cremonese, BARC executive director, 724.785.9331

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Cutline information – Sept. 30, 1927 photo features downtown near Market Street and Brownsville Avenue; 1915 photo features the "Neck."



_____________________________________________________________________________________



Brownsville Area Revitalization Corp. (BARC) is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Its mission is to achieve economic development through historic preservation, heritage tourism, outdoor recreation, community stewardship, education, youth advancements and the arts. Contact the BARC office, 724.785.9331, for additional information about programs and upcoming events.

KODO One Earth Tour Comes to the Byham

Cohen and Grigsby Trust Presents Series

30th Anniversary

KODO

One Earth Tour

March 1 and 2, 2011

Byham Theater

The Japanese word “Kodo” conveys “heartbeat,” the primal source of all rhythm. Since 1981, Kodo has been exploring the limitless possibilities of the traditional Japanese drum, the taiko, and continues to forge exciting, new directions for this vibrant art-form. With great passion and purpose, Kodo strives to both preserve and re-interpret traditional Japanese performing arts. Its ongoing collaborations with a broad range of artists and composers transcending the musical spectrum inspire Kodo members to produce startling new fusion and forms.


To Order Tickets:



Online at pgharts.org

Visit the Box Office at Theater Square [655 Penn Avenue]

Call 412-456-6666

Groups 10+ Tickets 412-471-6930

Riverdance Returns to Pittsburgh

 

Riverdance Comes to The Benedum Center in Pittsburgh

February 25-26, 2011

Pittsburgh Riverdance Tickets On Sale Now!

Riverdance, the thunderous celebration of Irish music, song, and dance that has tapped its way onto the world stage thrilling millions of people around the globe, will play three performances at The Benedum Center in Pittsburgh, PA on February 25-26, 2011. NewSpace Entertainment is proud to be the presenter of what the Washington Post calls “A Phenomenon of Historic Proportions.” Pittsburgh Riverdance tickets are on sale now - to purchase, visit Ticketmaster (the official Pittsburgh Riverdance ticket source), Ticketmaster Outlets, or call 800-745-3000.

“Since 1996, the success of Riverdance in North America has gone beyond our wildest dreams,” said producer Moya Doherty. “The fact that the show continues to draw and excite audiences 15 years after its debut in Dublin is a tribute to every dancer, singer, musician, staff and crew member who have dedicated themselves to the show.”

Composed by Bill Whelan, produced by Moya Doherty and directed by John McColgan, to date, Riverdance has played over 10,000 performances, been seen live by more than 22 million people in over 350 venues throughout 40 countries across 4 continents. They have traveled well over 600,000 miles (or to the moon and back!), played to a worldwide television audience of 2 billion; sold over 3 million copies of the Grammy Award-winning CD (certified Platinum in the US) and over 10 million videos making it one of the best-selling entertainment videos in the world! Riverdance had its world premiere at the Point Theatre, Dublin, in February 1995, where it opened to unanimous critical acclaim.

What began as a seven-minute dance segment on the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest (televised to over 300 million people in Europe) and then quickly turned into a full-scale production has become much more than an international theatrical success. “I believe Riverdance has been basically a pathfinder,” said Niall O’Dowd, founder of Irish America Magazine and the Irish Voice newspaper. Along with the peace process in Northern Ireland and the economic miracle in Ireland proper, the show “has been a hugely important part of a transformation of the image of Ireland in the last 20 years.”

In a flash, Riverdance became Ireland’s greatest ambassador and the thirst began. Riverdance changed the face of Irish dance and despite its imitators, has remained on top and was voted the #1 Variety/Family Entertainment Show in the US (1998). There have been many milestones along the way including the distinction of being the largest Western musical to play China; a record-breaking line of 100 Irish dancers mesmerizing 85,000 people at the 2004 Special Olympics in Dublin; a 10th Anniversary celebration at Radio City Music Hall; dancing in Red Square and on the Great Wall of China and much more.

Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland in the past decade, nothing can compare to the energy, the sensuality and the spectacle of Riverdance. An innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song, Riverdance draws on Irish traditions and the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music to the present day capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures. This extraordinarily unique show features an international company all performing to the magic of Bill Whelan’s music.

Don’t miss what will be one of the most exciting events in Pittsburgh this year when Riverdance arrives for three performances at The Benedum Center February 25-26, 2011. Get your Riverdance tickets for Pittsburgh today!

Riverdance Marketing: Tel: +353 1 889 4900 or info@Riverdance.com

Local Press Contact: Kristy Maple

kristy@newspaceentertainment.com

801.703.2047

Sir Victoria and the Quest for Knighthood Production Set

Stage & Steel Productions


Community Theatre with an edge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


February 9, 2011

Contact:
Micheal Kiser, Director/Founding Member
412. 480. 4758
micheal@stageandsteel.com

STAGE AND STEEL PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS

"SIR VICTORIA AND THE QUEST FOR KNIGHTHOOD"

Stage & Steel Productions announces its first production of the 2011 season, "Sir Victoria: And the Quest for Knighthood".  This is the second season for the Carnegie Based Community Theatre Troupe. The show focuses on Princess Victoria, who wishes to prove that she is more than just a damsel in distress. Defying her father's wishes, she enters the Great Knighting Tournament disguised as Victor, a stable hand. The princess must compete against her best friend Conor and a brother/sister fighting duo to earn the title of Knight. Victoria/Victor must face challenges that will test her skills, not only as a knight, but as a princess as well. Together, the four would-be knights must prove themselves worthy all the while thwart the evil plans of Lord Tromain.

The show will be performed at St. Peter and St. Paul's Hall, located next to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church at 220 Mansfield Blvd Carnegie, PA.

The show is set to run May 20th -22nd and 27th-29th. All shows start at 8pm. Tickets are $12 for general admission and $10 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased on the website at www.stageandsteel.com

Stage & Steel Productions is a community theatre troupe based in Carnegie. Through the use of stage combat, theatre, and technology, this group of actors, artists, and writers create an interactive performance to entertain their audience. The company was founded by family members Micheal R. Kiser and his brother Sam Kiser with his wife Ruth Comley. Jen Gilbert also is a founding member. The company was formed in January of 2010 with their first season consisting of  "A Night of Knights" and "A Vampire in King Arthur's Court".  Their 2011 season opens with "Sir Victoria and the Quest for Knighthood" in May; "Knights of the Dinner Table" scheduled for September, and finishes with "A Medieval Christmas Carol" in December. More information can be found at www.stageandsteel.com

Auditions for "Sir Victoria" are set for Thursday March 17th 7:30pm- 10pm, Saturday March 19th 2pm-4pm, and Sunday March 20th 4pm to 6pm.

Please email micheal@stageandsteel.com to set up an appointment. Also check the audition section of our website for further information.

PICT Invites Local Schools to Antony and Cleopatra Project

Media Contact:

Gale McGloin
412.561.6000 x204
gmcgloin@picttheatre.org




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local schools invited to participate

in Antony and Cleopatra project

Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre one of forty companies to

receive grants to bring Shakespeare to students nationwide

Pittsburgh, PA -- February 7, 2011. Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre (PICT) is seeking a minimum of ten schools in the region to participate in a theatre education initiative accompanying its May production of William Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra. Teachers at participating schools will receive extensive educational materials related to the works of Shakespeare and specific to PICT’s production of Antony and Cleopatra. Prior to attending the student matinee performance, teaching artists will visit the schools to prepare students for the play. PICT’s Producing Artistic Director, Andrew S. Paul will also visit the schools in April.

PICT’s production of Antony and Cleopatra is helmed by Barrymore Award-winning director James J. Christy (PICT’s 2009 King Lear), and stars nationally-known Shakespearean actor Sam Tsoutsouvas as Antony and the incomparable Helena Ruoti as Cleopatra. Participating students will have the opportunity to work with artists and educators affiliated with the production before and after attending a performance.

PICT is one of 40 nonprofit, professional theater companies that received a grant of $25,000 to participate in Shakespeare for a New Generation from June 1, 2010-May 31, 2011. Part of the NEA’s Shakespeare in American Communities initiative, Shakespeare for a New Generation introduces middle- and high-school students to the power of live theater and the masterpieces of William Shakespeare. Managed by Arts Midwest, the program has benefited more than 1.5 million students and their teachers with live performances and educational activities since the program began in 2003.

“We are proud to support bringing Shakespeare to America’s students,” said NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman. “I have seen firsthand how the productions supported through Shakespeare for a New Generation have connected youth with Shakespeare – sometimes for the first time – inspiring them and creating the next generation of audiences. At the same time, this funding increases work opportunities for our theater artists.”

For more information about how your school can participate in this exciting project, contact Gale McGloin at 412.561.6000 x204 or gmcgloin@picttheatre.org.
# # #


Pittsburgh Irish and Classical Theatre was founded in 1996 to diversify the region’s theatrical offerings by providing Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania audiences with high-quality, text-driven, affordable productions of classical theatre and the works of classical and contemporary Irish playwrights and to significantly improve employment opportunities for local talent in all facets of theatrical presentation and production. PICT is a Small Professional Theatre (SPT) affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, and a constituent member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG) and the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council. PICT is the Professional Theatre in Residence at the University of Pittsburgh and PICT productions at the Charity Randall and Henry Heymann Theatres are presented in cooperation with the University of Pittsburgh – Department of Theatre Arts.

17th Annual Shakespeare Contest at the O'Reilly

Contact Margie Romero, Communications Manager at Pittsburgh Public Theater


412.316.8200 ext. 707 or mromero@ppt.org

Pittsburgh Public Theater Presents

The 17th Annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest

More than 1,100 students will perform on the O’Reilly Theater stage.

Pittsburgh Public Theater is proud to present its 17th Annual Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest, open to area students in grades 4 – 12. The competition’s preliminary rounds take place on the O’Reilly Theater stage Feb. 4 – 11, 2011. (8:30 am to 6 pm daily). During this time registered contestants will perform monologues and/or scenes they’ve chosen from the works of William Shakespeare. Teams of judges will evaluate each performance and those selected will progress to the Showcase of Finalists, which takes place on Monday, February 14 beginning at 7 pm. At the end of the Showcase, winners in several categories will be chosen. Grades 8 – 12 compete in the Upper Division and grades 4 – 7 compete in the Lower Division.

Audiences are welcome, free of charge, at both the preliminary and final rounds. This year the students will perform on the set of Camelot, which runs at The Public until February 20. The Shakespeare Monologue & Scene Contest is programmed through The Public’s Education Department, led by Rob Zellers. Pittsburgh Public Theater’s youth education and outreach programs are generously supported by BNY Mellon Foundation of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Additional funding is provided by Highmark, Dominion, Federated, and The Grable Foundation.

Led by Producing Artistic Director Ted Pappas, the O’Reilly Theater is Pittsburgh Public Theater’s home in the heart of Downtown’s Cultural District. Call 412.316.1600 or visit ppt.org for more information.

The Decemberists Return to Pittsburgh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:
Veronica Corpuz
(412) 471-6082
corpuz@pgharts.org

Artwork is available upon request.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Welcomes Back

The Decemberists

Tuesday, April 21, 2011

The Benedum Center

8 P.M.

PITTSBURGH, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, 91.3fm WYEP and Three Rivers Arts Festival, through the CD Live! Concert series, are pleased to announce the return engagement of The Decemberists on Tuesday, April 21, 2011 at the Benedum Center in the Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District. Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets for the Decemberists go on sale Friday, February 11. Opening for The Decemberists is Justin Townes Earle (son of singer-songwriter Steve Earle).

Led by Colin Meloy, The Decemberists craft theatrical, idiosyncratic chamber pop rock that seamlessly translates to unforgettable live performances. Bridging the gap between British folk revival and contemporary indie pop, The Decemberists are one of the most innovative and important creative forces in contemporary music today.

Following the success of their mystical epic The Hazards of Love, The Decemberists return with their sixth album, The King Is Dead. In their latest recording, The Decemberists illustrate the power that evolves from a creative call-and-response process.

To Colin Meloy, The King is Dead represents his own musical journey coming full circle. “Over the last eleven years or so, since I moved to Portland, I feel like I've been mining mostly English traditions for influence.” “I've kind of come back to a lot of the more American music that got me going in the first place – R.E.M. and Camper Van Beethoven and all these bands that borrowed from more American traditions like Neil Young and the Byrds.”

Tickets $39.50 and $34.50 may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), by visiting pgharts.org or by calling 412-456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call 412-471-6930.

About CD Live!

CD Live! widens the creative expression of the Pittsburgh music scene while advancing the artistry of musicians from around the world. This collaborative project of Three Rivers Arts Festival, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and WYEP-FM was formed to build new music audiences and to welcome these listeners to the Cultural District.

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 Trust Presents series, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, Pittsburgh Dance Council, Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater and Children’s Festival, CD Live, JazzLive, First Night Pittsburgh, Gallery Crawl, and Three Rivers Arts Festival, among other Cultural District and arts events. The Trust owns Theater Square and the Cabaret at Theater Square; James E. Rohr Building & Arts Education Center; the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts; Byham, O’Reilly, and Harris Theaters; visual arts galleries: Wood Street Galleries, at 601 Wood Street; SPACE, at 812 Liberty Avenue and 937 Liberty: a multipurpose performance and exhibit space, among other downtown arts facilities. www.pgharts.org
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