University of Pittsburgh Repertory Theater Presents As You Like It

As You Like It

at University of Pittsburgh Repertory Theater

March 31-April 10

The University of Pittsburgh Repertory Theatre presents As You Like It, one of Shakespeare’s most engaging comedies. Set in modern day, As You Like It leads us on a refreshing escape from our technology-laden lives into a world where strangers become friends, lovers learn to woo, and families reunite, all without the assistance of cell phones, Facebook, or apps.



Shakespeare’s language and wit come to life in this fresh, contemporary production that features 21st century social media technology, original music, and a spectacular dance number you won’t want to miss.



WHERE: The Charity Randall Theatre, Oakland



WHEN: March 31st-April 10th

Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8PM, Sunday Matinees at 2PM



TICKETS: Call 412-624-PLAY or visit The Pitt Rep website, $25 single tickets, $12 students, $15 senior citizens, $20 Pitt faculty, staff & alumni

Smash Hit Musical MAMMA MIA! Will Have You Dancing in the Aisles

MAMMA MIA

WALKS DOWN THE AISLE OF HEINZ HALL

THE GLOBAL SMASH HIT WILL RETURN FOR ONE WEEK ONLY!

Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ MAMMA MIA!, the smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA, returns to Pittsburgh’s Heinz Hall April 19-24, 2011. Performances begin on Tuesday, April 19, and run through Sunday, April 24, at Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Avenue. This tour is part of the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

Tickets ($27-$67) are available by calling 412-392-4900, visiting the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue) or online at www.pgharts.org. For more information about the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh 2010-2011 subscription series, please call 412-456-1390. Groups of 15 or more may call 412-471-6930. The performance schedule for MAMMA MIA! is 7:30 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 8 p.m., Friday; 2 and 8 p.m., Saturday; and 1:30 and 6:30 p.m., Sunday.

Seen by over 45 million people around the world, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA!, is celebrating over 3,800 performances in its tenth smash hit year at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre and remains among Broadway’s top selling musicals. The current North American Tour has played over 3,000 performances in over 130 cities with 125 repeat visits. The original West End production of MAMMA MIA! is now in its twelfth year and has celebrated over 4,800 performances in London and the international tour has visited more than 50 foreign cities and been seen by 3.6 million people. The blockbuster feature film adaptation of MAMMA MIA!, produced by Judy Craymer and Gary Goetzman, is the most successful movie musical of all time grossing $600 million worldwide.

In the 2010 - 2011 season, MAMMA MIA! will walk down the aisle for the first time, making premiere performances, in Alaska, Mississippi and West Virginia. The show will also return to Detroit, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, Providence and Tampa for a remarkable fifth return visit.

An independent, single mother who owns a small hotel on an idyllic Greek island, Donna is about to let go of Sophie, the spirited daughter she’s raised alone. For Sophie’s wedding, Donna has invited her two lifelong best girlfriends—practical and no-nonsense Rosie and wealthy, multi-divorcee Tanya - from her one-time backing band, Donna and the Dynamos. But Sophie has secretly invited three guests of her own.

On a quest to find the identity of her father to walk her down the aisle, she brings back three men from Donna’s past to the Mediterranean paradise they visited 20 years earlier. Over 24 chaotic, magical hours, new love will bloom and old romances will be rekindled on this lush island full of possibilities.

Inspired by the storytelling magic of ABBA’s songs from “Dancing Queen” and “S.O.S.” to “Money, Money, Money” and “Take a Chance on Me,” MAMMA MIA! is a celebration of mothers and daughters, old friends and new family found.

Produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East and Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal, the creative team responsible for bringing MAMMA MIA! to theatrical life includes some of the most gifted and celebrated talents of musical theatre and opera. With music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson and directed by Phyllida Lloyd. MAMMA MIA! has choreography by Anthony Van Laast, production design by Mark Thompson, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce and Bobby Aitken, and musical supervision, additional material and arrangements by Martin Koch.



The special edition cast recording of MAMMA MIA! is available on Decca Broadway.

For information about MAMMA MIA! go to www.mammamianorthamerica.com.

World Renowned Artists Showcased in PICT 2011 Season

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

Melissa Hill Grande
Associate Artistic Director and Director of Marketing
mgrande@picttheatre.org
412-561-6000 x203



PICT 2011 Season Showcases Local, National and International Stars

Ireland, New York, Los Angeles and Pittsburgh come together on the PICT stages to present a Shakespearean classic, four hilarious comedies, and an incendiary peek into the world of lawyers

Pittsburgh, PA – March 28, 2011. Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre has assembled a stellar team of world-renowned artists for the 2011 Dynamic Duos season! Audiences can look forward to enjoying the work of popular Pittsburgh actors Helena Ruoti, David Whalen, and Martin Giles, New Yorkers Sam Tsoutsouvas and Beth Hylton, Los Angeles actors Leo Marks, Nike Doukas, and James Sutorius, Ireland’s Alan Stanford and Conall Morrison, and England’s David Bryan Jackson and Sarah Manton.

PICT’s 2011 Actor in Residence will be Leo Marks, a company member in PICT’s extraordinary Pinter Celebration. The OBIE award-winning actor has appeared at some of the most respected theatres in the country, including The Shakespeare Theatre, South Coast Repertory, Actors Theater of Louisville, the Old Globe, and Intiman. He is also a founding member of New York’s acclaimed Elevator Repair Service. Marks will be featured as the supremely political Octavius in Antony & Cleopatra, the haughty and smarmy Gavin Ryng-Mayne in House & Garden, and the suave and unflappable Algernon Moncrief in The Importance of Being Earnest.

Pittsburgh’s leading lady of the theatre Helena Ruoti returns to PICT this season to star as the steely and outrageous Eqyptian queen in Shakespeare’s masterpiece Antony and Cleopatra, and as the long-suffering housewife Trish Platt in Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious duo of plays House & Garden. Ruoti’s previous PICT credits include Rock ‘n’ Roll, What the Butler Saw, The Seagull, and King Lear.

Renowned Shakespearean actor Sam Tsoutsouvas returns to Pittsburgh to play the ill-fated Roman general Mark Antony in Antony & Cleopatra, reuniting with Ruoti following their acclaimed turns in PICT’s 2009 production of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Tsoutsouvas recently completed an extended run in the Red Bull Theatre’s hit production of The Witch of Edmonton. His Broadway credits include By Jeeves, Three Sisters and Our Country’s Good, and his previous PICT credits include the Pinter Celebration, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Heartbreak House, and Henry IV.

Lauded Southern California-based actor James Sutorius makes his PICT debut as cynical warrior Enobarbus. Sutorius’ Broadway credits include The Farnsworth Invention, Conversations with My Father, The Changing Room and The Cherry Orchard. His regional credits include Old Globe Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, South Coast Repertory and Seattle Repertory Theatre.

Antony and Cleopatra is directed by Barrymore award winner James J. Christy (King Lear), and also features David Berry, Ken Bolden (Julius Caesar), Dan Derks, Jarrod DiGiorgi (Pinter Celebration, Salome, The Lieutenant of Inishmore), James FitzGerald (Pride & Prejudice), Parag Gohel, Daina Michelle Griffith (Beautiful Dreamers), Daniel Krell (Beautiful Dreamers), Shammen McCune, Michael Mueller, Jim Platania, Sean Sears, Mark Staley (King Lear), Bria Walker and Aaron White. The scenic design is by David P. Gordon (King Lear), lighting by Cindy Limauro (Beautiful Dreamers, Pride & Prejudice), costume design by Jen Sturm, sound design by David Huber, and properties by Ricardo Vila-Roger. The production plays May 4 – 21 in the Charity Randall Theatre.

Martin Giles stars as Teddy Platt, a wealthy philanderer making a move into politics, in Alan Ayckbourn’s two-play comic extravaganza House & Garden. Giles’ PICT credits include Pinter Celebration, What the Butler Saw, Synge Cycle, BeckettFest, Uncle Vanya and The Gigli Concert. Giles will also appear as Merriman in The Importance of Being Earnest, and will co-star as Dr. John Watson in PICT’s holiday production of The Mask of Moriarity.

Beth Hylton and Nike Doukas return to PICT to play respectively Teddy’s mistress, Joanna, and a glamorous French film star he becomes enamored of, Lucille Cadeau. Hylton’s credits include Woolly Mammoth, Ford’s Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Delaware Theatre Company, Everyman Theatre, Olney Theater Center, Weston Playhouse, and PlayMakers Rep. Doukas was featured prominently in last season’s Pinter Celebration. She has an MFA from the American Conservatory Theatre and is a regular presence at theatres throughout Southern California including South Coast Rep and The Old Globe in San Diego. House & Garden reunites Hylton and Doukas with Anwen Darcy (Rock ‘n’ Roll) and Mary Rawson (Copenhagen). The four last appeared together in PICT’s 2008 production of Wilde’s An Ideal Husband.

British-born actors Sarah Manton and David Bryan Jackson bring authentic stiff-upper-lip to Ayckbourn’s comedies in their PICT debuts. Manton, a graduate of the Guildford School of Acting, London, plays the feisty young maid Pearl. Her credits include the world premiere of Tom Stoppard’s Coast of Utopia (National Theatre), the role of Baby in the West End production of Dirty Dancing, and the National Theatre production of South Pacific. She was recently seen in the Pittsburgh Public Theatre production of Ayckbourn’s Time of My Life. Jackson plays Giles Mace, Teddy’s best friend and Joanna’s husband. His credits include multiple productions with The Shakespeare Theatre, Folger Theatre, Studio Theatre, and Olney Theatre Center.

House & Garden is co-directed by Andrew S. Paul and Melissa Hill Grande, and also features Jon Farris (Synge Cycle, Hobson’s Choice), Michael Fuller (Beautiful Dreamers, Pride & Prejudice), Tressa Glover, Allison Scarlet Jaye, and Sean Mellott. Scenic design is by Gianni Downs, lighting design by Cindy Limauro and Christopher Popowich, costumes by Jen Sturm, sound by Zach Moore, and properties by Ricardo Vila-Roger. House & Garden perform simultaneously in the Charity Randall and Henry Heymann Theatres, June 23 – July 17.

Two of Ireland’s favorite sons – Conall Morrison and Alan Stanford - come to Pittsburgh in August for a vibrant, stylish production of Oscar Wilde’s outrageous comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest, featuring a cast comprised entirely of gentlemen! Director Morrison joins PICT for the first time this summer, but his credits are legendary. Morrison is a former associate artist with Dublin’s famed Abbey Theatre. His current projects include the Abbey’s revival of Brian Friel’s Translations, and Arthur Miller’s classic play The Crucible, slated as the grand re-opening production in the new Lyric Theatre in Belfast. Other credits include his own adaptation of Tarry Flynn, and Martin Guerre for Cameron Mackintosh., along with productions for the Royal National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, and the English National Opera.

Stanford is well-known to PICT audiences as the director of the stunning 2008 production of Salome, as well as the Pinter Celebration’s much-lauded productions of Betrayal and Celebration. He makes his PICT acting debut as Oscar Wilde/Lady Bracknell in Earnest, though local audiences may remember Stanford for his portrayal of Pozzo in the Gate Theatre’s touring production of Samuel Beckett’s masterpiece, Waiting for Godot, which visited Pittsburgh in 2006. This critically-acclaimed production has toured the world, and is featured as part of the “Beckett on Film” series. He received a Harvey’s Theatre Award for Best Actor for his performance as Salieri in Amadeus, and was nominated for his performances as Astrov in Uncle Vanya, Higgins in Pygmalion, and Valmont in Les Liaisons Dangereuses.

David Whalen returns to PICT this season to play the charming Jack Worthing in The Importance of Being Earnest, and a youthful, comic Sherlock Holmes in The Mask of Moriarity. Whalen’s PICT credits include Pinter Celebration, Doubt, An Ideal Husband, and The Lieutenant of Inishmore. He has performed with some of the country’s most respected companies, including South Coast Repertory, the Shakespeare Theatre of D.C., Folger Theatre, Round House Theatre, and St. Louis Repertory Theatre.

CMU alumnus Will Reynolds and young New York-based character actor Matthew Cleaver were chosen for the plum roles of Gwendolen and Cecily following an extensive national search. Reynolds was in the PICT 2004 production of A Woman of No Importance and recently played Frank Churchill in the pre-Broadway production of Paul Gordon’s musical version of Jane Austen’s Emma at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego. His other credits include productions with West Virginia Public Theatre, Goodspeed, and the national tour of Mamma Mia. Cleaver is a recent graduate of Ohio University, where he earned a B.F.A. in Theatre Performance.

The brilliant French scenic designer Sabine Dargent makes her PICT debut with The Importance of Being Earnest. The lighting design is by Jim French (Pinter Celebration, Rock ‘n’ Roll), costume design by Pei-Chi Su (King Lear, The History Boys), sound design by Erik T. Lawson (Hobson’s Choice), and properties by Ricardo Vila-Roger. The Importance of Being Earnest plays August 4-27 in the Charity Randall Theatre.

Casting for Race and The Mask of Moriarty will be completed later in the spring.

Single ticket sales begin April 4th, and money-saving season subscriptions are available now! For tickets or subscriptions, phone ProArtsTickets at 412.394.3353, or visit www.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 Alliance. 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.

Superior Donuts at the O'Reilly is Fresh and Tasty

Contact:

 Margie Romero

Communications Manager at Pittsburgh Public Theater
412.316.8200 ext. 707
mromero@ppt.org

Pittsburgh Public Theater Presents

Superior Donuts

The latest from the director of Camelot, Ted Pappas, this crisp and fresh new play by Tracy Letts is sprinkled with colorful characters.

PITTSBURGH (March 25, 2011) Pittsburgh Public Theater presents Superior Donuts, the fresh and tasty hit play by Pulitzer Prize-winner Tracy Letts. Directed by Ted Pappas, Superior Donuts runs April 14 – May 15, 2011 at the O’Reilly Theater, Pittsburgh Public Theater’s home in the heart of Downtown’s Cultural District. For tickets call 412.316.1600 or visit www.ppt.org.

Superior Donuts is the name of a Chicago donut shop owned by aging hippie Arthur Przybyzewski (Anderson Matthews). The place has seen better days, but it’s still a daily stop for Star Trek-obsessed cop James (Wali Jamal) and his patrol partner Randy (Antoinette LaVecchia), outspoken homeless woman Lady Boyle (Sharon Brady), Russian DVD entrepreneur Max (Donald Corren), and his gigantic nephew Kiril (David Agranov). When lively and literate Franco Wicks (Brandon Gill) shows up, it looks like Superior Donuts might get some new blood. But that blood might also be spilled if bad guys Luther (Daryll Heysham) and Kevin (Joe Jackson) catch up with him. Containing both adult language and adult laughs, Superior Donuts also touches on the changing face of urban neighborhoods and what one generation owes to the next.

The design team for Superior Donuts is Michael Schweikardt (Scenic), Amy Clark (Costumes), Phil Monat (Lighting), and Zach Moore (Sound). Randy Kovitz is the Fight Director, Don Wadsworth is the Dialect Coach, Fredric H. Orner is the Production Stage Manager, and Alicia DeMara is the Assistant Stage Manager.

About the Playwright

Tracy Letts received the 2008 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play for August: Osage County. He is also the author of the plays Killer Joe, Bug, and Man from Nebraska (Pulitzer finalist). He became an ensemble member of Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre in 2002. In addition to writing plays, Letts has also appeared on stage, television, and film. Stage productions include Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? American Buffalo, Betrayal, The Pillowman, and many others. TV and film roles include Guinevere, U.S. Marshals, “Profiler,” “Prison Break,” “Seinfeld,” “Home Improvement,” and others.

Pittsburgh Public Theater Presents

What: Superior Donuts

When: April 14 – May 15, 2011

Performance Schedule

Tues. through Sat. at 8 pm (except Tues., May 10 when the show is at 7 pm).

Sat. at 2 pm (except April 16 & 23).

There will be an additional 2 pm matinee on Thurs., May 12.

Sun. at 2 & 7 pm (except Sun. May 15 when the final show is at 2 pm).

Press Night is Thurs. April 21. Opening Night is Fri. April 22.

Ticket Prices: $35.75 to $60.75. $15.75 for students and age 26 and younger.

For tickets call 412.316.1600 or visit www.ppt.org

Bovey Lee Presents Solo Exhibition "Paper Streets"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:

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



Bovey Lee: “Paper Streets”

709 Penn Gallery, 709 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District

April 15-May 22, 2011


Pittsburgh, PA: To commemorate her 10th anniversary as a Pittsburgh resident, Bovey Lee presents "Paper Streets," a solo exhibition of new work based on her visual cataloging of the city and its region's topographical complexity. Her first exhibition at The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s 709 Penn Gallery, “Paper Streets” showcases Bovey Lee’s modern interpretations crafted in the intricate and ancient art of Chinese paper cutting. The show opens on Friday, April 15, 2011, with an artist reception from 6-8 p.m., and concludes on May 22.

Using cut paper as her medium, Lee hand cut over 600 paper objects to create installations that explore resolute themes such as the geography's influence on life in the region and the city's constant efforts to recreate itself. More light-hearted works look at the practice of deploying folding chairs in the streets to claim parking spaces and seats along parade routes. The exhibition’s title comes from the so-called paper streets that are plunging staircases or walkways on maps considered as valid streets in Pittsburgh.

“The underlying themes in my paper cutouts are power, sacrifice, and survival,” the artist notes. “Drawing ideas from my cultural identity and gender, headline news, environmental issues, and socio-political commentaries, I painstakingly hand cut each work on a single sheet of paper that depicts layered and dramatic narratives. The deep paradoxes in my works contrast starkly with the airy, fragile laces of the cutouts.”

Bovey Lee works with rice paper, because the material is both culturally significant and sustainable. Handmade from mulberry tree bark, rice paper is tissue thin, dense, and soft to the touch. Silk is mounted to the back of the paper to add resilience and silk is also renewable.

Her creative process is three-fold: hand drawing, digital rendering, and hand cutting. She begins by sketching before creating a digital template, which serves as a visual guide, comprising downloaded images, her own digital photographs, scans from magazines and books, and vector graphics. The final step consists of several hours of hand-cutting the image with an X-acto knife.

Bovey Lee has exhibited at the Brooklyn Museum of Art, New York; Museum Bellerive, Zurich, Switzerland; National Glass Centre, Sunderland, UK; Museum Rijswijk, The Netherlands; Pittsburgh Center for the Arts; Museum of Fine Arts, Beijing, China; Fukuoka Museum of Art, Fukuoka, Japan; Hong Kong Museum of Art; Asian American Arts Center, New York; Rossi & Rossi, London, UK; Rena Bransten Gallery, San Francisco; and many others.

Her work has been recognized with grants and awards from the Ruth & Harold Chenven Foundation, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Vira I. Heinz Endowment, the Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation and the Asian American Arts Center in New York.

Bovey Lee graduated with a BA in Fine Arts from the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1991. In 1995, she received a MFA in painting from the University of California at Berkeley. In 2000, Bovey earned a second MFA in digital arts from Pratt Institute in New York.
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Imagination Movers Live Concert "In a Big Warehouse"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Media Contact:

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

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents

the return of Emmy® Award Winning

Imagination Movers

in their live concert tour

“In a Big Warehouse”

Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00pm

Benedum Center

Pittsburgh, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Imagination Movers’ “In a Big Warehouse” concert tour on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., at the Benedum Center. The tour will feature live music, and favorite songs and ideas to spark every child’s imagination by performers Rich Collins, Scott Durbin, Dave Poche, Scott “Smitty” Smith and new for this second national tour will be special appearances by Nina, Warehouse Mouse and other characters based on the television series.

The tour is produced by Buena Vista Concerts, a division of Disney Music Group. This presentation of Imagination Movers’ In a Big Warehouse is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

Imagination Movers second live national tour “In a Big Warehouse” features many of their popular songs from the television series woven together by narrative themes. The high-energy live performance gets kids of all ages moving and shaking with upbeat and catchy songs, a trash can drum set and hilarious slapstick comedy routines. The Imagination Movers have been described as a musical fusion of the Beastie Boys, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Mr. Rogers from Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. While their motivational and child-friendly music appeals to kids, their themes ranging from messy rooms to healthy snakes to sibling rivalry are situations that parents can relate to as much as their children.

About Imagination Movers

“Nothing beats the excitement of playing live rock n roll with the help of thousands of great fans,” says Rich Collins (aka Mover Rich). “We encourage our audience to be an essential part of the show by singing, clapping, shouting, dancing and generally letting the energy of a real rock concert lift their spirits. Everybody needs a nap after one of our gigs. Including the grownups – and especially us!”

Imagination Movers produced their first CD “Juice Box Heroes” in New Orleans in 2003. In 2008, Disney aired their show on the Disney Channel and since then the Imagination Movers’ popularity has grown worldwide in over 55 countries/territories and in 12 different languages. The show, popular with the preschool crowd, is a blend of narrative, skits and musical performances that all emphasize creative problem solving. The Movers and the kids all work together to solve “idea emergencies” in the Idea Warehouse, the home of infinite inspiration. “Reach high! Thing big! Work hard! Have fun!” The Movers’ CDs have earned more than 14 national awards, including Daytime Entertainment Emmy® and coveted honors from the Parent’s Choice Foundation. Their newest release “In a Big Warehouse,” the soundtrack for the second season of the television series, hit the charts this past fall, debuting at #2 on Billboard’s Top New Artist Albums chart and #3 on Billboard’s Children’s Chart.

Tickets ($27.25 - $39.25) are available at pgharts.org, (412) 456-6666 or the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. To Purchase 10 or more tickets please call (412) 471-6930. A limited number of Mini-Movers Packages ($128.25 per package) are available for the 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. performances. Mini-Movers Package includes: one premium seat within a select section of the Benedum Center, Orchestra Level; attendance, with parent/s, at a special Post-Show Party Room with an Imagination Movers Theme: The Think Tank and includes healthy snacks for all of the Little “Movers and their parent/s; Meet and greet photo opportunity with the Imagination Movers; A chance to participate in a Movers inspired "Jam Session: The Movers Music Party”; Signed Imagination Movers Poster (1 per ticket ordered); and Imagination Movers VIP Laminate.

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 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series, The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater and Children’s Festival, the PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh series Pittsburgh Dance Council, 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; 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.
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Veronica Corpuz (412) 471-6082; corpuz@pgharts.org

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Celebrates National Jazz Appreciation Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:

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


The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust celebrates National Jazz Appreciation Month in April with Vocal Styling Series


PITTSBURGH, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust ushers in National Jazz Appreciation Month in April with a series of concerts celebrating the art of vocal jazz. The VOCAL STYLINGS series, presented by the Trust’s department of Education and Community Engagement, is supported by BNY Mellon Jazz Presents and is a part of the Trust’s regular ongoing jazz series, JAZZLIVE. The performances will take place at the Trust’s Cabaret Theater and Backstage Bar in the Cultural District.

Janis Burley Wilson, Vice President of the Trust’s Education and Community Engagement Department, says, “We are focusing on diverse voices in jazz. Each of the artists we are featuring in the VOCAL STYLINGS series has a distinctive sound and utilizes their voices in unique ways to tell a story.”

In describing the series’ line-up Burley Wilson added, “Benny Benack III is an emerging artist, destined to be an important voice in jazz. Sachal Vasandani is recognized by Downbeat Magazine; he brings a fresh interpretation and style to jazz. Bobby Caldwell is a legend in R & B and smooth jazz as well as an accomplished jazz standards revivalist. Regardless of what style Bobby Caldwell performs on stage, he is the consummate show man. Karrin Allyson’s richly textured phrasing and ability to tell a story with song has made her one of the most important voices in jazz today.”

The Smithsonian launched National Jazz Appreciation Month in 2001 to pay tribute to jazz as a both a living and historic art form. It has grown to include celebrations in all 50 states and 40 countries.



About the Artists and Performances:



Benny Benack III & Friends: The Next Big Thing

Tuesday, April 5 / 8 p.m. / $10.75 & $15.75



The Trust kicks off this special jazz series by celebrating the future of jazz with up and coming trumpeter and Pittsburgh native Benny Benack III. Benack hails from a family of established Pittsburgh jazz musicians and is passionate about keeping the art form alive and thriving. A student of the Manhattan School of Music, Benack is joined by some of his fellow students, as well other young, talented jazz musicians.

myspace.com/bennybenackiii



Bobby Caldwell: Up Close and Personal

Tuesday, April 12 / 8 p.m. / $25.75



Living legend Bobby Caldwell is respected in jazz andR & B circles worldwide. Revered for his smooth vocals and classic delivery, Bobby Caldwell has an expansive repertoire that is translated with great precision, passion and joy.

bobbycaldwell.com



Sachal Vasandani: Downbeat Rising Star

Tuesday, April 19 / 8 p.m. / $20.75

This is a rare opportunity to experience one of the jazz scene’s freshest, young talents. Jazz vocalist Sachal Vasandani displays a singular, deep brewed voice and an uncanny sensibility to straddle the fine line between jazz and pop with songs that teem with emotion and intellect. His new recording, We Move, has elevated Sachal Vasandani to DownBeat Rising Star by the venerated DownBeat magazine.

www.sachalvasandani.com



An Evening with Karrin Allyson

Tuesday, April 26 / 8 p.m. / $25 & $30



The Trust’s celebration of Jazz in April concludes with an outstanding performance by Karrin Allyson, one of today’s best jazz vocalists. Jazz critics and aficionados worldwide agree that whether she is performing scat, a ballad, or leading on piano, Karrin Allyson is equally expressive and captivating. A live performance by this classically trained, Grammy® award-nominated virtuoso is not to be missed.

karrinallyson.com



The “Early Set” takes place at the Backstage Bar at Theater Square beginning at 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public. The “Late Set” begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are available at the Box Office at Theater, by visiting pgharts.org or calling 412-456-6666.



Early Set (no cover)


April 5: Thoth Trio

April 12: MCG Quartet

April 19: Max Leake

April 26: Kenia

Late Set (ticketed events)

April 5: Benny Benack III & Friends ($10.75 & $15.75)

April 12: Bobby Caldwell ($25.75)

April 19: Sachal Vasandani ($20.75)

April 26: Karrin Allyson ($25 & $30)




For tickets, visit pgharts.org or call 412-456-6666
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One Night of Queen Rock Tribute Concert Returns

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Media Contact:

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

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

http://pressroom.pgharts.org/?p=1132

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents

ONE NIGHT OF QUEEN

performed by Gary Mullen & The Works

Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street

Pittsburgh, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the return of One Night of Queen, a rock tribute concert that emulates the spirit and passion of rock icon Freddie Mercury, on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, 7:30 p.m., at the Byham Theater. Performed by musician Gary Mullen & The Works, this 80’s rock concert pays tribute to the stage theatrics and music of British band Queen guaranteed to be "accurately and faithfully performed with the feel of the original preserved (BBC).” This concert is part of the 2010-2011 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

Formed in 2000 by Gary Mullen, One Night of Queen has toured virtually non-stop around the U.K., U.S.A., Germany, Portugal, France, Holland, and New Zealand, playing in theaters, festivals, and arenas to sold-out crowds. Brian May, the former guitarist and song writer for Queen raves that, "Gary bears a remarkable likeness to Freddie, not only in emulating Freddie’s unique stage persona but also accurately reproducing Freddie’s live vocal style and range."

The tribute band will perform Queen mega-hits such as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We are the Champions,” “Killer Queen,” “You’re My Best Friend”, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Radio Ga Ga,” “Under Pressure,” “Another One Bites the Dust” and many others. Gary Mullen, vocals, will be accompanied by band members David Brockett - lead guitar, Billy Moffat - bass guitar, Jonathan Evans - drums and Malcolm Gentles - keyboards. One Night of Queen will ROCK YOU! “As tribute bands go, there can be none better than this. Superb.” (Blackpool Gazette)

Tickets ($26.25 - $45.25) for One Night of Queen on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at 7:30 p.m., 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.

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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Woodville Plantation Hosts Legion Drill Day

March 21, 2011




FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:

Rob Windhorst
412-221-0348
rwindhorst19@comcast.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

QUICK FACTS:

Event: Legion Drill Day

Date: Sunday, April 3, 2011

Time: 1 to 4 pm

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

Admission: Adults $5.00, Children 6-12 $3.00, Children Under 6 Free



WOODVILLE PLANTATION HOSTS LEGION DRILL DAY


BRIDGEVILLE, PA (March 21, 2011) – Step back in time at Woodville Plantation as this living history museum presents a special event. On Sunday, April 3, 2011, the public is invited to attend Legion Drill Day

Historical interpreters will be onsite to represent the soldiers of Wayne’s Fourth Sub-Legion, the first Army of the United States. These are the troops that were sent to defend John Neville’s Bower Hill mansion during the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794. Join the soldiers as they practice the drills of Baron von Steuben. Events of the day also include tactical demonstrations, musket firing, marching and ceremonial drills. The event will be held from 1 to 4 pm, weather permitting. Admission is $5.00 per adult, $3.00 per child age 6-12 and free for children under age 6.

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 Plantation is conveniently located in Collier Township, 1/4 mile north of Interstate I-79 Exit 55 (Kirwan 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.

-END-

Celebrate National Jazz Appreciation Month

Celebrate National Jazz Appreciation Month with The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust


JAZZLIVE

April Vocal Stylings

Benny Benack III

The Next Big Thing – April 5

Pittsburgh's own visits the Cabaret direct from his studies at New York City's Manahattan School Of Music.



8PM • $10-$15



Early show
No Cover

Thoth Trio • 5PM

Backstage Bar

Bobby Caldwell

What You Won’t Do For Love - April 12



Join Bobby for an intimate performance of his hits and some new surprises. Don't miss this rare Pittsburgh appearance.



8PM • $25


Early show
No Cover

MCG Quartet • 5PM

Backstage Bar

Sachal Vasandani

Downbeat Rising Star

April 19

Sachal Vasandani's new CD We Move has elevated him to a new status amongst jazz singers and has been recognized by Downbeat as a Rising Star.



8PM • $20

Early show
No Cover

Max Leake • 5PM

Backstage Bar

An Intimate Evening with Karrin Allyson

April 26

Karrin Allyson knows what jazz singing is all about… sometimes tender, sometimes rough, and she always strikes the right cord.



8PM • $25-$30

Early show
No Cover

Kenia • 5PM

Backstage Bar



All featured shows are at the Cabaret at Theater Square,

voted "Best Jazz Venue" by Pittsburgh Magazine.

Max Raabe and Palast Orchester Re-create Weimar Era

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Media Contact:

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

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

Artwork is available upon request.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester

Friday, April1 15, 2011, at 8:00 p.m.

Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street

Pittsburgh, PA: As soon as Max Raabe & Palast Orchester enter the stage, 1920s Berlin comes to life in their tour Berlin Nocturne that pays homage to the legendary nocturnal flair of the Weimar Era. “Max Raabe and his 12-piece Palast Orchester are re-creating the music of the Weimar era with verve and class” (Time Out New York). This concert, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, will be performed on Friday, April 15, at 8:00 p.m., at the Byham Theater, as part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

“It's far more than nostalgia - it's almost being there. As Raabe puts it: It's music that pleases, that makes people happy. Between that, and Raabe's own cheeky demeanor, the Palast Orchester epitomizes the elegance of the musical '20s and '30s. As one German critic described it: excellent manners spiked with a touch of decadence" (Daily News).

Founded in 1986 by the charismatic baritone Max Raabe, Max Raabe & Palast Orchester embodies the high style and musical glory of the 20's and 30's and have performed to audiences around the world. Max Raabe captures this timeless music with precision, urgency and irony. A singer of incredible range, he has a singular ability to capture the cunning rasp of the cabaret singer, the confident belcanto hero, the oily melodiousness of the revue beau, the carefree timbre of early jazz, as well as the falsetto of ragtime, all backed by his stellar 12-member band, many of whom have been with him from the beginning. Max Raabe's art lies in revealing the enigmatic intelligence, ambiguity, musical power and complexity of the "German chansons" from the turbulent Weimar Republic. In his performances he keenly reminds us that between melancholy and irony, rebellion and resignation, elegy and slapstick there is often only half a measure, sometimes just a single note, or a mere word.

Over the years, Max Raabe and the Palast Orchester have discovered that one of the secrets of a good show is diversity. Accordingly, their vast repertoire for the listener and dancer alike includes classics like "I Kiss Your Hand Madame", "My Little Green Kaktus" and "Heute Nacht oder nie" ("Tonight Or Never") or from the American Songbook "Cheek To Cheek", "Night And Day" and "I Got Rhythm", as well as Rumbas ("Amapola"), Paso Dobles ("Rosa, Charming Rosa".. I fell in love ´cause she looked so cute, last summer in her bathing suit"), rare gems ("My Gorilla Has a Villa in a Zoo"), charming gems ("Love Thy Neighbour") and silly gems ("Dort tanzt Lulu" ("Lulu is dancing too! Ahaha, uhuhu).

Tickets ($38.25-$53.25) 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 at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.

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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Comedy Heavyweight John Pinette Performs at the Byham

For Immediate Release


Contact: Justin Levy; 518-884-2960

justin@millsentertainment.com

Comedy Heavyweight

John Pinette

Byham Theater

Saturday June 11th 8:00pm

- Tickets go on-sale Friday, March 18th at 9am -



John Pinette will present a hilarious and blunt evening of stand-up comedy at the Byham Theater in Pittsburgh on Saturday, June 11th at 8:00pm. Tickets go on-sale Friday, March 18th at 9:00am and can be purchased at pgharts.org, 412.456.6666, or at the Box Office Theater Square. Tickets are $34.50 plus applicable service charges.

When describing his own stand-up, Pinette says “I talk about my life; it is the funniest thing I can think of.” His current comedy special, “I’m Starvin’,” is a follow up to his successful comedy CD, “Show Me the Buffet.” “I’m Starvin’” illustrates the humor in America’s obsession with food and being fat.

John Pinette is no rookie to the stage. For the past fifteen years, Pinette has been in entertainment one way or another. Once he realized he could use his knack to make people laugh and turn it into a career, he left his job as an accountant and began touring comedy clubs around the country.

His caught his big break when he was asked to tour with Frank Sinatra and he’s since become a regular guest on The Tonight Show and The View. Most recently, Pinette came off the theatrical stage and to the stand-up stage after wrapping up his starring role as ‘Edna Turnblad’ in the winning Broadway musical Hairspray.

His note-worthy accomplishments include being named Stand-Up Comedian of the Year by the American Comedy Awards in 1999 and he was also nominated for a Gemini Award for his television performance at The Montreal Comedy Festival in 2000. Pinette’s acting career includes roles alongside Gwenyth Paltrow, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and John Travolta. He is experienced in both film and television and has been featured in programs such as Parker Lewis Can’t Lose and starred as a car-jack victim in the final episode of Seinfeld.

For more information, visit John’s official website www.johnpinette.com.

This Trust Guest Attraction is a presentation of Mills Entertainment. For interviews and other information: Justin Levy at 518.884.2960 or justin@millsentertainment.com.

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PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh Announces 2011/2012 Season

For Immediate Release


Contact:

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

Electronic art available upon request.

PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh

Announces the 2011/2012 season

PITTSBURGH, PA: PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America, proudly announces the 2011/2012 season. PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh, one of the city’s premier entertainment series, is sponsored by The PNC Foundation. This season presents an exceptional array of live entertainment on the Cultural District’s world-class stages.

Packed with Tony® Award Winners including the 2009 and 2010 winners for Best Musical and the 2010 winner of Best Musical Revival, the lineup features audience favorites and storylines that will appeal to all ages. These presentations contribute to our city’s reputation as a major destination for arts, culture, and entertainment, attracting more than 300,000 visitors to our bustling Cultural District each year.

“The PNC Foundation is once again proud to be the presenting sponsor of the series that delivers the finest national tours to Pittsburgh—allowing you to experience world-class Broadway entertainment close to home,” says James E. Rohr, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The PNC Financial Services Group.

Subscription packages range from $105-$472. For subscription information, call 412-456-1390 (local) or 800-828-9200 (outside Pittsburgh). For information, visit pgharts.org. To purchase group tickets, please call (412) 471-6930 or email groupsales@pgharts.org.

Benefits of subscribing include:

· Series subscribers are seated before the general public. You can retain your seats year after year and are first in line for seating upgrades when it’s time to renew. Subscribers also receive priority seating for season specials before they go on sale.

· Customer service team dedicated to our subscribers manages ticket exchanges, payment plans, lost ticket replacement and more.

· Many of the shows offer subscribers a discounted price on additional tickets.

· Guaranteed season parking for an additional price

· New THIS YEAR SWAP A SHOW: Subscribers have the added flexibility of exchanging tickets out of one show and into another. (Excludes WICKED. Swap your tickets one time only.)

THE 2011-2012 PNC BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA – PITTSBURGH SERIES

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

November 1-6, 2011
Benedum Center

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is the smash hit Broadway musical, inspired by the true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.

On December 4, 1956, these four young musicians were gathered together by Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ’n’ Roll” at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions of all time. MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring timeless hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “That’s All Right,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Matchbox,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Hound Dog” and more.

This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio with four major talents who came together as a red-hot rock ‘n’ roll band for one unforgettable night. Don’t miss your chance to be a fly on the wall of fame... at MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET!


DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL

November 22-27, 2011
Benedum Center

YOUR HEART WILL GROW THREE SIZES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage with this hit Broadway musical for the whole family. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic.

Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit.

Come and celebrate the holidays with this delightful Broadway musical that the whole family will love!

“A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults!” —Gannett Papers

“An extraordinary performance! 100 times better than any bedside story.” —The New York Times


MEMPHIS

December 27-January 1, 2012
Heinz Hall

TURN UP THAT DIAL... From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Inspired by actual events, MEMPHIS is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves—filled with laughter, soaring emotion and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll. Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards® including Best Musical, MEMPHIS, which played pre-Broadway at the La Jolla Playhouse, features a Tony®-winning book by Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change) and a Tony®-winning original score with music by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan. Directing is Tony® nominee Christopher Ashley (Xanadu), and choreography is by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys). Get ready to experience Broadway’s most exciting new destination!

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL

February 1-12, 2012
Benedum Center

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICALis a joyous celebration of one young boy’s journey to make his dreams come true. Ben Brantley of The New York Times calls BILLY ELLIOT “THE MOST INSPIRING SHOW I’VE SEEN IN YEARS.” Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising passion that inspires his family and his whole community. A big musical with an even bigger heart, BILLY ELLIOT will enchant the dreamer in all of us.

Based on the international smash-hit film, BILLY ELLIOT is brought to life by a phenomenal cast of 45 and the Tony Award-winning creative team -- director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall -- along with music legend Elton John, who has written what the New York Post calls "HIS BEST SCORE YET!"

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

March 13-18, 2012
Benedum Center

WINNER! 2010 Tony Awards – Best Revival


WELCOME TO LA CAGE AUX FOLLES!

Winner of three Tony Awards® including the award for BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL, this hilarious new production of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES was the biggest hit of the 2010 Broadway season, leaving audiences in stitches night after night!

LA CAGE tells the story of Georges, the owner of a glitzy nightclub in lovely Saint-Tropez, and his partner Albin, who moonlights as the glamorous chanteuse Zaza. When Georges’ son brings his fiancée’s conservative parents home to meet the flashy pair, the bonds of family are put to the test as the feather boas fly! LA CAGE is a tuneful and touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together...stay fabulous... and above all else, stay true to themselves!

With a glorious score of hummable melodies and a dynamite cast featuring the “notorious and dangerous Cagelles,” LA CAGE is an indisputable musical comedy classic... and this extraordinary new version shows you why!

BLUE MAN GROUP

May 15-20, 2012
Benedum Center

Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group’s show is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous experience that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state.

With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages, and cultures. In fall 2010, Blue Man Group took to the road on its U.S. theatrical tour. This unique theatrical experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else, guaranteed to be an outing you will never forget!

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

July 31-August 12, 2012
Benedum Center

The weird and wonderful family comes to devilishly delightful life in THE ADDAMS FAMILY. This magnificently macabre new musical comedy, based on the characters by legendary cartoonist Charles Addams, is created by Jersey Boys authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winning composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (The Wild Party), choreographer Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys) and Olivier Award-winning director/designers Phelim McDermott & Julian Crouch (Shockheaded Peter) with creative consultation by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks.

This is definitely not the same old song and dance. It’s every parent’s nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what’s worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, this shocking development will turn the Addams house downside up.

It’s a family portrait that’s completely off the wall.

Presented in cooperation with Pittsburgh CLO



2011-2012 SEASON SPECIALS:



WICKED

September 7-October 2, 2011
Benedum Center

After breaking box office records and selling out in record time in 2005 and 2008, WICKED, Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, will return to the Benedum Center. Based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, WICKED, winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony® Awards, is the untold story of the witches of Oz. It is produced by Marc Platt, Universal Pictures, The Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone.

Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One – born with emerald-green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. WICKED tells the story of their remarkable odyssey, and how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

NETworks Presents

Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

April 3-8, 2012
Heinz Hall

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY EVER TOLD COMES TO LIFE!

Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to Pittsburgh! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at Heinz Hall!

www.BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com



HOW TO SUBSCRIBE

ONLINE: pgharts.org/broadway

MAIL: PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh

719 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

PHONE : 412-456-1390

EMAIL: subscriptions@pgharts.org

FAX: 412-456-2694

GROUPS: 412-471-6930



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, 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.

About the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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 PSO 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 (Producer), part of the Key Brand Entertainment family of companies which includes Broadway.com, 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 musicals and plays across 40 North American cities. Broadway.com is the premier theater website for news, exclusive content and ticket sales. Under the supervision of Beth Williams (COO and Head of Production), Broadway Across America is also dedicated to the development and production of new and diverse theatre. Current Broadway productions include How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying starring Daniel Radcliffe and John Larroquette, Million Dollar Quartet, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Jerusalem, Memphis, La Cage Aux Folles, the West End production of Million Dollar Quartet and the touring production of Dreamworks’ Madagascar Live! For more information, please visit BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com and Broadway.com.
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The Addams Family Premieres in Pennsylvania

FOR RELEASE: MARCH 9, 2011


PNC Broadway Contact: Veronica Corpuz, 412-471-6082, corpuz@pgharts.org

Pittsburgh CLO Contact: Aja Jones, 412-281-3973 ext. 224, ajones@pittsburghclo.org

Pittsburgh CLO & PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh

Announce the Pennsylvania Premiere of

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

July 31 – August 12, 2012 – Benedum Center

Pittsburgh, March 7, 2011 – PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh CLO announce the presentation of the hit Broadway musical, THE ADDAMS FAMILY, based on the bizarre and beloved family of characters created by legendary cartoonist Charles Addams. THE ADDAMS FAMILY will take place July 31-August 12, 2012, at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts. Pittsburgh CLO and The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust are among the co-producers of the new musical which premiered on Broadway last spring. Pittsburgh CLO and the Cultural Trust’s involvement began with the joint role as founding members of Five Cent Productions, a producing partner in Elephant Eye Theatrical, the exciting new theatrical-development-and-production company formed in 2006 to create new musicals for Broadway.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY, entering its second year on Broadway, began performances in March 2010 at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre and immediately became one of Broadway’s biggest hits, regularly grossing over $1 million a week. Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune described the production as “classic, full-tilt, fast paced, old-fashioned musical comedy!” and John Simon of Bloomberg News called it “uproarious! A glitzy-gloomy musical entirely worthy of the macabre drawings by Charles Addams.”

THE ADDAMS FAMILY features a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, and music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa. The production is directed and designed (sets and costumes) by Phelim McDermott and Julian Crouch, with creative consultation by Jerry Zaks and choreography by Sergio Trujillo. The production features lighting design by Natasha Katz, sound design by Acme Sound Partners and puppetry by Basil Twist.

“As one of the Broadway producers of The Addams Family, we are excited to be able to bring one of Broadway’s most sought-after shows to Pittsburgh,” explained Pittsburgh CLO Executive Producer Van Kaplan. “By producing new shows on Broadway, both independently and as a member of Elephant Eye Theatrical along with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, we continue to ensure that Pittsburgh audiences are among the first to see the very best that Broadway has to offer.”

“The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust sought this opportunity to partner with Pittsburgh CLO to further enhance the subscription experience for both Pittsburgh CLO and PNC Broadway patrons, to ensure that Pittsburgh continues to be on the map for bringing new works direct from Broadway, and to further the ongoing development of our award-winning Cultural District that draws two million visitors annually,” said J. Kevin McMahon, President and CEO of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY features an original story. It's every parent's nightmare. Your little girl has suddenly become a young woman, and what's worse, has fallen deliriously in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. Yes, Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has a “normal” boyfriend, and for parents Gomez and Morticia, it's a shocking development that turns the Addams house upside down when they are forced to host a dinner for the young man and his parents.

In a prolific career spanning six decades, Charles Addams created several thousand cartoons, sketches and drawings, many of which were published in The New Yorker. But it was his creation of characters that came to be known as The Addams Family that brought Addams his greatest acclaim. With a unique style that combined the twisted, macabre and just plain weird with charm, wit and enchantment, Addams’ drawings have entertained millions worldwide and served as the inspiration for multiple television series and motion pictures.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY is produced on Broadway by Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt, Five Cent Productions, Stephen Schuler, Decca Theatricals, Scott M. Delman, Stuart Ditsky, Terry Allen Kramer, Stephanie P. McClelland, James L. Nederlander, Eva Price, Jam Theatricals/Mary Lu Roffe, Pittsburgh CLO/Gutterman-Swinsky, Vivek Tiwary/Gary Kaplan, The Weinstein Co./Clarence, LLC and Adam Zotovich/Tribe Theatricals, by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical.

For more information on THE ADDAMS FAMILY, visit www.theaddamsfamilymusical.com.

TICKETS

THE ADDAMS FAMILY will be part of both Pittsburgh CLO’s 2012 summer subscription season and the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh 2011/2012 subscription season. To subscribe to the PNC Broadway series, call 412-456-1390 or visit www.pgharts.org/broadway. For Pittsburgh CLO subscription information call 412-281-2822or visit www.pittsburghCLO.org. The remainder of Pittsburgh CLO’s 2012 Summer Season schedule will be announced in early fall, and the PNC Broadway Across America – Pittsburgh 2011-2012 Season will be announced later this week.

Pittsburgh CLO media members may access photos and other show materials by visiting the Press Room at pittsburghCLO.org. When prompted, simply enter “pressroom” as the username and “pittstadium” as the password.
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The Pittsburgh CLO

Since 1946, the Pittsburgh CLO has been the driving force behind live musical theater in Pittsburgh and the entire Southwestern Pennsylvania region. Pittsburgh CLO is a not-for-profit arts organization that appreciates the support of nearly 200,000 patrons each year. Its dedication to the musical theater art form extends beyond the summer season with such programs as the CLO Academy, the CLO Mini Stars, the Gene Kelly Awards, the National High School Musical Theater Awards, the Construction Center for the Arts and the CLO Cabaret.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America present the PNC Broadway Across America - Pittsburgh series, featuring the finest plays and musicals currently touring the country. From classics to the hottest new shows straight from Broadway, the series offers a broad appeal to all audiences.

Elephant Eye Theatrical

Elephant Eye Theatrical was initially founded by producers Stuart Oken and Michael Leavitt, along with five original non-profit regional companies known as Five Cent Productions, including: The Pittsburgh CLO and The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust (shared) of Pittsburgh, PA; The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts of Hartford, CT; The Citi Performing Arts Center (formally the Wang Center) of Boston, MA; Ordway Center for the Performing Arts of St. Paul, MN; and The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts of Philadelphia, PA.

Small Business Works Seminars Announced

Allegheny County, The City of Pittsburgh, The Small Business Administration, Duquesne University – Small Business Development Center, and Building Bridges for Business will host SMALL BUSINESS WORKS SEMINARs to educate and empower business owners. The first seminar in the series will be held on April 28, 2011 at the Kingsley Association in East Pittsburgh. The key note speaker will inspire attendees and 20+ exhibitors will showcase resources to start or grow business.


Linda Handley, Founder, Amanda Wodzenski, President, JoAnn Forrester, CFO, Lee Drozak, Chief Information Officer and the advisory Board of Building Bridges for Business provide Pittsburgh's Ultimate Business Resource Connection for Small Business. www.buildingbridgesforbusiness.org. This is the first in a series of Small Business Works events scheduled the next being held at GOOGLE in June 2010.

To interview Linda Handley, Founder of Building Bridges for Business, contact info@buildingbridgesforbusiness.org.

Philanthropist Ritchie Scaife Awards Challenge Gift to WGF

Ritchie Scaife Makes Lead Gift of $50,000 to

The Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest Pennsylvania

Philanthropist Establishes Challenge Campaign

to Increase Investments in Women and Girls

News Release - PITTSBURGH— March 8, 2011 — The Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest Pennsylvania (WGF) announced today, that in honor of Women’s History Month, and in support of women’s futures, philanthropist Ritchie Scaife has made a lead gift of $50,000 to the Women and Girls Foundation to support WGF’s grantmaking pool for 2011.

This gift is a matching challenge posed to other individuals to meet Mrs. Scaife’s donation by making their own generous gifts to the Women and Girls Foundation. This new matching challenge campaign, “Battle For Equality: The Ritchie Scaife Challenge For Women and Girls” was created by Ritchie Scaife to encourage other individuals to increase their investments in advancing women’s and girls’ rights.

“What impresses me most about the Women and Girls Foundation is their approach to social change,” explained Mrs. Scaife. “Their grants empower women and girls by breaking down systemic barriers to equality. I encourage more women to join me in investing in change not charity. Together we can get to the root causes of poverty, wage inequity, domestic violence, and other forms of gender discrimination and begin to improve them.”

“Ritchie is committed to leveraging her philanthropy to improve the lives of other women and girls,” said Women and Girls Foundation CEO, Heather Arnet, “She understands that in order to ensure long term change, we must invest in policy advocacy to increase and defend women’s rights in our country and in our state.”

To meet the challenge the Women and Girls Foundation must raise at least $50,000 in new donations from individuals this year. Once the match is met, the Foundation will have a grant pool of $100,000 to award to local grantees in 2011.

The Foundation’s mission is to achieve equality for women and girls in the region. Grant awards made by the Women and Girls Foundation are 100% supported by individual donations. Grants are invested in non-profit, non-partisan, public policy initiatives to increase women’s and girls’ rights in Southwest Pennsylvania. By focusing this challenge on the grantmaking pool, donor gifts will have maximum impact reaching dozens of grantee agencies and improving the lives of thousands of women and girls through the public policy improvements achieved by these grants. A request for proposals will be released in May inviting non-profits to compete for the grant awards. Agencies interested in receiving a copy of the RFP should email susan@wgfpa.org. Individuals interested in making a donation to the “Battle For Equality: The Ritchie Scaife Challenge For Women and Girls” should contact Jui Joshi, Director of Philanthropic Engagement, 412-258-2559, jui@wgfpa.org.

Hangin' Up My Heart Reading Cancelled

Media Contacts:


Melissa Hill Grande – 412.561.6000 x203 or mgrande@picttheatre.org

Josh Storey – 412.624.0933 or jstorey@pitt.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

___________________________________________________________________________


New Classics March reading cancelled

Pittsburgh, PA -- March 7, 2011. The New Classics reading of Michael Schwartz’ play Hangin’ Up My Heart scheduled for Sunday, March 27th, has been cancelled.

On Saturday, February 27, the University of Pittsburgh Theatre Arts Department sustained some damage to its scene shop. Unfortunately, this has left the Henry Heymann Theatre unavailable for performances during the reconstruction period. “This will not change the opening of As You Like It, our final show of the season,” says Bruce McConachie, Chair of Theatre Arts. “Shakespeare’s comedy will open on April 1 – April Fools’ Day – and run through the 10th.”

New Classics is a cooperative program presented by the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts and Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre. The series is intended to highlight new works and showcase up-and-coming playwrights.

For more information contact Josh Storey at jstorey@pitt.edu, 412.624.0933.
# # #

The University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts (founded in 1982) offers the BA, MA, MFA and PhD degrees in Theatre Arts. All faculty members are active in both teaching and artistic / research activities. The department shares a philosophy of theatre education, the chief feature of which is the firm conviction that theory and practice, academic and creative work, and educational and professional theatre must be integrated for a successful program of theatre education. The University of Pittsburgh Repertory Theatre is the department’s flagship theatre company with performance spaces in the landmark Stephen Foster Memorial and the Cathedral of Learning. www.play.pitt.edu.

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.

Artist Ayanah Moor Work "Good News" Featured

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Contact:

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



Ayanah Moor: Good News

707 Penn Gallery, 707 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District

March 4-April 3, 2011

Opening reception: March 4, 6-8pm

Pittsburgh, PA: Since 1945, Ebony has been the heralded, mainstream chronicle of the African American community, covering issues, personalities and interests in a self-affirming manner. A featured Ebony article on dating from the 1980s provides the inspiration for artist Ayanah Moor’s recent project, Good News. Through the use of creative wordplay, Moor offers an alternative commentary on site, desire and eligibility.

About Ayanah Moor

Ayanah Moor’s recent print and video works were exhibited at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Forja ArteContemporaneo, SPACE, Wexner Center for the Arts, John Hope Franklin Center-Duke University, IceBox Project Space and Columbia College-Chicago, among others. Her work has been published in Critical Inquiry (University of Chicago Press); Black Women, Gender and Families (University of Illinois Press) and Meridians: Feminism, Race, Transnationalism (Indiana University Press). Moor’s work is cited in What is Contemporary Art? (The University of Chicago Press), Home Girls Make Some Noise: A Hip Hop Feminism Anthology (Parker Publishing); and Deconstructing Tyrone: A New Look at Black Masculinity in the Hip Hop Generation (Cleis Press). She has held artist residencies at Women’s Studio Workshop, Vermont Studio Center, Blue Mountain Center, Atlantic Center for the Arts, Brandywine Workshop and the Auckland Print Studio. Moor earned a BFA at Virginia Commonwealth University and MFA at Tyler School of Art, Temple University. She is currently an Associate Professor in the School of Art at Carnegie Mellon University

For more information about Ayanah Moor, visit ayanah.com

Gallery Details:

707 Penn Gallery is a Visual Arts project of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

Located at 707 Penn Avenue in the Downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District, 707 Penn Gallery is free and open to the public

Gallery Hours:

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

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

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

Jerry Seinfeld Adds Second Show

BY POPULAR DEMAND – SECOND SHOW ADDED!

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 & 9:30pm.

The 7pm show is sold out!

The 9:30pm show is on sale now!

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 performances, contact Teri LaPlante at teri@jstouring.com.



A JS TOURING PRODUCTION

Power of 32 Brings Bruce Katz to Pittsburgh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Taylor Praskach

Judith Kelly + Associates

412.281.0995

tmp@judith-kelly.com

Power of 32 Brings Bruce Katz to Pittsburgh

Vice President and Founding Director of the Metropolitan Policy Program at Brookings Set to Speak on March 10th

(PITTSBURGH, PA) March 2, 2011—Bruce Katz believes that a globally competitive economy must leverage the resources of innovation, human capital, infrastructure, and quality places. The Power of 32 region is rich in these assets, and people from around the 32 counties and four states are invited to hear the insights about the future of our region on March 10th from 4:30-6:00pm at Point Park University in Pittsburgh.

Katz is the vice president and founding director of the Metropolitan Policy Program at Brookings, an initiative that has helped cities and suburbs grow in more competitive sustainable and inclusive ways. Katz works to boost productivity, innovation, and growth through a national innovation foundation.

Katz’s connection to Pittsburgh goes back to 2006 when he received the Heinz Award in Public Policy for re-imagining the function and value of cities and metropolitan areas and profoundly influencing their economic vitality, livability, and sustainability.

His areas of expertise include, but not limited to, community reinvestment, demographic trends, economic development, housing, transportation reform, urban and metropolitan policy, urban and regional politics, among others.

“We are so pleased to have Mr. Katz come and share his knowledge of the need for regional collaboration to be competitive. This is an opportunity for the public to have their questions about the economy answered by someone with immense insight on our region,” says Selena Schmidt, executive director of Power of 32.

After graduating from Yale University Law School, Katz began to build his professional career and served as an associate at a Washington, D.C. law firm where he specialized in housing and urban development. Later, he worked as counsel and eventually staff director of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Housing and Urban Affairs. Katz also was the chief of staff and senior policy advisor at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

This special event is free and open to the public. The session is meant to inform and inspire attendants, as well as provide the opportunity to meet with colleagues throughout the region.

Seating is limited, so please RSVP by calling 412.648.9301.
###

New Classics presents Hangin' Up My Heart

Media Contacts:


Melissa Hill Grande – 412.561.6000 x203 or mgrande@picttheatre.org

Josh Storey – 412.624.0933 or jstorey@pitt.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

___________________________________________________________________________

New Classics presents Hangin’ Up My Heart in March

Michael Schwartz play explores the healing powers of love

Pittsburgh, PA -- March 1, 2011. The New Classics Series returns on Sunday, March 27th at 7:00 p.m. with Michael Schwartz’ play Hangin’ Up My Heart, directed by Michael Fuller and performed in the Henry Heymann Theatre at the Stephen Foster Memorial in Oakland. New Classics is a cooperative program presented by the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts and Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre. The series is intended to highlight new works and showcase up-and-coming playwrights.

The reading is free and open to the public, and will be followed by a talk-back with the cast and audience. The moderators will be director Michael Fuller and David Peterson, a graduate student in the Ph.D. program of the Department of Theatre Arts.

The reading will showcase the talent of actors from the University of Pittsburgh Department of Theatre Arts, including Kevin Christian, Amanda Leslie, Dylan Meyers, Fred Pelzer, Maria Polombo, and Andrew Sours. PICT alum Ben Blazer, a University of Pittsburgh graduate who holds an MFA in acting from the University of South Carolina, will also be featured.

Hangin' Up My Heart tells two (maybe three) love stories over the course of a rainy Memorial Day weekend at a public swimming pool in a small town in Tennessee. The lifeguards, and a couple of visitors, try to run away, settle down, start over, or just plain get started over plenty of beers and plenty of country music on the town's only radio station. By the end of the weekend, the characters might discover the healing power of love.

Author Michael Schwartz is an instructor, director, performer, playwright and dramaturg in the Philadelphia area. Other plays include Istanbul (Not Constantinople) and Say Hi to Rose Rabbit for Me, as well as a number of one-acts and 10-minute plays. Mike received his Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh in Theatre Arts in December 2007. His book, “Broadway and Corporate Capitalism: The Rise of the Professional Managerial Class 1900-1920” was published by Palgrave Macmillan in July 2009, and was nominated for the Bernard Hewitt for Outstanding Research in Theatre History.

Director Michael Fuller works as a professional actor, teacher/director, and filmmaker in the Pittsburgh area. Some of his favorite performances include: Happy in Death of a Salesman at Point Park’s Repertory company, and Moss in Glengarry Glen Ross with barebones productions. His PICT credits include Pride and Prejudice and Beautiful Dreamers, and he will return to PICT this summer in Alan Ayckbourn’s House and Garden. Fuller teaches in the theatre departments at Point Park University and Pittsburgh’s CAPA 6-12, where he has directed a number of projects, including: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, You Can’t Take It With You, and most recently, Richard Wilbur’s translation of Moliere’s The Learned Ladies. He particularly enjoys directing original pieces of theatre that he creates with his students at CAPA, combining both live performance and filmed elements.

Persons who are unable to attend the reading in person will be able to view it online via LIPLO™ (Live and in Person, Live and Online), a new internet technology pioneered by PICT Operations Director Stephanie Riso and Alex Geis. Geis of 21 Productions and videographer Randy Griffith of RLG Creations will live-broadcast the readings, and viewers will be able to respond via live chat as they watch the performances on the LIPLO™ website, www.liplo.com.

No reservations are required, and the reading is free of charge. For more information about “New Classics,” contact Melissa Grande at mgrande@picttheatre.org, 412.561.6000 x203, or Josh Storey at jstorey@pitt.edu, 412.624.0933.

# # #

The University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Theatre Arts (founded in 1982) offers the BA, MA, MFA and PhD degrees in Theatre Arts. All faculty members are active in both teaching and artistic / research activities. The department shares a philosophy of theatre education, the chief feature of which is the firm conviction that theory and practice, academic and creative work, and educational and professional theatre must be integrated for a successful program of theatre education. The University of Pittsburgh Repertory Theatre is the department’s flagship theatre company with performance spaces in the landmark Stephen Foster Memorial and the Cathedral of Learning. www.play.pitt.edu.



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.