Pittsburgh Premiere of Martha Speaks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: January 11, 2013
For Immediate Release   Revised:  East Location

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

Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater

presents

Theatreworks USA

in the Pittsburgh premiere of

 Martha Speaks

February 10-17, 2013

Six performance locations throughout Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA:  Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater, a division of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, presents Theatreworks USA, in the Pittsburgh premiere of, Martha Speaks, from February 10 - 17, 2013, at six performance locations throughout the area.  Performance locations include: City: Byham Theater, Sunday, February 10 at 2:00 p.m. & Student Matinee: Monday,  February 11 at 10:15 a.m.; Workshop:  Grow Up Great, Wednesday, February 13; East: Linton Middle School, Wednesday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m.; North: Marshall Middle School, Thursday, February 14 at 5:30 & 7:30 p.m.;West: Hopewell High School, Friday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m.; South: Mount Lebanon High School, Saturday, February 16 at 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.; and Butler: Seneca Valley Senior High School, Sunday, February 17 at 2:00 p.m.  Citizens Bank is the season sponsor of Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater.

Martha Speaks is a musical based on the books Martha Speaks and Martha Calling written by Susan Meddaugh.  The books were adapted for the stage by Kevin Delaguila, and set to lyrics by Jill Abramovitz with the music of composer Brad Alexander.  The play follows the adventures of Helen, her family, and their dog Martha.  One day Martha eats a bowl of alphabet soup and begins to talk! Martha shocks everyone and quickly learns to use the telephone. Even though she is forbidden, she calls into a radio station for a trivia contest and wins the family an all-expenses-paid trip to a luxurious hotel. There is only one problem – the hotel has a no pets allowed policy.  Will Martha’s family go on vacation without her or will Martha’s clever way with words save the day?  The performance is approximately 55 minutes and recommended for children ages 3-10.

Since 1961, Theatreworks USA has enlightened, entertained, and instructed over 78 million people in 49 states and Canada.  The company tours approximately 16 shows from its ever-growing repertoire of 117 plays and musicals, performing for about four million people annually.  Under the direction of Barbara Pasternack (Artistic Director) and Ken Arthur (Managing Director), Theatreworks USA is the only children's theatre to receive both a Drama Desk and a Lucille Lortel Award, and they are known for an extensive multi-cultural guest artist roster, including storytellers, puppeteers, poets, and magicians.  

About the author:

Author and illustrator Susan Meddaugh has written and illustrated many books including the Martha series based on her own dog, Martha.  Meddaugh knew she wanted to draw since elementary school and graduated from Wheaton College majoring in Fine Arts and French Literature.  She worked for a publishing company for about 10 years and then branched out on her own as a freelance illustrator and creator of children’s books.  She was inspired to write theMartha books when her son asked if their family dog would be able to speak if she ate alphabet soup.  Since then Meddaugh has written many more books about Martha and Martha Speaks was chosen as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book for 1992.  Her work also inspired the PBS television series “Martha Speaks.”  Popular with children and parents, Meddaugh’s work continues to delight all ages.

Individual tickets ($11 at the door; $9.50 in advance) can be ordered online atwww.trustarts.org/kids, 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 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.  www.TrustArts.org    ###

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

SPANK! The Fifty Shades of Parody at the Byham

Cohen & Grigsby TRUST PRESENTS
Mills Entertainment presents
SPANK!
The Fifty Shades Parody
January 10-12, 2013, 8:00 p.m.
Byham Theater

Pittsburgh, PA:  Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody will perform at the Byham Theater, Thursday, January 10 through Saturday, January 12, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. This tour is presented by Mills Entertainment and The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust as part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series.

Written by Jim Millan, whose previous work includes: “Kids in the Hall”, “Larry King Standing Up”, and “Mythbusters Live.” Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody was born out of a suggestion from a friend, and after reading the spicy novel it was based on, Millan couldn’t resist writing a saucy reply. SPANK! is not associated with, nor authorized by, author E.L. James or Vintage Press. The tour has been leaving sold out audiences across the U.S. and Canada grinning from ear to ear with performances that include scandalous sketches, improvisation and musical comedy.   Even though this is a parody, you do not need to have read the book in order to enjoy yourself.  This comedy is relatable to audiences of either gender, loaded with pop culture references to keep readers and non-readers in stitches.

The story follows the writer and main character, E.B. Janet, as she sends her husband and children away to partake in a weekend of writing. Setting her sites on a tale of erotica, she enlists a bottle of chardonnay as her coauthor for the weekend. Her fantasy builds around the relationship of a young innocent girl, Tasha Wood, and a handsome man that she finds herself involved with, Hugh Hansen. Producer Michael Mills promises “a laugh-filled evening that captures all of the escapist fun and absurdity of the novel, bringing the characters to light with creative and fun musical numbers.”

 Tickets ($35.50, $45.50) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at www.TrustArts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. For group sales, please call (412) 471-6930.

Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody features three lead cast members. Together these players create the fun flirtatious stage atmosphere for the show.  Anne Scheffler plays the role of E.B. Janet.  Anne has been acting professionally for 17 years, in which time she has put on 7 acclaimed one woman shows. These shows include: Situation, NORMA, Not Getting It, and Suddenly Mommy! Each performed with the Second City Tour Company. Anne also has a successful career as a voice artist and stand-up comedian. She writes too, for television, and is developing a new series. But Anne’s favorite roll to play is that of wife, mother and step-mother.

New Yorker, Danielle Trzcinski, performs as naive Tasha Woode. Recently Danielle played Wendy in the Fringe NYC production, which she wrote both book and lyrics, Non-Equity the Musical! She has also toured with Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live!  and Tales of the Fourth Grade Nothing. Danielle was one of the “Top 25” on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, not to mention one of the “Top 5” females in NBC’s Stand Up for Diversity. Her humor does not stand alone; she is also a talented writer. After being accepted to BMI Musical Theater Writing workshop as a lyricist she has been trying her hand in writing a variety of genres. Humbly she accredits her success to family and friends.

Patrick Whalen, plays Hugh, the heart throb and love interest of Tasha. After moving to Toronto, Canada Patrick fell in love with the stage and studied at the Randolph Academy of Performing Arts. He has held the roles of Roger in Fallen Rock’s RENT and Rocky in the Rocky Horror Picture Show. His background in burlesque qualifies him for this hunky role. Within a year in burlesque working under the pseudonym “Patastrophic Sexapeel” Patrick won Best Male Performer in Strip Search 2010. Off stage he spends time as a stunt man in films, writing for his band, and studying self-defense.

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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

John Pinette Still Hungry Tour

John Pinette

Byham Theater

Friday, February 8, 2013 ● 8:00pm

On Sale Friday, December 21, 2012,  10am

Pittsburgh, PA : John Pinette will present a hilarious evening of stand-up comedy at the Byham Theater on Friday, February 8, 2013 at 8:00pm. Tickets go on-sale Friday, December 21, 2012 at 10am and can be purchased at TrustArts.org, 412.456.6666, or at the Box Office Theater Square. Tickets are $40.25. This is an all ages show.

When describing his own stand-up, Pinette says “I talk about my life; it is the funniest thing I can think of.” His comedy special “Still Hungry” debuted on Comedy Central in 2011. The food-obsessed, storytelling Pinette, delivers smart, original, Bill Cosby-influenced observations on everyday life. “Still Hungry” is a follow-up to his successful “I’m Starvin’!” and “Show Me the Buffet” CD’s and DVD’s.

John Pinette is no rookie to the stage. For the past sixteen 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.

 He 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.

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

JEWISH LES MISERABLES STAR TO HOLD CONCERT IN PITTSBURGH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
 November 20, 2012

CONTACT:
 George Hazimanolis
 412-622-1366
 ghazimanolis@wqed.org

David "Dudu" Fisher

JEWISH LES MISERABLES STAR TO HOLD CONCERT IN PITTSBURGH

PITTSBURGH—David “Dudu” Fisher’s (best known for his role as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables on Broadway) Dudu Fisher: in Concert from Israel will premiere Monday, November 26 at 8 p.m. on WQED-TV.

This program is a collection of Broadway tunes and traditional and contemporary Israeli songs performed by Dudu at the Beit Sha’an amphitheater in Israel including selections from: Les Miserables; Fiddler on the Roof; Exodus and Yentl (“Papa Can You Hear Me?”); Hatikvah (the Israeli national anthem); and Kol Nidrei (a traditional Jewish prayer and cantorial melody.

David "Dudu" Fisher

Dudu will perform in concert Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. at the Byham Theater in Pittsburgh. Tickets are available exclusively from WQED and can be obtained by calling 1-800-232-8813 or by going online to www.wqed.org/support/.

WQED Pittsburgh has a proud history of honors, including 134 National and Mid-Atlantic Emmy® Awards, an Academy Award, and many, many others, including two Emmy® Awards for Station Excellence. WQED was founded in 1954 as the nation’s first community-supported broadcaster. The people of WQED create, produce and distribute quality programs, products and services to engage, inform, educate and entertain the public within their community and around the world. WQED Pittsburgh is one of the first broadcasters in the country to be fully high-definition (HD) in its studio and field production capabilities. It is the parent company of WQED-TV (PBS); WQED: The Neighborhood Channel; WQED: The Create Channel; WQED Showcase; Classical WQED-FM 89.3/Pittsburgh; Classical WQEJ-FM 89.7/Johnstown; the Pittsburgh Concert Channel at WQED-HD2 (89.3-2FM) and online at www.wqed.org/fm; local and national television and radio productions; WQED Interactive (www.wqed.org) and iQ: smartmedia, WQED’s Educational initiative (www.wqed.org/edu).

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Eva Marie Saint in Pittsburgh to Introduce On The Waterfront

TCM Host Ben Mankiewicz and Special Guest Eva Marie Saint
Coming to Pittsburgh to Introduce On The Waterfront (1954)
Tuesday, Nov. 13

Free Screening Presented by TCM and Verizon
As Part of TCM's 10-City Road to Hollywood Tour

After kicking off its 2012-13 Road To Hollywood tour in the depths of space with a Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex screening introduced by astronauts aboard the International Space Station, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will continue its cinematic journey with a trip to the three rivers of Pittsburgh.

TCM and Verizon will present Elia Kazan's Oscar-winning drama On The Waterfront (1954), starring Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint, Karl Malden and Lee J. Cobb. TCM host Ben Mankiewicz and Eva Marie Saint, who won an Academy Award for her performance, will be on hand to introduce the film.

Eva Marie Saint as Edie Doyle

When:
Tuesday, Nov. 13
7:30 p.m.

Where:
Byham Theatre
101 6th Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666

Passes:
Although the screening is free, tickets are required for entry. Free tickets may be obtained online at http://www.tcm.com/roadtohollywood, beginning Monday, Oct. 29.

Media:
Members of the media who wish to cover TCM’s Road to Hollywood screening should contact the following for information and media credentials:


Ann-Marie Nacchio
Allied Integrated Marketing
267-765-3729
amnacchio@alliedim.com



About TCM's Road to Hollywood Tour
As part of the buildup to the 2013 edition to the star-studded TCM Classic Film Festival, set to take place April 25-28 in Hollywood, TCM is heading to 10 cities nationwide for a series of free screenings and live appearances by legendary stars and special guests. Cities scheduled for TCM’s Road to Hollywood tour for the remainder of 2012 include Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Orlando (Oct. 13) and Pittsburgh (Nov. 13). The rest of the cities featured as part of the Road to Hollywood tour will be announced soon.


About the 2012 TCM Classic Film Festival
The TCM Classic Film Festival launched in spring 2010 and has established itself as a destination event. Each year, the festival welcomes 25,000 movie fans from around the globe to enjoy more than a hundred screenings and events.

TCM host and film historian Robert Osborne serves as official host of the 2013 TCM Classic Film Festival, with TCM's Ben Mankiewicz also introducing various events during the festival. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, which has a longstanding role in movie history and was the site of the first OscarsÒ ceremony, will once again serve as the official hotel for the festival, as well as a central gathering point for attendees. Screenings and events will also be held at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Chinese 6 Theatres and the Egyptian Theatre. The Hollywood Roosevelt will also offer special rates for festival attendees.

Cinematic Journeys: Travel in the Movies, the theme for the 2013 TCM Classic Film Festival, will explore how movies can carry viewers beyond their hometowns to distant or imaginary locales, where they can be transformed by great storytelling. Often, the mode of travel provides the filmic inspiration, whether it's planes, trains, or automobiles. At other times, the trip itself serves as the central narrative, as in the case of many "road movies." With Hollywood as the starting point, TCM's excursion will take festival attendees on a fascinating journey to worlds both familiar and new.

Connect with the TCM Classic Film Festival
Website: http://www.tcm.com/festival/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tcmfilmfest/


About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Turner Classic Movies is a Peabody Award-winning network that presents great films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world. Currently seen in more than 85 million homes, TCM features the insights of hosts Robert Osborne and Ben Mankiewicz, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests. As the foremost authority in classic films, TCM offers critically acclaimed original documentaries and specials, along with regular programming events that include The Essentials, hosted by Robert Osborne and Drew Barrymore, and the month-long 31 Days of Oscar® in February and Summer Under the Stars in August. TCM also stages special events and screenings, such as the TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood and the TCM Classic Cruise; produces a wide range of media about classic film, including books and DVDs; and hosts a wealth of online through the TCM homepage, which includes the TCM Movie Database, message boards, blogs and more.

TCM is part of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company. Turner Broadcasting creates and programs branded news; entertainment; animation and young adult; and sports media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.

Connect with TCM
Website: http://www.tcm.com
Pressroom: http://news.turner.com/tcm
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tcmtv
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tcm | http://www.twitter.com/tcmpr


About Verizon Communications Inc.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with more than 94 million retail customers nationwide.  Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries, including all of the Fortune 500.  A Dow 30 company with $111 billion in 2011 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 188,000.

Connect with Verizon
Website: http://www.verizon.com

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Gilberto Gil Performs at the Byham Theater

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: October 18, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org

Gilberto Gil 

Thursday, November 15, 2012, Byham Theater 

Pittsburgh, PA:  The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Brazilian singer, guitarist, and songwriter, Gilberto Gil, at the Byham Theater on Thursday, November 15, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. Gilberto Gil is known for both his musical innovation and political commitment. He is one of the first artists to lead the ‘Tropicalia’ music movement. Gil’s music has modernized Brazilian popular music and his style blends an eclectic range of influences including rock music and Brazilian genres like samba, salsa,bossa nova, and African music and reggae. His performance is highly praised by Variety, “There may have been one man onstage, but there was enough warmth, love, intelligence and sheer talent on display to power an orchestra.”

Gil’s For All Tour will feature the folkloric, celebratory, Baião music of Northeast Brazil; accompanied by guitarist Sergio Chiavazzolli, drums player Jorge Gomes, bass player Arthur Maia, accordionist Toninho Ferragutti, violin player Nicholas Krassik and percussionist Gustavo Di Dalva. Their performance reinvents old classics, and presents new songs such as "Fé na Festa", o "Livre Atiradore a Pegadora", from Gil’s new album (Fé na Festa) all dedicated to Baião. This tour has been greatly praised: The New York Times wrote, “He played delicate bossa novas, strummed rockers and intricate sambas; he crooned, whispered and whooped, equally at home in the fast patter of a samba or the curvaceous contours of a ballad…” While the LA Times said, “The prevailing tone of Gil’s songs is a ruminative sweetness, albeit one achieved via brainy harmonic and melodic gambats…”

For information and tickets ($30.00 - $53.00), visit www.Trustarts.org, call (412) 456-6666, or in person at Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue. To purchase 10 or more tickets at discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930. The performance is a part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

With 52 albums released, Gilberto Gil has 12 gold records, 5 platinum albums, 7 Grammys and more than 4 million records sold. Gil has been honored by several entities and personalities and has also received many prizes in Brazil and abroad such as The Polar Prize in 2005. Gil’s recent album Fé na Festa was released in 2011. He is a unique composer powered by immense talent and curiosity, and a musical ambassador powered by firm cultural conviction.

Gil was born in Salvador, Brazil and was interested in music from a very young age. After experimenting musically during his teens, he settled on the guitar as his main instrument and wrote songs that reflected his focus on political awareness and social activism. He began collaborating with artist Caetano Veloso in 1963 and together they created the genre Tropicalism. This new music style was radically innovative-mixing native styles with rock and folk instruments. Because of Gil's experimenting with music and fusing samba, salsa, and bossa nova with rock and folk music, he's recognized today as one of the pioneers in the World Music genre.

Tropicalism expressed various artists’ deeply critical views of Brazilian politics. Eventually the movement was repressed by the authoritarian regime and resulted in Gil and Caetano being imprisoned and eventually exiled to England. While in England, Gil was influenced by several different genres including reggae, rock, and jazz. This exposure helped later in developing his distinctive musical style.  Gil returned to Bahia in 1972 to focus on his musical career and environmental advocacy work. While serving as Salvador’s Secretary of Culture, Gil helped protect Brazilian waters by founding Onda Azul (Blue Wave). Additionally, Gil served as Brazil’s Minister of Cultural and during that time sponsored Culture Points- a program that provided music and educations grants to the underprivileged.

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.


Photo Credit: Perfil Guitarra

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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Acoustic Africa: Afropean Woman

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: October 9, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org

Acoustic Africa: Afropean Woman

Thursday, November 8, 2012, Byham Theater

Pittsburgh, PA:  The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents Acoustic Africa: Afropean Woman, on Thursday, November 8, 2012, at 7:30 p.m., at the Byham Theater.  This performance is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series. Tickets ($23-$33) may be purchased in person at the Box Office at Theater Square 655 Penn Avenue, online at www.Trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666.  For groups of 10 or more, call (412) 471-6930.

Photo by Dirk Leunis

This live music experience offers a rare glimpse into the depths and richness of the African vocal traditions with performances by up and coming female African vocal impresarios.  The Afropean Woman tour will feature Dobet Gnahoré, the Ivory Coast vocalist and dancer who has garnered a reputation as one of the most vibrant performers in world music; bassist and vocalist Manu Gallo, from the Ivory Coast, who gained acclamation as the bassist for Zap Mama and whose own music draws on rhythms of West Africa as well as funk, R&B; and Kareyce Fotso, a young Cameroonian singer whose music is an intriguing combination of Afro-pop, Blues, and traditional African music. Afropop Worldwide commented, “A beautiful and fascinating exchange going on between great artists…. 21st century troubadours…if you are in within range of any of these shows, don’t miss it!”

Dobet Gnahore    Photo Credit Dirk Leunis

Kareyce Fotso  Photo Credit Dirk Leunis

Manou Gallo  Photo Credit Dirk Leunis

These exceptional singers will be accompanied by Leni Stern, American contemporary guitarist and composer who gained wide acclaim for her four recordings of African influenced music; along with Ivorian’s balafonist Aly Keita and Tchango Kassoung on drums.  “The combination of musical ingredients stood out in the show. There’s something so magical about the African music,” Dan DeWayne, Director of Chico Performances.

The Afropean Woman tour is the third worldwide tour in the Acoustic Africa series. After an initial tour in 2006 saw such success the creators were motivated to continue creating collaborative tours of African musicians. These musicians are chosen from various nations to represent the diversity and culture that music facilitates worldwide. Powerful lyrics bring attention to the adversity these nations are facing socially and politically. Igniting an awareness globally of nations that are in turmoil, while bringing joy to the patrons through musical collaboration, Acoustic Africa is an impressive movement powered continually by diverse musical talent.

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.  www.Trustarts.org

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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Alfie Boe in Concert

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: October 2, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org
Electronic artwork is available at www.TrustArts.org  Press Room.

Alfie Boe, Tuesday, October 30, 2012, at the Byham Theater , part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series 

Pittsburgh, PA: The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents one of Britain’s favorite singer’s Alfie Boe, on Tuesday, October 30, 2012, at 8:00 p.m., at the Byham Theater. This concert is a part of the Cohen and Grisby Trust Presents series.  Tickets ($32.25-$42.25) may be purchased in person at the Box Office at Theater Square 655 Penn Avenue, online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666.  For group discounted tickets, call (412) 471-6930.

Twenty years ago you may not have pegged this typical small town boy searching for direction, for a well-respected opera singer, living in Fleetwood, Lancashire. Music was something constant for Alfie Boe and his affection for the art was passed to him from his father, who was always listening to music on the radio.

Early on Alfie Boe was leaning toward becoming an auto mechanic. At the age of fourteen he joined an amateur operatic company in the hopes of meeting girls. After high school he pursued opera in his spare time while working as a mechanic. While singing along to the stereo in the garage, Boe received the encouragement from customers to audition for D’Oyly Carte Opera Company in London.

His career took off with a twelve month tour performing Gilbert & Sullivan. While touring he won a scholarship to the Royal College of Music. Upon graduation he continued his studies at The National Opera Studio, and the Royal Opera House. Boe was also fascinated by Rock n’ Roll, with a range of influences that include; Richard Tauber, Karl Denver, Slim Whitman, and Maria Callas to Elvis, Bob Dylan, Led Zepplin and Pink Floyd.

Alfie Boe is never afraid to explore new musical frontiers. He proved this yet again when he left the Royal Opera House in 2002 to join Baz Laurman in his Broadway performance of La Bohème. This experience on Broadway earned Boe a Tony Award.  Since his Broadway debut in 2002, Boe has toured the United States with the Boston Pops, released several albums, toured with the U.K. male voice choir, performed in numerous operas throughout London, and has been nominated for numerous Classical Brits.

In 2011, Boe performed as Jean Valjean in the 25th Anniversary of Les Misérables at the 02 Arena in London and subsequently performed this role during a five month residency at the Queens Theater in London. The same year, Boe’s Bring Him Home album reached the Top 10.

Alfie Boe is the recipient of the Clonter Opera Prize, the John Christie Award, and the Silver Clef for Classical Music. During 2012, Boe has been writing new material, as well as an autobiography, and touring throughout the U.K, Australia, and the United States.   His latest album, Alfie, further showcases his versatility and ambition, particularly with his Robert Plant team-up on Tim Buckley's 'Song to the Siren.’


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. www.Trustarts.org
                                                                                         
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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Capitol Steps Perform at the Byham Ahead of Election Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: October 4, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, roth@trustarts.org  (412) 471-8717
Electronic artwork is available at www.Trustarts.org  Press Room

Capitol Steps, Sunday, November 4, 2012, 4pm, Byham Theater 

Part of Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the award-winning comedic group Capitol Steps performing at the Byham Theater on Sunday, November 4, 2012, at 4:00 p.m.  The Washington Times applauds the Capitol Steps calling it, “The best musical satire on Washington I’ve ever seen!”  For information and tickets ($21.00 - $43.00), visit www.Trustarts.org, call (412) 456-6666, or in person: Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue.  To purchase 10 or more tickets at discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.  The performance is a part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

The Capitol Steps began in 1981 when a group of Senate staffers quit their day jobs and set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them.  Using the headlines and scandals of the day, the cast members began to create song parodies and skits which conveyed a special brand of satirical humor that would be popular all across the U.S.  Now, more than 30 years later, no matter who holds office or what is happening on the Hill, Capitol Steps never fails to run out of timely, hilarious material.

Airport Security, Photo by Keith Stanley

Although not all of the current members of the “Steps” are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of eighteen Congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experience. Bernard Shaw from CNN commends the Capitol Steps by saying, “These people are very funny. They do comedy, they do satire, and they do it extremely well.” The Wall Street Journal gives more praise saying, “The troupe has become a favorite on the Washington social circuit. Its political satire brings chuckles…rave reviews…guffaws…and bipartisan grins all around. The satire hits the mark.”

The show is produced by Elaina Newport, who also writes the lyrics along with Mark Eaton and the touring cast (to be announced).  Their show is constantly changing and based on the scandal of the day.  Current examples include songs about Mitt Romney's plea to the GOP ("Help Me Fake It to the Right") and President Obama's class warfare ("If I Tax a Rich Man").  You might also spot a few of these musical numbers in the performance: Obama Mia, Don’t Go Fakin’ You’re Smart, I Like Big Cuts and I Cannot Lie, Duke of Oil, The Hillary-billies, The Sunni Side of Tikrit, God Bless My SUV, and many more.  In addition, the Capitol Steps offers their own take on new headlines and trending topics.

Since they began, the Capitol Steps have recorded over 30 albums, including their latest, Take the Money and Run — for President. They have been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard 4 times a year on National Public Radio stations nationwide during their Politics Takes a Holidayradio specials.  They are also the winner (for the fourth year in a row) in the 24th Annual "Wammie" Awards of the Washington Area Music Association (WAMA) for "Cabaret/Musical Theater" (2011).  The Capitol Steps is a very talented group that has a created a hilarious show sure to delight and entertain audiences everywhere.

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.

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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Akram Khan: Vertical Road

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: September 20, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org
Electronic artwork is available: www.Trustarts.org Press Room.


Pittsburgh Dance Council presents Akram Khan: Vertical Road
Saturday, October 20, 2012, 8pm, Byham Theater

Pittsburgh, PA:  The Pittsburgh Dance Council, a division of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, will present Akram Khan: Vertical Road on Saturday, October 20, 2012, at 8:00 p.m., at the Byham Theater. Akram Khan is celebrated for his unique ability to incorporate diversity into his productions, and Vertical Road is no exception.

Featuring dancers from all corners of the earth, this production explores the duality of physical and spiritual struggles. The story being told begins with the main dancer, Salah El Brogy separated from the other dancers by an elegant screen. His shadow’s frantic motion sets the stage for the emotional tale that lies ahead. The Vertical Road is a reference to the spiritual path that we all must travel in life.

Pat Ashworth of The Stage wrote that Khan’s piece was, “hugely inspiring and profoundly disturbing, terrible and beautiful at the same time.” Quite a reflection of the world we live in. This work is inspired by Sufi traditions, and Persian poet and philosopher Rumi. The dance is accompanied by natural melodies and heart-pulsing rhythms written by Nitin Sawhney to guide you through a path of enlightenment. After the premier on September 16, 2010 at the Curve Theatre in Leicester the Vertical Road received Best New Work in 2010 at the Melbourne Festival and continues to captivate audiences around the globe. This work, and Khan’s others are enjoyable for their intercultural motifs. His dances are designed to tell a story that is universal to the human race.

Photo by Richard Haughton

Akram Khan, a British-born Bangladesh choreographer, is one of the highest acclaimed of his generation. Since the age of seven Khan has been studying dance, particularly kathak, one of the eight forms of traditional Indian dance. In 2000 he founded the Akram Khan Company in order to choreograph artistic narratives that break cultural boundaries. His innovative ideas are expressed through a combination of modern dance and kathak. In this style he has created a great deal of works and collaborations that have gained some prestigious awards. In this company’s short history they have received:  the Olivier Awards for Best New Dance Production (2012, DESH), South Bank Sky Arts Award for Dance (2011, Gnosis), The Age Critics’ Award for Best New Work (2010, Vertical Road) at the Melbourne Arts Festival and the Helpmann Award for Best Choreography and Best Male Dancer (2007, zero degrees) in Sydney.

Tickets ($19-$48) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666.  For group discounted tickets, call (412) 471-6930.  For subscriptions to this series, call (412) 456-1390. Pittsburgh Dance Council media partner is 90.5 WESA.

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. www.Trustarts.org
                                                                                           
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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

Esperanza Spalding Radio Music Society to Perform at the Byham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: September 4, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org
Production photographs are available for download: www.Trustarts.org Press Room

Esperanza Spalding-Radio Music Society

to perform at the Byham Theater on Saturday, October 6, 2012

Pittsburgh, PA-  The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust will present Esperanza Spalding Radio Music Society tour at the Byham Theater on Saturday, October 6, 2012, at 8:00 p.m. Brought to you as part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series. Tickets ($30-$50) may be purchased in person at the Box Office at Theater Square, 655 Penn Avenue, online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666.  For group tickets, 10 or more, call (412) 471-6930.

An impassioned young bassist/vocalist/composer, Eperanza Spalding has made a splash in the American music scene and is one of the strongest voices in contemporary jazz. After having her second album top Billboard contemporary jazz charts, she caught the attention of President Barak Obama who invited her to perform at The White House. After appearing at The White House, Esperanza Spalding was also asked to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony. To prove this was no short flash of success her next album Chamber Music Society went on to win a Grammy for Best New Artist (2011).

Esperanza Spalding knew from the time she saw Yo Yo Ma on Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood that she wanted to dedicate herself to music. She was five years old and within the year Spalding had become a member of The Chamber Music Society of Oregon. Through her hard work during the next ten years Spalding became a concert master at the age of 15.  It was at this time in her life that Spalding decided to hone her skills on the bass, moving away from the variety of instruments she had formerly played.  Armed with a GED, Esperanza Spalding enrolled in Portland State University’s music program. Learning and growing she migrated to the east coast where she received a Bachelor of Music from the Berklee College of Music. In 2005 Spalding was signed as an instructor at Berklee College; at 20 years old she was the youngest faculty member in the history of the college.

From her creative thoughts formatted on paper or arranged on a sheet of music, Esperanza Spalding’s accomplishments are impressive. Words or notes, however, cannot describe the beauty that comes through as she sings and plays her bass. The only way to truly experience the fruit of her labors is listening to her passionate performance.  Billboard described Esperanza Spalding as one of their “Faces to Watch” exclaiming, “Whether exploding into vocalize or making her bass solo sound like a horn, she’s a spark plug who dances as she grooves through a funked-up and rocked-out repertoire.”

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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. www.Trustarts.org

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

STREB: Forces to Perform at the Byham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: August 28, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth
412-471-8717
roth@trustarts.org
Production images are available for download:  www.Trustarts.org Press Room

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces STREB: Forces 

to perform at the Byham Theater, Friday, September 28 & Saturday, September 29, 2012.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces STREB: Forces  will perform at 8:00 p.m., on Friday, September 28 and Saturday, September 29, 2012, at the Byham Theater. Forces by choreographer Elizabeth Streb, is an innovative theatrical production displaying genres of dance and stunts unrestrained by gravity. Fasten your safety belts! These performances are part of 2012-13 Pittsburgh Dance Council season and Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series, presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

Choreographer Elizabeth Streb

 STREB the company has been a long time staple of dance in New York City.  After earning an undergraduate degree in modern dance from SUNY Brockport in 1972, Ms. Streb began dancing in several modern companies.  She founded STREB Extreme Action Company in 1985 and searched for ideas that could be a “perfect” accompaniment to the body’s natural movement.  Streb’s style is daredevil meets dance; she refers to it as “POPACTION” a combination of choreography that combines dance, athletics, boxing, rodeo, circus performance, Hollywood-stunt work and a lot of heart.

 In 2003 STREB acquired a large warehouse, known as SLAM (STREB Lab for Action Mechanics) in Williamsport, Brooklyn. From this studio the dancers practice demanding routines- with the garage door open to the public’s view. STREB has performed in the United States as well as internationally introducing to audiences a unique high-energy choreography paired with technical stage equipment that emphasizes the art of dance in motion.

 Ms. Streb is the recipient of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation 'Genius' Award (1997).  STREB is annually supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts and the NY City Department of Cultural Affairs.

 In STREB: Forces, dancers experiment with human motion and ways to move the body in new directions along with instrumental accompaniment. The technical stage equipment for this production weighs 15 tons and serves to propel choreography and dancers alike. Simple swinging I-beams and cinderblocks are used to demonstrate natural motion based on the physical property of other elements. Combined with several rigs that emulate hamster wheels, along with flying machines to convert the dancer’s center of gravity, choreographer Streb showcases scientific motion with this production.

STREB: Forces has received much acclaim since the premiere on July 16, 2010 in Elizabeth Streb’s home town of Rochester, New York at Nazareth College. “ It is not like any choreography you have ever seen before…it’s all high-impact stuff – people throwing themselves against walls with bone-crushing abandon, hurtling down ropes and bouncing on trampolines…with oohs and aahs from the audience, and an effect at its best rather like a firework display.” –Clive Barnes New York Post

Tickets ($19-$48) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square, online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666.  To purchase group tickets, 10 or more, call (412) 471-6930.   Pittsburgh Dance Council media partner is 90.5 WESA.
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 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. www.Trustarts.org

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Announces 2012 - 2013 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's date: August 21, 2012
Contact: Diana Roth, (412) 471-8717, roth@trustarts.org
Electronic artwork is available at www.Trustarts.org  / Press Room.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces 2012-2013 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series

PITTSBURGH, PA:  The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust proudly presents a season of diverse performances from compelling dance to unique comedy and live music. The eclectic mix of programming is at the heart of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s mission to create a vibrant Cultural District neighborhood.

Tickets for most shows in the series go on sale Friday, August 24, 2012, and may be purchased at the Theater Square Box Office, 655 Penn Avenue in the heart of the Cultural District. For more information and tickets, please call (412) 456-6666 or visit www.TrustArts.org. Priority group sales are currently available by calling (412) 471-6930.

 STREB: FORCES
A thrilling, heart-stopping investigation of action, STREB: FORCES boldly explores a range of motions, from everyday movements to the extreme action of sports, the circus and adventure rides. Inventor and architect of eccentric action, Elizabeth Streb orchestrates an athletic cadre of daring theater specialists, taking audiences on a wild ride into mechanically outrageous zones and configurations.



Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents & Pittsburgh Dance Council
 Tickets start at $19
 September 28 & 29, 2012
 8 pm
 Byham Theater


Celtic Thunder Voyage
Celtic Thunder VOYAGE takes a journey through the varying styles of Celtic and Irish music, from old and traditional standards such as “Lagan Love” and “Maid of Culmore” to more contemporary, modern Irish songs, “Past The Point of Rescue,” “Ride On” and “All Day Long,” stopping at lively ensembles “Galway Girl” and a tribute to the Clancy Brothers in the Clancy Brother Medley along the way. VOYAGE also offers soulful ballads in “Scorn Not His Simplicity” and “Kindred Spirits,” and love songs such as the classic “Black is the Color” to run the gamut of Irish music.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $40.25 and are on sale now.
 Sunday, September 30, 2012
 8 pm
 Benedum Center

Esperanza Spalding Radio Music Society
Winner of the 2011 GRAMMY® for Best New Artist, bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding beautifully fuses blues, funk, hip-hop, Brazilian and Afro-Cuban styles into her own unique style. Every Esperanza Spalding performance radiates joy and passion as this exciting young artist continues to make the unprecedented the norm.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $30
 Friday, October 5, 2012
 8 pm
 Byham Theater

Alfie Boe
Best known for his role as the iconic character Jean Valjean in the 25th anniversary staging of Les Misérables, the mesmerizing tenor Alfie Boe gives an outstanding live performance showcasing his magnificent vocal talents and charismatic stage presence.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $32.25 and are on sale now.
 Tuesday, October 30, 2012
 8 pm
 Byham Theater

Photo:  Keith Stanley

 Capitol Steps
Nothing gets one in the spirit of Election Day quite like the witty, timely observations of Capitol Hill’s finest comedic troupe. Putting the “mock” in “democracy,” the Capitol Steps know how to bring down the house (and Senate) with their unique blend of music and spot-on, bi-partisan political comedy. In political satire, we trust.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $21
 Sunday, November 4, 2012
 4 pm
 Byham Theater


Acoustic Africa Afropean Woman
This live music experience offers a rare glimpse into the depths and richness of the African vocal traditions with performances by up and coming female African vocal impresarios. The concert features Ivory Coast vocalist and dancer Dobet Gnahore, one the most vibrant performers in world music; former bassist for the Afropean band Zap Mama, Manu Gallo draws on rhythms of her native West Africa, as well as funk and R&B; Kareyce Fotso, a young Cameroonian singer, blends Afro-pop, blues and traditional African music.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $23
 Thursday, November 8, 2012
 7:30 pm
 Byham Theater

Photo:  perfil guitarra

Gilberto Gil
Legendary Brazilian multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Gilberto Gil is best known for leading the tropicalia movement into popular music. The pioneering Gilberto Gil was one of the first artists to fuse samba, salsa, and bossa nova with rock and folk music, forging a richly-layered sound that has been adopted by recording artists such as David Byrne and Beck.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Present Series
 Tickets start at $30
 Thursday, November 15, 2012
 7:30 pm
 Byham Theater

Citizen Cope
This singer-songwriter creates a distinctive, laidback gumbo rich with acoustic blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and deep soul grooves. The charismatic Citizen Cope brings his poignant, brilliantly-crafted works to life on stage.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $39.25 and are on sale now.
 Tuesday, November 20, 2012
 8 pm
 Byham Theater

Buddy Valastro Live!
Homemade for the Holidays Tour - Candy canes, carols and the Cake Boss. Celebrate the holiday season Buddy style! TLC’s Cake Boss Buddy Valastro shares holiday traditions and stories from his family at Carlo’s Bakery. Buddy presents an all new show full of holiday spirit and jingle bell rock, demonstrating the techniques that have made him the nation’s most famous and beloved cake artist.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $27
 Wednesday, November 28, 2012
 7:30 p.m.
 Benedum Center

Photo:  Joan Marcus

William Shatner – Shatner’s World: We Just Live in It
William Shatner’s one-man show is filled with entertaining stories about his life that are funny, touching and insightful. Shatner’s World:We Just Live in It boldly goes just about everywhere that William Shatner takes his audiences.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Present Series
 Tickets start at $43
 Thursday, November 29, 2012
 7:30 pm
 Benedum Center


Eileen Ivers & Immigrant Soul: An ­Nollaig - An Irish Christmas
Eileen Ivers captures the spirit and magic of the ­season in this heartwarming holiday showcase. Called “the Jimi Hendrix of the fiddle” by The New York Times, Eileen Ivers masterfully weaves joyful Irish holiday customs, traditional Irish songs, original tunes and holiday favorites. Soul An ­Nollaig - An Irish Christmas is a wonderful celebration of music, song and dance filled with colorful Celtic flair.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $25
 Saturday, December 1, 2012
 8 pm
 Byham Theater


Pandora’s Unforgettable Moments Presents Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Kick off your holiday celebration with America’s favorite Christmas artist, Mannheim Steamroller. The Grammy Award®-winning Chip Davis has created a new family holiday show featuring the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller combined with sophisticated and enchanting multimedia effects in an intimate setting. The spirit of the season comes alive with these signature sounds.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $37.25
 December 11 & 12, 2012
 8:00 p.m.
 Benedum Center

Stew & The Negro Problem: Songs from Passing Strange and Others
Stew & The Negro Problem re-visit songs from Passing Strange, the Broadway hit theater production that went on to become a Tony Award ® winner for Best Book of a Musical as well as a Spike Lee film.  With a gift for hook-filled melodies, taut poetic narratives, incisive song portraits, and a sardonic sense of humor, the brilliant Stew and his longtime collaborator Heidi Rodewald are among New York’s preeminent singer-songwriters.  A daring contemporary  musical journey, Passing Strange tells the heartfelt, hilarious story of a young bohemian who charts a course for “the real” through sex, drugs and  rock n’ roll. Loaded with soulful lyrics and passion, the story travels from black, middle-class America to Amsterdam, Berlin and beyond on a voyage towards personal and artistic authenticity.  Contains explicit language.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 $40
 Saturday, February 9, 2013
 8 pm
 Byham Theater

DRUMLine Live
Experience the energy and breathtaking precision of DRUMLine Live. DRUMLine LIVE’s energetic cast has honed its precision with years of training in marching band programs across the southern United States.  This versatile group of musicians and dancers brings an explosive energy and athleticism to an eclectic mix of sounds.  Equally at home with the hottest contemporary hip hop, R&B, classic Motown tunes, and the rousing sounds of the great brass tradition, DRUMLine LIVE is thrilled to share the American Marching Band experience with a wider audience.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $28
 Tuesday, February 26, 2013
 7:30 pm
 Benedum Center


Brit Floyd
The world’s greatest Pink Floyd tribute. Blindingly brilliant and authentic, at last Pink Floyd has the tribute show it deserves! Brit Floyd celebrates the amazing musical legacy of Pink Floyd, taking the tribute genre to even greater heights.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $37.25 and go on sale Fall 2012.
 Friday, March 1, 2013
 8 pm
 Benedum Center

 Śląsk Song and Dance Ensemble of Poland
The Śląsk 60th Anniversary Tour celebrates the vivid and dynamic folk music and dance of Poland. This jubilant performance features an 80-member ensemble, including an orchestra, a choir and dancers dressed in stunning and intricately decorated traditional costumes.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Ticket start at $28
 Tuesday, March 19, 2013
 7:30 pm
 Byham Theater


Juan De Marcos & The Afro-Cuban All Stars
One of the best-known and most successful Cuban orchestras performing today,  Juan De Marcos & The Afro-Cuban All Stars has been essential to the growing, worldwide popularity of Afro-Cuban music. This multi-generational big band performs a lively spectrum of Latin dance music, including mambo, cha cha, salsa, rumba, son montuno, timba, guajira, danzón, abakuá and bolero.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $23
 Wednesday, March 20, 2013
 7:30 pm
 Byham Theater

Boney James
Accomplished saxophonist Boney James joyfully performs a variety of music genres, including jazz, R & B, pop, rock and easy listening. Masterful and charismatic, Boney James gives it his all every time he takes the stage.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 Tickets start at $28
 Friday, April 26, 2013
 8 pm
 Byham Theater

Sandra Bernhard
A comedic performer of stunning originality, Sandra Bernhard has been challenging fans and critics with her outrageous humor, keen satire and rollicking stage shows. Her live performances are a thrilling hybrid of stand-up comedy and rock ‘n roll, a raucous mix of political satire, pop culture commentary and cabaret.
 Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series
 $40
 Saturday, April 27, 2013
 8 pm
 Byham Theater
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Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh