Houston Theater District http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rss Houston Theater District http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/tresources/en/images/icons/tendenci34x15.gif http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org Copyright 2010 Houston Theater District Tendenci Association Software by Schipul - The Web Marketing Company en-us noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:24:57 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2985 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2985"> <span class="summary">Jazz: Brandon Lee</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100321T010000Z">20-Mar-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100321T030000Z">20-Mar-10 10:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Hall, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div></div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div><span><a href="http://www.dacamera.com/schedule-tickets/brandon_lee_quartet_"><span style="font-size: 18pt;">Brandon Lee Quintet</span> </a>&nbsp; <img alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/392/BrandonLeeweb.jpg" align="right" width="250" height="329" hspace="10" /></span></div> </span></p> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <div style="font-size: 12pt;">The talented trumpeter and graduate of Houston&#8217;s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts makes his Da Camera debut on the heels of the release of his debut album, From Within. The youngest faculty member in the jazz studies program at The Juilliard School, Brandon Lee has performed with Benny Golson, Clark Terry, Wynton Marsalis, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Wycliffe Gordon, Hank Jones, Ray Brown, Eddie Henderson and Lewis Nash. </div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;from Houston, one of the baddest *#$*%* on trumpet out here.&#8221; &#8212; Wynton Marsalis </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The Da Camera Jazz series also includes: Ben Allison and Man Size Safe (2/6) and&nbsp;Esperanza Spalding (4/24). <br> </div><div>&nbsp;</div><div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dacamera"><img alt="" src="../../attachments/wysiwyg/392/facebookimage.jpg" align="left" width="165" height="53" /></a>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;<strong style="font-size: 14pt;">713-524-5050&nbsp;&nbsp; www.dacamera.com</strong></div> </span></div>&nbsp; </div></span></div></span><br></div> </span> <div></div></div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.dacamera.com">Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Hall <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2985 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 01:00:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2979 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2979"> <span class="summary">Steven Isserlis: Romantic Cello</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100326T130000Z">26-Mar-10 8:00 AM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100327T030000Z">26-Mar-10 10:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Zilkha Hall, Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div> </div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div><img alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/392/StevenIsserlisweb.jpg" align="right" width="250" height="235" hspace="10" />Acclaimed worldwide as one of the leading cellists of his time, Steven Isserlis makes his Houston recital debut in a dramatic program evoking 100 years of romantic music. From 19th-century Romantics Chopin and Schumann -- whose bicentennials Da Camera celebrates this season -- to the 20th-century American composer Samuel Barber, born 100 years ago, we hear the passionate Romantic spirit masterfully expressed within the classical sonata form. </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Program: </div> <div>Barber: Sonata in C Minor, Op. 6 </div> <div>Schumann:&nbsp; Violin Sonata No. 3 in A Minor (arr. Isserlis) </div> <div>Dohnanyi: Sonata in B-flat Minor for cello and piano, Op. 8 </div> <div>Chopin: Sonata in G Minor, Op. 65 </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Musicians: Steven Isserlis, cello; Denes Varjon, piano </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;The music world - and music itself - is infinitely richer for the presence of Steven Isserlis.&#8221; -&#173; Gramophone</div><div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><div><br></div> <div> <div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dacamera"><img alt="" src="../../attachments/wysiwyg/392/facebookimage.jpg" align="left" width="165" height="53" /></a>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;<strong style="font-size: 14pt;">713-524-5050&nbsp;&nbsp; www.dacamera.com</strong></div> </span></div> </div></span></div></span>&nbsp;</div> </span> <div></div></div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.dacamera.com">Zilkha Hall, Hobby Center for the Performing Arts <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">800 Bagby</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2979 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2996 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2996"> <span class="summary">&quot;Imaginary Scenes&quot;</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100404T003000Z">3-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100404T033000Z">3-Apr-10 10:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Musiqa, houston, TX 77019</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description">In collaboration with Houston Ballet II, this performance features choreography by Stanton Welch and music of the Kronos String Quartet.&nbsp; </div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Musiqa <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">3201 Allen Parkway</div> <span class="locality">houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77019</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2996 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2990 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2990"> <span class="summary">Modern Romantics</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100407T003000Z">6-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100407T023000Z">6-Apr-10 9:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> The Menil Collection, Houston, TX 77006</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div></div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div><a style="font-size: 18pt;" href="http://www.dacamera.com/schedule-tickets/modern_romantics">Modern Romantics</a> <img alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/392/Menil_placenotes.jpg" align="right" border="0" width="200" height="216" hspace="15" /><br> </div> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>George Rochberg&#8217;s monumental String Quartet No. 3 represented a seminal break in 20th-century music. Radically marking a return to tonality, the quartet&#8217;s overt romanticism provoked discussion and controversy at its premiere in 1973. Rochberg set the stage for composers of succeeding generations to carry on the Romantic spirit. Harbison&#8217;s November 19, 1828 is a poignant memorial to Franz Schubert. The Shepherd School&#8217;s Jalbert, winner of the prestigious Stoeger Award for achievements in chamber music, is represented with the Houston premiere of a major new work. &nbsp; </div> </span></div> </div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Program: </div> <div>Pierre Jalbert: Sonata for cello and piano </div> <div>George Rochberg: String Quartet No. 3 </div> <div>John Harbison: November 19, 1828 </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div> Musicians: Curtis Macomber, violin; Andrew Jennings, violin; James Dunham, viola; Norman Fischer, cello; Jeanne Kierman Fischer, piano </div> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dacamera"><img alt="" src="../../attachments/wysiwyg/392/facebookimage.jpg" align="left" width="165" height="53" /></a>&nbsp;</div> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;<strong style="font-size: 14pt;">713-524-5050&nbsp;&nbsp; www.dacamera.com</strong></div> </span></div> </div></span></div></span>&nbsp;</div> <div style="font-size: 10pt;"><br> </div><div>Photo: (c) Placenotes, Kevin Keim</div> </span></div> </div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <div></div></div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.dacamera.com">The Menil Collection <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">1515 Sul Ross</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="postal-code">77006</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2990 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3093 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3093"> <span class="summary">The Queen of Spades</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100417T003000Z">16-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100417T040000Z">16-Apr-10 11:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s vibrant melodrama. Russian tenor <strong>Vladimir Galouzine </strong>returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano <strong>Tatiana Monogarova</strong> makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and <strong>Vasily Ladyuk</strong> is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano <strong>Judith Forst </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro <strong>Carlo Rizzi </strong>conducts.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div>Tickets start at $23. Visit <a href="www.houstongrandopera.org">www.HoustonGrandOpera.org</a> or call 713-228-6737.</div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org">Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3093 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3094 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3094"> <span class="summary">The Queen of Spades</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100418T190000Z">18-Apr-10 2:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100418T223000Z">18-Apr-10 5:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s vibrant melodrama. Russian tenor <strong>Vladimir Galouzine </strong>returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano <strong>Tatiana Monogarova</strong> makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and <strong>Vasily Ladyuk</strong> is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano <strong>Judith Forst </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro <strong>Carlo Rizzi </strong>conducts.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Tickets start at $23. Visit <a href="www.houstongrandopera.org">www.HoustonGrandOpera.org</a> or call 713-228-6737.<br></div></div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org">Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3094 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 19:00:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3095 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3095"> <span class="summary">The Queen of Spades</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100425T003000Z">24-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100425T040000Z">24-Apr-10 11:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s vibrant melodrama. Russian tenor <strong>Vladimir Galouzine </strong>returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano <strong>Tatiana Monogarova</strong> makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and <strong>Vasily Ladyuk</strong> is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano <strong>Judith Forst </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro <strong>Carlo Rizzi </strong>conducts.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div>Tickets start at $23. Visit <a href="www.houstongrandopera.org">www.HoustonGrandOpera.org</a> or call 713-228-6737.</div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org">Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3095 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2986 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2986"> <span class="summary">Jazz: Esperanza Spalding</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100425T010000Z">24-Apr-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100425T030000Z">24-Apr-10 10:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Hall, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div></div> <a style="font-size: 18pt;" href="http://www.dacamera.com/schedule-tickets/esperanza_spalding">Esperanza Spalding</a> &nbsp; <img alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/392/EsperanzaSpaldingsmall.jpg" align="right" border="0" width="240" height="358" hspace="10" /> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>If “esperanza” is the Spanish word for hope, then bassist, vocalist and composer Esperanza Spalding could not have been given a more fitting name at birth. The 23-year-old prodigy is blessed with uncanny instrumental chops, a multi-lingual voice that is part angel and part siren, and a natural beauty that borders on the hypnotic. “</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>“Those following jazz ought to keep an ear on the bassist Esperanza Spalding, who is going about things her own way…The Esperanza Spalding experience is light, melodic, joyful, always sort of minimalist and airborne.” —Ben Ratliff, The New York Times </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>“She is an irresistible performer.” —The Seattle Times </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>The Da Camera Jazz series also includes: Charles Lloyd,&nbsp;Kenny Garrett,&nbsp;Dianne Reeves,&nbsp;Ben Allison and Man Size Safe&nbsp;and&nbsp;Brandon Lee. &nbsp;</div> </span> <div><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div>&nbsp;</div> </span> <div align="center"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <div><strong style="font-size: 18pt;">713-524-5050&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; www.dacamera.com</strong></div> </span><br> </div> </div> </div> <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span> <div></div> <div></div></div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.dacamera.com">Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Hall <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/2986 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 01:00:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3096 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3096"> <span class="summary">The Queen of Spades</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100429T003000Z">28-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100429T040000Z">28-Apr-10 11:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s vibrant melodrama. Russian tenor <strong>Vladimir Galouzine </strong>returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano <strong>Tatiana Monogarova</strong> makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and <strong>Vasily Ladyuk</strong> is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano <strong>Judith Forst </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro <strong>Carlo Rizzi </strong>conducts.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div>Tickets start at $23. Visit <a href="www.houstongrandopera.org">www.HoustonGrandOpera.org</a> or call 713-228-6737.</div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org">Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3096 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3098 <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3098"> <span class="summary">Xerxes</span> </a><br/> <span class="tdtstart">Start Date:</span> <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100501T003000Z">30-Apr-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tdtend">End Time:</span> <abbr class="dtend" title="20100501T040000Z">30-Apr-10 11:00 PM</abbr> <br/> <span class="tlocation">Location:</span> <span class="location"> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center, Houston, TX 77002</span> <br/> <span class="tdescription">Event Details:</span> <div class="description"><div>One of Handel&#8217;s most popular operas, <em>Xerxes</em> is a feast for the ears, and the eyes in this classic eighteenth-century production. A mad entanglement of love stories, the opera follows the tyrannical and flamboyant Xerxes (<strong>Susan Graham</strong>) in his quest for Romilda (<strong>Laura Claycomb</strong>), who is beloved by his very own brother Arsamene, sung by <strong>David Daniels</strong>. Contralto <strong>Sonia Prina</strong>, soprano <strong>Heidi Stober </strong>and baritone <strong>Philip Cutlip </strong>round out the all-star cast. The award-winning production is set in an English pleasure garden&#8212;the perfect place for an elaborate lovers&#8217; chase!</div> <div>&nbsp;</div>Tickets start at $23. Visit <a href="www.houstongrandopera.org">www.HoustonGrandOpera.org</a> or call 713-228-6737.</div> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org">Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">US</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/3098 Sat, 01 May 2010 00:30:00 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5860/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5860/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100313T020000Z">12-Mar-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100313T043000Z">12-Mar-10 10:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.tuts.com">The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">800 Bagby St</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5860/ Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:08:22 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7002/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7002/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100313T020000Z">12-Mar-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100313T040000Z">12-Mar-10 10:00 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Alley Theatre <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">615 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7002/ Thu, 28 May 2009 15:30:34 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5870/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5870/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100313T200000Z">13-Mar-10 2:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100313T233000Z">13-Mar-10 5:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.tuts.com">The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">800 Bagby St.</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5870/ Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:16:25 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7010/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7010/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100313T203000Z">13-Mar-10 2:30 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100313T223000Z">13-Mar-10 4:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Alley Theatre <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">615 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7010/ Thu, 28 May 2009 15:26:33 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5299/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5299/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T013000Z">13-Mar-10 7:30 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T033000Z">13-Mar-10 9:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Brown Theater at Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Ave.</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5299/ Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:39:10 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5861/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5861/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T020000Z">13-Mar-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T043000Z">13-Mar-10 10:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.tuts.com">The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">800 Bagby St</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5861/ Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:08:22 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7003/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7003/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T020000Z">13-Mar-10 8:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T040000Z">13-Mar-10 10:00 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Alley Theatre <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">615 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7003/ Thu, 28 May 2009 15:30:34 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5371/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5371/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T190000Z">14-Mar-10 2:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T210000Z">14-Mar-10 4:00 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Brown Theater at Wortham Theater Center <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">501 Texas Ave.</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5371/ Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:43:34 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5871/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5871/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T190000Z">14-Mar-10 2:00 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T223000Z">14-Mar-10 5:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="url fn" href="http://www.tuts.com">The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">800 Bagby St.</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/5871/ Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:16:25 GMT Events http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7011/ <div class="vevent"> <a class="url" href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7011/"> </a><br/> Start Date: <abbr class="dtstart" title="20100314T193000Z">14-Mar-10 2:30 PM</abbr> <br/> End Time: <abbr class="dtend" title="20100314T213000Z">14-Mar-10 4:30 PM</abbr> <br/> </div> <br/> <div class="vcard"> <a class="fn">Alley Theatre <br/> <div class="adr"> <div class="street-address">615 Texas Avenue</div> <span class="locality">Houston</span>, <span class="region">TX</span> <span class="country-name">USA</span> <span class="postal-code">77002</span> </div> </a></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cev/r/dt/7011/ Thu, 28 May 2009 15:26:33 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/444/ <link href="/styles/styles.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /> <table height="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="center"><br> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="500" align="center" bgcolor="#333333" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="left"> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="500" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="100" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/newsletterhead.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/head2.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="8" width="500" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p><br></p> <h1 align="center">Houston Theater District flourishes with feeling this spring.&nbsp; </h1> <h1 align="center">See how you can experience warmth, love, pleasure, laughter, joy and fear with many extraordinary productions below!</h1> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/alleylogo0910.gif" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><strong><em><img height="300" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/39Steps_200x300.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Comedy Thriller &#8211; Ingenious, Inventive, Riotous</em></strong><br><strong>Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps</strong><strong><br></strong><strong>Adapted By</strong><strong> </strong>Patrick Barlow<strong><br></strong><strong>Directed by</strong><strong> </strong>Mark Shanahan<br>Hubbard Stage<strong><br></strong>Now<strong>&nbsp;- </strong>March 28, 2010&nbsp; <br><br>Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have <strong>The 39 Steps</strong>, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre.&nbsp;This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 eccentric characters &#8211;&nbsp;played by a prodigiously talented cast of four &#8211; an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance. In <strong>The 39 Steps</strong>, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called "The 39 Steps" is hot on the man's trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale. A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, <strong>The 39 Steps</strong> amounts to an unforgettable evening of pure pleasure.&nbsp;<strong>The 39 Steps</strong> was the longest running comedy recently on Broadway and is ideal for audiences of all ages.<em>&nbsp;<br></em><br><strong>For ticket information visit&nbsp;</strong><a title="blocked::http://www.alleytheatre.org/" href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.alleytheatre.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713.220.5700.</strong></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hgo_small.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><img height="272" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Spades_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" /><strong>Tchaikovsky&#8217;s The Queen of Spades</strong></p> <div> <p><strong>April 16, 24, 28, May 1, 2010 - 7:30 PM</strong><strong><br><strong>April 18 - 2 PM</strong></strong></p></div> <div> <p>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Brown&nbsp;Theater</p></div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<br>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s spine-tingling melodrama. Russian tenor Vladimir Galouzine returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano Tatiana Monogarova makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and Vasily Ladyuk is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano Judith Forst<strong>&nbsp;</strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro Carlo Rizzi conducts.<br><strong><br><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $23.</em></strong></p></div> <div> <p><strong><br>&nbsp;</strong></p></div> <div> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p></div> <div> <p><img height="264" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Xerxes_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" /><strong>Handel&#8217;s Xerxes</strong><br><strong>April 30, May 8, 12, 14, 2010 - 7:30 PM</strong><strong><br><strong>May 2&nbsp;- 2 PM</strong></strong></p></div> <div> <p>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Brown&nbsp;Theater<br>&nbsp;<br>One of Handel&#8217;s most popular operas;&nbsp;<em>Xerxes</em>&nbsp;is a feast for the ears, and the eyes in this classic eighteenth-century production. A mad entanglement of love stories, the opera follows the tyrannical and flamboyant Xerxes (Susan Graham) in his quest for Romilda (Laura Claycomb), who is beloved by his very own brother Arsamene, sung by David Daniels. Contralto Sonia Prina, soprano Heidi Stober and baritone Philip Cutlip round out the all-star cast. The award-winning production is set in an English pleasure garden&#8212;the perfect place for an elaborate lovers&#8217; chase!<br>&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $23&#8212;great seats available!</strong></em></p></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstongrandopera.<wbr>org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-228-6737.</strong></p> <div> <p><em>Poster designs by Pattima Singhalaka.</em></p></div> <div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/uniquely.gif" border="0" />&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong><img height="228" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/arslyricaspringtime.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />Ars Lyrica Houston<br>Springtime In Paris<br>Saturday, March 20, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div> <p><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong></strong>Ars Lyrica Houston continues its season-long tour of Baroque Europe's leading musical ports of call with <em>Springtime in Paris</em>, an intimate and earthy program of French Baroque chamber works. <em>Springtime In Paris</em> features two stars of the international early music scene, violinist Marc Destrub&#233; and mezzo-soprano Jennifer Lane. Virtuoso oboist Kathryn Montoya returns to perform with the ensemble, along with gambist Barrett Sills, theorbist Michael Leopold, and harpsichordist and Ars Lyrica Artistic Director, Matthew Dirst.<br>&nbsp;<br>This program of French Baroque delicacies includes a variety of chamber works for voice and instruments, from a collection of airs de cours, short love songs of passion and frustrated love, to a solo cantata on the myth of Pan and Syrinx. The earthiness of the Baroque oboe and the sweetness of the Baroque violin mix with the delicate sounds of the lute and harpsichord in instrumental works that evoke springtime and the myriad delights of nature's bounty.&nbsp; </div> <div><strong><em><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $31.25.</em></strong></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.arslyricahouston.org">www.arslyricahouston.org</a></strong><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-315-2525.</strong></p></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/SPAnotagColor.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong><img height="142" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/perfil_guitarra.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Gilberto Gil</strong> <div><strong>Friday, March 26, 8 pm&nbsp;</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Jones Hall</strong></div> <p>Brazil&#8217;s internationally acclaimed guitarist and vocalist and former Minister of Culture, Gilberto Gil brings his unique sound, incorporating an eclectic range of influences&#8212;from reggae, samba and forro&nbsp;to rock and African music&#8212;to Houston for one night only. Gil has developed one of the most relevant and renowned careers&nbsp;in world and pop music releasing more than 30 albums, six of them gold with four platinum singles, and five million records sold.&nbsp;A leader of the tropicalia movement in Brazil in 1967 and 1968, along with artists like Caetano Veloso&nbsp;and Gal Costa, his extensive and prolific catalogue of work has been covered and recorded by such artists as Jo&#227;o Gilberto, Elis Regina, Gal Costa, S&#233;rgio Mendes, Ernie Watts and Toots Thielmans.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <div> <p><strong><em>Tickets from $20.</em></strong>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div><strong><img height="150" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hamlisch.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />From Broadway to Hollywood:&nbsp;Marvin Hamlisch &amp; Joel Grey in Concert</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Saturday, March 27 at 8 p.m.</strong></div> <div><strong>Jones Hall</strong></div> <p>Two legendary Broadway stars &#8212; composer Marvin Hamlisch (<em>A Chorus Line</em>) and actor Joel Grey (<em>Cabaret</em>) &#8212; will appear together&nbsp;for a one-of-a-kind concert experience.&nbsp;As a composer, Hamlisch has won every major award: three Oscars, four Grammys, four Emmys, one Tony, three Golden Globes, and a Pulitzer Prize for&nbsp;<em>A Chorus Line</em>. Grey has been entertaining audiences for more than 40 years on stage and screen, hitting the mainstream as the Master of Ceremonies in&nbsp;<em>Cabaret</em>, and as the Wizard of Oz in the Broadway smash,&nbsp;<em>Wicked</em>. </p> <div><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $20.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></em></strong><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.spahouston.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.spahouston.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-227-4SPA.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/gexabaa.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong>In The Heights</strong></div> <div><strong>April 6-18</strong> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</strong></div></div> <div><br><em><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/IntheHeights.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />In The Heights</em>, winner of four 2008 Tony Awards including Best Musical!, is a sensational new show about chasing your dreams and finding your true home.<br><br>With an amazing cast, incredible Tony Award-winning dancing and a thrilling Tony Award-winning score,&nbsp;<em>In The Heights</em>&nbsp;is an exhilarating journey into a vibrant Manhattan community - a place where the coffee is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music.<br><br>Experience the next chapter of the classic American story at the most joyous, exciting and award-winning new musical on Broadway. Find out what it takes to make a living, what it costs to have a dream, and what it means to be home&#8230;<em>In The Heights</em>. </div> <div><strong><em><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $26.</em></strong></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit</strong><a href="http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.broadwayacrossamerica.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-622-7469.</strong></p></div> <div> <div> <div> <p>Photo credit:&nbsp;National Tour&nbsp;cast of <em>In The Heights</em>, Joan Marcus.&nbsp;</p></div></div></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_web.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><img height="395" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_SouthPacific.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />South Pacific</strong> <div><strong>March 9-21</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</strong> <div>&nbsp;</div></div> <div> <div>"Simply Wonderful! Beguiling Theatrical Magic!&#8221; hails the New York Post for the stunning reinvention of Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein's&nbsp;<em>South Pacific</em>&nbsp;produced by Lincoln Center Theater. <em>South Pacific </em>swept the 2008 Tony Awards&#174;, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. This lavish new production features a cast of 34 and a full orchestra of 26 members - the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production. Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. The beloved score's songs include "Some Enchanted Evening,&#8221; "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,&#8221; "This Nearly Was Mine&#8221; and "There is Nothin' Like a Dame.&#8221; <br><br><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</em></strong><br><br><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.tuts.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.tuts.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-558-TUTS.</strong></div> <div> <p>Photo credit:&nbsp; Photo by Peter Coombs.</p></div></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DACcrop.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><br><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Brandon_Lee_best.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Jazz Trumpeter Brandon Lee</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, March 20, 8 pm</strong> <div><strong>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Cullen Theater</strong></div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The talented graduate of the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts makes his first Da Camera appearance on the heels of the release of his debut album,<em>&nbsp;From Within</em>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lee is joined by 2008 Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition winner<strong>&nbsp;Jon Irabagon</strong>&nbsp;on saxophones. Lee was mentored by Wynton Marsalis, who calls him "one of the baddest *#$*%* on trumpet out here.&#8221;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $30.</strong></em><br></div> <div><strong><br><img height="251" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Steven_Isserlis_smaller.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Stephen Isserlis: The Romantic Cello</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, March 26, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;The music world - and music itself - is infinitely richer for the presence of Steven Isserlis,&#8221; says Gramophone. Acclaimed worldwide as one of the leading cellists of his time, Steven Isserlis makes his Houston recital debut in Da Camera's The Romantic Cello, a dramatic program evoking 100 years of romantic music.&nbsp; From 19th-century Romantics Chopin and Schumann -- whose bicentennials Da Camera celebrates this season -- to the 20th-century American composer Samuel Barber, born 100 years ago, we hear the passionate Romantic spirit masterfully expressed. Steven Isserlis is joined by pianist Denes Varjon.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $25.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><br><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Pierre_Jalbert.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Modern Romantics</strong></div> <div><strong>Tuesday, April 6, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>The Menil Collection</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;I was accused of betraying, in the following order, the church and the state, I was a traitor, a renegade.&#8221; That's how American composer George Rochberg&#8217;s described the reaction to his 1973 String Quartet No. 3. The quartet represented a major break in 20th-century music, radically marking a return to tonality. Rochberg&#8217;s quartet is the centerpiece of Modern Romantics. Rochberg set the stage for composers of succeeding generations --including John Harbison and the Shepherd School&#8217;s Pierre Jalbert -- to carry on the Romantic spirit.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;are $35.</strong></em></div> <p> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dacamera.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.dacamera.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;call 713-524-5050.</strong></p></div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/houstonsymphony_eblast.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><br><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hannulintu.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Hannu Lintu Conducts Sibelius 2</strong></div> <div><strong>Thursday, March 18,&nbsp;8 pm&nbsp;<br>Saturday, March 20, 8&nbsp;pm <br>Sunday, March 21, 2:30&nbsp;pm<br>Jones Hall<br></strong>Hannu Lintu, conductor <br>Alban Gerhardt, cello <br>Beethoven: Leonore Overture No. 3 <br>Prokofiev: Sinfonia concertante for Cello and Orchestra <br>Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 <br><br>Experience the poetic soundscapes, relentless drumbeat and volcanic climaxes of his fellow Scandinavian&#8217;s music. <br></div> <div><em><strong><br>Tickets from $29.</strong></em></div><strong> <div><br>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beachboys.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />The Beach Boys<br>Friday, March 19, 7:30&nbsp;pm</div> <div>Jones Hall&nbsp;<br></strong><br>Surf&#8217;s Up! Hit the California beach as the sun-soaked harmonies of The Beach Boys join the Houston Symphony for an evening of classic songs like &#8220;Barbara Ann,&#8221; &#8220;Wouldn&#8217;t It Be Nice,&#8221; &#8220;Surfin&#8217; U.S. A.,&#8221; &#8220;California Girls&#8221; and &#8220;Kokomo.&#8221; <br></div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $35.</strong></em> </div><strong> <div><br><br><br><br><br><br>For tickets or more information visit</strong><a href="http://www.houstonsymphony.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstonsymphony.org</strong></a></div> <div><strong>or call 713-224-7575.</strong></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<img height="56" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HBLogoSWBoxedweb.jpg" width="250" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><img height="300" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HB_Connor_AmericanatHeart.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />American At Heart<br>March 11, 13, 19, 20, 7:30 pm<br>March 14, 21, 2:30 pm</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Set to a rousing score by Leonard Bernstein, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An American classic, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> was later developed into the hit musical On The Town. A seminal piece in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine&#8217;s <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the god of music, poetry and prophecy -- and his education through (and flirtation with) the three muses Terpsichore, Calliope, and Polyhymnia. Christopher Bruce&#8217;s comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers, and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin. </div> <div><em><strong><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $17.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></em><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstonballet.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-227-2787.</strong></div> <div> <p>MILITARY DISCOUNT: Members of the United States military will be able to purchase $10 tickets to American at Heart performances. Call 713 227 2787 or in person at Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)&nbsp;</p></div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp;Connor Walsh in George Balanchine's <em>Apollo</em>; Photograph: Pam Francis.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/masqueradebanner.jpg" border="0" /></div> <div><strong><br><br><br><img height="142" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/company.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Stephen Sondheim's Company</strong></div> <div><strong>April 10-11 &amp; April 17-18</strong></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div> <p>The Masquerade Theatre proudly presents Stephen Sondheim&#8217;s Company.&nbsp;Set firmly in, and often about, New York, Company follows five married, once married, or soon to be married couples and their mutual friend, Robert, a 35 year old bachelor who has been unable to connect in a long-term relationship. The relationships are presented in a series of vignettes, primarily through Bobby's eyes, so that we see the less than ideal aspects of commitment. However, it is obvious to the audience that the committed are happy. Eventually, Bobby learns that while relationships aren't perfect, they are a necessary part of "Being Alive."&nbsp;The original 1971 Broadway production of Company received six Tony Awards, including Best Musical.&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><em><strong>Tickets from $36.25.</strong></em></p></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thehobbycenter.org/" target="_blank">www.thehobbycenter.org</a>&nbsp;or call 713-315-2525.</strong>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div align="center"><strong>Other Events In Houston Theater District<br><br>Shreya Ghoshal<br></strong>Indo-American Association: A Bollywood Extravaganza<br>March 13, 2010<br>Jones Hall<br>Tickets: $17-$92<br><a href="http://iaahouston.com">iaahouston.com<br></a><br><strong>Playground of Love<br></strong>March 13, 2010<br>Wortham Center's Cullen Theater<br>Tickets $35-$50<br><a href="http://shamelesslysaved.com">shamelesslysaved.com</a><br><br><strong>Inprint: Tracy Kidder<br></strong>March 22, 2010<br>Alley Theatre's Hubbard Stage<br>Tickets: $5<br><a href="http://inprinthouston.org">inprinthouston.org<br></a><br><strong>Bayou City Performing Arts:&nbsp; We Can't Stop The Beat<br></strong>March 23, 2010<br>Jones Hall<br>Tickets: $22-$55<br><a href="http://bayoucityperformingarts.org">bayoucityperformingarts.org</a><br><br><strong>Je'Caryous Johnson's Cheaper to Keep Her<br></strong>March 25 - 28, 2010<br>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts<br>Tickets: $33.50-$55.50<br><a href="http://ticketmaster.com">ticketmaster.com</a><br><br><strong>Mercury Baroque: L'Estro Armonico: The Genius of Harmony<br></strong>March 27, 2010<br>Wortham Center's Cullen Theater<br>Tickets: $20-$47<br><a href="http://mercurybaroque.org">mercurybaroque.org<br></a><br><br><br><strong> <hr /> Register-To-Win</strong>&nbsp;</div> <p align="center"><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/mands_web.gif" width="133" border="0" /></p> <p align="center"><br>Win a complimentary dinner for two* at one of Downtown&nbsp;Houston's newest restaurants, McCormick &amp; Schmick's.</p> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/featured_promotions/index.asp" target="_blank"><strong><br><strong>Enter Now</strong></strong></a><br><strong>McCormick &amp; Schmick's -&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions</strong> <div><strong>1201 Fannin, 713-658-8100</strong></div></div> <p align="center">Houston&nbsp;Downtown Alliance is proud to have McCormick &amp; Schmick's as a supporter of the&nbsp;HoustonDowntown Alliance and&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District.<br>Join McCormick &amp; Schmick's Seafood Restaurant at 1201 Fannin Street at the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions for lunch, dinner and a lively happy hour.</p> <p align="center">McCormick &amp; Schmick's&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions restaurant was designed in a traditional style that brings its classic appeal to a modern setting. Elements of the design incorporate Texas-centric imagery, rich wood paneling, mahogany tables throughout, and a glass Atrium dining section in view of the shopping.</p> <p align="center">McCormick and Schmick's new Executive Chef at the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilion's is Chef Doug Pollard who brings years of experience and a fresh approach to the table. After graduating from Johnson &amp; Whales University, Pollard gained experience serving as executive chef at The State Grille, Hotel Derek, and Damian's Cucina Italiana, among other places in&nbsp;Houston. Pollard's culinary creativity will shine&nbsp;on&nbsp;the constantly updated menu.</p> <p align="center">Visit here for more information or visit McCormick &amp; Schmick's at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/" target="_blank">www.mccormickandschmicks.<wbr>com</a><br><br>&nbsp; *Entries must be received by 12 noon&nbsp;March 26, 2010.&nbsp; Winner will be notified by e-mail or phone.&nbsp; This certificate will entitle winner to a complimentary dinner for two excluding alcohol, tax and gratuity (a 18% gratuity will be added to final bill payable by holder of the certificate).&nbsp; This certificate will not be valid with any other offers or discounts and only redeemable at McCormick and Schmick's-Houston&nbsp;Pavilions, 1201 Fannin.&nbsp; Once issued, it will expire in 30 days.&nbsp;</p> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div> <p align="center">&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>Getting Around&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District</strong></p> <div align="center">Parking:&nbsp;&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;Garages are located underground below Jones Plaza, Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Tranquility Park and Bayou Place.&nbsp; Hobby Center operates a parking garage, too.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br>On-street meter parking is free after 6 pm Mon-Sat and all day Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div align="center"><br><strong>Read more of what's to come in the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;for&nbsp;Spring 2010 in </strong><em><strong>Downtown</strong></em><strong>&nbsp;magazine,&nbsp;on-line!</strong></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><a href="http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/945da42e#/945da42e/1"><img height="260" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/downtownmagspring2010_web.jpg" width="200" border="0" /></a></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/" target="_blank">www.downtownhouston.org</a>.</div> <div> <p align="center">&nbsp; <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;<strong>Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;is located in the heart of Downtown&nbsp;Houston.</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Alley Theatre</strong>, 615 Texas<br><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts</strong>, 800 Bagby&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center</strong>, 501 Texas<br><strong>Jones Hall</strong>, 615 Louisiana</div> <p align="center"><strong>For more information</strong>:&nbsp; 713.658.8938 or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/" target="_blank">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></p> <p align="center"><br><img height="27" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/theaterdistrictweb.jpg" width="155" border="0" /><br><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/" target="_blank">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></p> <p align="center"><br>brought to you by</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/" target="_blank"><img height="82" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/smallhda.jpg" width="150" border="0" /><br>www.downtownhouston.org</a></p> <p align="center"><strong><br><strong>&nbsp;Funded in part by the City of&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;</strong><br></strong>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong><a href="http://www.continental.com/" target="_blank"><img height="32" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/continental2009_160.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>Official Airline of the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Downtown Alliance</strong>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong><br><strong>Follow us&nbsp;on&nbsp;Twitter for updates and special deals: HoustonTheater</strong></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstontheater" target="_blank"><img height="31" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/twitter.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></p> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table> <br><br>8-Mar-10 1:23 PM Spotlight on Houston Theater District in March <link href="/styles/styles.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /> <table height="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="center"><br> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="500" align="center" bgcolor="#333333" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="left"> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="500" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="100" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/newsletterhead.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/head2.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="8" width="500" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p><br></p> <h1 align="center">Houston Theater District flourishes with feeling this spring.&nbsp; </h1> <h1 align="center">See how you can experience warmth, love, pleasure, laughter, joy and fear with many extraordinary productions below!</h1> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/alleylogo0910.gif" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><strong><em><img height="300" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/39Steps_200x300.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Comedy Thriller &#8211; Ingenious, Inventive, Riotous</em></strong><br><strong>Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps</strong><strong><br></strong><strong>Adapted By</strong><strong> </strong>Patrick Barlow<strong><br></strong><strong>Directed by</strong><strong> </strong>Mark Shanahan<br>Hubbard Stage<strong><br></strong>Now<strong>&nbsp;- </strong>March 28, 2010&nbsp; <br><br>Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have <strong>The 39 Steps</strong>, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre.&nbsp;This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 eccentric characters &#8211;&nbsp;played by a prodigiously talented cast of four &#8211; an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance. In <strong>The 39 Steps</strong>, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called "The 39 Steps" is hot on the man's trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale. A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, <strong>The 39 Steps</strong> amounts to an unforgettable evening of pure pleasure.&nbsp;<strong>The 39 Steps</strong> was the longest running comedy recently on Broadway and is ideal for audiences of all ages.<em>&nbsp;<br></em><br><strong>For ticket information visit&nbsp;</strong><a title="blocked::http://www.alleytheatre.org/" href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.alleytheatre.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713.220.5700.</strong></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hgo_small.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><img height="272" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Spades_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" /><strong>Tchaikovsky&#8217;s The Queen of Spades</strong></p> <div> <p><strong>April 16, 24, 28, May 1, 2010 - 7:30 PM</strong><strong><br><strong>April 18 - 2 PM</strong></strong></p></div> <div> <p>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Brown&nbsp;Theater</p></div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<br>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s spine-tingling melodrama. Russian tenor Vladimir Galouzine returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano Tatiana Monogarova makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and Vasily Ladyuk is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano Judith Forst<strong>&nbsp;</strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro Carlo Rizzi conducts.<br><strong><br><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $23.</em></strong></p></div> <div> <p><strong><br>&nbsp;</strong></p></div> <div> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p></div> <div> <p><img height="264" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Xerxes_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" /><strong>Handel&#8217;s Xerxes</strong><br><strong>April 30, May 8, 12, 14, 2010 - 7:30 PM</strong><strong><br><strong>May 2&nbsp;- 2 PM</strong></strong></p></div> <div> <p>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Brown&nbsp;Theater<br>&nbsp;<br>One of Handel&#8217;s most popular operas;&nbsp;<em>Xerxes</em>&nbsp;is a feast for the ears, and the eyes in this classic eighteenth-century production. A mad entanglement of love stories, the opera follows the tyrannical and flamboyant Xerxes (Susan Graham) in his quest for Romilda (Laura Claycomb), who is beloved by his very own brother Arsamene, sung by David Daniels. Contralto Sonia Prina, soprano Heidi Stober and baritone Philip Cutlip round out the all-star cast. The award-winning production is set in an English pleasure garden&#8212;the perfect place for an elaborate lovers&#8217; chase!<br>&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $23&#8212;great seats available!</strong></em></p></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstongrandopera.<wbr>org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-228-6737.</strong></p> <div> <p><em>Poster designs by Pattima Singhalaka.</em></p></div> <div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/uniquely.gif" border="0" />&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong><img height="228" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/arslyricaspringtime.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />Ars Lyrica Houston<br>Springtime In Paris<br>Saturday, March 20, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div> <p><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong></strong>Ars Lyrica Houston continues its season-long tour of Baroque Europe's leading musical ports of call with <em>Springtime in Paris</em>, an intimate and earthy program of French Baroque chamber works. <em>Springtime In Paris</em> features two stars of the international early music scene, violinist Marc Destrub&#233; and mezzo-soprano Jennifer Lane. Virtuoso oboist Kathryn Montoya returns to perform with the ensemble, along with gambist Barrett Sills, theorbist Michael Leopold, and harpsichordist and Ars Lyrica Artistic Director, Matthew Dirst.<br>&nbsp;<br>This program of French Baroque delicacies includes a variety of chamber works for voice and instruments, from a collection of airs de cours, short love songs of passion and frustrated love, to a solo cantata on the myth of Pan and Syrinx. The earthiness of the Baroque oboe and the sweetness of the Baroque violin mix with the delicate sounds of the lute and harpsichord in instrumental works that evoke springtime and the myriad delights of nature's bounty.&nbsp; </div> <div><strong><em><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $31.25.</em></strong></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.arslyricahouston.org">www.arslyricahouston.org</a></strong><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-315-2525.</strong></p></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/SPAnotagColor.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div><strong><img height="142" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/perfil_guitarra.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Gilberto Gil</strong> <div><strong>Friday, March 26, 8 pm&nbsp;</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Jones Hall</strong></div> <p>Brazil&#8217;s internationally acclaimed guitarist and vocalist and former Minister of Culture, Gilberto Gil brings his unique sound, incorporating an eclectic range of influences&#8212;from reggae, samba and forro&nbsp;to rock and African music&#8212;to Houston for one night only. Gil has developed one of the most relevant and renowned careers&nbsp;in world and pop music releasing more than 30 albums, six of them gold with four platinum singles, and five million records sold.&nbsp;A leader of the tropicalia movement in Brazil in 1967 and 1968, along with artists like Caetano Veloso&nbsp;and Gal Costa, his extensive and prolific catalogue of work has been covered and recorded by such artists as Jo&#227;o Gilberto, Elis Regina, Gal Costa, S&#233;rgio Mendes, Ernie Watts and Toots Thielmans.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <div> <p><strong><em>Tickets from $20.</em></strong>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div><strong><img height="150" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hamlisch.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />From Broadway to Hollywood:&nbsp;Marvin Hamlisch &amp; Joel Grey in Concert</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Saturday, March 27 at 8 p.m.</strong></div> <div><strong>Jones Hall</strong></div> <p>Two legendary Broadway stars &#8212; composer Marvin Hamlisch (<em>A Chorus Line</em>) and actor Joel Grey (<em>Cabaret</em>) &#8212; will appear together&nbsp;for a one-of-a-kind concert experience.&nbsp;As a composer, Hamlisch has won every major award: three Oscars, four Grammys, four Emmys, one Tony, three Golden Globes, and a Pulitzer Prize for&nbsp;<em>A Chorus Line</em>. Grey has been entertaining audiences for more than 40 years on stage and screen, hitting the mainstream as the Master of Ceremonies in&nbsp;<em>Cabaret</em>, and as the Wizard of Oz in the Broadway smash,&nbsp;<em>Wicked</em>. </p> <div><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $20.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></em></strong><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.spahouston.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.spahouston.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-227-4SPA.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/gexabaa.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong>In The Heights</strong></div> <div><strong>April 6-18</strong> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</strong></div></div> <div><br><em><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/IntheHeights.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />In The Heights</em>, winner of four 2008 Tony Awards including Best Musical!, is a sensational new show about chasing your dreams and finding your true home.<br><br>With an amazing cast, incredible Tony Award-winning dancing and a thrilling Tony Award-winning score,&nbsp;<em>In The Heights</em>&nbsp;is an exhilarating journey into a vibrant Manhattan community - a place where the coffee is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music.<br><br>Experience the next chapter of the classic American story at the most joyous, exciting and award-winning new musical on Broadway. Find out what it takes to make a living, what it costs to have a dream, and what it means to be home&#8230;<em>In The Heights</em>. </div> <div><strong><em><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $26.</em></strong></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit</strong><a href="http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.broadwayacrossamerica.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-622-7469.</strong></p></div> <div> <div> <div> <p>Photo credit:&nbsp;National Tour&nbsp;cast of <em>In The Heights</em>, Joan Marcus.&nbsp;</p></div></div></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_web.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><img height="395" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_SouthPacific.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />South Pacific</strong> <div><strong>March 9-21</strong></div></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</strong> <div>&nbsp;</div></div> <div> <div>"Simply Wonderful! Beguiling Theatrical Magic!&#8221; hails the New York Post for the stunning reinvention of Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein's&nbsp;<em>South Pacific</em>&nbsp;produced by Lincoln Center Theater. <em>South Pacific </em>swept the 2008 Tony Awards&#174;, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. This lavish new production features a cast of 34 and a full orchestra of 26 members - the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production. Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. The beloved score's songs include "Some Enchanted Evening,&#8221; "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,&#8221; "This Nearly Was Mine&#8221; and "There is Nothin' Like a Dame.&#8221; <br><br><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</em></strong><br><br><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.tuts.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.tuts.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-558-TUTS.</strong></div> <div> <p>Photo credit:&nbsp; Photo by Peter Coombs.</p></div></div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DACcrop.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><br><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Brandon_Lee_best.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Jazz Trumpeter Brandon Lee</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, March 20, 8 pm</strong> <div><strong>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Cullen Theater</strong></div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The talented graduate of the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts makes his first Da Camera appearance on the heels of the release of his debut album,<em>&nbsp;From Within</em>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lee is joined by 2008 Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition winner<strong>&nbsp;Jon Irabagon</strong>&nbsp;on saxophones. Lee was mentored by Wynton Marsalis, who calls him "one of the baddest *#$*%* on trumpet out here.&#8221;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $30.</strong></em><br></div> <div><strong><br><img height="251" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Steven_Isserlis_smaller.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Stephen Isserlis: The Romantic Cello</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, March 26, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;The music world - and music itself - is infinitely richer for the presence of Steven Isserlis,&#8221; says Gramophone. Acclaimed worldwide as one of the leading cellists of his time, Steven Isserlis makes his Houston recital debut in Da Camera's The Romantic Cello, a dramatic program evoking 100 years of romantic music.&nbsp; From 19th-century Romantics Chopin and Schumann -- whose bicentennials Da Camera celebrates this season -- to the 20th-century American composer Samuel Barber, born 100 years ago, we hear the passionate Romantic spirit masterfully expressed. Steven Isserlis is joined by pianist Denes Varjon.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $25.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><br><img height="133" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Pierre_Jalbert.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Modern Romantics</strong></div> <div><strong>Tuesday, April 6, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>The Menil Collection</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&#8220;I was accused of betraying, in the following order, the church and the state, I was a traitor, a renegade.&#8221; That's how American composer George Rochberg&#8217;s described the reaction to his 1973 String Quartet No. 3. The quartet represented a major break in 20th-century music, radically marking a return to tonality. Rochberg&#8217;s quartet is the centerpiece of Modern Romantics. Rochberg set the stage for composers of succeeding generations --including John Harbison and the Shepherd School&#8217;s Pierre Jalbert -- to carry on the Romantic spirit.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;are $35.</strong></em></div> <p> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dacamera.com/" target="_blank"><strong>www.dacamera.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;call 713-524-5050.</strong></p></div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;<img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/houstonsymphony_eblast.jpg" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><br><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hannulintu.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Hannu Lintu Conducts Sibelius 2</strong></div> <div><strong>Thursday, March 18,&nbsp;8 pm&nbsp;<br>Saturday, March 20, 8&nbsp;pm <br>Sunday, March 21, 2:30&nbsp;pm<br>Jones Hall<br></strong>Hannu Lintu, conductor <br>Alban Gerhardt, cello <br>Beethoven: Leonore Overture No. 3 <br>Prokofiev: Sinfonia concertante for Cello and Orchestra <br>Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 <br><br>Experience the poetic soundscapes, relentless drumbeat and volcanic climaxes of his fellow Scandinavian&#8217;s music. <br></div> <div><em><strong><br>Tickets from $29.</strong></em></div><strong> <div><br>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beachboys.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />The Beach Boys<br>Friday, March 19, 7:30&nbsp;pm</div> <div>Jones Hall&nbsp;<br></strong><br>Surf&#8217;s Up! Hit the California beach as the sun-soaked harmonies of The Beach Boys join the Houston Symphony for an evening of classic songs like &#8220;Barbara Ann,&#8221; &#8220;Wouldn&#8217;t It Be Nice,&#8221; &#8220;Surfin&#8217; U.S. A.,&#8221; &#8220;California Girls&#8221; and &#8220;Kokomo.&#8221; <br></div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $35.</strong></em> </div><strong> <div><br><br><br><br><br><br>For tickets or more information visit</strong><a href="http://www.houstonsymphony.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstonsymphony.org</strong></a></div> <div><strong>or call 713-224-7575.</strong></div> <div> <p> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<img height="56" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HBLogoSWBoxedweb.jpg" width="250" border="0" /></p></div> <div><strong><img height="300" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HB_Connor_AmericanatHeart.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />American At Heart<br>March 11, 13, 19, 20, 7:30 pm<br>March 14, 21, 2:30 pm</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Set to a rousing score by Leonard Bernstein, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An American classic, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> was later developed into the hit musical On The Town. A seminal piece in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine&#8217;s <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the god of music, poetry and prophecy -- and his education through (and flirtation with) the three muses Terpsichore, Calliope, and Polyhymnia. Christopher Bruce&#8217;s comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers, and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin. </div> <div><em><strong><br>Tickets&nbsp;from $17.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></em><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.houstonballet.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-227-2787.</strong></div> <div> <p>MILITARY DISCOUNT: Members of the United States military will be able to purchase $10 tickets to American at Heart performances. Call 713 227 2787 or in person at Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)&nbsp;</p></div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp;Connor Walsh in George Balanchine's <em>Apollo</em>; Photograph: Pam Francis.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/masqueradebanner.jpg" border="0" /></div> <div><strong><br><br><br><img height="142" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/company.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Stephen Sondheim's Company</strong></div> <div><strong>April 10-11 &amp; April 17-18</strong></div> <div><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div> <p>The Masquerade Theatre proudly presents Stephen Sondheim&#8217;s Company.&nbsp;Set firmly in, and often about, New York, Company follows five married, once married, or soon to be married couples and their mutual friend, Robert, a 35 year old bachelor who has been unable to connect in a long-term relationship. The relationships are presented in a series of vignettes, primarily through Bobby's eyes, so that we see the less than ideal aspects of commitment. However, it is obvious to the audience that the committed are happy. Eventually, Bobby learns that while relationships aren't perfect, they are a necessary part of "Being Alive."&nbsp;The original 1971 Broadway production of Company received six Tony Awards, including Best Musical.&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p><em><strong>Tickets from $36.25.</strong></em></p></div> <div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thehobbycenter.org/" target="_blank">www.thehobbycenter.org</a>&nbsp;or call 713-315-2525.</strong>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div align="center"><strong>Other Events In Houston Theater District<br><br>Shreya Ghoshal<br></strong>Indo-American Association: A Bollywood Extravaganza<br>March 13, 2010<br>Jones Hall<br>Tickets: $17-$92<br><a href="http://iaahouston.com">iaahouston.com<br></a><br><strong>Playground of Love<br></strong>March 13, 2010<br>Wortham Center's Cullen Theater<br>Tickets $35-$50<br><a href="http://shamelesslysaved.com">shamelesslysaved.com</a><br><br><strong>Inprint: Tracy Kidder<br></strong>March 22, 2010<br>Alley Theatre's Hubbard Stage<br>Tickets: $5<br><a href="http://inprinthouston.org">inprinthouston.org<br></a><br><strong>Bayou City Performing Arts:&nbsp; We Can't Stop The Beat<br></strong>March 23, 2010<br>Jones Hall<br>Tickets: $22-$55<br><a href="http://bayoucityperformingarts.org">bayoucityperformingarts.org</a><br><br><strong>Je'Caryous Johnson's Cheaper to Keep Her<br></strong>March 25 - 28, 2010<br>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts<br>Tickets: $33.50-$55.50<br><a href="http://ticketmaster.com">ticketmaster.com</a><br><br><strong>Mercury Baroque: L'Estro Armonico: The Genius of Harmony<br></strong>March 27, 2010<br>Wortham Center's Cullen Theater<br>Tickets: $20-$47<br><a href="http://mercurybaroque.org">mercurybaroque.org<br></a><br><br><br><strong> <hr /> Register-To-Win</strong>&nbsp;</div> <p align="center"><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/mands_web.gif" width="133" border="0" /></p> <p align="center"><br>Win a complimentary dinner for two* at one of Downtown&nbsp;Houston's newest restaurants, McCormick &amp; Schmick's.</p> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/featured_promotions/index.asp" target="_blank"><strong><br><strong>Enter Now</strong></strong></a><br><strong>McCormick &amp; Schmick's -&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions</strong> <div><strong>1201 Fannin, 713-658-8100</strong></div></div> <p align="center">Houston&nbsp;Downtown Alliance is proud to have McCormick &amp; Schmick's as a supporter of the&nbsp;HoustonDowntown Alliance and&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District.<br>Join McCormick &amp; Schmick's Seafood Restaurant at 1201 Fannin Street at the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions for lunch, dinner and a lively happy hour.</p> <p align="center">McCormick &amp; Schmick's&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilions restaurant was designed in a traditional style that brings its classic appeal to a modern setting. Elements of the design incorporate Texas-centric imagery, rich wood paneling, mahogany tables throughout, and a glass Atrium dining section in view of the shopping.</p> <p align="center">McCormick and Schmick's new Executive Chef at the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Pavilion's is Chef Doug Pollard who brings years of experience and a fresh approach to the table. After graduating from Johnson &amp; Whales University, Pollard gained experience serving as executive chef at The State Grille, Hotel Derek, and Damian's Cucina Italiana, among other places in&nbsp;Houston. Pollard's culinary creativity will shine&nbsp;on&nbsp;the constantly updated menu.</p> <p align="center">Visit here for more information or visit McCormick &amp; Schmick's at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/" target="_blank">www.mccormickandschmicks.<wbr>com</a><br><br>&nbsp; *Entries must be received by 12 noon&nbsp;March 26, 2010.&nbsp; Winner will be notified by e-mail or phone.&nbsp; This certificate will entitle winner to a complimentary dinner for two excluding alcohol, tax and gratuity (a 18% gratuity will be added to final bill payable by holder of the certificate).&nbsp; This certificate will not be valid with any other offers or discounts and only redeemable at McCormick and Schmick's-Houston&nbsp;Pavilions, 1201 Fannin.&nbsp; Once issued, it will expire in 30 days.&nbsp;</p> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div> <p align="center">&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>Getting Around&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District</strong></p> <div align="center">Parking:&nbsp;&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;Garages are located underground below Jones Plaza, Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center, Tranquility Park and Bayou Place.&nbsp; Hobby Center operates a parking garage, too.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br>On-street meter parking is free after 6 pm Mon-Sat and all day Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div> <div align="center"> <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> </div></div> <div align="center"><br><strong>Read more of what's to come in the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;for&nbsp;Spring 2010 in </strong><em><strong>Downtown</strong></em><strong>&nbsp;magazine,&nbsp;on-line!</strong></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><a href="http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/945da42e#/945da42e/1"><img height="260" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/downtownmagspring2010_web.jpg" width="200" border="0" /></a></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/" target="_blank">www.downtownhouston.org</a>.</div> <div> <p align="center">&nbsp; <hr align="center" width="100%" size="2" /> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;<strong>Houston&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;District&nbsp;is located in the heart of Downtown&nbsp;Houston.</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Alley Theatre</strong>, 615 Texas<br><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts</strong>, 800 Bagby&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Wortham&nbsp;Theater&nbsp;Center</strong>, 501 Texas<br><strong>Jones Hall</strong>, 615 Louisiana</div> <p align="center"><strong>For more information</strong>:&nbsp; 713.658.8938 or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/" target="_blank">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></p> <p align="center"><br><img height="27" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/theaterdistrictweb.jpg" width="155" border="0" /><br><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/" target="_blank">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></p> <p align="center"><br>brought to you by</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/" target="_blank"><img height="82" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/smallhda.jpg" width="150" border="0" /><br>www.downtownhouston.org</a></p> <p align="center"><strong><br><strong>&nbsp;Funded in part by the City of&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;</strong><br></strong>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong><a href="http://www.continental.com/" target="_blank"><img height="32" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/continental2009_160.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>Official Airline of the&nbsp;Houston&nbsp;Downtown Alliance</strong>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong><br><strong>Follow us&nbsp;on&nbsp;Twitter for updates and special deals: HoustonTheater</strong></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstontheater" target="_blank"><img height="31" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/twitter.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></p> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> <div> <p>&nbsp;</p></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/444/ Heather Pray Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:23:37 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/443/ <p align="left">&nbsp;</p> <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS<br> <em>PECOS</em> IN MAY 2010</strong></span></h1> <p align="center"> <strong>PROGRAM FEATURES WORKS BY MARK MORRIS, <br> GEORGE BALANCHINE AND STANTON WELCH</strong><br> </p> <p align="center"><strong>Company Premiere of George Balanchine's <em>Ballo della Regina</em></strong><strong> <br> Highlights Program </strong><br> </p> <p align="center"><strong>Mark Morris's Witty <em>Sandpaper Ballet</em> and <br> Texas's Favorite Dramatic Tale <em>Pecos Bill</em> <br> Return to Delight Audiences</strong></p> <p> <strong>HOUSTON, TEXAS</strong> -- From May 27 &#8211; June 6, 2010, Houston Ballet presents <strong>Pecos</strong>, a spring mixed repertory program, featuring Mark Morris's witty and inventive <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> alongside George Balanchine's classically virtuosic <strong>Ballo della Regina</strong> and Stanton Welch's <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>, a dramatic tale of the Texas legendary cowboy and his poignant romance with gutsy tomboy Slue-foot Sue. Houston Ballet will give six performances of <strong>Pecos</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p><strong>Ballo della Regina</strong>, a ballet for two principals, four female soloists, and corps de ballet, is set to the music of Giuseppe Verdi's opera <em>Don Carlos</em>. New York City Ballet premiered the work on January 12, 1978. George Balanchine choreographed the ballet to showcase the talents of New York City Ballet ballerina Merrill Ashley. Lincoln Kirstein, who with Balanchine co-founded New York City Ballet, wrote that the ballet seems to take place in a grotto, with reference through lighting and costumes to the original tale of a fisherman's search for the perfect pearl. &quot;From Verdi's way of dealing with the chorus,&quot; Balanchine told biographer Bernard Taper, &quot;I have learned how to handle the corps de ballet, the ensemble, the soloists, how to make the soloists stand out against the corps, and when to give them a rest.&quot;</p> <p>Ms. Ashley commented, &quot;Balanchine always seemed to take special delight in challenging me with difficult steps, and since he knew I excelled at moving quickly, he decided to make that the feature of <strong>Ballo </strong>-- virtuoso steps at high speed. He highlighted all my strengths in <strong>Ballo</strong>, giving me a ballet that not only was challenging and fun to dance, but one that gave me the opportunity to communicate the joy of dance, which was my favorite mood to express on stage. <strong>Ballo </strong>epitomizes the essence of the technique that he advocated, as it requires extreme precision, clarity, speed, and expansive movement. Dancers who are not trained in the Balanchine style are always startled to find how much easier the steps are when they use the technique Balanchine advocated. His choreography is constructed with the idea that the steps will be done as he would have taught them. That is what makes the angles of the steps look best, and what makes the transitions from step-to-step possible at high speeds.&quot;</p> <p>Houston Ballet will revive the deliciously witty <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> by legendary choreographer Mark Morris. Mr. Morris's <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> is a lively ensemble piece for 25 dancers set to a suite of 1940s and 1950s all-American tunes by American composer Leroy Anderson, including <em>Sleigh Ride</em>, <em>The Typewriter</em> and <em>Fiddle Faddle</em>. Noted fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi created the vivid, colorful costumes in green and white, which add an inspired note of whimsy to the ballet.</p> <p>Mr. Morris explains, &quot;Anderson's novelty numbers are under known and under appreciated. They are wonderful small scale compositions that feature different sections of the orchestra. No one ever plays more than one of them on a program, as an encore. How about all encores? It is a fun gift for the orchestra and the public. What's better than <em>Sleigh Ride</em>?&quot;</p> <p> Writing for the <em>San Francisco Examiner</em>, dance critic Allan Ulrich exclaimed, &quot;<strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> lifts you out of your seat with its sheer, rib-tickling insouciance&#8230;.If you hate ballet, you will love it. If you worship ballet, you will understand it. And if you've never seen a ballet in your entire life, you will convert instantly.&quot; (April 28, 1999) Originally created for San Francisco Ballet, the work premiered on April 19, 1999 in San Francisco.<br> <strong> </strong><br> Stanton Welch's 2004 work <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> takes as its subject the mythical Texas cowboy Pecos Bill. One of the most colorful figures in Texas folklore, he was raised by a pack of wild coyotes after he fell from his mother's covered wagon when they were crossing the Pecos River. The relationship Pecos establishes with these animals leads to many adventures throughout his life. His best-known exploits include lassoing a cyclone, riding a mountain lion, and using a rattlesnake as a whip. Legend also has it that he invented the branding iron to stop cattle rustling, drained the Rio Grande to water his ranch during an enduring drought, and taught gophers to dig postholes.<br> </p> <p>Mr. Welch focuses on the poignant romance between Pecos Bill and his beloved, Slue-foot Sue. &quot;I'm not really touching upon the more traditional aspects that many people are familiar with,&quot; he comments. &quot;I'm developing the less familiar stories and the relationship with the women in his life. I think the end of Pecos's relationship with Sue is something that everyone can relate to.&quot;</p> <p>Mr. Welch commissioned the rising composer Matthew Pierce to compose the music for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>. Mr. Pierce has written ballet scores for numerous companies, including The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet and San Francisco Ballet.</p> <p>Acclaimed New Zealand designer Kristian Fredrikson created the costumes and scenery for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>, ranging from Pecos Bill's playful red, white, and blue chaps to the coyote's fur-trimmed headdress. Mr. Fredrikson noted, &quot;The concept for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> is to capture not only the comedic myth of Bill's origin and his courtship of the enthusiastic Slue-foot Sue, but also the ever growing size of Texas, which is itself practically a myth throughout the world. The set represents this by a single image ever arising into multiple sizes, and the costumes pay homage to the frontier folk who pioneered this often flat and golden land. My inspiration was the landscape of an American quilt &#8211; that colorful folk art which is so beloved and which, I feel, lies deep in the American soul. For me it is a patchwork of images that represent a state that took the star as its emblem and now seeks to move physically on into the reality of the constellations.&quot;</p> <p>Mr. Fredrikson designed a large number of productions for The Australian Ballet and The Australian Opera, including <strong>Swan Lake</strong>, <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>, <strong>Turandot</strong>, and <strong>The Merry Widow</strong>. He collaborated with Mr. Welch on several pieces, including his first professional ballet, <strong>Of Blessed Memory</strong>, and his versions of <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1995) and <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (2005) for The Australian Ballet and <strong>Swan Lake</strong> (2006) for Houston Ballet.</p> <p> Houston Ballet's performances of Pecos are made possible from the generous support of Baker Botts L.L.P.</p> <h3 align="center">###</h3> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY</strong><br> <strong><em>PECOS</em></strong><br> <strong>FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: <em>PECOS</em></strong><br> <strong>SPRING MIXED REPERTORY PROGRAM</strong> <p><strong>SANDPAPER BALLET </strong>(1999)<strong></strong><br> Music by Leroy Anderson (1908-1975)<br> Choreography by Mark Morris<br> Costume design by Isaac Mizrahi<br> Lighting design by James F. Ingalls<br> Staged by Tina Fehlandt<br> <p><strong>PECOS BILL </strong>(2004)<strong></strong><br> Music by Matthew Pierce<br> Choreography by Stanton Welch<br> Costumes and scenic design by Kristian Fredrikson<br> Lighting Design by Lisa J. Pinkham<strong></strong><br> <p><strong>BALLO DELLA REGINA </strong>(1978)<br> <strong>Houston Ballet Premiere</strong><br> Music by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901), from the opera <em>Don Carlos</em><br> Choreography by George Balanchine (1904-1983)<br> Staged by Merrill Ashley<br> Designs by Ben Benson <p><strong>Generously sponsored by: </strong>Baker Botts L.L.P.<strong></strong><br> <br> <strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM:</strong> Created by the legendary George Balanchine for New York City Ballet in 1978, <strong>Ballo Della Regina</strong> is a virtuoso set of variations, comparable to the bel canto style of opera, set to ballet music that was cut from the original production of Verdi's <em>Don Carlos</em>. Set to a specially commissioned score by Matthew Pierce, Stanton Welch's vibrantly theatrical <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> dramatizes the poignant romance between the legendary Texas hero Pecos Bill and the gutsy tomboy Sluefoot Sue. Modern dance legend Mark Morris's <strong>Sandpaper Ballet </strong>contains the hallmarks of his work:<strong> </strong>wit, humor, and dazzlingly inventive movement, along with whimsical green and white costumes by noted fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi. <br> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on May 27, 29, and June 4, 5, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on May 30, and June 5, 6, 2010 <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p><strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $18.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at www.houstonballet.org and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith St.)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a></p> . <br><br>26-Feb-10 5:00 PM Houston Ballet Presents Pecos in May 2010 <p align="left">&nbsp;</p> <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS<br> <em>PECOS</em> IN MAY 2010</strong></span></h1> <p align="center"> <strong>PROGRAM FEATURES WORKS BY MARK MORRIS, <br> GEORGE BALANCHINE AND STANTON WELCH</strong><br> </p> <p align="center"><strong>Company Premiere of George Balanchine's <em>Ballo della Regina</em></strong><strong> <br> Highlights Program </strong><br> </p> <p align="center"><strong>Mark Morris's Witty <em>Sandpaper Ballet</em> and <br> Texas's Favorite Dramatic Tale <em>Pecos Bill</em> <br> Return to Delight Audiences</strong></p> <p> <strong>HOUSTON, TEXAS</strong> -- From May 27 &#8211; June 6, 2010, Houston Ballet presents <strong>Pecos</strong>, a spring mixed repertory program, featuring Mark Morris's witty and inventive <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> alongside George Balanchine's classically virtuosic <strong>Ballo della Regina</strong> and Stanton Welch's <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>, a dramatic tale of the Texas legendary cowboy and his poignant romance with gutsy tomboy Slue-foot Sue. Houston Ballet will give six performances of <strong>Pecos</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p><strong>Ballo della Regina</strong>, a ballet for two principals, four female soloists, and corps de ballet, is set to the music of Giuseppe Verdi's opera <em>Don Carlos</em>. New York City Ballet premiered the work on January 12, 1978. George Balanchine choreographed the ballet to showcase the talents of New York City Ballet ballerina Merrill Ashley. Lincoln Kirstein, who with Balanchine co-founded New York City Ballet, wrote that the ballet seems to take place in a grotto, with reference through lighting and costumes to the original tale of a fisherman's search for the perfect pearl. &quot;From Verdi's way of dealing with the chorus,&quot; Balanchine told biographer Bernard Taper, &quot;I have learned how to handle the corps de ballet, the ensemble, the soloists, how to make the soloists stand out against the corps, and when to give them a rest.&quot;</p> <p>Ms. Ashley commented, &quot;Balanchine always seemed to take special delight in challenging me with difficult steps, and since he knew I excelled at moving quickly, he decided to make that the feature of <strong>Ballo </strong>-- virtuoso steps at high speed. He highlighted all my strengths in <strong>Ballo</strong>, giving me a ballet that not only was challenging and fun to dance, but one that gave me the opportunity to communicate the joy of dance, which was my favorite mood to express on stage. <strong>Ballo </strong>epitomizes the essence of the technique that he advocated, as it requires extreme precision, clarity, speed, and expansive movement. Dancers who are not trained in the Balanchine style are always startled to find how much easier the steps are when they use the technique Balanchine advocated. His choreography is constructed with the idea that the steps will be done as he would have taught them. That is what makes the angles of the steps look best, and what makes the transitions from step-to-step possible at high speeds.&quot;</p> <p>Houston Ballet will revive the deliciously witty <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> by legendary choreographer Mark Morris. Mr. Morris's <strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> is a lively ensemble piece for 25 dancers set to a suite of 1940s and 1950s all-American tunes by American composer Leroy Anderson, including <em>Sleigh Ride</em>, <em>The Typewriter</em> and <em>Fiddle Faddle</em>. Noted fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi created the vivid, colorful costumes in green and white, which add an inspired note of whimsy to the ballet.</p> <p>Mr. Morris explains, &quot;Anderson's novelty numbers are under known and under appreciated. They are wonderful small scale compositions that feature different sections of the orchestra. No one ever plays more than one of them on a program, as an encore. How about all encores? It is a fun gift for the orchestra and the public. What's better than <em>Sleigh Ride</em>?&quot;</p> <p> Writing for the <em>San Francisco Examiner</em>, dance critic Allan Ulrich exclaimed, &quot;<strong>Sandpaper Ballet</strong> lifts you out of your seat with its sheer, rib-tickling insouciance&#8230;.If you hate ballet, you will love it. If you worship ballet, you will understand it. And if you've never seen a ballet in your entire life, you will convert instantly.&quot; (April 28, 1999) Originally created for San Francisco Ballet, the work premiered on April 19, 1999 in San Francisco.<br> <strong> </strong><br> Stanton Welch's 2004 work <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> takes as its subject the mythical Texas cowboy Pecos Bill. One of the most colorful figures in Texas folklore, he was raised by a pack of wild coyotes after he fell from his mother's covered wagon when they were crossing the Pecos River. The relationship Pecos establishes with these animals leads to many adventures throughout his life. His best-known exploits include lassoing a cyclone, riding a mountain lion, and using a rattlesnake as a whip. Legend also has it that he invented the branding iron to stop cattle rustling, drained the Rio Grande to water his ranch during an enduring drought, and taught gophers to dig postholes.<br> </p> <p>Mr. Welch focuses on the poignant romance between Pecos Bill and his beloved, Slue-foot Sue. &quot;I'm not really touching upon the more traditional aspects that many people are familiar with,&quot; he comments. &quot;I'm developing the less familiar stories and the relationship with the women in his life. I think the end of Pecos's relationship with Sue is something that everyone can relate to.&quot;</p> <p>Mr. Welch commissioned the rising composer Matthew Pierce to compose the music for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>. Mr. Pierce has written ballet scores for numerous companies, including The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet and San Francisco Ballet.</p> <p>Acclaimed New Zealand designer Kristian Fredrikson created the costumes and scenery for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong>, ranging from Pecos Bill's playful red, white, and blue chaps to the coyote's fur-trimmed headdress. Mr. Fredrikson noted, &quot;The concept for <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> is to capture not only the comedic myth of Bill's origin and his courtship of the enthusiastic Slue-foot Sue, but also the ever growing size of Texas, which is itself practically a myth throughout the world. The set represents this by a single image ever arising into multiple sizes, and the costumes pay homage to the frontier folk who pioneered this often flat and golden land. My inspiration was the landscape of an American quilt &#8211; that colorful folk art which is so beloved and which, I feel, lies deep in the American soul. For me it is a patchwork of images that represent a state that took the star as its emblem and now seeks to move physically on into the reality of the constellations.&quot;</p> <p>Mr. Fredrikson designed a large number of productions for The Australian Ballet and The Australian Opera, including <strong>Swan Lake</strong>, <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>, <strong>Turandot</strong>, and <strong>The Merry Widow</strong>. He collaborated with Mr. Welch on several pieces, including his first professional ballet, <strong>Of Blessed Memory</strong>, and his versions of <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1995) and <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (2005) for The Australian Ballet and <strong>Swan Lake</strong> (2006) for Houston Ballet.</p> <p> Houston Ballet's performances of Pecos are made possible from the generous support of Baker Botts L.L.P.</p> <h3 align="center">###</h3> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY</strong><br> <strong><em>PECOS</em></strong><br> <strong>FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: <em>PECOS</em></strong><br> <strong>SPRING MIXED REPERTORY PROGRAM</strong> <p><strong>SANDPAPER BALLET </strong>(1999)<strong></strong><br> Music by Leroy Anderson (1908-1975)<br> Choreography by Mark Morris<br> Costume design by Isaac Mizrahi<br> Lighting design by James F. Ingalls<br> Staged by Tina Fehlandt<br> <p><strong>PECOS BILL </strong>(2004)<strong></strong><br> Music by Matthew Pierce<br> Choreography by Stanton Welch<br> Costumes and scenic design by Kristian Fredrikson<br> Lighting Design by Lisa J. Pinkham<strong></strong><br> <p><strong>BALLO DELLA REGINA </strong>(1978)<br> <strong>Houston Ballet Premiere</strong><br> Music by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901), from the opera <em>Don Carlos</em><br> Choreography by George Balanchine (1904-1983)<br> Staged by Merrill Ashley<br> Designs by Ben Benson <p><strong>Generously sponsored by: </strong>Baker Botts L.L.P.<strong></strong><br> <br> <strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM:</strong> Created by the legendary George Balanchine for New York City Ballet in 1978, <strong>Ballo Della Regina</strong> is a virtuoso set of variations, comparable to the bel canto style of opera, set to ballet music that was cut from the original production of Verdi's <em>Don Carlos</em>. Set to a specially commissioned score by Matthew Pierce, Stanton Welch's vibrantly theatrical <strong>Pecos Bill</strong> dramatizes the poignant romance between the legendary Texas hero Pecos Bill and the gutsy tomboy Sluefoot Sue. Modern dance legend Mark Morris's <strong>Sandpaper Ballet </strong>contains the hallmarks of his work:<strong> </strong>wit, humor, and dazzlingly inventive movement, along with whimsical green and white costumes by noted fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi. <br> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on May 27, 29, and June 4, 5, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on May 30, and June 5, 6, 2010 <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p><strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $18.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at www.houstonballet.org and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith St.)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a></p> . http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/443/ Shauna Tysor Fri, 26 Feb 2010 23:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/438/ <p align="right"><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/Galleries/AAHPhotos/index.html" title="American At Heart Photo Gallery" target="_blank">Click here for Photo Gallery</a>&nbsp;</p> <p align="left">FOR RELEASE MARCH 7, 2010<br> CONTACT: SHAUNA TYSOR<br> KIM ESPINOSA<br> 713 535 3226<br> <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#32;&#112;&#114;&#64;&#104;&#111;&#117;&#115;&#116;&#111;&#110;&#98;&#97;&#108;&#108;&#101;&#116;&#46;&#111;&#114;&#103;">pr@houstonballet.org</a> </p><h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS<br> <em>AMERICAN AT HEART </em></span></h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center">Company Premiere of Jerome Robbins's American Classic <br> <em>Fancy Free </em>Highlights Program</p> <p align="center">Company's Male Dancers Showcased in George Balanchine's <em>Apollo</em></p> <p align="center">Christopher Bruce's <em>Hush</em><br> Returns After Acclaimed Performances in London and Spain</p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas --</strong> From March 11 &#8211; March 21, 2010, Houston Ballet presents<strong> American at Heart</strong>, featuring two ballets that are significant to the history of American dance (George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> and Jerome Robbins's <strong>Fancy Free</strong>) and one work created specifically for an American company and inspired in part by American popular culture (Christopher Bruce's <strong>Hush</strong>).<strong> </strong>Houston Ballet will give six performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p>The company premiere of Jerome Robbins's American classic <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An influential work in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the young god Apollo, and his education by three muses. Christopher Bruce's comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin.</p> <p>Houston Ballet is proud to dedicate<strong> American at Heart </strong>to the brave men and women in the United States military. "<strong>Fancy Free</strong> is a quintessential portrait of three American sailors. Over the past nine years, the United States military has fought valiantly for our country, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to them and their families," explains Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch, "Many of our dancers have family members and friends who have served in the military, and we would like to honor them all with <strong>American at Heart</strong>." For its performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong>, Houston Ballet will offer $10 seats in the orchestra and grand tier to members of the armed forces and their families. To reserve tickets, members of the military or their family should call Houston Ballet&#8217;s box office at 713 227 2787.</p> <p>"<strong>American at Heart</strong> features an intimate set of ballets. Most ballet programs are centered on a large ensemble piece, but <strong>American at Heart</strong> is made up of casts featuring at most seven dancers, which allows the audience to form a special connection with the dancers on stage," comments Mr. Welch. <br> </p> <p>Houston Ballet's performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong> are generously sponsored by The Methodist Hospital System and National Endowment for the Arts. </p> <p align="center"><strong><em>Fancy Free</em></strong><strong> <br> Launches Jerome Robbins's Career as a Choreographer</strong></p> <p> When Jerome Robbins' first ballet <strong>Fancy Free</strong> premiered on April 18, 1944 at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, it proved to be one of the most exciting evenings in the history of American ballet and hailed the arrival of a major new choreographic talent. Robbins created the one-act ballet at the age of 24 with a young, unknown composer in New York, Leonard Bernstein, who sprang to national prominence shortly before the premiere of <strong>Fancy Free</strong> when he stepped in at the last moment and conducted the New York Philharmonic. Following the success of the ballet, the work was developed into the hit Broadway musical <strong>On The Town</strong> and in 1949 was adapted as a film with Gene Kelly as the star.</p> <p>"<strong>Fancy Free</strong> is the genesis of the iconic image of American sailors in the 1940s that the world visualizes when they think of <strong>On the Town</strong> and Gene Kelly. They may not realize it evolved from ballet, but they know the look, the style, the emotion it portrays," remarks Mr. Welch.</p> <p>Set in New York City on a hot summer night, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> portrays three sailors on shore leave in the 1940s. The sailors pick up two young girls, and a fight breaks out over which sailor will be left without a partner. They stage a competition in the bar, each dancing a variation in hopes of winning the favor of a girl by revealing their unique personalities. Unfortunately the girls are unable to choose, the fight resumes and the girls slip away. The sailors forgive each other just as a third girl passes by leaving the audience wondering if they learned their lesson.</p> <p>"The attention to theatrical detail required in <strong>Fancy Free </strong>is<strong> </strong>a challenge for the dancers: a raise of an eye brow here, a wink there. When watching it, the audience can't help but grin," notes Mr. Welch. <br> Houston Ballet has three other works by Robbins in its repertoire: <strong>Afternoon of a Faun</strong>, which entered Houston Ballet's repertory in 2008; <strong>The Concert</strong> (1956), which the company first performed in 2007; and <strong>In the Night</strong> (1970), which the company first danced in 1987.</p> <p align="center"><strong><br> Christopher Bruce's <em>Hush</em>: </strong><br> <strong>Inspired by American Silent Film Stars </strong></p> <p><strong>Hush</strong> is a comic and moving celebration of life chronicling the adventures of a family of performers, featuring three men and three women. Houston Ballet Associate Choreographer Christopher Bruce choreographed<strong> Hush</strong> for Houston Ballet in 2006. Using what Bruce called "a unique vocabulary we're evolving for the piece," the dancers perform to selected tracks from the album <em>Hush</em> by Bobby McFerrin and Yo-Yo Ma. An unusual collaboration between a master cellist and an improvisational singer/sound-effects performer, the recording is a joyful exploration of genres.</p> <p>During the creative process of choreographing the ballet, Bruce was drawn to a quote by Yo-Yo Ma from the record's liner notes. Yo-Yo Ma wrote, "<strong>Hush</strong> is a musical celebration of life -- from youth to old age." While in so many ways this album speaks to children, it is equally true that perhaps its central goal, to use Bobby's phrase, is to 'release the child in the adult.'" Mr. Bruce noted that the music was an inspiration for his piece.</p> <p>In an interview with Donald Hutera in <em>Dance Europe</em> (March 2009), Mr. Bruce commented on choreographing <strong>Hush</strong>:</p> <blockquote> <p>"I built around the idea of a family unit. There's a mother, a father and two sets of older and younger siblings. It's very much modeled on my experiences of family life, and the characters of the children on my own children and then my grandchildren. There are certain patterns that keep cropping up. It's a commedia dell'arte family, a family of clowns. There's a theme of a journey through life, of being on the road as a performer and, in a sense, rootless except in your tradition. The setting suggests a circus ring that's deserted and partly been taken down, with just sections left. It's like after the show, moving on. Like a metaphor for life." </p> </blockquote> <p>The sets and costumes for <strong>Hush</strong> are designed by Mr. Bruce's frequent collaborator and wife, Marian Bruce. Her concept for the designs puts the dancers backstage at a theatrical venue and transforms them into a close-knit theatrical or circus-like troupe. The dancers, who are not on pointe, are dressed in distressed costumes featuring a pale color palette. In preparation for designing the costumes, Mrs. Bruce researched a variety of sources, and was inspired by silent film stars from the early twentieth century such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harry Langdon.</p> <p>In April 2009 Houston Ballet toured <strong>Hush</strong> to Vigo, A Coruna, Santander, Pamplona, Murcia and Oviedo, Spain. In 2009,<strong> Hush</strong> entered the repertory of Rambert Dance Company, one of Britain's oldest and most venerable dance companies. Reviewing the first performances of the work in London, Sarah Crompton observed in <em>The Daily Telegraph</em> on May 14, 2009:</p> <blockquote> <p>The most impressive work is the opener, Christopher Bruce's <strong>Hush</strong>, created for Houston Ballet and receiving its London premiere. Set to tracks by Bobby McFerrin and Yo-Yo Ma, which combine a cappella singing and cello in improvised snatches of famous themes, it creates a nuclear family of mother, father and four children and sets them dancing under the stars.</p> <p> As a former Rambert director, Bruce is a past master at this kind of lyrical musing, and Marian Bruce's Pierrot-style costumes and setting propel the piece perilously close to whimsy. But what is so lovely is the substance of the movement. Each character is given individuality through the steps they perform: the mother stiff-legged, bound to domestic tasks; the oldest daughter's arched-back sense of discovery; the high-jumping, fleet-footed square dances for the adventurous boys.</p> <p> The playful duet for the parents while their children slept drew an "aah" from the audience, not a sound often heard in contemporary dance, but a tribute to a work that is both expressive and stunningly performed.</p> </blockquote> <p>In October 2009 <em>Dance Europe's</em> editor Emma Manning named <strong>Hush</strong> the "Best Contemporary Dance Premiere" when Rambert Dance Company premiered the piece.</p> <p>Houston dance critic Nancy Wozny voted <strong>Hush</strong> one of the best dance performances of the decade for <em>Culture Map</em>. She described the piece as "chock filled with gorgeous stage pictures" and that "the ballet conjured a delicate world, full of nuanced dancing." (December 31, 2009)</p> <p>Mr. Bruce has played a key role in Houston Ballet's repertory over the last two decades, greatly expanding the company's facility for performing modern dance works and developing the dancers' capacity for contemporary movement. <strong>Hush</strong> is the fourth work Houston Ballet has commissioned by Mr. Bruce to enter the company's repertoire -- and the tenth work by him that the company has performed.</p> <p>Hailed by London's <em>The Daily Telegraph</em> as "the Nureyev of contemporary ballet," Mr. Bruce was appointed Houston Ballet associate choreographer in 1989 and has staged ten acclaimed works for the company including <strong>Ghost Dances </strong>(1981), <strong>Land </strong>(1985) and <strong>Swansong</strong> (1987). He has created four works especially for Houston Ballet: <strong>Gautama Buddha</strong> (1989), <strong>Journey</strong> (1990) <strong>Nature Dances</strong> (1992), and <strong>Hush</strong> (2006). Over the last 20 years, Houston Ballet has emerged as Mr. Bruce's artistic home in America.</p> <p align="center"><strong><em>Apollo</em></strong><strong>:<br> A Turning Point in Balanchine&#8217;s Development as a Choreographer</strong> </p> <p>George Balanchine's oldest surviving work <strong>Apollo</strong> (1928) traces the birth of the god Apollo and his education by three of the muses in the arts -- Calliope, Polyhymnia and Terpsichore. Calliope personifies poetry and rhythm, Polyhymnia represents mime, and Terpsichore combines poetry and gesture in dance. In a final dance, Apollo and the muses ascend to Parnassus.</p> <p>"<strong>Apollo</strong> is a true masterpiece. The choreography is genius and regarded as the birth of neo-classical ballet," explains Mr. Welch, "Balanchine is synonymous with American dance around the world. The piece is important for our dancers to perform as well as for audiences to understand the origins of American dance and the effects that Balanchine had on American dance."</p> <p>The creation of <strong>Apollo</strong> is significant in dance history in several respects. It is the first work that Balanchine choreographed, at age 24, to music by Igor Stravinsky. <strong>Apollo</strong> also furthered Balanchine's development as a choreographer, forcing him to analyze his choreographic style and motivation. Writing in <u>The International Dictionary of Ballet</u>, Jody Leader has noted, "With <strong>Apollo</strong>, Balanchine began to strip down ballet, clearing away the multiple choices to the one choice that was inevitable, unique to each piece. He was influenced by Stravinsky, who believed the highest expression in dance was absolute purity -- dancing with no meaning apart from itself&#8230;.All the choreography he did after <strong>Apollo</strong> was affected by this realization."</p> <p> "I look back upon <strong>Apollo</strong> as the turning point in my life,&#8221; Balanchine said.</p> <p>For the next half century, he continued to revise and refine <strong>Apollo</strong>, cutting music, dance and eventually omitting scenery. It is one of New York City Ballet's signature works and is also danced by companies across America and the world. Houston Ballet first performed this landmark ballet in 2004.</p> <p align="center">###</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET&#8217;S 40TH ANNIVERSARY<br> <em>AMERICAN AT HEART</em> <br> FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><br> <strong>WHAT: <em>AMERICAN AT HEART</em></strong><br> <strong>WINTER MIXED REPERTORY PROGRAM</strong></p> <p> Houston Ballet dedicates performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong><br> to the United States military.</p> <p><strong>FANCY FREE (1944): Houston Ballet Premiere</strong><br> Music by Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990)<br> Choreography by Jerome Robbins<br> Scenic Design by Oliver Smith<br> Costume Design by Kermit Love<br> Lighting based on the original design by Ronald Bates, Recreated by Christina R. Giannelli<br> Staged by Bart Cook</p> <p><strong>APOLLO (1928) </strong><br> Music by Igor Stravinsky (1882-1971)<br> Choreography by George Balanchine<br> Lighting by Christina R. Giannelli<br> Staged by Victoria Simon</p> <p><strong>HUSH (2006)</strong><br> Music by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin, <em>Hush</em><br> Choreography by Christopher Bruce<br> Scenic and Costume Designs by Marian Bruce<br> Lighting by Christina R. Giannelli</p> <p><strong>Generously sponsored by: </strong>The Methodist Hospital System, National Endowment for the Arts</p> <p><strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM: </strong><br> Set to a rousing score by Leonard Bernstein, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An American classic, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> was later developed into the hit musical <strong>On The Town</strong>. A seminal piece in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the god of music, poetry and prophecy <strong>&#8211;</strong> and his education by (and flirtation with) the three muses Terpsichore, Calliope and Polyhymnia. Christopher Bruce's comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers, and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin.</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on March 11, 13, 19, 20, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on March 14, 21, 2010</p> <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p><strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $17.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a> and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)<br> </p> <p><strong>MILITARY </strong><strong>DISCOUNT: </strong>Members of the United States military will be able to purchase $10 tickets to <strong>American at Heart</strong> performances starting Tuesday, February 16. <br> Call 713 227 2787 or in person at Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <br><br>19-Feb-10 5:00 PM HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS AMERICAN AT HEART <p align="right"><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/Galleries/AAHPhotos/index.html" title="American At Heart Photo Gallery" target="_blank">Click here for Photo Gallery</a>&nbsp;</p> <p align="left">FOR RELEASE MARCH 7, 2010<br> CONTACT: SHAUNA TYSOR<br> KIM ESPINOSA<br> 713 535 3226<br> <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#32;&#112;&#114;&#64;&#104;&#111;&#117;&#115;&#116;&#111;&#110;&#98;&#97;&#108;&#108;&#101;&#116;&#46;&#111;&#114;&#103;">pr@houstonballet.org</a> </p><h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS<br> <em>AMERICAN AT HEART </em></span></h1> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center">Company Premiere of Jerome Robbins's American Classic <br> <em>Fancy Free </em>Highlights Program</p> <p align="center">Company's Male Dancers Showcased in George Balanchine's <em>Apollo</em></p> <p align="center">Christopher Bruce's <em>Hush</em><br> Returns After Acclaimed Performances in London and Spain</p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas --</strong> From March 11 &#8211; March 21, 2010, Houston Ballet presents<strong> American at Heart</strong>, featuring two ballets that are significant to the history of American dance (George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> and Jerome Robbins's <strong>Fancy Free</strong>) and one work created specifically for an American company and inspired in part by American popular culture (Christopher Bruce's <strong>Hush</strong>).<strong> </strong>Houston Ballet will give six performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p>The company premiere of Jerome Robbins's American classic <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An influential work in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the young god Apollo, and his education by three muses. Christopher Bruce's comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin.</p> <p>Houston Ballet is proud to dedicate<strong> American at Heart </strong>to the brave men and women in the United States military. "<strong>Fancy Free</strong> is a quintessential portrait of three American sailors. Over the past nine years, the United States military has fought valiantly for our country, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to them and their families," explains Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch, "Many of our dancers have family members and friends who have served in the military, and we would like to honor them all with <strong>American at Heart</strong>." For its performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong>, Houston Ballet will offer $10 seats in the orchestra and grand tier to members of the armed forces and their families. To reserve tickets, members of the military or their family should call Houston Ballet&#8217;s box office at 713 227 2787.</p> <p>"<strong>American at Heart</strong> features an intimate set of ballets. Most ballet programs are centered on a large ensemble piece, but <strong>American at Heart</strong> is made up of casts featuring at most seven dancers, which allows the audience to form a special connection with the dancers on stage," comments Mr. Welch. <br> </p> <p>Houston Ballet's performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong> are generously sponsored by The Methodist Hospital System and National Endowment for the Arts. </p> <p align="center"><strong><em>Fancy Free</em></strong><strong> <br> Launches Jerome Robbins's Career as a Choreographer</strong></p> <p> When Jerome Robbins' first ballet <strong>Fancy Free</strong> premiered on April 18, 1944 at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, it proved to be one of the most exciting evenings in the history of American ballet and hailed the arrival of a major new choreographic talent. Robbins created the one-act ballet at the age of 24 with a young, unknown composer in New York, Leonard Bernstein, who sprang to national prominence shortly before the premiere of <strong>Fancy Free</strong> when he stepped in at the last moment and conducted the New York Philharmonic. Following the success of the ballet, the work was developed into the hit Broadway musical <strong>On The Town</strong> and in 1949 was adapted as a film with Gene Kelly as the star.</p> <p>"<strong>Fancy Free</strong> is the genesis of the iconic image of American sailors in the 1940s that the world visualizes when they think of <strong>On the Town</strong> and Gene Kelly. They may not realize it evolved from ballet, but they know the look, the style, the emotion it portrays," remarks Mr. Welch.</p> <p>Set in New York City on a hot summer night, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> portrays three sailors on shore leave in the 1940s. The sailors pick up two young girls, and a fight breaks out over which sailor will be left without a partner. They stage a competition in the bar, each dancing a variation in hopes of winning the favor of a girl by revealing their unique personalities. Unfortunately the girls are unable to choose, the fight resumes and the girls slip away. The sailors forgive each other just as a third girl passes by leaving the audience wondering if they learned their lesson.</p> <p>"The attention to theatrical detail required in <strong>Fancy Free </strong>is<strong> </strong>a challenge for the dancers: a raise of an eye brow here, a wink there. When watching it, the audience can't help but grin," notes Mr. Welch. <br> Houston Ballet has three other works by Robbins in its repertoire: <strong>Afternoon of a Faun</strong>, which entered Houston Ballet's repertory in 2008; <strong>The Concert</strong> (1956), which the company first performed in 2007; and <strong>In the Night</strong> (1970), which the company first danced in 1987.</p> <p align="center"><strong><br> Christopher Bruce's <em>Hush</em>: </strong><br> <strong>Inspired by American Silent Film Stars </strong></p> <p><strong>Hush</strong> is a comic and moving celebration of life chronicling the adventures of a family of performers, featuring three men and three women. Houston Ballet Associate Choreographer Christopher Bruce choreographed<strong> Hush</strong> for Houston Ballet in 2006. Using what Bruce called "a unique vocabulary we're evolving for the piece," the dancers perform to selected tracks from the album <em>Hush</em> by Bobby McFerrin and Yo-Yo Ma. An unusual collaboration between a master cellist and an improvisational singer/sound-effects performer, the recording is a joyful exploration of genres.</p> <p>During the creative process of choreographing the ballet, Bruce was drawn to a quote by Yo-Yo Ma from the record's liner notes. Yo-Yo Ma wrote, "<strong>Hush</strong> is a musical celebration of life -- from youth to old age." While in so many ways this album speaks to children, it is equally true that perhaps its central goal, to use Bobby's phrase, is to 'release the child in the adult.'" Mr. Bruce noted that the music was an inspiration for his piece.</p> <p>In an interview with Donald Hutera in <em>Dance Europe</em> (March 2009), Mr. Bruce commented on choreographing <strong>Hush</strong>:</p> <blockquote> <p>"I built around the idea of a family unit. There's a mother, a father and two sets of older and younger siblings. It's very much modeled on my experiences of family life, and the characters of the children on my own children and then my grandchildren. There are certain patterns that keep cropping up. It's a commedia dell'arte family, a family of clowns. There's a theme of a journey through life, of being on the road as a performer and, in a sense, rootless except in your tradition. The setting suggests a circus ring that's deserted and partly been taken down, with just sections left. It's like after the show, moving on. Like a metaphor for life." </p> </blockquote> <p>The sets and costumes for <strong>Hush</strong> are designed by Mr. Bruce's frequent collaborator and wife, Marian Bruce. Her concept for the designs puts the dancers backstage at a theatrical venue and transforms them into a close-knit theatrical or circus-like troupe. The dancers, who are not on pointe, are dressed in distressed costumes featuring a pale color palette. In preparation for designing the costumes, Mrs. Bruce researched a variety of sources, and was inspired by silent film stars from the early twentieth century such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harry Langdon.</p> <p>In April 2009 Houston Ballet toured <strong>Hush</strong> to Vigo, A Coruna, Santander, Pamplona, Murcia and Oviedo, Spain. In 2009,<strong> Hush</strong> entered the repertory of Rambert Dance Company, one of Britain's oldest and most venerable dance companies. Reviewing the first performances of the work in London, Sarah Crompton observed in <em>The Daily Telegraph</em> on May 14, 2009:</p> <blockquote> <p>The most impressive work is the opener, Christopher Bruce's <strong>Hush</strong>, created for Houston Ballet and receiving its London premiere. Set to tracks by Bobby McFerrin and Yo-Yo Ma, which combine a cappella singing and cello in improvised snatches of famous themes, it creates a nuclear family of mother, father and four children and sets them dancing under the stars.</p> <p> As a former Rambert director, Bruce is a past master at this kind of lyrical musing, and Marian Bruce's Pierrot-style costumes and setting propel the piece perilously close to whimsy. But what is so lovely is the substance of the movement. Each character is given individuality through the steps they perform: the mother stiff-legged, bound to domestic tasks; the oldest daughter's arched-back sense of discovery; the high-jumping, fleet-footed square dances for the adventurous boys.</p> <p> The playful duet for the parents while their children slept drew an "aah" from the audience, not a sound often heard in contemporary dance, but a tribute to a work that is both expressive and stunningly performed.</p> </blockquote> <p>In October 2009 <em>Dance Europe's</em> editor Emma Manning named <strong>Hush</strong> the "Best Contemporary Dance Premiere" when Rambert Dance Company premiered the piece.</p> <p>Houston dance critic Nancy Wozny voted <strong>Hush</strong> one of the best dance performances of the decade for <em>Culture Map</em>. She described the piece as "chock filled with gorgeous stage pictures" and that "the ballet conjured a delicate world, full of nuanced dancing." (December 31, 2009)</p> <p>Mr. Bruce has played a key role in Houston Ballet's repertory over the last two decades, greatly expanding the company's facility for performing modern dance works and developing the dancers' capacity for contemporary movement. <strong>Hush</strong> is the fourth work Houston Ballet has commissioned by Mr. Bruce to enter the company's repertoire -- and the tenth work by him that the company has performed.</p> <p>Hailed by London's <em>The Daily Telegraph</em> as "the Nureyev of contemporary ballet," Mr. Bruce was appointed Houston Ballet associate choreographer in 1989 and has staged ten acclaimed works for the company including <strong>Ghost Dances </strong>(1981), <strong>Land </strong>(1985) and <strong>Swansong</strong> (1987). He has created four works especially for Houston Ballet: <strong>Gautama Buddha</strong> (1989), <strong>Journey</strong> (1990) <strong>Nature Dances</strong> (1992), and <strong>Hush</strong> (2006). Over the last 20 years, Houston Ballet has emerged as Mr. Bruce's artistic home in America.</p> <p align="center"><strong><em>Apollo</em></strong><strong>:<br> A Turning Point in Balanchine&#8217;s Development as a Choreographer</strong> </p> <p>George Balanchine's oldest surviving work <strong>Apollo</strong> (1928) traces the birth of the god Apollo and his education by three of the muses in the arts -- Calliope, Polyhymnia and Terpsichore. Calliope personifies poetry and rhythm, Polyhymnia represents mime, and Terpsichore combines poetry and gesture in dance. In a final dance, Apollo and the muses ascend to Parnassus.</p> <p>"<strong>Apollo</strong> is a true masterpiece. The choreography is genius and regarded as the birth of neo-classical ballet," explains Mr. Welch, "Balanchine is synonymous with American dance around the world. The piece is important for our dancers to perform as well as for audiences to understand the origins of American dance and the effects that Balanchine had on American dance."</p> <p>The creation of <strong>Apollo</strong> is significant in dance history in several respects. It is the first work that Balanchine choreographed, at age 24, to music by Igor Stravinsky. <strong>Apollo</strong> also furthered Balanchine's development as a choreographer, forcing him to analyze his choreographic style and motivation. Writing in <u>The International Dictionary of Ballet</u>, Jody Leader has noted, "With <strong>Apollo</strong>, Balanchine began to strip down ballet, clearing away the multiple choices to the one choice that was inevitable, unique to each piece. He was influenced by Stravinsky, who believed the highest expression in dance was absolute purity -- dancing with no meaning apart from itself&#8230;.All the choreography he did after <strong>Apollo</strong> was affected by this realization."</p> <p> "I look back upon <strong>Apollo</strong> as the turning point in my life,&#8221; Balanchine said.</p> <p>For the next half century, he continued to revise and refine <strong>Apollo</strong>, cutting music, dance and eventually omitting scenery. It is one of New York City Ballet's signature works and is also danced by companies across America and the world. Houston Ballet first performed this landmark ballet in 2004.</p> <p align="center">###</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET&#8217;S 40TH ANNIVERSARY<br> <em>AMERICAN AT HEART</em> <br> FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><br> <strong>WHAT: <em>AMERICAN AT HEART</em></strong><br> <strong>WINTER MIXED REPERTORY PROGRAM</strong></p> <p> Houston Ballet dedicates performances of <strong>American at Heart</strong><br> to the United States military.</p> <p><strong>FANCY FREE (1944): Houston Ballet Premiere</strong><br> Music by Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990)<br> Choreography by Jerome Robbins<br> Scenic Design by Oliver Smith<br> Costume Design by Kermit Love<br> Lighting based on the original design by Ronald Bates, Recreated by Christina R. Giannelli<br> Staged by Bart Cook</p> <p><strong>APOLLO (1928) </strong><br> Music by Igor Stravinsky (1882-1971)<br> Choreography by George Balanchine<br> Lighting by Christina R. Giannelli<br> Staged by Victoria Simon</p> <p><strong>HUSH (2006)</strong><br> Music by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin, <em>Hush</em><br> Choreography by Christopher Bruce<br> Scenic and Costume Designs by Marian Bruce<br> Lighting by Christina R. Giannelli</p> <p><strong>Generously sponsored by: </strong>The Methodist Hospital System, National Endowment for the Arts</p> <p><strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM: </strong><br> Set to a rousing score by Leonard Bernstein, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> depicts the adventures of three sailors on shore leave who meet two girls on a hot summer night in New York City in the 1940s. An American classic, <strong>Fancy Free</strong> was later developed into the hit musical <strong>On The Town</strong>. A seminal piece in the history of twentieth century ballet, George Balanchine's <strong>Apollo</strong> traces the birth of the god of music, poetry and prophecy <strong>&#8211;</strong> and his education by (and flirtation with) the three muses Terpsichore, Calliope and Polyhymnia. Christopher Bruce's comic and moving <strong>Hush</strong> chronicles the adventures of a family of performers, and is set to a musical celebration of life &#8211; from youth to old age &#8211; by Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin.</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on March 11, 13, 19, 20, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on March 14, 21, 2010</p> <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p><strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $17.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a> and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)<br> </p> <p><strong>MILITARY </strong><strong>DISCOUNT: </strong>Members of the United States military will be able to purchase $10 tickets to <strong>American at Heart</strong> performances starting Tuesday, February 16. <br> Call 713 227 2787 or in person at Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith Street)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/438/ Shauna Tysor Fri, 19 Feb 2010 23:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/437/ <p align="right">&nbsp;</p> <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET REACHES MILESTONE </strong><br> <strong>IN CONSTRUCTION OF NEW $53 MILLION CENTER FOR DANCE </strong></span></h1> <p align="center"><strong>Topping Off Ceremony Celebrates Completion of the Steel Structure for the </strong><br> <strong>Largest Professional Dance Facility in the United States</strong></p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas -- </strong> On March 10, 2010 at 11 AM, Houston Ballet will hold a topping off ceremony for its new $53 million Center for Dance, set to open in spring 2011. A 20-foot-steel beam will be placed on the west side of the 115,000-square-foot, six-story Center for Dance just eight months after breaking ground in July 2009. The steel frame being constructed at 601 Preston in downtown Houston marks a significant milestone in the construction of the largest professional dance company facility in the United States.</p> <p>"With the topping off ceremony for the new Center for Dance, we move a step closer to the next chapter in Houston Ballet's history: a state-of-the-art facility for the company located in the heart of Houston's Theater District, just across the street from Wortham Theater Center where the company performs. Moving into the Center for Dance will be a great leap forward for the company, allowing us to significantly expand our education and dance training programs," commented Jesse H. Jones II, co-chairman of the capital campaign and a longtime trustee of Houston Ballet Foundation.</p> <p>"This building is a tangible symbol of the city of Houston's passionate commitment to the arts. And it will cement Houston's reputation as an international center for the performing and visual arts.</p> <p>"During a time of national economic recession, when the construction and architecture industries are facing major challenges, the construction of the new Center for Dance has created jobs for Houstonians. When the building is completed in 2011, over 350,000 man hours will be invested in this project. In many ways, the construction of the Center for Dance -- occurring at a time of significant financial challenge -- is a symbol of the resiliency and vitality of Houston, its economy and its people."<br> <br> "The topping off ceremony is a tradition dating back centuries, originating in Scandinavia," commented Houston Ballet Managing Director C.C. Conner. "We are pleased to honor the construction workers who have worked so diligently on this project, and are responsible for the progress thus far."</p> <p>At the ceremony, construction workers involved in the project as well as dancers, staff and patrons of Houston Ballet will have a chance to inscribe their signatures on the final steel beam before it is hoisted into place with an evergreen perched on top symbolizing growth.</p> <p>The six-story building will boast nine dance studios, a black box dance laboratory that seats 200 for presentations as well as rehearsals, and artistic, administrative and support facilities for Houston Ballet and its Ben Stevenson Academy. The new facility will more than double the space that Houston Ballet has at its current home, located at 1916 West Gray in the River Oaks section of Houston, which the company renovated in 1984 and features six dance studios. The Center for Dance will become Houston Ballet's sixth home since its founding in 1955, when it was first housed in a renovated garage at 813 Lovett Boulevard in the Montrose section of Houston.</p> <p>The new structure, designed by globally-recognized architecture firm Gensler, will be the largest professional dance company facility of its kind constructed in the United States. The<em> Houston Chronicle</em> has observed that the building "could be the most exciting new architecture Houston has seen in decades."&nbsp; (July 31, 2009) Art Gensler, chairman and founder of Gensler, acknowledged&nbsp; the importance of the project, commenting: "What a privilege it&#8217;s been to create the new home for Houston Ballet, literally opening a window through the building's design that lets all of Houston see the beauty, talent and passion of Houston Ballet. We are thrilled to be part of this wonderful addition to downtown Houston and its Theatre District." </p> <p>Richard Maxwell is the project principal. The project manager is Lorrie Foreman of Irvine Team. The general contractor managing the construction is W.S. Bellows Construction Corporation. </p> <p>The co-chairs of the ongoing capital campaign are John C. Bass, Jesse H. Jones II and Anita B. Stude. (Mrs. Stude served as co-chairman of the campaign until her death in July 2009.) </p> <p align="center"><strong>About Houston Ballet</strong></p> <p>Houston Ballet is America's fourth largest ballet company, an ensemble of 53 dancers with an annual budget of $17.7 million and an endowment of just over $50.7 million (as of December 31, 2009). Hailed by <em>The New York Times</em> as "one of the nation's best ballet companies," Houston Ballet has toured over the last decade to New York, London, Montreal, Hong Kong, the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow, The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and to cities large and small across the United States. </p> <p align="center">###<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET'S NEW CENTER FOR DANCE</strong><br> <strong>TOPPING OFF CEREMONY</strong><br> <strong>FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: </strong>Houston Ballet's<strong> </strong>New Center for Dance Topping Off Ceremony<br> Largest Professional Dance Facility in the United States</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 11 AM<br> 11:00 AM - Signing of steel beam begins<br> 11:30 AM - Topping off ceremony<br> 12:00 PM (noon) - Lunch served for construction crew and media (If you will be able to attend the lunch please RSVP to 713 535 3226)<br> 1:00 PM - Ceremony and lunch finish</p> <p><strong>WHO:</strong> Houston Ballet dancers, patrons, students and staff.<br> Construction crews from W.S. Bellows Construction Corporation, Gensler staff, Irvine Team staff, and the City of Houston council members involved in the project<br> <br> <strong>WHERE: </strong>601 Preston<br> Located in downtown Houston at the intersection of Smith and Preston Streets.</p> <p align="center"><br> <em>###</em></p> <br><br>15-Feb-10 2:00 PM HOUSTON BALLET REACHES MILESTONE IN CONSTRUCTION OF NEW $53 MILLION CENTER FOR DANCE <p align="right">&nbsp;</p> <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET REACHES MILESTONE </strong><br> <strong>IN CONSTRUCTION OF NEW $53 MILLION CENTER FOR DANCE </strong></span></h1> <p align="center"><strong>Topping Off Ceremony Celebrates Completion of the Steel Structure for the </strong><br> <strong>Largest Professional Dance Facility in the United States</strong></p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas -- </strong> On March 10, 2010 at 11 AM, Houston Ballet will hold a topping off ceremony for its new $53 million Center for Dance, set to open in spring 2011. A 20-foot-steel beam will be placed on the west side of the 115,000-square-foot, six-story Center for Dance just eight months after breaking ground in July 2009. The steel frame being constructed at 601 Preston in downtown Houston marks a significant milestone in the construction of the largest professional dance company facility in the United States.</p> <p>"With the topping off ceremony for the new Center for Dance, we move a step closer to the next chapter in Houston Ballet's history: a state-of-the-art facility for the company located in the heart of Houston's Theater District, just across the street from Wortham Theater Center where the company performs. Moving into the Center for Dance will be a great leap forward for the company, allowing us to significantly expand our education and dance training programs," commented Jesse H. Jones II, co-chairman of the capital campaign and a longtime trustee of Houston Ballet Foundation.</p> <p>"This building is a tangible symbol of the city of Houston's passionate commitment to the arts. And it will cement Houston's reputation as an international center for the performing and visual arts.</p> <p>"During a time of national economic recession, when the construction and architecture industries are facing major challenges, the construction of the new Center for Dance has created jobs for Houstonians. When the building is completed in 2011, over 350,000 man hours will be invested in this project. In many ways, the construction of the Center for Dance -- occurring at a time of significant financial challenge -- is a symbol of the resiliency and vitality of Houston, its economy and its people."<br> <br> "The topping off ceremony is a tradition dating back centuries, originating in Scandinavia," commented Houston Ballet Managing Director C.C. Conner. "We are pleased to honor the construction workers who have worked so diligently on this project, and are responsible for the progress thus far."</p> <p>At the ceremony, construction workers involved in the project as well as dancers, staff and patrons of Houston Ballet will have a chance to inscribe their signatures on the final steel beam before it is hoisted into place with an evergreen perched on top symbolizing growth.</p> <p>The six-story building will boast nine dance studios, a black box dance laboratory that seats 200 for presentations as well as rehearsals, and artistic, administrative and support facilities for Houston Ballet and its Ben Stevenson Academy. The new facility will more than double the space that Houston Ballet has at its current home, located at 1916 West Gray in the River Oaks section of Houston, which the company renovated in 1984 and features six dance studios. The Center for Dance will become Houston Ballet's sixth home since its founding in 1955, when it was first housed in a renovated garage at 813 Lovett Boulevard in the Montrose section of Houston.</p> <p>The new structure, designed by globally-recognized architecture firm Gensler, will be the largest professional dance company facility of its kind constructed in the United States. The<em> Houston Chronicle</em> has observed that the building "could be the most exciting new architecture Houston has seen in decades."&nbsp; (July 31, 2009) Art Gensler, chairman and founder of Gensler, acknowledged&nbsp; the importance of the project, commenting: "What a privilege it&#8217;s been to create the new home for Houston Ballet, literally opening a window through the building's design that lets all of Houston see the beauty, talent and passion of Houston Ballet. We are thrilled to be part of this wonderful addition to downtown Houston and its Theatre District." </p> <p>Richard Maxwell is the project principal. The project manager is Lorrie Foreman of Irvine Team. The general contractor managing the construction is W.S. Bellows Construction Corporation. </p> <p>The co-chairs of the ongoing capital campaign are John C. Bass, Jesse H. Jones II and Anita B. Stude. (Mrs. Stude served as co-chairman of the campaign until her death in July 2009.) </p> <p align="center"><strong>About Houston Ballet</strong></p> <p>Houston Ballet is America's fourth largest ballet company, an ensemble of 53 dancers with an annual budget of $17.7 million and an endowment of just over $50.7 million (as of December 31, 2009). Hailed by <em>The New York Times</em> as "one of the nation's best ballet companies," Houston Ballet has toured over the last decade to New York, London, Montreal, Hong Kong, the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow, The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and to cities large and small across the United States. </p> <p align="center">###<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>HOUSTON BALLET'S NEW CENTER FOR DANCE</strong><br> <strong>TOPPING OFF CEREMONY</strong><br> <strong>FACT SHEET</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: </strong>Houston Ballet's<strong> </strong>New Center for Dance Topping Off Ceremony<br> Largest Professional Dance Facility in the United States</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 11 AM<br> 11:00 AM - Signing of steel beam begins<br> 11:30 AM - Topping off ceremony<br> 12:00 PM (noon) - Lunch served for construction crew and media (If you will be able to attend the lunch please RSVP to 713 535 3226)<br> 1:00 PM - Ceremony and lunch finish</p> <p><strong>WHO:</strong> Houston Ballet dancers, patrons, students and staff.<br> Construction crews from W.S. Bellows Construction Corporation, Gensler staff, Irvine Team staff, and the City of Houston council members involved in the project<br> <br> <strong>WHERE: </strong>601 Preston<br> Located in downtown Houston at the intersection of Smith and Preston Streets.</p> <p align="center"><br> <em>###</em></p> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/437/ Shauna Tysor Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/436/ <span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p align="center">&#8220;A FLAWLESS PRODUCTION!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>The New York Times</em></p> <p align="center">&#8220;THE BEST REVIVAL OF RODGERS &amp; HAMMERSTEIN IN A GENERATION!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>The Washington Post</em></p> <p align="center">&#8220;BY FAR BROADWAY&#8217;S HOTTEST TICKET!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>Chicago Tribune</em></p> <p><br> Houston TX&#8230;Lincoln Center Theater, in association with Bob Boyett and NETworks Presentations, presents a new production of Richard Rodgers &amp; Oscar Hammerstein&#8217;s prize-winning musical <strong><em>SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong>, directed by Bartlett Sher.&nbsp; <strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong> makes its Houston debut presented by Theatre Under The Stars at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts March 9 &#8211; 21, 2010. <strong>For more information on the production, please visit </strong><a href="http://www.southpacificontour.com/"><strong>www.SouthPacificOnTour.com</strong></a><strong>. For tickets visit <a href="http://www.tuts.com/"><strong>www.TUTS.com</strong></a></strong><strong>. </strong></p> <p><strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong> swept the 2008 Tony Awards&#174;, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. This breathtaking new production has created a sold-out sensation on Broadway, lauded by the critics as &#8220;<strong>Simply Wonderful! Beguiling Theatrical Magic!</strong>&#8221; (<em>New York Post</em>), &#8220;<strong>Ravishing and Overwhelming</strong>&#8221; (<em>Variety</em>) and &#8220;<strong>Rapturous and Revelatory</strong>!&#8221; (<em>The New York Times</em>). The Lincoln Center Theater production of Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein's <strong>SOUTH PACIFIC</strong> continues its record breaking run on Broadway at the Vivian Beaumont Theater (150 West 65 Street).&nbsp; Visit <a href="http://www.southpacificmusical.com/">www.SouthPacificMusical.com</a>.<br> &nbsp;<br> Based on James Michener&#8217;s Pulitzer Prize winning book <em>Tales of the South Pacific</em>, <strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s South Pacific</em></strong> has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and a book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan.</p> <p>Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples -- US Navy nurse Nellie Forbush and French plantation owner Emile de Becque and Navy Airman Joe Cable and a young local native girl Liat -- and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. Considered by many the finest musical ever written, the score&#8217;s songs include such classics as &#8220;Some Enchanted Evening,&#8221; &#8220;I&#8217;m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,&#8221; &#8220;Younger Than Springtime,&#8221; &#8220;Bali Ha&#8217;i,&#8221; &#8220;There is Nothin&#8217; Like A Dame,&#8221; &#8220;This Nearly Was Mine&#8221; and &#8220;A Wonderful Guy.&#8221;</p> <p>&nbsp;The lavish new production features a cast of 34, musical staging by Christopher Gattelli, sets by Michael Yeargan (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), costumes by Catherine Zuber (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), lighting by Donald Holder (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), sound by Scott Lehrer (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;) and music direction by Ted Sperling.&nbsp; A full orchestra of 26 members &#8211; the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production &#8211; will perform the original orchestrations by Robert Russell Bennett (winner of a Special 2008 Tony Award&#174;) and dance and incidental music arranged by Trude Rittmann.</p> <p>In celebration of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em>, Theatre Under The Stars offers a number of special events and opportunities. For more information visit TUTS.com/events.&nbsp;</p> </span><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li><p><strong>TUTS Film Series</strong>: South Pacific on the Big Screen&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li></ul></span><blockquote><ul><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 7 PM</p></span></li><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>TUTS partners with Angelika Theatre downtown for a special screening of the classic movie musical, South Pacific. </p></span></li></ul></blockquote><ul><li><p><strong>Bloody Mary Cocktail Contest:</strong>&nbsp; Calling all cocktail connoisseurs! Celebrating <strong>Theatre Under The Stars&#8217;</strong> presentation of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em>, TUTS is partnering with local hot-spots and <strong>My Table Magazine</strong> in a <strong>Bloody Mary Cocktail Contest!</strong> We love Bloody Mary&#8217;s performance in the show and we&#8217;re looking for an equally spectacular cocktail in her honor! Try your taste buds at the selected restaurants February 15 - March 7, then vote on <a href="http://www.tuts.com/">www.tuts.com</a> for the best Bloody Mary. The winning restaurant will be awarded tickets to the show! One lucky voter will also win 4 tickets. South Pacific lights up the stage at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts, <strong>March 9-21</strong>. Visit TUTS.com for more information. <strong>Participating Restaurants Include</strong>: Mockingbird Bistro, Canopy, Hard Rock Caf&#233;, Ouisie&#8217;s Table, Backstreet Caf&#233;, Artista, and the Cadillac Bar.</p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Kids Night on Broadway</strong></p></li></ul><blockquote><ul><li><p>Wednesday, March 10, 2010</p></li><li><p>TUTS spreads the love of musical theatre to the next generation with Kids Night On Broadway! Any adult who purchases a full price ticket can bring a child under 18 for FREE! <br></p></li></ul></blockquote><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li><p>&nbsp;<strong>Dinner &amp; Theatre Package:</strong> TUTS and Damian's All-Inclusive Dinner Package</p></li></ul></span><blockquote><ul><li><p><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left">Wednesday, March 10 and March 17, 2010 </span></p></li></ul></blockquote><ul><li><p><strong>First Thursday Cabaret:</strong> Thurs, March 11, 2010&nbsp;</p></li></ul><blockquote><ul><li><p> A post-show event with <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#79;&#85;&#84;&#64;&#84;&#85;&#84;&#83;">OUT@TUTS</a> (our GLBT friends) at Artista Restaurant.&nbsp;</p></li></ul></blockquote><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li> <p><strong>The South Pacific VIP Experience</strong></p></li></ul> </span><blockquote><ul><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Sunday, March 14, 2010</p></span></li><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Get the VIP treatment with a premier seat to the show, a post-show exclusive talk-back with members of the cast, a souvenir program and a complimentary beverage! Buy your tickets today for the March 14 VIP Experience.</p></span></li></ul></blockquote><p>Tickets (starting at $24) are available on-line at TUTS.com, by phone at&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (713) 558-TUTS (8887,) outside the Houston area at (888) 558-3882, or in person at the Theatre Under The Stars Box Office, (800 Bagby at Walker, Mon-Fri 10a.m.- 6p.m.,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sat-Sun 11a.m.- 4p.m.)&nbsp; An audio described performance is available Sunday, March 21, 2010 at 2 p.m.; open captioning Sunday, March 21, 2010 at 7:30p.m. The Hobby Center is wheelchair accessible.&nbsp; Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more and may be purchased by calling (713) 558-8888 or via email at <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#103;&#114;&#111;&#117;&#112;&#115;&#97;&#108;&#101;&#115;&#64;&#116;&#117;&#116;&#115;&#46;&#99;&#111;&#109;">groupsales@tuts.com</a>.</p><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"> <p>TUTS&#8217; presentation of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em> is made possible by the generosity of <strong>Total </strong>and <strong>Ballard Exploration Company, Inc</strong>..</p> <p>For all of Theatre Under The Stars&#8217; 2009-2010 shows, air transportation is provided by <strong>Continental Airlines</strong>, the official airline of Theatre Under The Stars.&nbsp; <strong>St. Luke&#8217;s Episcopal Health System</strong> is the Official Healthcare Partner of Theatre Under The Stars. Media sponsors include <strong>ABC-13</strong> and <strong>Houston Chronicle</strong>.&nbsp; Season support is funded in part by grants from the <strong>City of Houston</strong> through the <strong>Theater District Association</strong> and the <strong>Texas Commission on the Arts</strong>.</p> <p>Founded in 1968, Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) is Houston&#8217;s acclaimed non-profit musical theatre company and is currently under the direction of President and CEO John C. Breckenridge.&nbsp; TUTS was the first theatrical organization in Houston to perform free to the public in 1968 at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, and is the only Houston arts organization that has performed there free to the public every year since the building opened.&nbsp; Since its founding by Frank M. Young, TUTS has produced more than 300 musicals including many local, national and world premieres such as Kopit and Yeston&#8217;s <em>Phantom</em>,&nbsp; <em>Disney&#8217;s Beauty and the Beast</em>, <em>Jekyll &amp; Hyde</em>, and <em>Irving Berlin&#8217;s White Christmas</em>. TUTS has also produced international tours including Debbie Reynolds in <em>The Unsinkable Molly Brown</em>, Juliet Prowse in <em>Mame</em>, Robert Goulet in <em>Man of La Mancha</em>, as well as critically acclaimed local re-inventions of classics such as <em>Cabaret</em> and <em>Les Miserables</em>.&nbsp; As a way to continue the tradition of musical theatre, TUTS&#8217; Humphreys School of Musical Theatre provides instruction and stage experience for more than 1,700 students annually through both The Academy and The Studio, which allow students to flourish in a year-round schedule of classes.&nbsp;&nbsp; Housed in the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, TUTS also annually presents the Tommy Tune Awards, honoring the best and brightest in Houston&#8217;s high school musical theatre programs.</p></span> <br><br>12-Feb-10 1:00 PM The 2008 Tony Award®-Winning Lincoln Center Theater Production Of Rodgers & Hammerstein's South Pacific Makes Its Houston Debut March 9 - 21 Presented by Theatre Under The Stars <span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p align="center">&#8220;A FLAWLESS PRODUCTION!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>The New York Times</em></p> <p align="center">&#8220;THE BEST REVIVAL OF RODGERS &amp; HAMMERSTEIN IN A GENERATION!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>The Washington Post</em></p> <p align="center">&#8220;BY FAR BROADWAY&#8217;S HOTTEST TICKET!&#8221;<br> &#8211; <em>Chicago Tribune</em></p> <p><br> Houston TX&#8230;Lincoln Center Theater, in association with Bob Boyett and NETworks Presentations, presents a new production of Richard Rodgers &amp; Oscar Hammerstein&#8217;s prize-winning musical <strong><em>SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong>, directed by Bartlett Sher.&nbsp; <strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong> makes its Houston debut presented by Theatre Under The Stars at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts March 9 &#8211; 21, 2010. <strong>For more information on the production, please visit </strong><a href="http://www.southpacificontour.com/"><strong>www.SouthPacificOnTour.com</strong></a><strong>. For tickets visit <a href="http://www.tuts.com/"><strong>www.TUTS.com</strong></a></strong><strong>. </strong></p> <p><strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s SOUTH PACIFIC</em></strong> swept the 2008 Tony Awards&#174;, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival and Best Director for Bartlett Sher. This breathtaking new production has created a sold-out sensation on Broadway, lauded by the critics as &#8220;<strong>Simply Wonderful! Beguiling Theatrical Magic!</strong>&#8221; (<em>New York Post</em>), &#8220;<strong>Ravishing and Overwhelming</strong>&#8221; (<em>Variety</em>) and &#8220;<strong>Rapturous and Revelatory</strong>!&#8221; (<em>The New York Times</em>). The Lincoln Center Theater production of Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein's <strong>SOUTH PACIFIC</strong> continues its record breaking run on Broadway at the Vivian Beaumont Theater (150 West 65 Street).&nbsp; Visit <a href="http://www.southpacificmusical.com/">www.SouthPacificMusical.com</a>.<br> &nbsp;<br> Based on James Michener&#8217;s Pulitzer Prize winning book <em>Tales of the South Pacific</em>, <strong><em>Rodgers &amp; Hammerstein&#8217;s South Pacific</em></strong> has music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and a book by Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan.</p> <p>Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples -- US Navy nurse Nellie Forbush and French plantation owner Emile de Becque and Navy Airman Joe Cable and a young local native girl Liat -- and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. Considered by many the finest musical ever written, the score&#8217;s songs include such classics as &#8220;Some Enchanted Evening,&#8221; &#8220;I&#8217;m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair,&#8221; &#8220;Younger Than Springtime,&#8221; &#8220;Bali Ha&#8217;i,&#8221; &#8220;There is Nothin&#8217; Like A Dame,&#8221; &#8220;This Nearly Was Mine&#8221; and &#8220;A Wonderful Guy.&#8221;</p> <p>&nbsp;The lavish new production features a cast of 34, musical staging by Christopher Gattelli, sets by Michael Yeargan (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), costumes by Catherine Zuber (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), lighting by Donald Holder (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;), sound by Scott Lehrer (winner of the 2008 Tony Award&#174;) and music direction by Ted Sperling.&nbsp; A full orchestra of 26 members &#8211; the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production &#8211; will perform the original orchestrations by Robert Russell Bennett (winner of a Special 2008 Tony Award&#174;) and dance and incidental music arranged by Trude Rittmann.</p> <p>In celebration of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em>, Theatre Under The Stars offers a number of special events and opportunities. For more information visit TUTS.com/events.&nbsp;</p> </span><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li><p><strong>TUTS Film Series</strong>: South Pacific on the Big Screen&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li></ul></span><blockquote><ul><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 7 PM</p></span></li><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>TUTS partners with Angelika Theatre downtown for a special screening of the classic movie musical, South Pacific. </p></span></li></ul></blockquote><ul><li><p><strong>Bloody Mary Cocktail Contest:</strong>&nbsp; Calling all cocktail connoisseurs! Celebrating <strong>Theatre Under The Stars&#8217;</strong> presentation of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em>, TUTS is partnering with local hot-spots and <strong>My Table Magazine</strong> in a <strong>Bloody Mary Cocktail Contest!</strong> We love Bloody Mary&#8217;s performance in the show and we&#8217;re looking for an equally spectacular cocktail in her honor! Try your taste buds at the selected restaurants February 15 - March 7, then vote on <a href="http://www.tuts.com/">www.tuts.com</a> for the best Bloody Mary. The winning restaurant will be awarded tickets to the show! One lucky voter will also win 4 tickets. South Pacific lights up the stage at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts, <strong>March 9-21</strong>. Visit TUTS.com for more information. <strong>Participating Restaurants Include</strong>: Mockingbird Bistro, Canopy, Hard Rock Caf&#233;, Ouisie&#8217;s Table, Backstreet Caf&#233;, Artista, and the Cadillac Bar.</p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Kids Night on Broadway</strong></p></li></ul><blockquote><ul><li><p>Wednesday, March 10, 2010</p></li><li><p>TUTS spreads the love of musical theatre to the next generation with Kids Night On Broadway! Any adult who purchases a full price ticket can bring a child under 18 for FREE! <br></p></li></ul></blockquote><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li><p>&nbsp;<strong>Dinner &amp; Theatre Package:</strong> TUTS and Damian's All-Inclusive Dinner Package</p></li></ul></span><blockquote><ul><li><p><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left">Wednesday, March 10 and March 17, 2010 </span></p></li></ul></blockquote><ul><li><p><strong>First Thursday Cabaret:</strong> Thurs, March 11, 2010&nbsp;</p></li></ul><blockquote><ul><li><p> A post-show event with <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#79;&#85;&#84;&#64;&#84;&#85;&#84;&#83;">OUT@TUTS</a> (our GLBT friends) at Artista Restaurant.&nbsp;</p></li></ul></blockquote><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><ul><li> <p><strong>The South Pacific VIP Experience</strong></p></li></ul> </span><blockquote><ul><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Sunday, March 14, 2010</p></span></li><li><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"><p>Get the VIP treatment with a premier seat to the show, a post-show exclusive talk-back with members of the cast, a souvenir program and a complimentary beverage! Buy your tickets today for the March 14 VIP Experience.</p></span></li></ul></blockquote><p>Tickets (starting at $24) are available on-line at TUTS.com, by phone at&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (713) 558-TUTS (8887,) outside the Houston area at (888) 558-3882, or in person at the Theatre Under The Stars Box Office, (800 Bagby at Walker, Mon-Fri 10a.m.- 6p.m.,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sat-Sun 11a.m.- 4p.m.)&nbsp; An audio described performance is available Sunday, March 21, 2010 at 2 p.m.; open captioning Sunday, March 21, 2010 at 7:30p.m. The Hobby Center is wheelchair accessible.&nbsp; Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more and may be purchased by calling (713) 558-8888 or via email at <a href="&#109;&#97;&#105;&#108;&#116;&#111;&#58;&#103;&#114;&#111;&#117;&#112;&#115;&#97;&#108;&#101;&#115;&#64;&#116;&#117;&#116;&#115;&#46;&#99;&#111;&#109;">groupsales@tuts.com</a>.</p><span id="dnn_ctr625_ContentPane" align="left"> <p>TUTS&#8217; presentation of <em><strong>South Pacific</strong></em> is made possible by the generosity of <strong>Total </strong>and <strong>Ballard Exploration Company, Inc</strong>..</p> <p>For all of Theatre Under The Stars&#8217; 2009-2010 shows, air transportation is provided by <strong>Continental Airlines</strong>, the official airline of Theatre Under The Stars.&nbsp; <strong>St. Luke&#8217;s Episcopal Health System</strong> is the Official Healthcare Partner of Theatre Under The Stars. Media sponsors include <strong>ABC-13</strong> and <strong>Houston Chronicle</strong>.&nbsp; Season support is funded in part by grants from the <strong>City of Houston</strong> through the <strong>Theater District Association</strong> and the <strong>Texas Commission on the Arts</strong>.</p> <p>Founded in 1968, Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) is Houston&#8217;s acclaimed non-profit musical theatre company and is currently under the direction of President and CEO John C. Breckenridge.&nbsp; TUTS was the first theatrical organization in Houston to perform free to the public in 1968 at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, and is the only Houston arts organization that has performed there free to the public every year since the building opened.&nbsp; Since its founding by Frank M. Young, TUTS has produced more than 300 musicals including many local, national and world premieres such as Kopit and Yeston&#8217;s <em>Phantom</em>,&nbsp; <em>Disney&#8217;s Beauty and the Beast</em>, <em>Jekyll &amp; Hyde</em>, and <em>Irving Berlin&#8217;s White Christmas</em>. TUTS has also produced international tours including Debbie Reynolds in <em>The Unsinkable Molly Brown</em>, Juliet Prowse in <em>Mame</em>, Robert Goulet in <em>Man of La Mancha</em>, as well as critically acclaimed local re-inventions of classics such as <em>Cabaret</em> and <em>Les Miserables</em>.&nbsp; As a way to continue the tradition of musical theatre, TUTS&#8217; Humphreys School of Musical Theatre provides instruction and stage experience for more than 1,700 students annually through both The Academy and The Studio, which allow students to flourish in a year-round schedule of classes.&nbsp;&nbsp; Housed in the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, TUTS also annually presents the Tommy Tune Awards, honoring the best and brightest in Houston&#8217;s high school musical theatre programs.</p></span> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/436/ Misty Robertson Fri, 12 Feb 2010 19:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/411/ <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET UNVEILS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF<br> STANTON WELCH'S SPECTACULAR STAGING OF <br> <em>LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</em></span></h1> <h2 align="center">Houston Ballet's First-Ever Staging of <br> This Full-Length 19th Century Classic </h2> <h2 align="center">British Designer Peter Farmer's Lavish Scenery and Costumes <br> Inspired by Bollywood</h2> <p><strong>Houston, Texas</strong> -- From February 25 -- March 7, 2010, Houston Ballet presents the highlight of its 40th anniversary season, the world premiere of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong></strong>, a historic classic newly stagedby Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch and set in royal India of the past. <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is a dramatic ballet of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance and justice intertwined to tell the story of Nikiya, a temple dancer, her lover Solor, and the vengeance that keeps them apart, at least in this life. Houston Ballet will give seven performances of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p>&quot;We wanted a grand classical ballet as the centerpiece for the 40th anniversary season, and this will be a big Bollywood-like production. It's a colorful story that's sexy, provocative and very dramatic,&quot; commented Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch.</p> <p>The choreography for <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>'s famous Kingdom of the Shades section will remain intact in Mr. Welch's staging as the third act of the production. This world-renowned part of<strong> La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>showcases 24 female dancers in white tutus, executing 38 synchronized and seamless arabesques while descending onto the stage, and is one of the purest forms of <em>ballet-blanc</em>, or white tutu ballet. &quot;The Kingdom of the Shades is a challenging segment because it requires such control and precision from the corps de ballet women,&quot; says Mr. Welch. &quot;There are few works in the classical repertoire that require more precision from the corps de ballet.&quot; The Kingdom of the Shades is so popular it is often performed on its own. Houston Ballet first performed The Kingdom of the Shades scene, staged by Ben Stevenson after Marius Petipa, in March 1994 and revived it in 1998.</p> <p><strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is the second new staging of a 19th century classic that Mr. Welch has created for Houston Ballet, after <strong>Swan Lake</strong> in 2006. He has choreographed a number of full-length story ballets for The Australian Ballet, including <strong>Madame Butterfly</strong> (1995), <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1997) and <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (2005); as well as two original evening-length works for Houston Ballet <strong>Tales of Texas</strong> (2004) and <strong>Marie</strong> (2009).</p> <h2 align="center">English Designer Peter Farmer Combines Traditional Indian Costumes <br> and Dreamlike Sets for a Storybook Experience</h2> <p>English designer Peter Farmer, who has a long and rich history with Houston Ballet, will create the spectacular scenery and costumes for <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>. Mr. Farmer has created eight full-length productions for Houston Ballet since 1972 and is one of the few designers to have worked with three of the company's directors: Nina Popova, Ben Stevenson and Stanton Welch. &quot;It was such a pleasure working with Stanton on <strong>Madame Butterfly</strong> in 1995 for The Australian Ballet that I was so pleased when he asked me to design <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>,&quot; commented Mr. Farmer. &quot;Stanton's vision, as in all his works, is visually exciting and adventurous. I've always been an admirer of the great works of the 19th century. And, I've always admired <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> and have wanted to design it for some time. It's a big challenge for me, and for the company, to have the chance to make the production new again.&quot;</p> <p>The focus of Mr. Farmer's costume designs are brightly colored traditional Indian attire, such as harem pants and saris, for the first and second acts. &quot;Peter's scenic design is not a realistic depiction of India. It will be more like looking through an old picture book from western culture with a view of romanticized India,&quot; commented Mr. Welch. &quot;The production will have a very painted look, almost reminiscent of Monet, that will give it dreaminess and romance.&quot;</p> <p> Mr. Welch's lavish new production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>will include 121 costumes, comprised of 568 items. This also includes 26 new handmade white tutus for the Kingdom of the Shades scene.</p> <p>Born in Luton, England in 1941, Mr. Farmer's prolific career in scenic and costume design includes over 300 productions in dance and theater. Mr. Farmer was first commissioned for his designs in 1964 for Jack Carter's production of <strong>Agrionia</strong>, performed by the London Dance Theatre. The following year, he was asked to create designs for Ballet Rambert's <strong>Giselle</strong>. This ballet has since been associated with Mr. Farmer and led him to create designs for leading ballet companies around the world. His designs for ballet productions include <strong>Swan Lake</strong> (Royal Winnipeg Ballet), <strong>The Sleeping Beauty </strong>(Munich Opera House and The Royal Ballet), <strong>Manon</strong> (Houston Ballet, Vienna State Opera and The Australian Ballet), <strong>Copp&eacute;lia </strong>(Birmingham Royal Ballet) as well as several modern pieces for the London Contemporary Dance Theatre. His designs for drama include <strong>The Night of the Iguana</strong>, <strong>A Woman of No Importance</strong> and <strong>What Every Woman Knows</strong>. Other productions that he has designed for Houston Ballet include Frederic Franklin's productions of <strong>The Nutcracker</strong> (1972) and <strong>Copp&eacute;lia</strong> (1974); Ben Stevenson's stagings of <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1976), <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (1978), <strong>Peer Gynt</strong> (1981) and <strong>Lady in Waiting</strong> (1984); Peter Wright's staging of <strong>Giselle</strong> (1979); Sir Kenneth MacMillan's <strong>Manon</strong> (1992); and Patricia Olade's one-act work <strong>Conceptual Contrast </strong>(1989).</p> <h2 align="center">Houston Ballet's <strong><em>La Bayad&egrave;re</em></strong> Music is a Unique Take on a Classic</h2> <p>The original production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> was set to the music of Viennese composer Ludwig Minkus (1826-1917). The composer of over 20 ballets, Minkus was an excellent craftsman in the style of ballet music of his day and one of the most important composers in 19th century Russian ballet. Born in Vienna in 1826, Minkus was a violinist, ballet conductor and composer. From 1864-1871, he was the official ballet composer at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. In 1871, he was transferred to St. Petersburg, where he worked until 1891.</p> <p>The only original score of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> exists in Russia, but has never been available in the west. In 1980 former American Ballet Theatre prima ballerina Natalia Makarova commissioned John Lanchbery to reconstruct the original Minkus score for her staging of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> at American Ballet Theatre. Acts I and II of the resulting score are based on Minkus, but Act III was composed by Lanchbery, adding a bit of Hollywood glamour.</p> <p>Stanton Welch's <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> uses Minkus's score as arranged by Mr. Lanchbery as a starting point. Since February 2009, Houston Ballet Music Director Ermanno Florio and the late music librarian Robert Bridges tailored the score for Mr. Welch's production.</p> <p>&quot;Both Stanton's version and Lanchbery's original score are in three acts,&quot; explains Mr. Florio, &quot;But where there are three large scenes in Lanchbery's Act I, Stanton's version only uses the first two scenes of the original Act I as his new Act I. The third scene of Act I stands alone as Stanton's new Act II. Stanton joins the original Act III and IV as his new Act III.&quot;</p> <h2 align="center">A 19th Century Fascination with Spiritualism and Exoticism</h2> <p>A tragic soap opera set in an Indian royal court; <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>blends exoticism, white tutus, venomous snakes and opium. In his book, <u>The World's Great Ballets</u>, critic John Gruen places <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> in the following historical context: &quot;The creators of Romantic ballet shared with other artists of the time a fascination with the spiritualism and exoticism of the Orient. The most notable early dance treatment of such themes was Filippo Taglioni's opera-ballet <strong>Le Dieu et la Bayad&egrave;re</strong>, based on a poem by Goethe. More than 40 years later, Marius Petipa conceived of the idea for his own Oriental ballet. At its premiere on February 4, 1877, at the Bolshoi Theatre in St. Petersburg, <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> was a triumph: it catered to the Russian taste for spectacular theatrics, exotic settings, and convoluted, melodramatic plot lines, yet also contained classical choreography of breath taking purity.&quot;</p> <p>Marius Petipa (1818-1910), the &quot;father of classical ballet,&quot; was born in Marseille, France in 1818, and produced over 60 full-evening pieces, including works that have become the foundation of the classical ballet repertoire such as <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> and <strong>Swan Lake</strong>. <strong>Swan Lake</strong> and <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> share many similarities: Both were premiered in 1877, and both made spectacular use of the corps de ballet in performance to symphonic scores. (Although the original 1877 production of <strong>Swan Lake</strong> was choreographed by Julius Reisinger; Petipa, with Lev Ivanov, later staged the definitive version of the work for the Maryinsky Theater in 1895.)</p> <p>Although <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> remained in the repertory of many Russian companies throughout the 20th century, it was little seen in the west until 1961 when The Kirov Ballet performed The Kingdom of the Shades scene at The Royal Opera House in London. In 1963, Rudolph Nureyev staged a version of The Kingdom of the Shades for England's The Royal Ballet. In 1980, the great Russian ballerina Natalia Markova staged the first full-length production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> in the west for American Ballet Theatre to critical acclaim. In 1992, Mr. Nureyev also staged a full-length version for Paris Opera Ballet. </p> <p>Although the exact origin of the story of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is unknown, it is an example of 19th century Romantic ballets set in an exotic location with a fascination with the Orient, spiritualism, triangular relationships, ethereal beings and melodramatic plot lines. A number of operas and ballets were created about &quot;bayad&egrave;res&quot; &#8211; Indian temple dancers &#8211; at that time. Despite the ballet's setting in ancient India, Ludwig Minkus's music and Petipa's choreography barely made any gesture to traditional forms of Indian dance and music, as the ballet was a vision of the Orient seen through 19th century European eyes, particularly since it was produced during the height of the British Raj (Queen Victoria of England took the title Empress of India in 1877). Petipa's choreography contained various elements that reminded the spectator of the ballet's setting, but he did not stray from the classical ballet canon. Petipa was not interested in ethnographic accuracy in any part of the ballet with regards to choreography. It was the fashion of the time, whether a ballet was set in China, India, or the Middle East The ballet master rarely - if ever - considered including traditional native dance forms.</p> <p>Houston Ballet's performances of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>are generously underwritten by ConocoPhillips, Fulbright &amp; Jaworski L.L.P. and The Wortham Foundation.</p> <h2 align="center"><em>La Bayad&#232;re</em> Synopsis</h2> <p>Mythic India. Land of four-faced Lord Brahma, god of creation, and four-armed Kali, fearsome goddess of destruction. Land of the turbulent Ganges, river of life. Land of poverty and woven silk. Land of the ferocious man-eating Bengal tiger and the delicate exquisitely colored krait, the tiny serpent whose bite is lethal. Land of the mystic fakir, the magician with his rope trick. Land of the temple dancer, the <em>bayad&egrave;re</em>, pledged for life to dance only for the gods.<br> </p> <h2 align="center">ACT I<br> Scene 1: The Jungle Temple</h2> <p>Hunting with his younger brother, low-caste Solor tracks and kills the prized Bengal tiger that's been terrorizing the nearby village In its claws he discovers a woman's torn silk sari. From the jungle shadows, the beautiful Nikiya, the <em>bayad&egrave;re</em>, reveals herself and thanks the young man for saving her life. He is smitten, as is she, but she's wary of what these new feelings imply and what might happen. With the approach of the villagers, she rushes into the sanctity of the temple.</p> <p>The villagers and Solor's family celebrate the great occasion of Solor's dispatching of the tiger. He will become rich. In reverent pomp, the High Brahmin, his acolytes, and the sacred temple dancers parade from the temple to hear Solor's exploits in saving the village. Attending the Brahmin is Kalum, the wild man and fakir, who prowls along the ground as if part animal. In the thick jungle, he is the Brahmin's eyes. Immediately, Solor recognizes Nikiya, but her religious decorum prevents more than a passing glance. Impressed by the good news that the tiger has been killed, the Brahmin leads all in prayer. Agni, the god of fire, appears from the scared flames to warn of grave danger. In a moment when they're alone, the Brahmin declares his love for Nikiya. Shocked, Nikiya gently rebuffs his advances and reminds him of his devotion to god and that they must only love god. In the tumult of ceremony and celebration, Solor secretly arranges another meeting with Nikiya.</p> <p> When the festivities end, Solor remains by the temple in hopes that Nikiya will join him. He is overjoyed when she appears. They fall in love and vow to run away as soon as Solor reaps his reward for the tiger hunt. Their tryst has been spied upon by Kalum who rushes to the Brahmin to inform on them. Enraged by Nikiya's dishonesty -- and that she's in love with someone else -- the Brahmin orders the entire temple retinue to the Rajah's palace.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 2: The Rajah's Palace</h2> <p>With the colorful court arrayed, the Rajah bestows upon Solor an opulent reward for saving the village from the man-eating tiger. Not only gold, but the Rajah gives this fine young warrior the hand of his eldest daughter, Gamzatti. Solor is as shocked as his poor parents are overjoyed, but he must pretend to agree so no one will suffer.</p> <p>The High Priest storms in and, by his demeanor and sacred position, demands an audience with the Rajah. When the court clears, he tells the Rajah of Solor's attachment to a temple dancer, a sacrilegious offense to the gods, as well as an affront to his royal daughter. Furious, the Rajah orders the dancer killed, but the Brahmin quickly convinces him that he has another plan -- to break her heart -- and therefore save Nikiya for himself.</p> <p> Ajah, Gamzatti's handmaiden, has overheard the Rajah and Brahmin's plot, and tells Gamzatti of Solor's betrayal. Although they don't know who among the dancers her rival might be, Gamzatti and Ajah summon them to an audience with the princess. When Gamzatti announces that she's betrothed and displays a portrait of Solor as her love, Nikiya vehemently protests. &quot;It can't be, he's in love with me!&quot; Desperate, Gamzatti offers her a jeweled necklace to forswear Solor, but Nikiya will not waver. Ajah attacks her with a dagger, but Nikiya wrests it away and slashes Gamzatti's portrait before rushing from the palace. <p>To console a distraught Gamzatti, Ajah devises a plan for revenge. She summons the Snake Charmer and selects from his poisonous wares a small viper that she will conceal in the basket used at the wedding ceremony. It will be arranged for Nikiya to carry it. Her death is assured.<br> <h2 align="center">ACT II<br> The Palace Gardens</h2> <p>In the luxuriant grounds of the Rajah's palace, the betrothal celebrations are lavish and colorful. Solor has risen far, with his parents and younger brother flush with pride, but he is tentative and reluctant, for he can find no way out of his dilemma. Arrayed in jewels and rich silks, the princess Gamzatti is radiant, but Solor finds only sadness in her beauty.</p> <p>Ajah's devious plan works splendidly. Heartbroken at Solor's betrayal, Nikiya dances for the couple. At the conclusion, as she embraces the basket, she is fatally bitten. Solor swears eternal love, but she dies in his arms. The Rajah orders Solor removed, and as Gamzatti rushes from the gardens, the Brahmin, overcome, embraces the dead body of Nikiya.</p> <h2 align="center">ACT III<br> Scene 1: A Room in the Palace</h2> <p>Under guard in the palace, Solor is inconsolable. His parents and younger brother attempt to ease his pain but Solor is desperate. The fakir Kalum offers him the mind-numbing intoxication of the hookah, assuring Solor that by smoking the hash pipe he will see his beloved Nikiya.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 2: Kingdom of the Shades</h2> <p>Under a narcoleptic haze, Solor envisions the powerful bird god Garuda, winged messenger of the immortals, who accompanies him into the underworld. There, amid spirits of former temple dancers, he discovers Nikiya, and they are briefly reunited. Their love is rekindled, although, as a shade, like a wisp of smoke, she remains tantalizingly out of human reach.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 3: A Room in the Palace.</h2> <p>Awakened to reality, Solor is commanded by the Rajah to marry Gamzatti or see his family murdered. There is no way out. He agrees.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 4: The Great Temple.</h2> <p>The wedding ceremony commences. During the vows, the shade of Nikiya appears and tells Solor that Gamzatti has killed her. Solor accuses the princess, who denies it. Ajah, who has also seen Nikiya's spirit, confesses that it was her plan and she is glad of it. Overcome by his unconsummated grief, the Brahmin stabs Ajah. Threatened by the Rajah, Solor adamantly refuses to marry Gamzatti. &quot;I would rather die,&quot; he defiantly states. Humiliated and betrayed, Gamzatti stabs him. With that outrage, the gods of the temple come alive to punish the desecraters of their holy precinct. The temple collapses, killing all.</p> <p>In the shattered ruins, Solor and Nikiya are rejoined in their eternal love. They ascend to Paradise.</p> </p> </p> </p> </p> </p> <h2 align="center">###</h2> <h2 align="center">HOUSTON BALLET&#8217;S 40TH ANNIVERSARY<br> <em>LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</em><br> FACT SHEET</h2> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</strong><br> <strong>(&quot;The Temple Dancer&quot;)</strong><br> <strong>World Premiere</strong><br> Music by Ludwig Minkus (1826-1917) <em>La Bayad&egrave;re<strong>,</strong></em> as arranged by John Lanchbery (1923-2003).<br> Used by permission of Mario Bois and Theodore Presser, publishers.<br> Choreography by Stanton Welch<br> Scenic and Costume Designs by Peter Farmer<br> Lighting by Francis Croese<br> Houston Ballet Orchestra Conducted by Ermanno Florio</p> <p><strong>Generously sponsored by:<br> </strong>ConocoPhillips, Fulbright &amp; Jaworski L.L.P., The Wortham Foundation</p> <p><strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM:</strong><br> The high point of Houston Ballet's 40th anniversary season will be a spectacular new production of one the great classical works of the 19th century repertoire, featuring choreography by Stanton Welch and lavish scenery and costumes by celebrated English designer Peter Farmer. Set in royal India of the past, <em><strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong></em>is a story of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance and justice. The ballet relates the drama of a temple dancer (bayad&egrave;re), Nikiya, who is loved by Solor, a noble warrior. She is also loved by the High Brahmin, but does not love him in return, as she does Solor.</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on February 25, 27, and March 5, 6, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on February 28, and March 6, 7, 2010</p> <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p> <strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $18.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a> and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith St.)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the Web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a></p> <br><br>8-Feb-10 3:00 PM HOUSTON BALLET UNVEILS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF STANTON WELCH'S SPECTACULAR STAGING OF LA BAYADÈRE <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET UNVEILS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF<br> STANTON WELCH'S SPECTACULAR STAGING OF <br> <em>LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</em></span></h1> <h2 align="center">Houston Ballet's First-Ever Staging of <br> This Full-Length 19th Century Classic </h2> <h2 align="center">British Designer Peter Farmer's Lavish Scenery and Costumes <br> Inspired by Bollywood</h2> <p><strong>Houston, Texas</strong> -- From February 25 -- March 7, 2010, Houston Ballet presents the highlight of its 40th anniversary season, the world premiere of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong></strong>, a historic classic newly stagedby Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch and set in royal India of the past. <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is a dramatic ballet of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance and justice intertwined to tell the story of Nikiya, a temple dancer, her lover Solor, and the vengeance that keeps them apart, at least in this life. Houston Ballet will give seven performances of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> at Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. Tickets may be purchased by calling 713 227 2787 or by visiting <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a>.</p> <p>&quot;We wanted a grand classical ballet as the centerpiece for the 40th anniversary season, and this will be a big Bollywood-like production. It's a colorful story that's sexy, provocative and very dramatic,&quot; commented Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch.</p> <p>The choreography for <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>'s famous Kingdom of the Shades section will remain intact in Mr. Welch's staging as the third act of the production. This world-renowned part of<strong> La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>showcases 24 female dancers in white tutus, executing 38 synchronized and seamless arabesques while descending onto the stage, and is one of the purest forms of <em>ballet-blanc</em>, or white tutu ballet. &quot;The Kingdom of the Shades is a challenging segment because it requires such control and precision from the corps de ballet women,&quot; says Mr. Welch. &quot;There are few works in the classical repertoire that require more precision from the corps de ballet.&quot; The Kingdom of the Shades is so popular it is often performed on its own. Houston Ballet first performed The Kingdom of the Shades scene, staged by Ben Stevenson after Marius Petipa, in March 1994 and revived it in 1998.</p> <p><strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is the second new staging of a 19th century classic that Mr. Welch has created for Houston Ballet, after <strong>Swan Lake</strong> in 2006. He has choreographed a number of full-length story ballets for The Australian Ballet, including <strong>Madame Butterfly</strong> (1995), <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1997) and <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (2005); as well as two original evening-length works for Houston Ballet <strong>Tales of Texas</strong> (2004) and <strong>Marie</strong> (2009).</p> <h2 align="center">English Designer Peter Farmer Combines Traditional Indian Costumes <br> and Dreamlike Sets for a Storybook Experience</h2> <p>English designer Peter Farmer, who has a long and rich history with Houston Ballet, will create the spectacular scenery and costumes for <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>. Mr. Farmer has created eight full-length productions for Houston Ballet since 1972 and is one of the few designers to have worked with three of the company's directors: Nina Popova, Ben Stevenson and Stanton Welch. &quot;It was such a pleasure working with Stanton on <strong>Madame Butterfly</strong> in 1995 for The Australian Ballet that I was so pleased when he asked me to design <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong>,&quot; commented Mr. Farmer. &quot;Stanton's vision, as in all his works, is visually exciting and adventurous. I've always been an admirer of the great works of the 19th century. And, I've always admired <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> and have wanted to design it for some time. It's a big challenge for me, and for the company, to have the chance to make the production new again.&quot;</p> <p>The focus of Mr. Farmer's costume designs are brightly colored traditional Indian attire, such as harem pants and saris, for the first and second acts. &quot;Peter's scenic design is not a realistic depiction of India. It will be more like looking through an old picture book from western culture with a view of romanticized India,&quot; commented Mr. Welch. &quot;The production will have a very painted look, almost reminiscent of Monet, that will give it dreaminess and romance.&quot;</p> <p> Mr. Welch's lavish new production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>will include 121 costumes, comprised of 568 items. This also includes 26 new handmade white tutus for the Kingdom of the Shades scene.</p> <p>Born in Luton, England in 1941, Mr. Farmer's prolific career in scenic and costume design includes over 300 productions in dance and theater. Mr. Farmer was first commissioned for his designs in 1964 for Jack Carter's production of <strong>Agrionia</strong>, performed by the London Dance Theatre. The following year, he was asked to create designs for Ballet Rambert's <strong>Giselle</strong>. This ballet has since been associated with Mr. Farmer and led him to create designs for leading ballet companies around the world. His designs for ballet productions include <strong>Swan Lake</strong> (Royal Winnipeg Ballet), <strong>The Sleeping Beauty </strong>(Munich Opera House and The Royal Ballet), <strong>Manon</strong> (Houston Ballet, Vienna State Opera and The Australian Ballet), <strong>Copp&eacute;lia </strong>(Birmingham Royal Ballet) as well as several modern pieces for the London Contemporary Dance Theatre. His designs for drama include <strong>The Night of the Iguana</strong>, <strong>A Woman of No Importance</strong> and <strong>What Every Woman Knows</strong>. Other productions that he has designed for Houston Ballet include Frederic Franklin's productions of <strong>The Nutcracker</strong> (1972) and <strong>Copp&eacute;lia</strong> (1974); Ben Stevenson's stagings of <strong>Cinderella</strong> (1976), <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> (1978), <strong>Peer Gynt</strong> (1981) and <strong>Lady in Waiting</strong> (1984); Peter Wright's staging of <strong>Giselle</strong> (1979); Sir Kenneth MacMillan's <strong>Manon</strong> (1992); and Patricia Olade's one-act work <strong>Conceptual Contrast </strong>(1989).</p> <h2 align="center">Houston Ballet's <strong><em>La Bayad&egrave;re</em></strong> Music is a Unique Take on a Classic</h2> <p>The original production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> was set to the music of Viennese composer Ludwig Minkus (1826-1917). The composer of over 20 ballets, Minkus was an excellent craftsman in the style of ballet music of his day and one of the most important composers in 19th century Russian ballet. Born in Vienna in 1826, Minkus was a violinist, ballet conductor and composer. From 1864-1871, he was the official ballet composer at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. In 1871, he was transferred to St. Petersburg, where he worked until 1891.</p> <p>The only original score of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> exists in Russia, but has never been available in the west. In 1980 former American Ballet Theatre prima ballerina Natalia Makarova commissioned John Lanchbery to reconstruct the original Minkus score for her staging of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> at American Ballet Theatre. Acts I and II of the resulting score are based on Minkus, but Act III was composed by Lanchbery, adding a bit of Hollywood glamour.</p> <p>Stanton Welch's <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> uses Minkus's score as arranged by Mr. Lanchbery as a starting point. Since February 2009, Houston Ballet Music Director Ermanno Florio and the late music librarian Robert Bridges tailored the score for Mr. Welch's production.</p> <p>&quot;Both Stanton's version and Lanchbery's original score are in three acts,&quot; explains Mr. Florio, &quot;But where there are three large scenes in Lanchbery's Act I, Stanton's version only uses the first two scenes of the original Act I as his new Act I. The third scene of Act I stands alone as Stanton's new Act II. Stanton joins the original Act III and IV as his new Act III.&quot;</p> <h2 align="center">A 19th Century Fascination with Spiritualism and Exoticism</h2> <p>A tragic soap opera set in an Indian royal court; <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>blends exoticism, white tutus, venomous snakes and opium. In his book, <u>The World's Great Ballets</u>, critic John Gruen places <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> in the following historical context: &quot;The creators of Romantic ballet shared with other artists of the time a fascination with the spiritualism and exoticism of the Orient. The most notable early dance treatment of such themes was Filippo Taglioni's opera-ballet <strong>Le Dieu et la Bayad&egrave;re</strong>, based on a poem by Goethe. More than 40 years later, Marius Petipa conceived of the idea for his own Oriental ballet. At its premiere on February 4, 1877, at the Bolshoi Theatre in St. Petersburg, <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> was a triumph: it catered to the Russian taste for spectacular theatrics, exotic settings, and convoluted, melodramatic plot lines, yet also contained classical choreography of breath taking purity.&quot;</p> <p>Marius Petipa (1818-1910), the &quot;father of classical ballet,&quot; was born in Marseille, France in 1818, and produced over 60 full-evening pieces, including works that have become the foundation of the classical ballet repertoire such as <strong>The Sleeping Beauty</strong> and <strong>Swan Lake</strong>. <strong>Swan Lake</strong> and <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> share many similarities: Both were premiered in 1877, and both made spectacular use of the corps de ballet in performance to symphonic scores. (Although the original 1877 production of <strong>Swan Lake</strong> was choreographed by Julius Reisinger; Petipa, with Lev Ivanov, later staged the definitive version of the work for the Maryinsky Theater in 1895.)</p> <p>Although <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> remained in the repertory of many Russian companies throughout the 20th century, it was little seen in the west until 1961 when The Kirov Ballet performed The Kingdom of the Shades scene at The Royal Opera House in London. In 1963, Rudolph Nureyev staged a version of The Kingdom of the Shades for England's The Royal Ballet. In 1980, the great Russian ballerina Natalia Markova staged the first full-length production of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> in the west for American Ballet Theatre to critical acclaim. In 1992, Mr. Nureyev also staged a full-length version for Paris Opera Ballet. </p> <p>Although the exact origin of the story of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re</strong> is unknown, it is an example of 19th century Romantic ballets set in an exotic location with a fascination with the Orient, spiritualism, triangular relationships, ethereal beings and melodramatic plot lines. A number of operas and ballets were created about &quot;bayad&egrave;res&quot; &#8211; Indian temple dancers &#8211; at that time. Despite the ballet's setting in ancient India, Ludwig Minkus's music and Petipa's choreography barely made any gesture to traditional forms of Indian dance and music, as the ballet was a vision of the Orient seen through 19th century European eyes, particularly since it was produced during the height of the British Raj (Queen Victoria of England took the title Empress of India in 1877). Petipa's choreography contained various elements that reminded the spectator of the ballet's setting, but he did not stray from the classical ballet canon. Petipa was not interested in ethnographic accuracy in any part of the ballet with regards to choreography. It was the fashion of the time, whether a ballet was set in China, India, or the Middle East The ballet master rarely - if ever - considered including traditional native dance forms.</p> <p>Houston Ballet's performances of <strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong>are generously underwritten by ConocoPhillips, Fulbright &amp; Jaworski L.L.P. and The Wortham Foundation.</p> <h2 align="center"><em>La Bayad&#232;re</em> Synopsis</h2> <p>Mythic India. Land of four-faced Lord Brahma, god of creation, and four-armed Kali, fearsome goddess of destruction. Land of the turbulent Ganges, river of life. Land of poverty and woven silk. Land of the ferocious man-eating Bengal tiger and the delicate exquisitely colored krait, the tiny serpent whose bite is lethal. Land of the mystic fakir, the magician with his rope trick. Land of the temple dancer, the <em>bayad&egrave;re</em>, pledged for life to dance only for the gods.<br> </p> <h2 align="center">ACT I<br> Scene 1: The Jungle Temple</h2> <p>Hunting with his younger brother, low-caste Solor tracks and kills the prized Bengal tiger that's been terrorizing the nearby village In its claws he discovers a woman's torn silk sari. From the jungle shadows, the beautiful Nikiya, the <em>bayad&egrave;re</em>, reveals herself and thanks the young man for saving her life. He is smitten, as is she, but she's wary of what these new feelings imply and what might happen. With the approach of the villagers, she rushes into the sanctity of the temple.</p> <p>The villagers and Solor's family celebrate the great occasion of Solor's dispatching of the tiger. He will become rich. In reverent pomp, the High Brahmin, his acolytes, and the sacred temple dancers parade from the temple to hear Solor's exploits in saving the village. Attending the Brahmin is Kalum, the wild man and fakir, who prowls along the ground as if part animal. In the thick jungle, he is the Brahmin's eyes. Immediately, Solor recognizes Nikiya, but her religious decorum prevents more than a passing glance. Impressed by the good news that the tiger has been killed, the Brahmin leads all in prayer. Agni, the god of fire, appears from the scared flames to warn of grave danger. In a moment when they're alone, the Brahmin declares his love for Nikiya. Shocked, Nikiya gently rebuffs his advances and reminds him of his devotion to god and that they must only love god. In the tumult of ceremony and celebration, Solor secretly arranges another meeting with Nikiya.</p> <p> When the festivities end, Solor remains by the temple in hopes that Nikiya will join him. He is overjoyed when she appears. They fall in love and vow to run away as soon as Solor reaps his reward for the tiger hunt. Their tryst has been spied upon by Kalum who rushes to the Brahmin to inform on them. Enraged by Nikiya's dishonesty -- and that she's in love with someone else -- the Brahmin orders the entire temple retinue to the Rajah's palace.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 2: The Rajah's Palace</h2> <p>With the colorful court arrayed, the Rajah bestows upon Solor an opulent reward for saving the village from the man-eating tiger. Not only gold, but the Rajah gives this fine young warrior the hand of his eldest daughter, Gamzatti. Solor is as shocked as his poor parents are overjoyed, but he must pretend to agree so no one will suffer.</p> <p>The High Priest storms in and, by his demeanor and sacred position, demands an audience with the Rajah. When the court clears, he tells the Rajah of Solor's attachment to a temple dancer, a sacrilegious offense to the gods, as well as an affront to his royal daughter. Furious, the Rajah orders the dancer killed, but the Brahmin quickly convinces him that he has another plan -- to break her heart -- and therefore save Nikiya for himself.</p> <p> Ajah, Gamzatti's handmaiden, has overheard the Rajah and Brahmin's plot, and tells Gamzatti of Solor's betrayal. Although they don't know who among the dancers her rival might be, Gamzatti and Ajah summon them to an audience with the princess. When Gamzatti announces that she's betrothed and displays a portrait of Solor as her love, Nikiya vehemently protests. &quot;It can't be, he's in love with me!&quot; Desperate, Gamzatti offers her a jeweled necklace to forswear Solor, but Nikiya will not waver. Ajah attacks her with a dagger, but Nikiya wrests it away and slashes Gamzatti's portrait before rushing from the palace. <p>To console a distraught Gamzatti, Ajah devises a plan for revenge. She summons the Snake Charmer and selects from his poisonous wares a small viper that she will conceal in the basket used at the wedding ceremony. It will be arranged for Nikiya to carry it. Her death is assured.<br> <h2 align="center">ACT II<br> The Palace Gardens</h2> <p>In the luxuriant grounds of the Rajah's palace, the betrothal celebrations are lavish and colorful. Solor has risen far, with his parents and younger brother flush with pride, but he is tentative and reluctant, for he can find no way out of his dilemma. Arrayed in jewels and rich silks, the princess Gamzatti is radiant, but Solor finds only sadness in her beauty.</p> <p>Ajah's devious plan works splendidly. Heartbroken at Solor's betrayal, Nikiya dances for the couple. At the conclusion, as she embraces the basket, she is fatally bitten. Solor swears eternal love, but she dies in his arms. The Rajah orders Solor removed, and as Gamzatti rushes from the gardens, the Brahmin, overcome, embraces the dead body of Nikiya.</p> <h2 align="center">ACT III<br> Scene 1: A Room in the Palace</h2> <p>Under guard in the palace, Solor is inconsolable. His parents and younger brother attempt to ease his pain but Solor is desperate. The fakir Kalum offers him the mind-numbing intoxication of the hookah, assuring Solor that by smoking the hash pipe he will see his beloved Nikiya.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 2: Kingdom of the Shades</h2> <p>Under a narcoleptic haze, Solor envisions the powerful bird god Garuda, winged messenger of the immortals, who accompanies him into the underworld. There, amid spirits of former temple dancers, he discovers Nikiya, and they are briefly reunited. Their love is rekindled, although, as a shade, like a wisp of smoke, she remains tantalizingly out of human reach.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 3: A Room in the Palace.</h2> <p>Awakened to reality, Solor is commanded by the Rajah to marry Gamzatti or see his family murdered. There is no way out. He agrees.</p> <h2 align="center">Scene 4: The Great Temple.</h2> <p>The wedding ceremony commences. During the vows, the shade of Nikiya appears and tells Solor that Gamzatti has killed her. Solor accuses the princess, who denies it. Ajah, who has also seen Nikiya's spirit, confesses that it was her plan and she is glad of it. Overcome by his unconsummated grief, the Brahmin stabs Ajah. Threatened by the Rajah, Solor adamantly refuses to marry Gamzatti. &quot;I would rather die,&quot; he defiantly states. Humiliated and betrayed, Gamzatti stabs him. With that outrage, the gods of the temple come alive to punish the desecraters of their holy precinct. The temple collapses, killing all.</p> <p>In the shattered ruins, Solor and Nikiya are rejoined in their eternal love. They ascend to Paradise.</p> </p> </p> </p> </p> </p> <h2 align="center">###</h2> <h2 align="center">HOUSTON BALLET&#8217;S 40TH ANNIVERSARY<br> <em>LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</em><br> FACT SHEET</h2> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>WHAT: LA BAYAD&Egrave;RE</strong><br> <strong>(&quot;The Temple Dancer&quot;)</strong><br> <strong>World Premiere</strong><br> Music by Ludwig Minkus (1826-1917) <em>La Bayad&egrave;re<strong>,</strong></em> as arranged by John Lanchbery (1923-2003).<br> Used by permission of Mario Bois and Theodore Presser, publishers.<br> Choreography by Stanton Welch<br> Scenic and Costume Designs by Peter Farmer<br> Lighting by Francis Croese<br> Houston Ballet Orchestra Conducted by Ermanno Florio</p> <p><strong>Generously sponsored by:<br> </strong>ConocoPhillips, Fulbright &amp; Jaworski L.L.P., The Wortham Foundation</p> <p><strong>ABOUT THE PROGRAM:</strong><br> The high point of Houston Ballet's 40th anniversary season will be a spectacular new production of one the great classical works of the 19th century repertoire, featuring choreography by Stanton Welch and lavish scenery and costumes by celebrated English designer Peter Farmer. Set in royal India of the past, <em><strong>La Bayad&egrave;re </strong></em>is a story of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance and justice. The ballet relates the drama of a temple dancer (bayad&egrave;re), Nikiya, who is loved by Solor, a noble warrior. She is also loved by the High Brahmin, but does not love him in return, as she does Solor.</p> <p><strong>WHEN: </strong>At 7:30 PM on February 25, 27, and March 5, 6, 2010<br> At 2:00 PM on February 28, and March 6, 7, 2010</p> <p><strong>WHERE:</strong> Brown Theater, Wortham Theater Center<br> 501 Texas Avenue in downtown Houston</p> <p> <strong>TICKETS: </strong>Start at $18.<strong> </strong>Call (713) 227 ARTS or 1 800 828 ARTS<br> Tickets are also available at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a> and<br> Houston Ballet Box Office at Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. (at Smith St.)</p> <p><strong>FOR MORE </strong><strong>INFORMATION: </strong>Visit Houston Ballet on the Web at <a href="http://www.houstonballet.org">www.houstonballet.org</a></p> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/411/ Shauna Tysor Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/433/ <div>HOUSTON GRAND OPERA ANNOUNCES 2010-2011 SEASON<br><br>Highlights:<br>Three New Productions<br></div> <div>German opera series continues with Strauss&#8217;s Ariadne auf Naxos <br></div> <div>Four Productions conducted by internationally acclaimed HGO Music Director Patrick<br>Summers<br></div> <div>HGOco&#8217;s Song of Houston produces two operas in the Mexico 2010 project <br></div> <div>Mainstage Season:<br>Puccini: Madame Butterfly (New Production) <br>Britten: Peter Grimes (New Production) <br>Jake Heggie: Dead Man Walking (HGO Premiere) <br>Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (New Production) <br>Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro <br>Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos <br></div> <div>(HOUSTON, TX &#8211; February 2, 2010) &#8212; Houston Grand Opera General Director and CEO <br>Anthony Freud announced today the company&#8217;s 2010&#8211;2011 season, which runs from October 22, 2010 to May 10, 2011 with thirty performances of six operas. &#8220;This year we have chosen a selection of operas that will thrill, stimulate and entertain,&#8221; says Freud. &#8220;From the world&#8217;s most celebrated works to more rarely performed operatic gems, our repertoire features the storytelling magic of internationally acclaimed singers alongside the most exciting young stars of the future working with some of the worlds most exciting conductors and directors.&#8221;<br>HGO Music Director&nbsp;Patrick Summers takes the podium to conduct four of this season&#8217;s <br>six operas&#8212;Puccini&#8217;s Madame Butterfly, Britten&#8217;s Peter Grimes, Dead Man Walking by Jake <br>Heggie, and Ariadne auf Naxos by Richard Strauss. &#8220;I am thrilled to have the talents of Patrick <br>Summers, our music director with us throughout the season,&#8221; explains Freud. &#8220;The impact of his presence will benefit the whole season, not only those operas that he is conducting.&#8221; Italian<br>conductor Antonino Fogliani, one of the most exciting young Italian conductors of his generation, makes his United States debut conducting a new production of Donizetti&#8217;s Lucia di Lammermoor, an opera he has led with great success at Bergamo&#8217;s Teatro Donizetti, the Theater St. Gallen in Switzerland and at Op&#233;ra Royal de Wallonie in Belgium. Outstanding young American conductor James Gaffigan, who until recently held the position of Associate Conductor of the San Francisco&nbsp;Symphony, will also make his HGO conducting debut with Mozart&#8217;s The Marriage of Figaro. <br></div> <div>Gaffigan has conducted acclaimed productions at Zurich Opera, the Aspen Music Festival and,<br>most recently, Verdi&#8217;s Falstaff for Glyndebourne on Tour. <br></div> <div>The season opens with a new production of Puccini&#8217;s Madame Butterfly, featuring internationally renowned soprano and HGO Studio alumna Ana Mar&#237;a Mart&#237;nez in a major role debut as the Geisha Cio-Cio-San. According to Opera magazine, &#8220;[Mart&#237;nez] requires ranking among the top lyric sopranos of the day&#8230; [with] immaculate musicality underpinning every utterance.&#8221; Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja, who recently sang the title role of The Tales of Hoffmann at The Metropolitan Opera to great acclaim, makes his HGO debut as Lieutenant B.F. Pinkerton. &#8220;Season after season, I am most excited about major artists choosing Houston Grand Opera to make major role debuts,&#8221; explains Freud. &#8220;Ana Mar&#237;a Mart&#237;nez returning to HGO to make her major role debut as Butterfly will be an exciting and moving evening of theater.&#8221;<br></div> <div>Created for Houston Grand Opera by the internationally-acclaimed creative team of director<br>Michael Grandage (Hamlet &#8211; Broadway 2009; Frost/Nixon &#8211; Broadway 2007), designer <br>Christopher Oram and lighting designer Neil Austin, this visually stunning new production <br>draws its inspiration from traditional 19th Century Japanese art. <br></div> <div>The Fall repertory continues with Benjamin Britten&#8217;s Peter Grimes, with celebrated tenor <br>Anthony Dean Griffey in the title role. He was last seen at HGO as Lenny in Carlisle Floyd&#8217;s Of <br>Mice and Men. Griffey has garnered critical acclaim as Britten&#8217;s troubled fisherman at Paris <br>Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and The Metropolitan Opera. &#8220;Singing with exemplary artistry and raw<br>emotion,&#8221; wrote The New York Times, &#8220;Mr. Griffey found his own way into the daunting role of <br>Grimes&#8230; (a) triumph for a selfless artist who rose through the ranks of the Met.&#8221; Soprano <br>Katie Van Kooten&nbsp;(Helena in HGO&#8217;s production of Britten&#8217;s A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream, 2009) sings the role of school teacher Ellen Orford, Grimes&#8217;s only ally. British baritone Christopher Purves, fresh from his success as Falstaff at the Glyndebourne Opera Festival in 2009, makes his U.S. operatic debut as Captain Balstrode. Contraltos Meredith Arwady, who created the role of Myrtle Bagot in Brief Encounter by Andr&#233; Previn (2009), sings the role of Auntie&#8212;owner of the village tavern&#8212; and Catherine Wyn-Rogers will make her HGO debut as Mrs. Sedley. Patrick <br></div> <div>Carfizzi, who last appeared here as Papagano in Mozart&#8217;s The Magic Flute in 2008, is the lawyer Swallow. Directed by Tony Award nominee Neil Armfield (Exit the King &#8211; Broadway 2009), this <br>HGO co-production received enthusiastic accolades at its premiere at Opera Australia.<br>The season continues with what the Associated Press called &#8220;The most compelling new <br>American opera in decades.&#8221; </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Dead Man Walking by Jake Heggie is a story of compassion and redemption that has played to sold-out houses across the U.S. and Europe in the decade since its premiere. Much loved and world-renowned HGO Studio alumna Joyce DiDonato , most recently <br>seen at HGO as Beatrice in Berlioz&#8217;s Beatrice and Benedict, 2008, returns to HGO to sing the role of Sister Helen Prejean, spiritual advisor to the convicted. <br>Philip Cutlip, last seen at HGO as Donald in Britten&#8217;s Billy Budd in 2008, will make his role debut as the death-row inmate Joseph De Rocher. Legendary mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade marks her farewell to the operatic stage with these appearances as De Rocher&#8217;s mother, and Canadian soprano Measha Brueggergosman makes her HGO debut as Sister Rose. The production will be conducted by HGO Music Director Patrick Summers &#8211; who conducted the opera&#8217;s world-premiere a decade ago as well as the acclaimed recording on Erato. Leonard Foglia directs. <br></div> <div>The volatile religious and political conflicts of two ancient Scottish clans fuel the drama of<br>Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor. HGO Studio alumnae Albina Shagimuratova and Scott <br>Hendricks who thrilled audiences in HGO&#8217;s production of Verdi&#8217;s Rigoletto last season, sing the roles of Lucia and her brother Enrico. Tenor Dimitri Pittas, whom Opera News calls &#8220;a huge <br>talent with an easy ringing tenor voice,&#8221; will make his HGO debut in the role of Edgardo, the scion of the Ravenswoods and secret love of Lucia, whose lands the Ashtons have taken. British bass Matthew Rose (Bottom in HGO&#8217;s production of Britten&#8217;s A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream, 2009)&nbsp; joins the cast as the minister Raimondo. Drama Desk and Tony Award&#8211;winning Scottish director John Doyle (Sweeney Todd &#8211; Broadway, 2006) and designer Liz Ascroft create intense drama amid the ever-shifting Scottish landscape in this new Houston Grand Opera production, while exciting young Italian conductor Antonino Fogliani makes his HGO debut. <br>HGO kicks off the Spring repertory with a veritable banquet of exceptional young talent in<br>Mozart&#8217;s comedy of manners, The Marriage of Figaro. American bass-baritone Patrick Carfizzi, <br>(Papagano in The Magic Flute, 2008) returns to sing the role of Figaro. Italian bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni, renowned throughout the world of opera for his portrayal of Figaro, makes his HGO debut and role debut as Count Almaviva. Soprano Elle Dehn, whom the Wall Street Journal praises as &#8220;a charismatic soprano with great stage presence and a voice combining metallic clarity and sensual richness,&#8221; also makes her HGO debut as Countess Almaviva, and Slovak Soprano Adriana Kucerova makes her role debut and North American operatic debut as Susanna. Harry Silverstein returns to HGO to revive the classic and lavish G&#246;ran J&#228;rvefelt production. James Gaffigan makes his HGO conducting debut. <br></div> <div>HGO&#8217;s acclaimed production of Wagner&#8217;s Lohengrin last fall was the first in a multiyear <br>series of German opera that continues next year with performances of Strauss&#8217;s <br>Ariadne auf Naxos featuring a powerhouse all-star cast. A feast for the eyes and for the ears, Strauss&#8217;s elegant and moving meditation on the conventions of the theater pits a comedienne against a prima donna at a high-society dinner party in Vienna. Three glamorous and acclaimed leading ladies join forces onstage: sopranos Christine Goerke, who gave a spellbinding performance as Ortrud in Lohengrin (2009), will sing the dual role of the Prima Donna and Ariadne, and Laura Claycomb, who sang Tytania to rave reviews in Britten&#8217;s <br>A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream (HGO/2009), will play Zerbinetta. Celebrated mezzo-soprano <br>Susan Graham joins the cast as the Composer, one of her signature roles that she has sung to great acclaim worldwide. Alexey Dolgov, who recently sang the role of Cavaradossi in Tosca (HGO/2010) returns to sing the role of Bacchus. This lavish, sparkling period production will be directed by John Cox. <br></div> <div>HGOco&#8217;s 2009 Leading Lights National Diversity Award&#8211;winning Song of Houston <br>Project, which brought the opera The Refuge to life in 2007, will present two new productions in <br>celebration of the anniversaries of Mexican Independence and Revolution in 2010. <br>Song of Houston explores the enduring bonds and divisions between Mexico and the United States and celebrates the incredible migration of the Monarch butterfly with Mexico 2010. The first production, HGO&#8217;s 41st world premiere, Beyond the Face of the Moon, is composed for Mariachi and voice by Jose &#8220;Pepe&#8221; Maritinez of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitl&#225;n with a libretto by Leonard Foglia, the distinguished director and writer who will also be directing <br>Dead Man Walking this season. The opera chronicles three generations of one family, divided by countries and by cultures. <br></div> <div>Mexico 2010 also includes the world premiere of a new work for middle and high school <br>students, available for performances in schools and community centers beginning March 15, 2010. The new Opera to Go! commission, A Way Home is composed by Ethan Frederick Greene with a libretto by Irene Keliher. This 45-minute opera tells the story of a teenager Gracie and her father, who travel from Houston to Mexico to scatter her mother's ashes. The performances will be bilingual in English and Spanish.<br><br></div> <br><br>3-Feb-10 12:00 PM Houston Grand Opera Announces 2010-2011 Season <div>HOUSTON GRAND OPERA ANNOUNCES 2010-2011 SEASON<br><br>Highlights:<br>Three New Productions<br></div> <div>German opera series continues with Strauss&#8217;s Ariadne auf Naxos <br></div> <div>Four Productions conducted by internationally acclaimed HGO Music Director Patrick<br>Summers<br></div> <div>HGOco&#8217;s Song of Houston produces two operas in the Mexico 2010 project <br></div> <div>Mainstage Season:<br>Puccini: Madame Butterfly (New Production) <br>Britten: Peter Grimes (New Production) <br>Jake Heggie: Dead Man Walking (HGO Premiere) <br>Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor (New Production) <br>Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro <br>Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos <br></div> <div>(HOUSTON, TX &#8211; February 2, 2010) &#8212; Houston Grand Opera General Director and CEO <br>Anthony Freud announced today the company&#8217;s 2010&#8211;2011 season, which runs from October 22, 2010 to May 10, 2011 with thirty performances of six operas. &#8220;This year we have chosen a selection of operas that will thrill, stimulate and entertain,&#8221; says Freud. &#8220;From the world&#8217;s most celebrated works to more rarely performed operatic gems, our repertoire features the storytelling magic of internationally acclaimed singers alongside the most exciting young stars of the future working with some of the worlds most exciting conductors and directors.&#8221;<br>HGO Music Director&nbsp;Patrick Summers takes the podium to conduct four of this season&#8217;s <br>six operas&#8212;Puccini&#8217;s Madame Butterfly, Britten&#8217;s Peter Grimes, Dead Man Walking by Jake <br>Heggie, and Ariadne auf Naxos by Richard Strauss. &#8220;I am thrilled to have the talents of Patrick <br>Summers, our music director with us throughout the season,&#8221; explains Freud. &#8220;The impact of his presence will benefit the whole season, not only those operas that he is conducting.&#8221; Italian<br>conductor Antonino Fogliani, one of the most exciting young Italian conductors of his generation, makes his United States debut conducting a new production of Donizetti&#8217;s Lucia di Lammermoor, an opera he has led with great success at Bergamo&#8217;s Teatro Donizetti, the Theater St. Gallen in Switzerland and at Op&#233;ra Royal de Wallonie in Belgium. Outstanding young American conductor James Gaffigan, who until recently held the position of Associate Conductor of the San Francisco&nbsp;Symphony, will also make his HGO conducting debut with Mozart&#8217;s The Marriage of Figaro. <br></div> <div>Gaffigan has conducted acclaimed productions at Zurich Opera, the Aspen Music Festival and,<br>most recently, Verdi&#8217;s Falstaff for Glyndebourne on Tour. <br></div> <div>The season opens with a new production of Puccini&#8217;s Madame Butterfly, featuring internationally renowned soprano and HGO Studio alumna Ana Mar&#237;a Mart&#237;nez in a major role debut as the Geisha Cio-Cio-San. According to Opera magazine, &#8220;[Mart&#237;nez] requires ranking among the top lyric sopranos of the day&#8230; [with] immaculate musicality underpinning every utterance.&#8221; Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja, who recently sang the title role of The Tales of Hoffmann at The Metropolitan Opera to great acclaim, makes his HGO debut as Lieutenant B.F. Pinkerton. &#8220;Season after season, I am most excited about major artists choosing Houston Grand Opera to make major role debuts,&#8221; explains Freud. &#8220;Ana Mar&#237;a Mart&#237;nez returning to HGO to make her major role debut as Butterfly will be an exciting and moving evening of theater.&#8221;<br></div> <div>Created for Houston Grand Opera by the internationally-acclaimed creative team of director<br>Michael Grandage (Hamlet &#8211; Broadway 2009; Frost/Nixon &#8211; Broadway 2007), designer <br>Christopher Oram and lighting designer Neil Austin, this visually stunning new production <br>draws its inspiration from traditional 19th Century Japanese art. <br></div> <div>The Fall repertory continues with Benjamin Britten&#8217;s Peter Grimes, with celebrated tenor <br>Anthony Dean Griffey in the title role. He was last seen at HGO as Lenny in Carlisle Floyd&#8217;s Of <br>Mice and Men. Griffey has garnered critical acclaim as Britten&#8217;s troubled fisherman at Paris <br>Opera, Santa Fe Opera, and The Metropolitan Opera. &#8220;Singing with exemplary artistry and raw<br>emotion,&#8221; wrote The New York Times, &#8220;Mr. Griffey found his own way into the daunting role of <br>Grimes&#8230; (a) triumph for a selfless artist who rose through the ranks of the Met.&#8221; Soprano <br>Katie Van Kooten&nbsp;(Helena in HGO&#8217;s production of Britten&#8217;s A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream, 2009) sings the role of school teacher Ellen Orford, Grimes&#8217;s only ally. British baritone Christopher Purves, fresh from his success as Falstaff at the Glyndebourne Opera Festival in 2009, makes his U.S. operatic debut as Captain Balstrode. Contraltos Meredith Arwady, who created the role of Myrtle Bagot in Brief Encounter by Andr&#233; Previn (2009), sings the role of Auntie&#8212;owner of the village tavern&#8212; and Catherine Wyn-Rogers will make her HGO debut as Mrs. Sedley. Patrick <br></div> <div>Carfizzi, who last appeared here as Papagano in Mozart&#8217;s The Magic Flute in 2008, is the lawyer Swallow. Directed by Tony Award nominee Neil Armfield (Exit the King &#8211; Broadway 2009), this <br>HGO co-production received enthusiastic accolades at its premiere at Opera Australia.<br>The season continues with what the Associated Press called &#8220;The most compelling new <br>American opera in decades.&#8221; </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Dead Man Walking by Jake Heggie is a story of compassion and redemption that has played to sold-out houses across the U.S. and Europe in the decade since its premiere. Much loved and world-renowned HGO Studio alumna Joyce DiDonato , most recently <br>seen at HGO as Beatrice in Berlioz&#8217;s Beatrice and Benedict, 2008, returns to HGO to sing the role of Sister Helen Prejean, spiritual advisor to the convicted. <br>Philip Cutlip, last seen at HGO as Donald in Britten&#8217;s Billy Budd in 2008, will make his role debut as the death-row inmate Joseph De Rocher. Legendary mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade marks her farewell to the operatic stage with these appearances as De Rocher&#8217;s mother, and Canadian soprano Measha Brueggergosman makes her HGO debut as Sister Rose. The production will be conducted by HGO Music Director Patrick Summers &#8211; who conducted the opera&#8217;s world-premiere a decade ago as well as the acclaimed recording on Erato. Leonard Foglia directs. <br></div> <div>The volatile religious and political conflicts of two ancient Scottish clans fuel the drama of<br>Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor. HGO Studio alumnae Albina Shagimuratova and Scott <br>Hendricks who thrilled audiences in HGO&#8217;s production of Verdi&#8217;s Rigoletto last season, sing the roles of Lucia and her brother Enrico. Tenor Dimitri Pittas, whom Opera News calls &#8220;a huge <br>talent with an easy ringing tenor voice,&#8221; will make his HGO debut in the role of Edgardo, the scion of the Ravenswoods and secret love of Lucia, whose lands the Ashtons have taken. British bass Matthew Rose (Bottom in HGO&#8217;s production of Britten&#8217;s A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream, 2009)&nbsp; joins the cast as the minister Raimondo. Drama Desk and Tony Award&#8211;winning Scottish director John Doyle (Sweeney Todd &#8211; Broadway, 2006) and designer Liz Ascroft create intense drama amid the ever-shifting Scottish landscape in this new Houston Grand Opera production, while exciting young Italian conductor Antonino Fogliani makes his HGO debut. <br>HGO kicks off the Spring repertory with a veritable banquet of exceptional young talent in<br>Mozart&#8217;s comedy of manners, The Marriage of Figaro. American bass-baritone Patrick Carfizzi, <br>(Papagano in The Magic Flute, 2008) returns to sing the role of Figaro. Italian bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni, renowned throughout the world of opera for his portrayal of Figaro, makes his HGO debut and role debut as Count Almaviva. Soprano Elle Dehn, whom the Wall Street Journal praises as &#8220;a charismatic soprano with great stage presence and a voice combining metallic clarity and sensual richness,&#8221; also makes her HGO debut as Countess Almaviva, and Slovak Soprano Adriana Kucerova makes her role debut and North American operatic debut as Susanna. Harry Silverstein returns to HGO to revive the classic and lavish G&#246;ran J&#228;rvefelt production. James Gaffigan makes his HGO conducting debut. <br></div> <div>HGO&#8217;s acclaimed production of Wagner&#8217;s Lohengrin last fall was the first in a multiyear <br>series of German opera that continues next year with performances of Strauss&#8217;s <br>Ariadne auf Naxos featuring a powerhouse all-star cast. A feast for the eyes and for the ears, Strauss&#8217;s elegant and moving meditation on the conventions of the theater pits a comedienne against a prima donna at a high-society dinner party in Vienna. Three glamorous and acclaimed leading ladies join forces onstage: sopranos Christine Goerke, who gave a spellbinding performance as Ortrud in Lohengrin (2009), will sing the dual role of the Prima Donna and Ariadne, and Laura Claycomb, who sang Tytania to rave reviews in Britten&#8217;s <br>A Midsummer Night&#8217;s Dream (HGO/2009), will play Zerbinetta. Celebrated mezzo-soprano <br>Susan Graham joins the cast as the Composer, one of her signature roles that she has sung to great acclaim worldwide. Alexey Dolgov, who recently sang the role of Cavaradossi in Tosca (HGO/2010) returns to sing the role of Bacchus. This lavish, sparkling period production will be directed by John Cox. <br></div> <div>HGOco&#8217;s 2009 Leading Lights National Diversity Award&#8211;winning Song of Houston <br>Project, which brought the opera The Refuge to life in 2007, will present two new productions in <br>celebration of the anniversaries of Mexican Independence and Revolution in 2010. <br>Song of Houston explores the enduring bonds and divisions between Mexico and the United States and celebrates the incredible migration of the Monarch butterfly with Mexico 2010. The first production, HGO&#8217;s 41st world premiere, Beyond the Face of the Moon, is composed for Mariachi and voice by Jose &#8220;Pepe&#8221; Maritinez of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitl&#225;n with a libretto by Leonard Foglia, the distinguished director and writer who will also be directing <br>Dead Man Walking this season. The opera chronicles three generations of one family, divided by countries and by cultures. <br></div> <div>Mexico 2010 also includes the world premiere of a new work for middle and high school <br>students, available for performances in schools and community centers beginning March 15, 2010. The new Opera to Go! commission, A Way Home is composed by Ethan Frederick Greene with a libretto by Irene Keliher. This 45-minute opera tells the story of a teenager Gracie and her father, who travel from Houston to Mexico to scatter her mother's ashes. The performances will be bilingual in English and Spanish.<br><br></div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/433/ Christopher Novosad Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/434/ <p align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON</strong><strong> BALLET II DANCER <br> EMANUEL AMUCHASTEGUI<br> WINS PRESTIGIOUS PRIX DE LAUSANNE DANCE COMPETITION</strong></span></p> <p align="center"><strong>First from Houston Ballet to Receive This Honor</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>Aaron Sharratt Places Fifth &amp; Liao Xiang Advances to Finals</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas</strong> &#8211; Houston Ballet II Dancer Emanuel Amuchastegui won first place at the 38th Prix de Lausanne Dance Competition, the prestigious international contest held annually in Lausanne, Switzerland between January 24th and January 31st, 2010. Houston Ballet II dancers Aaron Sharratt and Liao Xiang also advanced through the finals and into the top twenty; Aaron Sharratt placed fifth.</p> <p>"Houston Ballet was honored to have three students of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy make it into the final round of the Prix. It is the first time Houston Ballet has had a student win the competition. This strong showing at one of the world's most highly watched ballet competitions speaks to the high level of training at Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy and the hard work and dedication of Academy associate director Shelly Power and the Academy staff," observed Houston Ballet Managing Director C.C. Conner. </p> <p>The Prix de Lausanne International Dance Competition is open to young dancers ages 15-18 who are not yet professionals. The competition is adjudicated by a jury of dance luminaries. Young dancers from around the world send videos of application to Lausanne, and the competition's artistic committee selects a maximum of 80 competitors to take part. This year, 70 elite dancers out of 226 applicants from 36 countries were selected to participate. During the week of the competition, participants are judged both during a dance class and individually on stage. Twenty competitors progress to the final round, a live performance attended by key figures from the ballet world. &nbsp; </p> <p>Along with taking the top prize, Mr. Amuchastegui also won the "Audience Favorite" award based on public votes after his performance in the finals. Ms. Patricia Leroy, secretary general of the Prix de Lausanne commented, "Not only is Christian-Emanuel Amuchastegui an outstanding dancer, but he is also a very generous personality. He impressed us throughout the week with his constant good humor and his kindness to others, coupled with a remarkable ability&nbsp;to focus on his goal and take in the advice from the Prix's&nbsp;teachers and coaches. We look forward to witnessing how his career develops."</p> <p>Shelly Power, associate director of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy, was honored to have been selected to serve as one of the nine judges of the 38th annual competition. As the only American on the jury, she joined an illustrious group of colleagues from across the world<strong></strong>including representatives from such companies as Royal Danish Ballet, London's Royal Ballet, and The National Ballet of China. (During the competition, she recused herself from judging students from Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy who were participating.)</p> <p>Ms. Power states, "I am very pleased that Houston has made another mark in the dance world which confirms that persistence, a strong work ethic and teamwork truly do make things happen. We are inspired by these three candidates who gave of themselves fully for Houston Ballet, for the art form and for themselves."</p> <p>Mr. Amuchastegui, age 18, began his ballet training on scholarship with teacher Sandra Racedo at Villa Carlos Paz, C&#243;rdoba, Argentina in 2005.<strong> </strong>He has received the gold medal in three different Argentinean competitions and has performed in Europe, Uruguay, Argentina and the United States. He joined Houston Ballet II in August 2009. At the Prix de Lausanne, he performed a classical variation from August Bournonville's <em>La Sylphide</em> and a contemporary solo, <em>Caliban, </em> from Cathy Marston's <em>The Tempest. </em>Mr. Amuchasetgui also brought home the "audience favorite" award.</p> <p>Seventeen-year-old Aaron Sharratt is originally from Tucson, Arizona and studied at Academy of Ballet and Ballet Arts in Tucson before joining Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy in 2007. He joined Houston Ballet II in 2008 and has performed the lead in <em>Raymonda </em>as well as a <em>pas de trois</em> in Stanton Welch's <em>A Time to Dance</em> and <em>Paquita</em>. At the Prix de Lausanne, Mr. Sharratt performed solos from <em>The Sleeping Beauty </em>as his classical variation and <em>Commedia </em>by Christopher Wheeldon.</p> <p>Liao Xiang, age 18 and originally of Wuhan, China, trained at Beijing Dance Academy from the age of 9 to 16. In 2007, she was an award winner for the Youth American Grand Prix and won a scholarship to the Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida. Ms. Xiang left China, studied at the Harid Conservatory for 4 months and then auditioned for Houston Ballet II. She received a scholarship to be in Houston Ballet II and attend Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy. Ms. Xiang performed a classical variation from <em>The Sleeping Beauty </em>along with a contemporary solo from Cathy Marston's <em>Traces </em>at the Prix de Lausanne</p> <p>In 2009 Sebastian Vinet, a Chilean dancer then with Houston Ballet II, placed sixth in the finals of the Prix de Lausanne and is currently an apprentice with Houston Ballet's professional company.<br> All three dancers were coached by -- and accompanied to the competition in Switzerland by -- Houston Ballet II Ballet Master Claudio Mu&#241;oz and Houston Ballet&#8217;s Ben Stevenson Academy Associate Director Shelly Power.</p> <p>Emanuel Amuchastegui, Aaron Sharratt and Liao Xiang will tour with Houston Ballet II to Germany from April 21 - April 27, 2010 and will all perform as part of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy Spring Showcase at Wortham Theater Center April 16-17, 2010. </p> <p>For more information on the Prix de Lausanne, log on to the Prix de Lausanne&#8217;s web site:<br> <a href="http://www.prixdelausanne.org">www.prixdelausanne.org</a>. </p> <p align="center"><strong># # #</strong></p> <br><br>3-Feb-10 7:00 AM HOUSTON BALLET II DANCER EMANUEL AMUCHASTEGUI WINS PRESTIGIOUS PRIX DE LAUSANNE DANCE COMPETITION <p align="center"><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>HOUSTON</strong><strong> BALLET II DANCER <br> EMANUEL AMUCHASTEGUI<br> WINS PRESTIGIOUS PRIX DE LAUSANNE DANCE COMPETITION</strong></span></p> <p align="center"><strong>First from Houston Ballet to Receive This Honor</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>Aaron Sharratt Places Fifth &amp; Liao Xiang Advances to Finals</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Houston, Texas</strong> &#8211; Houston Ballet II Dancer Emanuel Amuchastegui won first place at the 38th Prix de Lausanne Dance Competition, the prestigious international contest held annually in Lausanne, Switzerland between January 24th and January 31st, 2010. Houston Ballet II dancers Aaron Sharratt and Liao Xiang also advanced through the finals and into the top twenty; Aaron Sharratt placed fifth.</p> <p>"Houston Ballet was honored to have three students of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy make it into the final round of the Prix. It is the first time Houston Ballet has had a student win the competition. This strong showing at one of the world's most highly watched ballet competitions speaks to the high level of training at Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy and the hard work and dedication of Academy associate director Shelly Power and the Academy staff," observed Houston Ballet Managing Director C.C. Conner. </p> <p>The Prix de Lausanne International Dance Competition is open to young dancers ages 15-18 who are not yet professionals. The competition is adjudicated by a jury of dance luminaries. Young dancers from around the world send videos of application to Lausanne, and the competition's artistic committee selects a maximum of 80 competitors to take part. This year, 70 elite dancers out of 226 applicants from 36 countries were selected to participate. During the week of the competition, participants are judged both during a dance class and individually on stage. Twenty competitors progress to the final round, a live performance attended by key figures from the ballet world. &nbsp; </p> <p>Along with taking the top prize, Mr. Amuchastegui also won the "Audience Favorite" award based on public votes after his performance in the finals. Ms. Patricia Leroy, secretary general of the Prix de Lausanne commented, "Not only is Christian-Emanuel Amuchastegui an outstanding dancer, but he is also a very generous personality. He impressed us throughout the week with his constant good humor and his kindness to others, coupled with a remarkable ability&nbsp;to focus on his goal and take in the advice from the Prix's&nbsp;teachers and coaches. We look forward to witnessing how his career develops."</p> <p>Shelly Power, associate director of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy, was honored to have been selected to serve as one of the nine judges of the 38th annual competition. As the only American on the jury, she joined an illustrious group of colleagues from across the world<strong></strong>including representatives from such companies as Royal Danish Ballet, London's Royal Ballet, and The National Ballet of China. (During the competition, she recused herself from judging students from Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy who were participating.)</p> <p>Ms. Power states, "I am very pleased that Houston has made another mark in the dance world which confirms that persistence, a strong work ethic and teamwork truly do make things happen. We are inspired by these three candidates who gave of themselves fully for Houston Ballet, for the art form and for themselves."</p> <p>Mr. Amuchastegui, age 18, began his ballet training on scholarship with teacher Sandra Racedo at Villa Carlos Paz, C&#243;rdoba, Argentina in 2005.<strong> </strong>He has received the gold medal in three different Argentinean competitions and has performed in Europe, Uruguay, Argentina and the United States. He joined Houston Ballet II in August 2009. At the Prix de Lausanne, he performed a classical variation from August Bournonville's <em>La Sylphide</em> and a contemporary solo, <em>Caliban, </em> from Cathy Marston's <em>The Tempest. </em>Mr. Amuchasetgui also brought home the "audience favorite" award.</p> <p>Seventeen-year-old Aaron Sharratt is originally from Tucson, Arizona and studied at Academy of Ballet and Ballet Arts in Tucson before joining Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy in 2007. He joined Houston Ballet II in 2008 and has performed the lead in <em>Raymonda </em>as well as a <em>pas de trois</em> in Stanton Welch's <em>A Time to Dance</em> and <em>Paquita</em>. At the Prix de Lausanne, Mr. Sharratt performed solos from <em>The Sleeping Beauty </em>as his classical variation and <em>Commedia </em>by Christopher Wheeldon.</p> <p>Liao Xiang, age 18 and originally of Wuhan, China, trained at Beijing Dance Academy from the age of 9 to 16. In 2007, she was an award winner for the Youth American Grand Prix and won a scholarship to the Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida. Ms. Xiang left China, studied at the Harid Conservatory for 4 months and then auditioned for Houston Ballet II. She received a scholarship to be in Houston Ballet II and attend Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy. Ms. Xiang performed a classical variation from <em>The Sleeping Beauty </em>along with a contemporary solo from Cathy Marston's <em>Traces </em>at the Prix de Lausanne</p> <p>In 2009 Sebastian Vinet, a Chilean dancer then with Houston Ballet II, placed sixth in the finals of the Prix de Lausanne and is currently an apprentice with Houston Ballet's professional company.<br> All three dancers were coached by -- and accompanied to the competition in Switzerland by -- Houston Ballet II Ballet Master Claudio Mu&#241;oz and Houston Ballet&#8217;s Ben Stevenson Academy Associate Director Shelly Power.</p> <p>Emanuel Amuchastegui, Aaron Sharratt and Liao Xiang will tour with Houston Ballet II to Germany from April 21 - April 27, 2010 and will all perform as part of Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy Spring Showcase at Wortham Theater Center April 16-17, 2010. </p> <p>For more information on the Prix de Lausanne, log on to the Prix de Lausanne&#8217;s web site:<br> <a href="http://www.prixdelausanne.org">www.prixdelausanne.org</a>. </p> <p align="center"><strong># # #</strong></p> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/434/ Shuana Tysor Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/426/ <link href="/styles/styles.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /> <table height="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="center"><br> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="500" align="center" bgcolor="#333333" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="left"> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="500" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="100" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/newsletterhead.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/head2.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="8" width="500" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><strong>Houston Theater District shines brightly in February with many performances to see!</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><br>&nbsp;<img height="56" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HBLogoSWBoxedweb.jpg" width="250" border="0" /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="167" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Hassenboehler300dpi8x10_MG_6305.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />La Bayad&#232;re</strong></div> <div><strong>World Premiere</strong></div> <div><strong>February 25, 27, and March 5, 6, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>February 28, and March 6, 7, 2 pm</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The high point of Houston Ballet&#8217;s fortieth anniversary season will be a spectacular new production of one of&nbsp;the great classical works of the nineteenth century repertoire, featuring choreography by Stanton Welch and lavish scenery and costumes by the celebrated English designer Peter Farmer. Set in the Royal India of the past,&nbsp;La Bayad&#232;re&nbsp;is a story of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance, and justice. The ballet relates the drama of a temple dancer (bayad&#232;re), Nikiya, who is loved by Solor, a noble warrior. She is also loved by the High Brahmin, but does not love him in return, as she does Solor.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $17</em>.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/"><strong>www.houstonballet.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-227-2787.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit: Ballet: La Bayad&#232;re; Choreographer: Stanton Welch; Dancer(s): Mireille Hassenboehler; Photograph: Pam Francis.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/alleylogo0910.gif" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="300" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/wonderland.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Wonderland</strong></div> <div><strong>Now Through February 14</strong></div> <div>Hubbard Stage</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div>World premiere musical&nbsp;Wonderland&nbsp;runs now through February 14 at Alley Theatre. Composer Frank Wildhorn (<em>Jekyll and Hyde</em>) returns to the Alley with&nbsp;Wonderland, a delightful new musical that updates Alice&#8217;s adventures through an amazing pop score. Alley audiences will be among the first to see this new musical that tells the story of Alice, a children&#8217;s book writer in Manhattan who is suffering through a creative block, estranged from her husband and alienated from her daughter. It takes a trip to a strange-yet-familiar Wonderland for her to regain her life&#8217;s balance and again find the love and everyday magic that reside in us all &#8211; if we know how to look.&nbsp; <em>Recommended for general audiences</em>.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>Mrs. Mannerly<br>January 29-February 28</strong> </div> <div>Neuhaus Stage</div> <div><br>A new comedy by Jeffrey Hatcher,&nbsp;Mrs. Mannerly&nbsp;runs January 29 through February 28 on the Alley Theatre&#8217;s Neuhaus Stage. Inspired by a childhood memory of etiquette class, playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a seven-year-old studying manners from the title character.&nbsp;Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her 36 years of etiquette classes has achieved a perfect score.&nbsp;But when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and real selves that lie inside. <em>Recommended for general audiences.</em> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For ticket information visit&nbsp;</strong><a title="blocked::http://www.alleytheatre.org/" href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.alleytheatre.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713.220.5700.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hgo_small.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div><strong></strong> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Spades_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Tchaikovsky&#8217;s The Queen of Spades </strong> <div><strong>April 16, 24, 28, May 1, 2010 - 7:30 PM<br>April 18 - 2 PM</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater&nbsp;</div></div> <div>&nbsp;<br>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s spine-tingling melodrama. Russian tenor Vladimir Galouzine returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano Tatiana Monogarova makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and Vasily Ladyuk is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano Judith Forst<strong> </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro Carlo Rizzi conducts.<br><strong><br><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $23.</em></strong></div><strong> <div><br>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Xerxes_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Handel&#8217;s Xerxes</strong><br><strong>April 30, May 8, 12, 14, 2010 - 7:30 PM<br>May 2&nbsp;- 2 PM</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater<br>&nbsp;<br>One of Handel&#8217;s most popular operas; <em>Xerxes</em> is a feast for the ears, and the eyes in this classic eighteenth-century production. A mad entanglement of love stories, the opera follows the tyrannical and flamboyant Xerxes (Susan Graham) in his quest for Romilda (Laura Claycomb), who is beloved by his very own brother Arsamene, sung by David Daniels. Contralto Sonia Prina, soprano Heidi Stober and baritone Philip Cutlip round out the all-star cast. The award-winning production is set in an English pleasure garden&#8212;the perfect place for an elaborate lovers&#8217; chase!<br>&nbsp;<br><strong><em>Tickets from $23&#8212;great seats available!</em></strong></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org/"><strong>www.houstongrandopera.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-228-6737.</strong></p> <div><em>Poster designs by Pattima Singhalaka.</em> </div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/uniquely.gif" />&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><strong><img height="207" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DWDT.jpg" width="314" align="right" border="0" />Romeo &amp; Juliet</strong></div> <div><strong>February 11 &amp; 13, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>February 14, 2 pm</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Theater</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Dominic Walsh Dance Theater</strong>&nbsp;and <strong>Mercury Baroque</strong>&nbsp;will once again team up for the ultimate performing arts mash up&#8212;<em>Romeo &amp; Juliet</em>.&nbsp; This beloved opera-ballet brings Shakespeare&#8217;s star-crossed lovers to life like never before, with Walsh's contemporary choreography set to a Vivaldi score arranged by Antoine Plante and performed live on period instruments by Mercury Baroque and the Bach Choir of Houston.<br>&nbsp;<br>While dancers take the lead roles, Paris and Friar Laurence are portrayed by actors, and Lord Capulet and the Nurse are portrayed by opera singers &#8211; with all delivering Shakespeare&#8217;s text at pivotal moments. Adding to the wow factor of this production are the chic costumes designed by award-winning designer Fabio Toblini; award-winning designer Jorge Ballina&#8217;s architectural frame and scrim set that morphs throughout the ballet; and lighting by Robert Eubanks.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $21.75.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dwdt.org/"><strong>www.dwdt.org</strong></a><strong>,&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.mercurybaroque.org/"><strong>www.mercurybaroque.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 832-251-0706.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit: Dominic Walsh and Paola Georgudis.&nbsp; Photo by Jim Caldwell.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/SPAnotagColor.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/STOMP.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />STOMP</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, February 12, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Saturday, February 13, 5 pm &amp; 9 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Sunday, February 14, 3 pm &amp; 7 pm</strong></div> <div>Jones Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>This Valentine&#8217;s Day Weekend STOMP fans and newbies alike should &#8220;Go! Have the time of your life!&#8221; (<em>NY Newsweek</em>). STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. STOMP. See what all the noise is about.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $22.</strong></em>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="150" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/bandofirishguards.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Band of the Irish Guards</strong></div> <div><strong>Tuesday, February 23, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div>Jones Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The Irish Guards were formed on April 1, 1900 on the expressed wish of HM Queen Victoria to commemorate the bravery of the many Irish Regiments who had fought in the South African campaigns. The Regimental Band was formed at about the same time and consisted initially of 35 musicians and a Warrant Officer, Mr C H Hassell, who was the Bandmaster. The Band quickly gained a reputation for excellence and in 1905 was invited to make what turned out to be the first of many tours of Canada. The people of Toronto were so impressed with the band's performance that they presented the Band with a large and very ornate Silver Cup that remains a cherished possession of the Band today. &nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>With a current establishment of 49 musicians, the band has a variety of professional ensembles that include a Concert Band, Marching Band, Salon Orchestra, Dance Band, Fanfare Trumpeters and several other smaller ensembles. The band's main duty is to play, in turn with the other 4 Foot Guards Bands, for the Mounting of The Queen's Guard at Buckingham Palace and for state ceremonial occasions and public duties such as Investitures, State Visits, Royal Weddings, Guards of Honour, Royal Garden Parties and, of course, The Queen's Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour). </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $22.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit </strong><a href="http://www.spahouston.org"><strong>www.spahouston.org</strong></a><strong> or call 713-227-4SPA.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/gexabaa.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="320" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/CirqueDreams.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" /><strong>Cirque Dreams <em>Illumination</em></strong></div> <div><strong>February 23-March 7</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>From the creators of the groundbreaking&nbsp;Broadway hit,&nbsp;Cirque Dreams <em>Jungle Fantasy </em>comes an all new journey of nighttime dreamers whose imaginations are ignited within a landscape of towering buildings and infinite possibilities.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Created and directed by Neil Goldberg<strong>,</strong> Cirque Dreams <em>Illumination</em> has been hailed as "Dazzling!...a reason to stand up and cheer," by the <em>New York Daily News</em>.&nbsp;Audiences of all ages will marvel and experience a journey of city dwellers who reinvent everyday objects, balance beyond belief, delicately dangle from wires, leap tall buildings and redefine the risks of flight in an array of astounding occurrences that transform the ordinary into extraordinary.<br>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit </strong><a href="http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/"><strong>www.broadwayacrossamerica.com</strong></a><strong> or 713-622-7469.</strong></div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp;courtesy of Cirque Productions.&nbsp;</div></div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_web.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="120" alt="" src="http://www.tuts.com/Portals/0/Blog/missaigon.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" /><strong>Miss Saigon</strong></div> <div><strong>February 9-21, 2010</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>With soaring songs like &#8220;The Last Night of the World&#8221; and &#8220;I Still Believe,&#8221;&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon<strong>&nbsp;</strong></em>transports you to a steamy world of passion and thrills. &#8220;The Heat is On in Saigon&#8221; from&nbsp;February 9-21. Director Bruce Lumpkin, who helmed the sold-out 2001 TUTS&nbsp;debut of&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon</em>, returns to mount this new production at the Hobby Center. Following up the blockbuster hit of last season&#8217;s&nbsp;<em>Les Miserabl&#233;s</em>,&nbsp;TUTS brings you this stunning dramatic spectacle from the same amazing composers,&nbsp;Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg. In the chaos of the Vietnam War, an American GI falls in love with a young orphaned bar girl. Kim, now with child, losses track&nbsp; of her soldier love in the confusion of the American evacuation. Despite heartbreak, Kim finds hope for their love-child&#8217;s future.&nbsp; A modernized version of classic romance, Madame Butterfly,&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon&nbsp;</em>is newly relevant, making the characters&#8217; choices and sacrifices intense, controversial, and emotionally powerful.<br><br><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</strong></em><br><br><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.tuts.com/"><strong>www.tuts.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-558-TUTS.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp; Courtesy of Seattle 5th Avenue Theatre.</div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DACcrop.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/dacameraBenAllison.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Jazz bassist and bandleader Ben Allison makes first Houston appearance <div>Saturday, February 6, 8 pm</div> <div>Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center</div>&nbsp;</strong><br>Ben Allison&nbsp;is a &#8220;visionary composer and adventurous improviser [who] has emerged as a rising star over the past decade&#8221; (JazzTimes). Cited in the &#8220;Best Bassist&#8221; category of the 2007, 2006 and 2005 Down Beat Readers&#8217; Poll, Allison's currrent band features the unusual configuration of trumpet, guitar, violin, bass and drums. Noting that many of his recent compositions feature simple folk-like melodies, Allison tells Da Camera &#8220;It&#8217;s challenging to write something simple that sustains an audience&#8217;s interest. By way of analogy, to play something soft and high is the hardest thing to do on a trumpet. It may be subtle, but it&#8217;s not easy.&#8221; Ben Allison and Man Size Safe perform on Da Camera's jazz series on Saturday, February 6 at 8pm in the Cullen Theater at Wortham Center. Check Da Camera's web site for information about several free Ben Allison events including a free family concert.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $30.</strong></em></div> <div><strong><br><img height="262" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/dacameraAndrewKennedy.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />The Spirit of England: British Romantic chamber music&nbsp;</div> <div>Friday, February 12, 8 pm</div> <div>Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center</div></strong> <div><br>Da Camera's chamber music concert of British Romantic works features two artists who have already made big impressions on Houston audiences. Tenor Andrew Kennedy appeared in Houston Grand Opera's recent production of Billy Budd and this season appears in The Turn of the Screw. When pianist Orion Weiss was a guest soloist with Houston Symphony, the Houston Chronicle wrote&#8220;[Weiss] played with scintillating charm&#8230;All the necessary responses to the music came naturally - charm, pliant phrasing, dazzling speed in fast-movement runs.&#8221; Kennedy and Weiss are part of an ensemble that performs works by Benjamin Britten, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Edward Elgar, February 12 at 8pm at Wortham Center. <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $25.</strong></em></div></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dacamera.com"><strong>www.dacamera.com</strong></a><strong> or&nbsp;call 713-524-5050.</strong></p> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/houstonsymphony_eblast.jpg" /></div> <div><strong></strong>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong></strong>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/housymredcarpre.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 5, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 6, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 7, 7:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Red Carpet Oscar Party&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Michael Krajewski,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><br>February means the Academy Awards&#174;! Come to the Houston Symphony &#8220;Dressed to Kill&#8221; and get the red carpet treatment in this concert of &#8220;Titanic&#8221; proportions. Remember your favorite Oscar winning blockbusters with music from&nbsp;<em>Lawrence of Arabia</em>,&nbsp;<em>Exodus</em>,&nbsp;<em>Ben-Hur</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>Titanic</em>&nbsp;&#8211; as well as 2010 Oscar&#174; hopefuls.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong><br></em><br><strong><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beethovenpastoralsym.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 19, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 20, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 21, 2:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Beethoven&#8217;s Pastoral Symphony</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Hans Graf,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Radu Lupu,</strong>&nbsp;piano&nbsp;<br><strong>Rorem:</strong>&nbsp;Frolic&nbsp;<br><strong>Mendelssohn:</strong>&nbsp;Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage&nbsp;<br><strong>Mozart:</strong>&nbsp;Piano Concerto No. 20&nbsp;<br><strong>Beethoven:</strong>&nbsp;Symphony No. 6,&nbsp;<em>Pastoral</em>&nbsp;<br>Join legendary pianist Radu Lupu and Hans Graf as they illuminate Mozart&#8217;s emotionally charged-even operatic-masterpiece.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong>&nbsp;</em><br><br><strong><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/frankievallire.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Thursday, February 25, 7:30 PM</strong><br><strong>Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons</strong>&nbsp;<br>The Tony&#174; Award-winning Broadway musical&nbsp;<em>Jersey Boys&nbsp;</em>portrayed the life of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to international acclaim. Now hear them live with the Houston Symphony singing &#8220;Sherry,&#8221; &#8220;Big Girls Don&#8217;t Cry,&#8221; &#8220;Walk Like a Man&#8221; and &#8220;Oh, What a Night.&#8221;&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from&nbsp;$45.</strong></em>&nbsp;<br><br><strong><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/cavanaugh.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 26, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 27, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 28, 7:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Michael Cavanaugh Sings Billy Joel and More</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Steven Reineke,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Michael Cavanaugh</strong>, piano&nbsp;<br>Michael Cavanaugh played Billy Joel in the hit Broadway musical Movin&#8217; Out. Now hear him perform Billy Joel hits including &#8220;Uptown Girl,&#8221; &#8220;Piano Man&#8221; and &#8220;Just the Way You Are.&#8221; Also hear the music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Elton John and The Who.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong></em>&nbsp;<br><br><strong><br><br><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beautybeast.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Saturday, February 27, 10 AM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 27, 11:30 AM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Music from Beauty and the Beast</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Robert Franz</strong>, conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Dave Kirk</strong>, tuba&nbsp;<br><strong>David R. Wald</strong>, narrator&nbsp;<br>Don&#8217;t judge a book by its cover&#8211;true beauty lies beneath! Two stories &#8211;&nbsp;<em>Beauty and the Beast</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>Tubby the Tuba</em>&nbsp;&#8211; will bring this idea to life on stage through music. Listen to selections from Disney&#8217;s Oscar&#174;-winning&nbsp;<em>Beauty and the Beast.&nbsp;</em>Also hear Principal Tuba Dave Kirk help tell the irresistible story of&nbsp;<em>Tubby the Tuba</em>.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Child $12; Adults $19.</strong></em>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit </strong><a href="http://www.houstonsymphony.org/"><strong>www.houstonsymphony.org</strong></a><strong> or call 713-224-7575.</strong></div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/masqueradebanner.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Camelot</strong></div> <div><strong>February 19-28</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>A legendary production for a Legendary season, and the crown jewel in the collaborative efforts of Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe (<em>Brigadoon, My Fair Lady</em>) performed as only Masquerade can! The legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and of the tragic love between he, his queen Guenevere, and the champion Sir Lancelot is built on the inherent nobility of the King and his struggle to uphold a perfect ideal of chivalry and goodness in an all-too-human world... and all too soon, the choices he must make between being a husband, being a friend, and being a king. Allow yourself to be drawn into the breathtaking drama and the beauty of Camelot, a perfect place that cannot exist, with beloved and classic songs like "If Ever I Would Leave You", "In The Lusty Month Of May", "Fie On Goodness" and "I Wonder What The King Is Doing Tonight". The Masquerade Theatre is happy to offer you and your family seats at the Round Table!</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><em>Tickets from $36.25.</em></strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit <a href="http://www.thehobbycenter.org">www.thehobbycenter.org</a> </strong><strong>or call 713-315-2525.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><br> <hr /> </div> <div align="center"><strong>Register-To-Win</strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/mands_web.gif" width="133" border="0" /></div> <div align="center"><br>Win a complimentary dinner for two* at one of Downtown Houston's newest restaurants, McCormick &amp; Schmick's.<br></div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/featured_promotions/index.asp"><strong><br>Enter Now</strong></a><br></div> <div align="center"><strong>McCormick &amp; Schmick's - Houston Pavilions<br></strong></div> <div align="center"><strong>1201 Fannin, 713-658-8100</strong></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">Houston Downtown Alliance is proud to have McCormick &amp; Schmick's as a supporter of the Houston Downtown Alliance and Houston Theater District.<br>Join McCormick &amp; Schmick's Seafood Restaurant at 1201 Fannin Street at the Houston Pavilions for lunch, dinner and a lively happy hour.</div> <div align="center"><br>McCormick &amp; Schmick's Houston Pavilions restaurant was designed in a traditional style that brings its classic appeal to a modern setting. Elements of the design incorporate Texas-centric imagery, rich wood paneling, mahogany tables throughout, and a glass Atrium dining section in view of the shopping.</div> <div align="center"><br>McCormick and Schmick's new Executive Chef at the Houston Pavilion's is Chef Doug Pollard who brings years of experience and a fresh approach to the table. After graduating from Johnson &amp; Whales University, Pollard gained experience serving as executive chef at The State Grille, Hotel Derek, and Damian's Cucina Italiana, among other places in Houston. Pollard's culinary creativity will shine on the constantly updated menu.</div> <div align="center"><br>Visit here for more information or visit McCormick &amp; Schmick's at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/">www.mccormickandschmicks.com</a><br><br>&nbsp; *Entries must be received by 12 noon&nbsp;February 26, 2010.&nbsp; Winner will be notified by e-mail or phone.&nbsp; This certificate will entitle winner to a complimentary dinner for two excluding alcohol, tax and gratuity (a 18% gratuity will be added to final bill payable by holder of the certificate).&nbsp; This certificate will not be valid with any other offers or discounts and only redeemable at McCormick and Schmick's-Houston Pavilions, 1201 Fannin.&nbsp; Once issued, it will expire in 30 days.&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"> <hr /> </div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;<strong>Getting Around Houston Theater District</strong></div> <p align="center">Parking:&nbsp; Theater District Garages are located underground below Jones Plaza, Wortham Theater Center, Tranquility Park and Bayou Place.&nbsp; Hobby Center operates a parking garage, too.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>On-street meter parking is free after 6 pm Mon-Sat and all day Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"></p> <div> <hr /> </div> <div align="center"><br><strong>Read more of what's to come in the Houston Theater District for Winter 2010 in <em>Downtown</em>&nbsp;magazine, on-line!</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div align="center"><a href="http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/7f22c869"><img height="207" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/downtown_winter2010.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/">www.downtownhouston.org</a>.</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> &nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><strong>Houston Theater District is located in the heart of Downtown Houston.</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Alley Theatre</strong>, 615 Texas<br><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts</strong>, 800 Bagby&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Wortham Theater Center</strong>, 501 Texas<br><strong>Jones Hall</strong>, 615 Louisiana<br></div> <div align="center"><strong>For more information</strong>:&nbsp; 713.658.8938 or <a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></div> <div align="center"><br><img height="27" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/theaterdistrictweb.jpg" width="155" border="0" /><br><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></div> <div align="center"><br>brought to you by</div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/"><img height="82" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/smallhda.jpg" width="150" border="0" /><br>www.downtownhouston.org</a><br></div> <div align="center"><strong><br>&nbsp;Funded in part by the City of Houston&nbsp;<br></strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><strong><a href="http://www.continental.com"><img height="32" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/continental2009_160.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></strong></div> <div align="center"><strong>Official Airline of the Houston Downtown Alliance</strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><strong><br>Follow us on Twitter for updates and special deals: HoustonTheater</strong></div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstontheater"><img height="31" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/twitter.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table> <br><br>1-Feb-10 2:59 PM Spotlight on Houston Theater District in February 2010 <link href="/styles/styles.css" type="text/css" rel="stylesheet" /> <table height="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="100%" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="center"><br> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="500" align="center" bgcolor="#333333" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" align="left"> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="500" bgcolor="#ffffff" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="100" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/newsletterhead.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/images/email/head2.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="8" width="500" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><strong>Houston Theater District shines brightly in February with many performances to see!</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><br>&nbsp;<img height="56" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/HBLogoSWBoxedweb.jpg" width="250" border="0" /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="167" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/Hassenboehler300dpi8x10_MG_6305.jpg" width="250" align="right" border="0" />La Bayad&#232;re</strong></div> <div><strong>World Premiere</strong></div> <div><strong>February 25, 27, and March 5, 6, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>February 28, and March 6, 7, 2 pm</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The high point of Houston Ballet&#8217;s fortieth anniversary season will be a spectacular new production of one of&nbsp;the great classical works of the nineteenth century repertoire, featuring choreography by Stanton Welch and lavish scenery and costumes by the celebrated English designer Peter Farmer. Set in the Royal India of the past,&nbsp;La Bayad&#232;re&nbsp;is a story of eternal love, mystery, fate, vengeance, and justice. The ballet relates the drama of a temple dancer (bayad&#232;re), Nikiya, who is loved by Solor, a noble warrior. She is also loved by the High Brahmin, but does not love him in return, as she does Solor.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $17</em>.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstonballet.org/"><strong>www.houstonballet.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-227-2787.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit: Ballet: La Bayad&#232;re; Choreographer: Stanton Welch; Dancer(s): Mireille Hassenboehler; Photograph: Pam Francis.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/alleylogo0910.gif" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="300" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/wonderland.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Wonderland</strong></div> <div><strong>Now Through February 14</strong></div> <div>Hubbard Stage</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div>World premiere musical&nbsp;Wonderland&nbsp;runs now through February 14 at Alley Theatre. Composer Frank Wildhorn (<em>Jekyll and Hyde</em>) returns to the Alley with&nbsp;Wonderland, a delightful new musical that updates Alice&#8217;s adventures through an amazing pop score. Alley audiences will be among the first to see this new musical that tells the story of Alice, a children&#8217;s book writer in Manhattan who is suffering through a creative block, estranged from her husband and alienated from her daughter. It takes a trip to a strange-yet-familiar Wonderland for her to regain her life&#8217;s balance and again find the love and everyday magic that reside in us all &#8211; if we know how to look.&nbsp; <em>Recommended for general audiences</em>.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>Mrs. Mannerly<br>January 29-February 28</strong> </div> <div>Neuhaus Stage</div> <div><br>A new comedy by Jeffrey Hatcher,&nbsp;Mrs. Mannerly&nbsp;runs January 29 through February 28 on the Alley Theatre&#8217;s Neuhaus Stage. Inspired by a childhood memory of etiquette class, playwright Jeffrey Hatcher conjures up the world of a seven-year-old studying manners from the title character.&nbsp;Mrs. Mannerly is a demanding teacher, and no student in her 36 years of etiquette classes has achieved a perfect score.&nbsp;But when he discovers her secret past, Young Jeffrey is determined to be the first. This unique comic tale reveals truths about the face we present and real selves that lie inside. <em>Recommended for general audiences.</em> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For ticket information visit&nbsp;</strong><a title="blocked::http://www.alleytheatre.org/" href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/" target="_blank"><strong>www.alleytheatre.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713.220.5700.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/hgo_small.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div><strong></strong> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Spades_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Tchaikovsky&#8217;s The Queen of Spades </strong> <div><strong>April 16, 24, 28, May 1, 2010 - 7:30 PM<br>April 18 - 2 PM</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater&nbsp;</div></div> <div>&nbsp;<br>One man&#8217;s obsession with a lucky card trick turns the fates of three in Tchaikovsky&#8217;s spine-tingling melodrama. Russian tenor Vladimir Galouzine returns to HGO as the tormented Hermann, internationally renowned soprano Tatiana Monogarova makes her HGO debut as his beloved Lisa, and Vasily Ladyuk is the dashing Prince Yeletsky. Canadian mezzo-soprano Judith Forst<strong> </strong>is the keeper of the fated secret. This award-winning production is a visual treat with imaginative puppets and mixed-period costumes. Italian maestro Carlo Rizzi conducts.<br><strong><br><em>Tickets&nbsp;from $23.</em></strong></div><strong> <div><br>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="264" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TD_Xerxes_poster.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Handel&#8217;s Xerxes</strong><br><strong>April 30, May 8, 12, 14, 2010 - 7:30 PM<br>May 2&nbsp;- 2 PM</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Brown Theater<br>&nbsp;<br>One of Handel&#8217;s most popular operas; <em>Xerxes</em> is a feast for the ears, and the eyes in this classic eighteenth-century production. A mad entanglement of love stories, the opera follows the tyrannical and flamboyant Xerxes (Susan Graham) in his quest for Romilda (Laura Claycomb), who is beloved by his very own brother Arsamene, sung by David Daniels. Contralto Sonia Prina, soprano Heidi Stober and baritone Philip Cutlip round out the all-star cast. The award-winning production is set in an English pleasure garden&#8212;the perfect place for an elaborate lovers&#8217; chase!<br>&nbsp;<br><strong><em>Tickets from $23&#8212;great seats available!</em></strong></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.houstongrandopera.org/"><strong>www.houstongrandopera.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 713-228-6737.</strong></p> <div><em>Poster designs by Pattima Singhalaka.</em> </div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/uniquely.gif" />&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><strong><img height="207" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DWDT.jpg" width="314" align="right" border="0" />Romeo &amp; Juliet</strong></div> <div><strong>February 11 &amp; 13, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>February 14, 2 pm</strong></div> <div>Wortham Theater Center, Cullen Theater</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Dominic Walsh Dance Theater</strong>&nbsp;and <strong>Mercury Baroque</strong>&nbsp;will once again team up for the ultimate performing arts mash up&#8212;<em>Romeo &amp; Juliet</em>.&nbsp; This beloved opera-ballet brings Shakespeare&#8217;s star-crossed lovers to life like never before, with Walsh's contemporary choreography set to a Vivaldi score arranged by Antoine Plante and performed live on period instruments by Mercury Baroque and the Bach Choir of Houston.<br>&nbsp;<br>While dancers take the lead roles, Paris and Friar Laurence are portrayed by actors, and Lord Capulet and the Nurse are portrayed by opera singers &#8211; with all delivering Shakespeare&#8217;s text at pivotal moments. Adding to the wow factor of this production are the chic costumes designed by award-winning designer Fabio Toblini; award-winning designer Jorge Ballina&#8217;s architectural frame and scrim set that morphs throughout the ballet; and lighting by Robert Eubanks.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $21.75.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dwdt.org/"><strong>www.dwdt.org</strong></a><strong>,&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.mercurybaroque.org/"><strong>www.mercurybaroque.org</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or call 832-251-0706.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit: Dominic Walsh and Paola Georgudis.&nbsp; Photo by Jim Caldwell.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/SPAnotagColor.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/STOMP.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />STOMP</strong></div> <div><strong>Friday, February 12, 8 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Saturday, February 13, 5 pm &amp; 9 pm</strong></div> <div><strong>Sunday, February 14, 3 pm &amp; 7 pm</strong></div> <div>Jones Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>This Valentine&#8217;s Day Weekend STOMP fans and newbies alike should &#8220;Go! Have the time of your life!&#8221; (<em>NY Newsweek</em>). STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. STOMP. See what all the noise is about.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets from $22.</strong></em>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="150" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/bandofirishguards.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Band of the Irish Guards</strong></div> <div><strong>Tuesday, February 23, 7:30 pm</strong></div> <div>Jones Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>The Irish Guards were formed on April 1, 1900 on the expressed wish of HM Queen Victoria to commemorate the bravery of the many Irish Regiments who had fought in the South African campaigns. The Regimental Band was formed at about the same time and consisted initially of 35 musicians and a Warrant Officer, Mr C H Hassell, who was the Bandmaster. The Band quickly gained a reputation for excellence and in 1905 was invited to make what turned out to be the first of many tours of Canada. The people of Toronto were so impressed with the band's performance that they presented the Band with a large and very ornate Silver Cup that remains a cherished possession of the Band today. &nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>With a current establishment of 49 musicians, the band has a variety of professional ensembles that include a Concert Band, Marching Band, Salon Orchestra, Dance Band, Fanfare Trumpeters and several other smaller ensembles. The band's main duty is to play, in turn with the other 4 Foot Guards Bands, for the Mounting of The Queen's Guard at Buckingham Palace and for state ceremonial occasions and public duties such as Investitures, State Visits, Royal Weddings, Guards of Honour, Royal Garden Parties and, of course, The Queen's Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour). </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $22.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit </strong><a href="http://www.spahouston.org"><strong>www.spahouston.org</strong></a><strong> or call 713-227-4SPA.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/gexabaa.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="320" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/CirqueDreams.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" /><strong>Cirque Dreams <em>Illumination</em></strong></div> <div><strong>February 23-March 7</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>From the creators of the groundbreaking&nbsp;Broadway hit,&nbsp;Cirque Dreams <em>Jungle Fantasy </em>comes an all new journey of nighttime dreamers whose imaginations are ignited within a landscape of towering buildings and infinite possibilities.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Created and directed by Neil Goldberg<strong>,</strong> Cirque Dreams <em>Illumination</em> has been hailed as "Dazzling!...a reason to stand up and cheer," by the <em>New York Daily News</em>.&nbsp;Audiences of all ages will marvel and experience a journey of city dwellers who reinvent everyday objects, balance beyond belief, delicately dangle from wires, leap tall buildings and redefine the risks of flight in an array of astounding occurrences that transform the ordinary into extraordinary.<br>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</strong></em></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit </strong><a href="http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/"><strong>www.broadwayacrossamerica.com</strong></a><strong> or 713-622-7469.</strong></div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp;courtesy of Cirque Productions.&nbsp;</div></div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/TUTS_web.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img height="120" alt="" src="http://www.tuts.com/Portals/0/Blog/missaigon.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" /><strong>Miss Saigon</strong></div> <div><strong>February 9-21, 2010</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Sarofim Hall</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>With soaring songs like &#8220;The Last Night of the World&#8221; and &#8220;I Still Believe,&#8221;&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon<strong>&nbsp;</strong></em>transports you to a steamy world of passion and thrills. &#8220;The Heat is On in Saigon&#8221; from&nbsp;February 9-21. Director Bruce Lumpkin, who helmed the sold-out 2001 TUTS&nbsp;debut of&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon</em>, returns to mount this new production at the Hobby Center. Following up the blockbuster hit of last season&#8217;s&nbsp;<em>Les Miserabl&#233;s</em>,&nbsp;TUTS brings you this stunning dramatic spectacle from the same amazing composers,&nbsp;Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg. In the chaos of the Vietnam War, an American GI falls in love with a young orphaned bar girl. Kim, now with child, losses track&nbsp; of her soldier love in the confusion of the American evacuation. Despite heartbreak, Kim finds hope for their love-child&#8217;s future.&nbsp; A modernized version of classic romance, Madame Butterfly,&nbsp;<em>Miss Saigon&nbsp;</em>is newly relevant, making the characters&#8217; choices and sacrifices intense, controversial, and emotionally powerful.<br><br><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $24.</strong></em><br><br><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.tuts.com/"><strong>www.tuts.com</strong></a><strong>&nbsp;or 713-558-TUTS.</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Photo credit:&nbsp; Courtesy of Seattle 5th Avenue Theatre.</div></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/DACcrop.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><strong><img height="272" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/dacameraBenAllison.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />Jazz bassist and bandleader Ben Allison makes first Houston appearance <div>Saturday, February 6, 8 pm</div> <div>Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center</div>&nbsp;</strong><br>Ben Allison&nbsp;is a &#8220;visionary composer and adventurous improviser [who] has emerged as a rising star over the past decade&#8221; (JazzTimes). Cited in the &#8220;Best Bassist&#8221; category of the 2007, 2006 and 2005 Down Beat Readers&#8217; Poll, Allison's currrent band features the unusual configuration of trumpet, guitar, violin, bass and drums. Noting that many of his recent compositions feature simple folk-like melodies, Allison tells Da Camera &#8220;It&#8217;s challenging to write something simple that sustains an audience&#8217;s interest. By way of analogy, to play something soft and high is the hardest thing to do on a trumpet. It may be subtle, but it&#8217;s not easy.&#8221; Ben Allison and Man Size Safe perform on Da Camera's jazz series on Saturday, February 6 at 8pm in the Cullen Theater at Wortham Center. Check Da Camera's web site for information about several free Ben Allison events including a free family concert.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $30.</strong></em></div> <div><strong><br><img height="262" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/dacameraAndrewKennedy.jpg" width="200" align="right" border="0" />The Spirit of England: British Romantic chamber music&nbsp;</div> <div>Friday, February 12, 8 pm</div> <div>Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center</div></strong> <div><br>Da Camera's chamber music concert of British Romantic works features two artists who have already made big impressions on Houston audiences. Tenor Andrew Kennedy appeared in Houston Grand Opera's recent production of Billy Budd and this season appears in The Turn of the Screw. When pianist Orion Weiss was a guest soloist with Houston Symphony, the Houston Chronicle wrote&#8220;[Weiss] played with scintillating charm&#8230;All the necessary responses to the music came naturally - charm, pliant phrasing, dazzling speed in fast-movement runs.&#8221; Kennedy and Weiss are part of an ensemble that performs works by Benjamin Britten, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Edward Elgar, February 12 at 8pm at Wortham Center. <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from $25.</strong></em></div></div> <p><strong>For tickets or more information visit&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.dacamera.com"><strong>www.dacamera.com</strong></a><strong> or&nbsp;call 713-524-5050.</strong></p> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/houstonsymphony_eblast.jpg" /></div> <div><strong></strong>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong></strong>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/housymredcarpre.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 5, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 6, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 7, 7:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Red Carpet Oscar Party&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Michael Krajewski,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><br>February means the Academy Awards&#174;! Come to the Houston Symphony &#8220;Dressed to Kill&#8221; and get the red carpet treatment in this concert of &#8220;Titanic&#8221; proportions. Remember your favorite Oscar winning blockbusters with music from&nbsp;<em>Lawrence of Arabia</em>,&nbsp;<em>Exodus</em>,&nbsp;<em>Ben-Hur</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>Titanic</em>&nbsp;&#8211; as well as 2010 Oscar&#174; hopefuls.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong><br></em><br><strong><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beethovenpastoralsym.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 19, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 20, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 21, 2:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Beethoven&#8217;s Pastoral Symphony</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Hans Graf,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Radu Lupu,</strong>&nbsp;piano&nbsp;<br><strong>Rorem:</strong>&nbsp;Frolic&nbsp;<br><strong>Mendelssohn:</strong>&nbsp;Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage&nbsp;<br><strong>Mozart:</strong>&nbsp;Piano Concerto No. 20&nbsp;<br><strong>Beethoven:</strong>&nbsp;Symphony No. 6,&nbsp;<em>Pastoral</em>&nbsp;<br>Join legendary pianist Radu Lupu and Hans Graf as they illuminate Mozart&#8217;s emotionally charged-even operatic-masterpiece.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong>&nbsp;</em><br><br><strong><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/frankievallire.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Thursday, February 25, 7:30 PM</strong><br><strong>Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons</strong>&nbsp;<br>The Tony&#174; Award-winning Broadway musical&nbsp;<em>Jersey Boys&nbsp;</em>portrayed the life of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to international acclaim. Now hear them live with the Houston Symphony singing &#8220;Sherry,&#8221; &#8220;Big Girls Don&#8217;t Cry,&#8221; &#8220;Walk Like a Man&#8221; and &#8220;Oh, What a Night.&#8221;&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets&nbsp;from&nbsp;$45.</strong></em>&nbsp;<br><br><strong><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/cavanaugh.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Friday, February 26, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 27, 8 PM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Sunday, February 28, 7:30 PM&nbsp;</strong><br><strong>Michael Cavanaugh Sings Billy Joel and More</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Steven Reineke,</strong>&nbsp;conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Michael Cavanaugh</strong>, piano&nbsp;<br>Michael Cavanaugh played Billy Joel in the hit Broadway musical Movin&#8217; Out. Now hear him perform Billy Joel hits including &#8220;Uptown Girl,&#8221; &#8220;Piano Man&#8221; and &#8220;Just the Way You Are.&#8221; Also hear the music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Elton John and The Who.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Tickets from $29.</strong></em>&nbsp;<br><br><strong><br><br><br><br><img height="199" alt="" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/beautybeast.jpg" width="150" align="right" border="0" />Saturday, February 27, 10 AM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Saturday, February 27, 11:30 AM</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Music from Beauty and the Beast</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Robert Franz</strong>, conductor&nbsp;<br><strong>Dave Kirk</strong>, tuba&nbsp;<br><strong>David R. Wald</strong>, narrator&nbsp;<br>Don&#8217;t judge a book by its cover&#8211;true beauty lies beneath! Two stories &#8211;&nbsp;<em>Beauty and the Beast</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>Tubby the Tuba</em>&nbsp;&#8211; will bring this idea to life on stage through music. Listen to selections from Disney&#8217;s Oscar&#174;-winning&nbsp;<em>Beauty and the Beast.&nbsp;</em>Also hear Principal Tuba Dave Kirk help tell the irresistible story of&nbsp;<em>Tubby the Tuba</em>.&nbsp;<br><em><strong>Child $12; Adults $19.</strong></em>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information visit </strong><a href="http://www.houstonsymphony.org/"><strong>www.houstonsymphony.org</strong></a><strong> or call 713-224-7575.</strong></div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><img alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/masqueradebanner.jpg" /></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Camelot</strong></div> <div><strong>February 19-28</strong></div> <div>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>A legendary production for a Legendary season, and the crown jewel in the collaborative efforts of Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe (<em>Brigadoon, My Fair Lady</em>) performed as only Masquerade can! The legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and of the tragic love between he, his queen Guenevere, and the champion Sir Lancelot is built on the inherent nobility of the King and his struggle to uphold a perfect ideal of chivalry and goodness in an all-too-human world... and all too soon, the choices he must make between being a husband, being a friend, and being a king. Allow yourself to be drawn into the breathtaking drama and the beauty of Camelot, a perfect place that cannot exist, with beloved and classic songs like "If Ever I Would Leave You", "In The Lusty Month Of May", "Fie On Goodness" and "I Wonder What The King Is Doing Tonight". The Masquerade Theatre is happy to offer you and your family seats at the Round Table!</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong><em>Tickets from $36.25.</em></strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>For tickets or more information&nbsp;visit <a href="http://www.thehobbycenter.org">www.thehobbycenter.org</a> </strong><strong>or call 713-315-2525.</strong>&nbsp;</div> <div></div> <div><br> <hr /> </div> <div align="center"><strong>Register-To-Win</strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><img height="30" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/mands_web.gif" width="133" border="0" /></div> <div align="center"><br>Win a complimentary dinner for two* at one of Downtown Houston's newest restaurants, McCormick &amp; Schmick's.<br></div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/featured_promotions/index.asp"><strong><br>Enter Now</strong></a><br></div> <div align="center"><strong>McCormick &amp; Schmick's - Houston Pavilions<br></strong></div> <div align="center"><strong>1201 Fannin, 713-658-8100</strong></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">Houston Downtown Alliance is proud to have McCormick &amp; Schmick's as a supporter of the Houston Downtown Alliance and Houston Theater District.<br>Join McCormick &amp; Schmick's Seafood Restaurant at 1201 Fannin Street at the Houston Pavilions for lunch, dinner and a lively happy hour.</div> <div align="center"><br>McCormick &amp; Schmick's Houston Pavilions restaurant was designed in a traditional style that brings its classic appeal to a modern setting. Elements of the design incorporate Texas-centric imagery, rich wood paneling, mahogany tables throughout, and a glass Atrium dining section in view of the shopping.</div> <div align="center"><br>McCormick and Schmick's new Executive Chef at the Houston Pavilion's is Chef Doug Pollard who brings years of experience and a fresh approach to the table. After graduating from Johnson &amp; Whales University, Pollard gained experience serving as executive chef at The State Grille, Hotel Derek, and Damian's Cucina Italiana, among other places in Houston. Pollard's culinary creativity will shine on the constantly updated menu.</div> <div align="center"><br>Visit here for more information or visit McCormick &amp; Schmick's at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/">www.mccormickandschmicks.com</a><br><br>&nbsp; *Entries must be received by 12 noon&nbsp;February 26, 2010.&nbsp; Winner will be notified by e-mail or phone.&nbsp; This certificate will entitle winner to a complimentary dinner for two excluding alcohol, tax and gratuity (a 18% gratuity will be added to final bill payable by holder of the certificate).&nbsp; This certificate will not be valid with any other offers or discounts and only redeemable at McCormick and Schmick's-Houston Pavilions, 1201 Fannin.&nbsp; Once issued, it will expire in 30 days.&nbsp;</div> <div align="center"> <hr /> </div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;<strong>Getting Around Houston Theater District</strong></div> <p align="center">Parking:&nbsp; Theater District Garages are located underground below Jones Plaza, Wortham Theater Center, Tranquility Park and Bayou Place.&nbsp; Hobby Center operates a parking garage, too.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>On-street meter parking is free after 6 pm Mon-Sat and all day Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p align="center"></p> <div> <hr /> </div> <div align="center"><br><strong>Read more of what's to come in the Houston Theater District for Winter 2010 in <em>Downtown</em>&nbsp;magazine, on-line!</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <div align="center"><a href="http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/7f22c869"><img height="207" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/downtown_winter2010.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/">www.downtownhouston.org</a>.</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div> <div align="center">&nbsp;</div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <hr /> &nbsp;</div> <div align="center"><strong>Houston Theater District is located in the heart of Downtown Houston.</strong>&nbsp;<br><strong>Alley Theatre</strong>, 615 Texas<br><strong>Hobby Center for the Performing Arts</strong>, 800 Bagby&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Wortham Theater Center</strong>, 501 Texas<br><strong>Jones Hall</strong>, 615 Louisiana<br></div> <div align="center"><strong>For more information</strong>:&nbsp; 713.658.8938 or <a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></div> <div align="center"><br><img height="27" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/theaterdistrictweb.jpg" width="155" border="0" /><br><a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/">www.houstontheaterdistrict.org</a></div> <div align="center"><br>brought to you by</div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.downtownhouston.org/"><img height="82" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/smallhda.jpg" width="150" border="0" /><br>www.downtownhouston.org</a><br></div> <div align="center"><strong><br>&nbsp;Funded in part by the City of Houston&nbsp;<br></strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><strong><a href="http://www.continental.com"><img height="32" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/continental2009_160.jpg" width="160" border="0" /></a></strong></div> <div align="center"><strong>Official Airline of the Houston Downtown Alliance</strong>&nbsp;<br></div> <div align="center"><strong><br>Follow us on Twitter for updates and special deals: HoustonTheater</strong></div> <div align="center"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstontheater"><img height="31" alt="" src="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/attachments/wysiwyg/9870/twitter.jpg" width="100" border="0" /></a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/426/ Heather Pray Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:59:18 GMT Articles http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/432/ <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET DANCER JOSEPH WALSH <br> PROMOTED TO SOLOIST </span></h1> <p><strong>Houston, Texas </strong>-- Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch promoted Joseph Walsh to the rank of soloist dancer. </p> <p>"Joseph is an impeccable dancer. He has beautiful technique, is very versatile, and a hard worker," commented Mr.Welch on his promotion of Mr. Walsh. "He auditioned for us in New York several years ago and right from the start, we knew he was a talented dancer who would develop and go far in our company. This promotion is especially great for the staff since we have watched him from the very beginning of his professional career."</p> <p>"We promoted Joe after his consistent and strong performances of the Prince in <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>. He danced at an amazing level and even picked up extra shows," observed Mr. Welch. "In September 2009, he also had a beautiful debut as Des Grieux in <strong>Manon</strong>, which at his age is extraordinary, and in September 2008, he danced a wonderful Lensky in <strong>Onegin</strong>."</p> <p>In August 2009 Joseph Walsh was awarded a prestigious Princess Grace Award by the Princess Grace Foundation-USA. Mr. Walsh traveled to New York City for the glittering Princess Grace Awards gala in October, hosted by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Mr. Walsh joined a small group of five former Houston Ballet dancers who have won a Princess Grace Award. Previous Houston Ballet winners include Yin Le (1998), Carlos Acosta (1995), Tiekka Schofield (1988), Li Cunxin (1986) and Martha Butler (1984).</p> <p>Of his recent accomplishments Joseph Walsh explains, "Last year was just absolutely amazing with both Princess Grace and now the promotion to soloist. I could not have asked for anything more and hope the new year brings new and exciting opportunities." </p> <p>Originally from Pennsylvania, Mr. Walsh trained at Walnut Hill School for the Performing Arts, American Ballet Theatre and Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy. Walsh was a member of Houston Ballet II prior to joining the professional company in 2007. </p> <p>Since then, Mr. Walsh has been featured in a variety of roles, both contemporary and classical, including Lensky in John Cranko's <strong>Onegin</strong>, Hans van Manen's <strong>Solo</strong>, Gopak in Ben Stevenson's <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>, Charles d'Artoise in Stanton Welch's <strong>Marie</strong>, first pas de deux in Antony Tudor's<strong> The Leaves are Fading</strong>, William Forsythe's <strong>The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude</strong>, Ji&#345;&#237; Kyli&#225;n's <strong>Soldiers' Mass</strong> and the first and seventh pas de deux in Mr. Welch's <strong>Nosotros</strong>. Mr. Walsh will also perform a leading role in the company's upcoming production of <strong>Manon</strong>.</p> <p>Reviewing Houston Ballet's performance of Welch's <strong>Swan Lake</strong> in <em>Houston Artsweek </em>in June 2009, dance critic Nancy Wozny observed, "Other standouts include Joseph Walsh as one of the Prince's friends. Walsh has had a great season and is most certainly one to watch." </p> <p align="center">###</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <br><br>1-Feb-10 12:00 PM HOUSTON BALLET DANCER JOSEPH WALSH PROMOTED TO SOLOIST <h1 align="center"><span style="color: #800000;">HOUSTON BALLET DANCER JOSEPH WALSH <br> PROMOTED TO SOLOIST </span></h1> <p><strong>Houston, Texas </strong>-- Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch promoted Joseph Walsh to the rank of soloist dancer. </p> <p>"Joseph is an impeccable dancer. He has beautiful technique, is very versatile, and a hard worker," commented Mr.Welch on his promotion of Mr. Walsh. "He auditioned for us in New York several years ago and right from the start, we knew he was a talented dancer who would develop and go far in our company. This promotion is especially great for the staff since we have watched him from the very beginning of his professional career."</p> <p>"We promoted Joe after his consistent and strong performances of the Prince in <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>. He danced at an amazing level and even picked up extra shows," observed Mr. Welch. "In September 2009, he also had a beautiful debut as Des Grieux in <strong>Manon</strong>, which at his age is extraordinary, and in September 2008, he danced a wonderful Lensky in <strong>Onegin</strong>."</p> <p>In August 2009 Joseph Walsh was awarded a prestigious Princess Grace Award by the Princess Grace Foundation-USA. Mr. Walsh traveled to New York City for the glittering Princess Grace Awards gala in October, hosted by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Mr. Walsh joined a small group of five former Houston Ballet dancers who have won a Princess Grace Award. Previous Houston Ballet winners include Yin Le (1998), Carlos Acosta (1995), Tiekka Schofield (1988), Li Cunxin (1986) and Martha Butler (1984).</p> <p>Of his recent accomplishments Joseph Walsh explains, "Last year was just absolutely amazing with both Princess Grace and now the promotion to soloist. I could not have asked for anything more and hope the new year brings new and exciting opportunities." </p> <p>Originally from Pennsylvania, Mr. Walsh trained at Walnut Hill School for the Performing Arts, American Ballet Theatre and Houston Ballet's Ben Stevenson Academy. Walsh was a member of Houston Ballet II prior to joining the professional company in 2007. </p> <p>Since then, Mr. Walsh has been featured in a variety of roles, both contemporary and classical, including Lensky in John Cranko's <strong>Onegin</strong>, Hans van Manen's <strong>Solo</strong>, Gopak in Ben Stevenson's <strong>The Nutcracker</strong>, Charles d'Artoise in Stanton Welch's <strong>Marie</strong>, first pas de deux in Antony Tudor's<strong> The Leaves are Fading</strong>, William Forsythe's <strong>The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude</strong>, Ji&#345;&#237; Kyli&#225;n's <strong>Soldiers' Mass</strong> and the first and seventh pas de deux in Mr. Welch's <strong>Nosotros</strong>. Mr. Walsh will also perform a leading role in the company's upcoming production of <strong>Manon</strong>.</p> <p>Reviewing Houston Ballet's performance of Welch's <strong>Swan Lake</strong> in <em>Houston Artsweek </em>in June 2009, dance critic Nancy Wozny observed, "Other standouts include Joseph Walsh as one of the Prince's friends. Walsh has had a great season and is most certainly one to watch." </p> <p align="center">###</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/art/432/ Shuana Tysor Mon, 01 Feb 2010 18:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/30/ Highlights: Company begins multi-year German opera series with Lohengrin New production of Tosca to open in January 2010 Acclaimed productions of Queen of Spades and Xerxes highlight spring repertory The chilling third installment of the multi-year Benjamin Britten series Mainstage Season: Donizetti: The Elixir of Love Wagner: Lohengrin (New Production) Puccini: Tosca (New Production) Britten: The Turn of the Screw Tchaikovsky: The Queen of Spades Handel: Xerxes (HOUSTON, TX – January 30, 2009) — Houston Grand Opera General Director and CEO Anthony Freud today announced details of the company’s 2009-10 season, which runs from October 23, 2009 to May 14, 2010 with thirty-one performances of six operas. Speaking at a press conference, Freud stated that This season will offer audiences an opportunity to experience opera as music theater by combining an array of star singers, an broad range of important repertory, productions of exceptional interest, and... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/30/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Fri, 06 Feb 2009 21:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/28/ HOUSTON — On February 7, 2009, for the first time in four years, Houston Grand Opera (HGO) will offer a free live simulcast of its newest production, Chorus! from the stage of the Wortham Theater Center in downtown Houston. This event represents the return of the once-popular free live transmissions formerly called Plazacasts, which will be transmitted to a climate controlled tent at Discovery Green Park. Due to the expanded reach, HGO Plazacasts have been renamed CityCasts. This broadcast also marks the first time that HGO’s simulcasts will be in High Definition. Audience members at the simulcast locations will experience an exciting night of entertainment, say HGO General Director and CEO Anthony Freud The world renowned talents of Houston Grand Opera will be broadcast in High Definition for the first time in company history, taking the experience of the opera outside the Wortham walls. In addition to the CityCast transmission at Discovery Green Park, the performance will also be... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/28/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Thu, 22 Jan 2009 21:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/31/ From Der Rosenkavalier to a Red Carpet Oscar Party, Schubert to Mary Wilson of the Supremes, The Planets—An HD Odyssey to Pink Martini, Beethoven to Beauty and the Beast, the Houston Symphony’s stellar 2009-2010 season has something for everyone. The star-studded lineup includes a world premiere and a North American premiere, the world’s most acclaimed female conductor, Houston’s former music director Christoph Eschenbach joined by Lang Lang, and Europe’s hot new conducting star. Vivid images accompanied by live musical masterpieces define this season’s convergence of film and music. Highlights include the following: Fidelity Investments Classical Series Brings Premiere Events to Jones Hall The Planets—An HD Odyssey Merges NASA’s Latest Exploration Images with Gustav Holst’s The Planets in a World Premiere, Houston Symphony-Commissioned Event Graf and the Symphony Give North American Premiere of Robert Wiene’s Silent Film Der Rosenkavalier with Richard Strauss’ Own Orchestral... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/31/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/27/ HOUSTON – Houston Grand Opera (HGO) continues the 2008–2009 season with Chorus! a new work featuring the highly acclaimed HGO Chorus and Orchestra, in the Brown Theater at the Wortham Theater Center. The production opens on January 30, 2009, with performances continuing through February 13, 2009. Chorus! is a fast-moving sequence of over twenty eclectic choral selections from opera, operetta, musical theater and oratorio. The choruses move along a plot that explores the individual and the group dynamic. It’s important to note that this far from a choir performance, says British director David Pountney, Chorus! is a fully costumed and staged production. Pountney, whose directorial work was last seen at HGO in 1984 with Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman, has twice won an Olivier Award for direction. The new production features more than 600 new costumes, 90 singers, and the full force of the HGO orchestra. The repertoire of Chorus! spans more than three hundred years, from the baroque... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/27/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/26/ HOUSTON—Houston Grand Opera (HGO) continues its 54th season with A Midsummer Night’s Dream, British composer Benjamin Britten’s masterful setting of William Shakespeare’s play of the same name. Following HGO’s acclaimed production of Billy Budd last season, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is the second opera in a multi-year series of works by Britten. Benjamin Britten’s operas continue the great line of central operatic creations from Monteverdi in the 17th century through Mozart, Handel, Verdi, Wagner, Strauss and Jan&#225;&#269;ek, explained HGO General Director Anthony Freud. In embarking on a Britten series, we are working to introduce our audiences, on a long-term and ongoing basis, to a group of works that deserves to be at the very heart of the operatic repertoire. HGO will present a series of Britten operas through the 2012–13 season, which marks the centennial of the composer’s birth. Benjamin Britten's A Midsummer Night’s Dream seems to do the impossible; it weds 20th-century... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/26/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/24/ HOUSTON, TX…Broadway’s most talked about new musical and the biggest Tony Award&#174;-winner in years is coming to Houston January 6-18, 2009. Presented by Cadillac Broadway Across America-Houston, Spring Awakening, the 8-time Tony Award&#174; winning Broadway musical, will open at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts (800 Bagby) and will play for 16 performances. Starting at $26, tickets to Spring Awakening are available at these authorized outlets; Hobby Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling (713) 629-3700 or online at www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. Groups of 20 or more, call (888) 451-5986 or e-mail Jenna.Storey@BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com. Performances are Tuesday – Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; and Sunday at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Spring Awakening swept the 2007 Tony Awards&#174; winning eight out of its eleven nominations, including Best Musical, Best Director (Michael Mayer), Best Book (Steven Sater), Best Choreography (Bill T. Jones), Best... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/24/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/23/ <div>Friends ballet director takes in Texas dancers<br> BY LORI YOUNT<br> The Wichita Eagle</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Nine members of the Dominic Walsh Dance Theater left Houston on Sunday, after Hurricane Ike came ashore early Saturday morning, knocking out power to their studios and trees onto their houses. Stan Rogers, ballet director at Friends University, invited the company to evacuate to Wichita before the storm hit, but Dominic Walsh said the company would "be fine." After waking up Saturday to find a tree on his fence and finding the downtown studio without power or water, Walsh changed his mind. "By Saturday night, I called and asked if the offer was still good," Walsh said.<br> </div> <div>The dancers are scheduled to open the season in October with the world premiere of the ballet "Titus Andronicus," and Walsh said they couldn't lose the two to four weeks expected for the Houston area to regain electricity. "It kind of looked like a war zone, and I didn't think we'd get much work done," he said.<br> </div> <div>It was "a little tricky" leaving town with road closures, Walsh said, and he was thankful the vehicles had enough gas to get to Dallas, the first place with gas that didn't have lines with dozens of cars. The dancers are living in three houses in Rogers' neighborhood and practicing at the university until power returns to Houston, Walsh said. Walsh met Rogers as a guest artist in Friends University's annual production of "The Nutcracker."<br> </div> <div>Walsh was a principal dancer and choreographer for the Houston Ballet before launching his contemporary ballet company in 2002 that has won critical acclaim nationally and internationally. "It was really a generous offering, and we're, of course, very grateful," Walsh said.<br> </div> <div><a href="http://www.dwdt.org"><br> Dominic Walsh Dance Theater</a>&nbsp;is a member of <strong><em>Uniquely Houston</em> </strong>which performs at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, <a href="http://www.thehobbycenter.org">www.thehobbycenter.org</a>. </div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/23/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/22/ HOUSTON GRAND OPERA RECEIVES $250K GRANT FROM HEARST FOUNDATION GRANT TO SUPPORT HGOco’s STUDENT PERFORMANCE SERIES AND TEACHER WORKSHOPS HOUSTON- Houston Grand Opera (HGO) has received at $250,000 grant from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation to support its Student Performance Series and Teacher Workshops for three years. These programs are administered by HGO’s education and community programs department - HGOco. The Hearst Foundation support will allow HGO to provide more opportunities for students and teachers to enjoy, learn, imagine, participate in and create through opera, said HGOco director Sandra Bernhard. This support will allow us to touch so many more young minds in a positive way and strengthen educators ability to integrate arts into the classroom though real experience. HGOco is a far reaching initiative that seeks to break down boundaries to the arts by creating opportunities for observation, participation and creation for everyone in the greater Houston... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/22/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/21/ HOUSTON GRAND OPERA GENERAL DIRECTOR ANTHONY FREUD ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF OPERA AMERICA Former Chairman of Opera Europa begins 2-year term in June 2008 HOUSTON, TX — Anthony Freud, OBE, General Director and CEO of Houston Grand Opera, has been elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of OPERA America, the national service organization for opera. The election took place at the annual OPERA America conference 2008 in Denver on June 11th. Freud will serve an initial term of two years and succeeds Charles MacKay, General Director of the Opera Theatre of St. Louis. We at OPERA America are extraordinarily grateful to Charles MacKay for four years of outstanding leadership and especially pleased he will remain on the Board, stated Marc A. Scorca, President & CEO of OPERA America. The election of Anthony Freud as Chairman of the OPERA America Board of Directors reflects the high esteem in which he is held across the entire field. We are fortunate that he will support us with his unique... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/21/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Tue, 01 Jul 2008 21:00:00 GMT Release http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/20/ PRESS RELEASE: For Immediate Release June, 23, 2008 Press Contacts: Christopher Novosad, 713-546-0278, cnovosad@houstongrandopera.org HOUSTON GRAND OPERA TAKES OPERA CAMPS TO HOUSTON’S COMMUNITITES CREATE AN OPERA CAMP ACTIVITES TRAVEL TO PROJECT ROW HOUSES AND YES PREP SCHOOL HOUSTON- This summer, HGOco, Houston Grand Opera’s community outreach department, will partner with Project Row Houses and YES Prep Public School Southeast Campus for Create an Opera camp projects, which are underwritten by AIG American General. Students, with the help of HGO and community teaching artists, will produce their own original musical work– adapting a story into a libretto; composing music; creating costumes, props and scenery; and performing a fully staged opera for an audience of family and friends. This venture will mark the first time that HGOco has ever taken the Opera Camp activities outside of HGO’s home at the Wortham Theater Center and into Houston’s communities. We are here to... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/rel/20/ noemail@houstontheaterdistrict.org Mon, 23 Jun 2008 21:00:00 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/87/ Comedy Thriller &#8211; Ingenious, Inventive, Riotous Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps Adapted By Patrick Barlow Directed by Mark Shanahan Now through March 28 Hubbard Stage Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre. This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 eccentric characters &#8211; played by a prodigiously talented cast of four &#8211; an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance. In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called The 39 Steps is hot on the man's trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale. A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/87/ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:32:09 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/75/ <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="540" background="/images/scroll_back.jpg" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img height="51" alt="" src="/images/scrolltop.jpg" width="540" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="540" border="0"> <tbody> <tr valign="top" align="left"> <td width="75"><img height="213" alt="" src="/images/scrollleft.jpg" width="75" /></td> <td width="379"> <p><br><br><img alt="Houston red cat jazz cafe and restaurant" hspace="10" src="/attachments/contentmanagers/75/redcat_cafe.jpg" align="left" />Tantalizing cuisine abounds in Houston!&nbsp; You'll be sure to find what you are craving - whether it be barbeque, Cajun fusion, Italian or sushi.&nbsp; Good eating! </p> <div>Offers are currently being updated.&nbsp; <br></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Please visit our&nbsp;<a href="http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/directories/search.asp?category=Restaurants">restaurant directory</a> in the meantime.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Interested in becoming a restaurant member of Houston Downtown Alliance and the Houston Theater District?&nbsp; Please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://downtownhouston.org/memberships/">here</a> for opportunities.</div> <p><a href="http://www.aldenhotels.com/" target="_blank"></a>&nbsp;____________________________________________________</p> <div>&nbsp; </div></td> <td width="58"><img height="213" alt="" src="/images/scrollright.jpg" width="87" /></td></tr></tbody></table> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div></td></tr> <tr> <td><img height="111" alt="" src="/images/scrollbottom.jpg" width="540" /></td></tr></tbody></table> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/75/ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:33:10 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/14/ <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="540" background="/images/scroll_back.jpg"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="" src="/images/scrolltop.jpg" width="540" height="51" /></td></tr> <tr> <td> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="540"> <tbody> <tr valign="top" align="left"> <td width="75"><img alt="" src="/images/scrollleft.jpg" width="75" height="213" /></td> <td width="379"> <div id="scrolltext"> <p><u><strong></strong></u></p><u><font size="2"> <p>&nbsp;</p></font></u> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div>&nbsp;&nbsp; <strong><u>SPECIAL OFFERS</u></strong><br>&nbsp;</div> <div><img style="width: 200px; height: 200px" border="3" alt="" align="left" src="/attachments/wysiwyg/11602/DSC_8426_web.jpg" width="200" height="200" />Learn more about the Alley Theatre's <a href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/Alley/Special_Offers_EN.asp?SnID=1032855668">Special Offers</a>.<br><br>Learn more about the Alley Theatre's <a href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/Alley/Ticket_Discounts_EN.asp?SnID=864619593" target="_blank"><a href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/Alley/Backstage_Tours_EN.asp?SnID=1032855668"><a href="http://www.alleytheatre.org/Alley/Backstage_Tours_EN.asp?SnID=81503400">Backstage Tours</a>.</a></a><br><br></div></div></td> <td width="58"><img alt="" src="/images/scrollright.jpg" width="87" height="213" /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr> <tr> <td><img alt="" src="/images/scrollbottom.jpg" width="540" height="111" /></td></tr></tbody></table> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/14/ Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:13:51 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/13/ Events | Offers | News | Location | Seating Charts Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps Now Through March 28 at Alley Theatre Alley Theatre 713-220-5700 www.alleytheatre.org Comedy Thriller &#8211; Ingenious, Inventive, Riotous Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps Adapted By Patrick Barlow Directed by Mark Shanahan Now through March 28, 2010 Hubbard Stage Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre. This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 eccentric characters &#8211; played by a prodigiously talented cast of four &#8211; an on-stage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers and some good old-fashioned romance. In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she's a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called The 39... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/13/ Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:12:01 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/29/ Events | Offers | News | Location | Seating Charts Purchase Tickets Check out the 2009-2010 Season Subscribe to Houston Ballet Hailed by The New York Times as one of the nation's best ballet companies, Houston Ballet is America's fourth largest ballet company, featuring 53 dancers who have won gold and silver medals at international ballet competitions. Founded in 1969, Houston Ballet is currently under the leadership of the dynamic Australian choreographer Stanton Welch who was named artistic director of the company in 2003. The company performs a vast repertoire of works, ranging from the great nineteenth century classics such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker to exciting new ballets commissioned from some of the world's most prestigious... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/29/ Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:04:19 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/77/ Register-To-Win Win a complimentary dinner for two* at one of Downtown Houston's newest restaurants, McCormick & Schmick's. McCormick & Schmick's - Houston Pavilions 1201 Fannin, 713-658-8100 Houston Downtown Alliance is proud to have McCormick & Schmick's as a supporter of the Houston Downtown Alliance and Houston Theater District. Join McCormick & Schmick&#8217;s Seafood Restaurant at 1201 Fannin Street at the Houston Pavilions for lunch, dinner and a lively happy hour. McCormick & Schmick&#8217;s Houston Pavilions restaurant was designed in a traditional style that brings its classic appeal to a modern setting. Elements of the design incorporate Texas-centric imagery, rich wood paneling, mahogany tables throughout, and a glass Atrium dining section in view of the shopping. McCormick and Schmick&#8217;s new Executive Chef at the Houston Pavilion&#8217;s is Chef Doug Pollard who brings years of experience and a fresh approach to the table. After graduating from Johnson... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/77/ Mon, 11 Jan 2010 17:03:24 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/80/ <div>These days it is all about what is going on <em>right now</em> (or as soon as they can update it).&nbsp; Several of the members of the Houston Theater District do a great job of keeping audiences informed of what's going on through various modes of social networking:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Twitter</strong></div> <div>Houston Theater District - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstontheater">www.twitter.com/houstontheater</a></div> <div>Subscribe to find out what is playing in Houston Theater District and receive special deals</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Houston Ballet - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/houstonballet">www.twitter.com/houstonballet</a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Houston Symphony - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/housymphony">www.twitter.com/housymphony</a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Houston Grand Opera - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/hougrandopera">www.twitter.com/hougrandopera</a> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Society for the Performing Arts - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/spahouston">www.twitter.com/spahouston</a> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Theater Under The Stars - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/tutshouston">www.twitter.com/tutshouston</a> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Gexa Broadway Across America - Houston - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/baahouston">www.twitter.com/baahouston</a> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Uniquely Houston</div> <div>- Ars Lyrica of Houston - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/arslyrica">www.twitter.com/arslyrica</a></div> <div>- Dominic Walsh Dance Theater - <a href="http://www.twitter.com/dominicwalsh">www.twitter.com/dominicwalsh</a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>Blogs</strong></div> <div>Houston Ballet - <a href="http://houstonballet.wordpress.com/">En Pointe with Houston Ballet</a></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Houston Grand Opera - <font face="Arial"><a href="http://houstongrandopera.blogspot.com/">http://houstongrandopera.blogspot.com/</a></font> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Theatre Under The Stars - <font face="Arial"><a href="http://tuts.com/iTUTS/Blog/tabid/268/Default.aspx">http://tuts.com/iTUTS/Blog/tabid/268/Default.aspx</a></font></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div><strong>MySpace</strong></div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Theatre Under The Stars - <font face="Arial"><a href="http://www.myspace.com/theatreunderthestars">http://www.myspace.com/theatreunderthestars</a></font> &nbsp;</div> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/80/ Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:24:43 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/50/ Events | Offers | News | Location | Seating Charts Founded in 1968, Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) is Houston’s acclaimed non-profit musical theatre company and is currently under the direction of President and CEO John C. Breckenridge. TUTS was the first theatrical organization in Houston to perform free to the public in 1968 at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, and is the only Houston arts organization that has performed there free to the public every year since the building opened. Since its founding by Frank M. Young, TUTS has produced more than 300 musicals including many local, national and world premieres such as Kopit and Yeston’s Phantom, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jekyll & Hyde, and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. TUTS has also produced international tours including Debbie Reynolds in The Unsinkable Molly Brown, Juliet Prowse in Mame, Robert Goulet in Man of La Mancha, as well as critically acclaimed local re-inventions of classics such as... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/50/ Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:15:34 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/67/ Alley Theatre Contact: Rodi Franco Phone: 713-315-3352 Email: rodif@alleytheatre.org Website: www.alleytheatre.org Houston Ballet Contact: Shauna Tysor, Public Relations Manager Phone: 713-535-3226 Email: stysor@houstonball Website: www.houstonballet.org Society for the Performing Arts Contact: Karen Watassek Phone: 713-632-8105 Email: karen@spahouston.org Website: www.spahouston.org Houston Symphony Contact: Art Kent, Sr. Director of Public Relations Phone: 713-224-7575 Email: art.kent@houstonsymphony.org Website: www.houstonsymphony.org Theatre Under The Stars Contact: Johnny Hooks Phone: 713-558-TUTS E-mail: johnny@tuts.com Website: www.tuts.com Da Camera of Houston Contact: Leo Boucher, Director of Marketing Phone: 713-524-7601, ext. 516 Email: lboucher@dacamera.com Website: www.dacamera.com Houston Grand Opera Contact: Christopher Novosad, Director of Public Relations Phone: 713-546-0278 Email: cnovosad@houstongrandopera.org ... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/67/ Tue, 18 Aug 2009 20:25:06 GMT Content Managers http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/18/ Events | Offers | News | Location | Seating Charts Gexa Energy Broadway Across America - Houston brings you the finest in musical and theatrical entertainment. Want a taste of Broadway this weekend? Broadway Across America channels the talent, beauty and excitement of the Big Apple's Broadway shows in our very own Houston Theater District. Learn more about this season's shows and available tickets! SPRING AWAKENING January 6-18, 2009 WINNER 8 TONY AWARDS&#174; INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL! Broadway’s most talked about new musical is now the biggest Tony Award&#174; Winner in years. SPRING AWAKENING is the groundbreaking fusion of morality, sexuality and rock & roll that has awakened Broadway like no other musical. Winner of 8 Tony Awards&#174; including BEST MUSICAL and a Grammy Award&#174; for BEST MUSICAL SHOW ALBUM, SPRING AWAKENING celebrates the unforgettable journey from youth to adulthood with a power, a poignancy and a passion you will never... http://www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/en/cms/18/ Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:20:39 GMT