Stage Left: June 2016

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of June 30, 2016

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

42nd Street

The Muny presents the musical 42nd Street running nightly at 8:15 pm through June 30 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "All-singing! All-tapping! One of the biggest, boldest, brashest musicals in Broadway history, this song-and-dance extravaganza remains the ultimate backstage musical. Yet, beneath all the hip hooray and ballyhoo, this 'lullaby of Broadway' reminds us that Broadway dreams still do come true." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: Here's your last chance to catch the glitzy all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza. Reviews have been good (see Tina Farmer's comments at KDHX for an example) and, frankly, given how awful so much of the news is these says, even if this weren't such a solid production, I might recommend it anyway. Remember: "There's a Sunny Side to Every Situation".

Grand Center presents the Grand Center Theatre Crawl on Friday, July 1, from 6 to 9 p.m. at various locations in the Grand Center Arts District. " It's a “tasting menu” of the best of St. Louis theatre, and it's free! Every half hour, 6-9pm, you'll stroll to a different Grand Center venue for a short show from local theatre companies. See shows from nineteen St. Louis theatre companies, and yes, there will be prizes!" Featured theatre companies include Prison Performing Arts, West End Players Guild, St. Louis Actors' Studio, Insight Theatre Company, R-S Theatrics, and Union Avenue Opera. For more information: grandcenter.org.

My take: Here's a chance to get sneak previews of some of what's coming up on local stages. I'll be there as part of the West End Players Guild team with a preview of our opening production of Tom Stoppard's Arcadia. Come on down!

Held Over:

Alice in Wonderland
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Disney's Alice in Wonderland through July 3. "Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice as she falls into the madcap world of Wonderland and meets such extraordinary characters as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and the frantically late White Rabbit. Inviting and magical, Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND is a fantastic adventure the whole family can enjoy! Based on the classic literary tales of Lewis Carroll and the beloved Walt Disney film, this whimsical journey to a land beyond imagination is sure to bring you and yours the perfect“Zip-A-Dee-Do-Dah” day." Performances take place in at the Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: Looking for theatre that's fun for the whole family? Stages has a deal for you. Children's theatre can sometimes feel like it's aimed not so much at children as at simple-minded adults. Such is apparently not the case here. "Children will likely be enthralled by the clever dialogue, catchy songs, and abundantly joyful tone of the show" writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "so much so that the simple but effective lesson about being true to yourself can easily sneak its way into their brains. Parents and older kids have not been forgotten, and most will appreciate the pop culture references, fast pacing, comic choreography, and high quality singing that ties the show up in a delightful bow."

It Shoulda Been YouPhoto: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical It Shoulda Been You through July 3. "You are cordially invited to join us for what is certain to be the wedding of the year! Direct from Broadway and in its Mid-Western premiere, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU comes to STAGES with a mad-cap wedding celebration we know you won't want to miss! After all, who doesn't love a wedding? Especially one that includes a beautiful blushing bride, her uninvited and unrequited boyfriend, a groom with a secret, a sister with her own hidden agenda, and a pair of mothers from hell. This refreshingly modern romantic comedy has more than a few surprising twists in store as out comes the bride and groom in a wedding you are sure to remember. Be the first to say “I do” to this wonderfully witty musical that kept Broadway audiences rolling in the aisles. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: This world premiere musical has gotten considerable praise from my fellow critics. "Strong actors abound in the production," says Laura Kyro at KDHX, "and most have excellent singing voices." At Broadwayworld, Chris Gibson calls it a "superbly rendered presentation" and strongly recommends it.

Pastime

Circus Flora presents its new show, Pastime, through July 3 under the air-conditioned, red-and-white, big top tent in Grand Center next to Powell Hall. "Along with runs and hits, the box score will fill-up with flips, flights, and laughs throughout PASTIME. When the hometown Zephyrs struggle to get out of last place, only their biggest fan and some incredible (and unlikely) stunts can help them turn their season around. Join us, and the magic of baseball." For more information: circusflora.org.

My take: Although I was born and have spent most of my life in St. Louis, there are some local traditions and institutions that I never have and probably never will understand. White Castle, for example, or the business about asking where you went to high school. What's THAT all about, anyway? Circus Flora, though, is a St. Louis tradition that anyone can embrace. And what could be more St. Louis than a show inspired by baseball? Happy 30th birthday, Circus Flora. The elephant after which you are named may have retired to Florida long ago, but you're still going strong.

Sunday, June 26, 2016

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of June 27, 2016

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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The Muny presents the musical 42nd Street running nightly at 8:15 pm through June 30 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "All-singing! All-tapping! One of the biggest, boldest, brashest musicals in Broadway history, this song-and-dance extravaganza remains the ultimate backstage musical. Yet, beneath all the hip hooray and ballyhoo, this 'lullaby of Broadway' reminds us that Broadway dreams still do come true." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Bullets in the Bathtub through July 30. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: mansion.com

Company
Photo: John Lamb

Insight Theatre Company presents Stephen Sondheim's musical Company through July 3. "On the night of his 35th birthday, confirmed bachelor Robert contemplates his unmarried state. Over the course of a series of dinners, drinks, and even a wedding, his friends -- 'those good and crazy people [his] married friends' -- explain the pros and cons of taking on a spouse. The habitually single Robert is forced to question his adamant retention of bachelorhood during a hilarious array of interactions." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

Disney's Alice in Wonderland
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Disney's Alice in Wonderland through July 3. "Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice as she falls into the madcap world of Wonderland and meets such extraordinary characters as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and the frantically late White Rabbit. Inviting and magical, Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND is a fantastic adventure the whole family can enjoy! Based on the classic literary tales of Lewis Carroll and the beloved Walt Disney film, this whimsical journey to a land beyond imagination is sure to bring you and yours the perfect“Zip-A-Dee-Do-Dah” day." Performances take place in at the Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

Grand Center presents the Grand Center Theatre Crawl on Friday, July 1, from 6 to 9 p.m. at various locations in the Grand Center Arts District. " It's a “tasting menu” of the best of St. Louis theatre, and it's free! Every half hour, 6-9pm, you'll stroll to a different Grand Center venue for a short show from local theatre companies. See shows from nineteen St. Louis theatre companies, and yes, there will be prizes!" Featured theatre companies include Prison Performing Arts, West End Players Guild, St. Louis Actors' Studio, Insight Theatre Company, R-S Theatrics, and Union Avenue Opera. For more information: grandcenter.org.

It Shoulda Been You
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical It Shoulda Been You through July 3. "You are cordially invited to join us for what is certain to be the wedding of the year! Direct from Broadway and in its Mid-Western premiere, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU comes to STAGES with a mad-cap wedding celebration we know you won't want to miss! After all, who doesn't love a wedding? Especially one that includes a beautiful blushing bride, her uninvited and unrequited boyfriend, a groom with a secret, a sister with her own hidden agenda, and a pair of mothers from hell. This refreshingly modern romantic comedy has more than a few surprising twists in store as out comes the bride and groom in a wedding you are sure to remember. Be the first to say “I do” to this wonderfully witty musical that kept Broadway audiences rolling in the aisles. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Nursery Crimes through July 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

Circus Flora presents its new show, Pastime, through July 3 under the air-conditioned, red-and-white, big top tent in Grand Center next to Powell Hall. "Along with runs and hits, the box score will fill-up with flips, flights, and laughs throughout PASTIME. When the hometown Zephyrs struggle to get out of last place, only their biggest fan and some incredible (and unlikely) stunts can help them turn their season around. Join us, and the magic of baseball." For more information: circusflora.org.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Review: The problems of "Ariadne on Naxos" were solved elegantly at Opera Theatre of St. Louis

Act I
Photo: Ken Howard

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I usually make it a practice to attend the opening nights of Opera Theatre's summer season, but travel plans this year obliged me to push all but La Bohème off to the final week of performances. That meant that I didn't get to see their admirable production of Richard Strauss's seriocomic Ariadne on Naxos until its closing night.

Better late than never, right?

It was, in any case, a pretty splendid presentation of an opera that is, by any standard, a kind of odd duck. Strauss and his librettist (and frequent collaborator) Hugo von Hofmannsthal originally intended it as a one-act postlude for a production of Moliere's comedy Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme in 1912. The difficulty and expense of mounting a play and an opera on the same bill eventually forced them to produce a rewrite that allowed the opera to stand on its own. It was first performed in 1916 and has been in circulation ever since.

So Young Park and the clowns
Photo: Ken Howard

The comic Prologue sets up the situation: the “richest man in Vienna” has engaged both a production of the tragic opera “Ariadne auf Naxos” and a commedia dell'arte troupe as after-dinner entertainment for his guests. To save time, he decrees that both shows must take place simultaneously. The performers can work out the details. The resulting conflicts between the opera company's Composer, Music Master, Prima Donna, and Tenor on one side and Zerbinetta and her group of buffoons on the other generate plenty of laughs, most of them at the expense of the self-important composer and his egotistical leading lady.

After intermission, we see the hybrid opera within an opera set up in the Prologue. Abandoned on Naxos, Ariadne (with the help of three nymphs) yearns for death, but her lamentations are repeatedly interrupted by Zerbinetta and company, who are determined to cheer her up. Drama eventually wins out, however, when Bacchus arrives, declares his love, and joins Ariadne in a long, rapturous love duet.

AJ Glueckert and Marjorie Owens in Act II
Photo: Ken Howard

The second act "opera within an opera" presents real problems, not the least of which is getting the audience to take Ariadne and Bacchus seriously after Strauss and Hofmannsthal have so effectively lampooned the pretensions of operatic tragedy in the first act. But OTSL had a couple of excellent performers in tenor AJ Glueckert and soprano Marjorie Owens, both making very strong impressions in their local debuts. Ms. Owens was particularly affecting as the bereft Ariadne, backed up by the glorious voices of the three nymphs (Elizabeth Sutphen, Stephanie Sanchez, and Liv Redpath) constantly striking graceful "Grecian urn" poses.

Perhaps the most striking performance of the evening, though, came from former Gerdine Young Artist So Young Park in the important and difficult role of Zerbinetta. Strauss wrote an almost absurdly long and florid coloratura aria ("Großmächtige Prinzessin" or "High and mighty princess") for her in the second act that calls on all the technique and flexibility a coloratura can summon up. It's a tribute to Ms. Park's abilities that she not only handled it with ease, but made it entertaining as well.

So Young Park and Cecelia Hall

Mezzo Cecelia Hall was comically intense in the "pants" role of the Composer and OTSL veteran Matthew DiBattista was hilariously nimble as the Dancing Master. John Brancy's solid baritone enhanced his very funny performance as the principal clown, Harlequin. Accompanying him as Zerbinetta's other three jokers were bass-baritone (and nimble dancer) Erik van Heyningen, tenor Benjamin Lee, and tenor Miles Mykkanen. Veteran St. Louis actor Ken Page was the epitome of self-important pomposity in the non-singing role of the Major Domo.

Director/Choreographer Seán Curran's staging felt a bit gimmicky at times, but generally worked quite well. And the comic dance moves he provided for Zerbinetta's crew could not have been better. Rory Macdonald conducted members of the St. Louis Symphony in a wonderfully full-blooded reading of Strauss's score.

As this is being written, Opera Theatre's 2016 season is winding down, concluding with Verdi's Macbeth tomorrow (June 26) at 7. It has been a very strong season and I'm glad I finally got to see all of it, even if I did so just under the wire.

Review: Impeccable performances highlight the world premiere of "Shalimar the Clown" at Opera Theatre


The Act I wedding scene Photo: Ken Howard

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For those of you out there who think of opera as a lot of stuff by dead guys, consider this: of the 81 composers whose works have been performed during Opera Theatre of St. Louis's 41 seasons, 31 (38%) are alive and well. This season, in fact, OTSL presented the world premiere of a brand-new opera that it commissioned: Shalimar the Clown.

Adapted by Jack Perla (composer) and Rajiv Joseph (librettist) from Salman Rushdie's novel of the same name, the opera sets a tale of doomed love and revenge against the larger canvas of the war in Kashmir and the rise of fundamentalist terrorism. The title character, a performer in a Kashmiri bhand pather (traditional folk dance) troupe in 1964, falls deeply (and quickly) in love with the beautiful dancer Boonyi. She, alas, is Hindu and he's Muslim, so when their affair is discovered the elders in their village of Pachigam are scandalized. Instead of driving the pair apart, however, they insist that they marry immediately in a joint ceremony that celebrates the religious diversity of their town and of Kashmir as a whole.

Sean Panikkar
Photo: Ken Howard

That makes Shalimar happy but leaves Boonyi feeling unfulfilled. She loves him, but yearns for a bigger role in the world outside. Unfortunately, she decides to pursue her dream by allowing herself to be seduced by the American ambassador, Max Ophuls. When she has a child, he abandons her, his wife takes the baby, and Boonyi is dumped back with the villagers who reject her and force her to live apart. Shalimar, meanwhile, has turned his sorrow into anger and become an assassin for an anti-Indian terrorist group headed by Bulbul Fakh, the "Iron Mullah."

As the decades pass, war comes to Pachigam, Boonyi's daughter grows to womanhood in the USA, and Shalimar plots his revenge. Needless to say, nobody lives happily ever after.

Andriana Chuchman as Boonyi
Photo: Ken Howard

For me, the best things about this production were the stunning performances by a truly remarkable cast, James Robinson's clear and theatrically apt direction, the wonderful singing by Robert Ainsley's chorus, and the superb job conductor Jayce Ogren and the St. Louis Symphony musicians did with a complex and dense score. Seán Curran also deserves a shout-out for choreography that perfectly blended both Western and Indian movement while creatively advancing the opera's narrative.

The opera itself left me a bit cold, partly because Mr. Joseph's libretto seems to take for granted a degree of familiarity with the novel which I did not possess and which should not, in any case, be assumed when creating a stage adaptation from another medium. As it is, the characters of Shalimar and Boonyi (along with major secondary characters) lack a depth on stage that they presumably have in the novel.

Gregory Dahl and Katherine Goeldner
Photo: Ken Howard

Mr. Perla's score has many striking and even beautiful moments, such as the West Side Story-ish scene in which Shalimar and Boonyi first meet, and it does an impressive job of incorporating Indian rhythms, harmonies and even a couple instruments (sitar and tabla) without becoming obviously imitative. Unfortunately, Mr. Perla's standard technique for his most emotionally charged scenes seems to consist of having everyone sing and play as loudly as possible, producing a kind of aural mush.

Still, it was thrilling to see tenor Sean Panikkar and soprano Andriana Chuchman in such bravura performances of those very challenging roles, singing this very difficult and melismatic music. Ms. Chuchman doubled in the markedly different role of Boonyi's daughter India, which was even more impressive.

Bass-baritone Thomas Hammons, who was so impressive in La Bohème this season, cut a sympathetic figure as Shalimar's father Abdullah, while baritone Gregory Dahl and mezzo Katherine Goeldner were appropriately repellent as the unethical Max Ophuls and his seriously co-dependent wife Peggy. Bass-baritone Aubrey Allicock, a former Gerdine Young Artist, was an imposing Iron Mullah.

So the world premiere of Shalimar the Clown got a splendid performance and, thanks to set designer Allen Moyer and costumer James Schuette, it looked great. I just wish I had found it more compelling. It was, in any case, a reminder that opera is a living, breathing art form and that Opera Theatre continues to do its part to keep it that way.

Friday, June 24, 2016

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of June 24, 2016

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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New This Week:

You can read more about all the upcoming operas at OTSL in my preview post.

Alice in Wonderland
Photo: Peter Wochniak

An Inspector Calls
Photo: John Lamb

Act Inc presents J.B. Priestley's drama An Inspector Calls June 24-25. "Set in a pre-WWI English industrial town, nothing is as it seems for the Birling family when the curious Police Inspector Goole interrupts a celebratory dinner to investigate the tragic demise of a young woman. Who is responsible for her untimely death? Is anybody guilty? Is anybody truly innocent? Are there any answers at all?" Performances take place in the Emerson Black Box Theatre at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, visit actincstl.com.

My take: I haven't seen this production, but the play itself is a powerful indictment on the smugness and moral rot that can accompany material comfort. As such, it's as relevant now as when it was first performed in 1945, if not more so. Writing for the Post-Dispatch, Judy Newmark calls it an "intriguing drama" and notes the way in which it subverts the conventions of drawing-room drama to deliver a radical message.

It Shoulda Been YouPhoto: Peter Wochniak

Ariadne on Naxos
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Richard Strauss's comedy Ariadne on Naxos running through June 24. "The wealthiest man in Vienna has hired both divas and clowns to perform two separate shows at the end of a lavish dinner party. When dinner runs long, the artists are stunned to find they must all take the stage together. What results is a mashup of slapstick comedy and deeply profound romance - mixing coloratura fireworks with spectacular arias." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

My take: Your mileage may vary, but I have always found the comic carrying on of Zerbinetta and company to be some of the best bits. That said, the concluding love duet for Bacchus and Ariadne shows Strauss at his most rhapsodic. Look for distinguished St. Louis-based actor/singer/playwright Ken Page in the role of the Majordomo. In his review for KDHX, Steve Callahan says OTSL has done "a simply perfect production of this work. It's entire sensibility -- staging, costumes, sets, lights, and especially the acting style -- expresses a profound empathy with Strauss's subtle blend of classicism and parody."

Atomic
Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the musical Atomic Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through June 25. "New Line continues its 25h season with the regional premiere of the exhilarating and provocative new rock musical ATOMIC, based on the true story of the creation of the atomic bomb. With book and lyrics by Danny Ginges, and music and lyrics by Philip Foxman, this powerful rock musical blasts open the doors of The Manhattan Project, a government-funded program of top scientists with the task of creating the world's first Atomic Bomb." Performances take place at the Marcelle Theater, 3310 Samuel Shepard Drive, three blocks east of Grand, in Grand Center. For more information, visit newlinetheatre.com or call 314-534-1111.

My take: "A long forgotten but important historical figure gets his due in the zealous rock musical Atomic,'" writes Lynn Venhaus at the Belleville News-Democrat, "which bursts with passionate performances, an expressive score and combustible conversations. New Line Theatre's smart production features a synergetic ensemble fully committed to telling this complex, fascinating story about Leo Szilard. We Americans should know of him, but unfortunately many of us don't." New Line is once again breaking new ground in St. Louis musical theatre.

La Bohème
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Puccini's La Bohème opening on Saturday, May 21, and running through June 25. "One of the most performed operas of all time, La bohème has gripped audiences for over a century. Rodolfo and his friends scrape by as bohemian artists, using their wit and charm to escape life's harsher consequences. Rodolfo can't imagine how love will change him until he encounters a beautiful dressmaker, Mimì. Set to lush, irresistible music, Puccini's masterpiece never fails to move audiences to both laughter and tears." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

My take: Pretty much everything I want to say about this fine production is in my 88.1 KDHX review!. There are some minor aspects of this particular La Bohème that I find less than ideal, but the production as a whole is so very good so often that I have no hesitation in recommending it.

Broken Bone Bathtub
Photo: Kimberly N.

That Uppity Theatre Company and The Drama Club Stl present the St. Louis Premiere of Broken Bone Bathtub Thursdays at 7 and 9:30 p.m, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. through June 26. "Created and performed by Siobhan O'Loughlin, this performance piece highlights disability-temporary or ongoing, vulnerability, the female body, community, and innovative theatre. Broken Bone Bathtub is an immersive theatre experience taking place inside a bathtub, in an actual home. After a serious bike accident, a young woman musters up the courage to ask for help, and shares her story, exploring themes of trauma, suffering, human generosity, and connection. The audience takes on the role of Siobhan's close friends; not only listening but sharing in their experiences, and assisting the cast-clad artist in the actual ritual of taking a bath." Friday through Sunday performances take place at the Lemp Mansion, 3322 DeMenil Place in south St. Louis. Thursday performances take place in bathtubs of private homes throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. For more information: uppityco.com.

My take: This is Siobhan O'Loughlin's second St. Louis appearance (her first was at last year's St. Lou Fringe Festival). I didn't catch her show, The Rope in Your Hands, back then, but I did see her display her considerable talents as a storyteller as part of a performance by the improv comedy group Sorry, Please Continue. “Broken Bone Bathtub is unlike anything you've ever seen before, says New York Theatre Now. "It will change your perspective.” And the supposedly haunted Lemp Mansion is a pretty fascinating space in any case. In her KDHX review, Tina Farmer says M. O'Loughlin "succeeds spectacularly by taking a very intimate act and showing us the universal connection."

Clayton Community Theatre presents the drama Inherit the Wind Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., through June 26. "Inherit the Wind is far more than a dramatic retelling of the Scopes Trial of 1925. It is a parable about attempting to mold society by enforcing a specific worldview or philosophy. It seeks, instead, to celebrate the individuality of man as a reasoning being, capable of living life according to his own personal convictions." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

My take: I haven't seen any reviews of this production, but the play itself is, I'm sorry to say, as current now as when it was written. Attempts by the religious radicals to replace science with superstition continue to poison our educational system but here in the USA and abroad as well. The war on science, alas, isn't limited to any one religious system.

Macbeth
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Verdi's Macbeth, based on the Shakespeare tragedy, opening on Saturday, May 28, and running through June 26. "This opera is a thriller from start to finish - from the eerie prophecies of witches, to Lady Macbeth's sleepwalking scene, to the chilling and bloody finale. Experience Shakespeare's tale of ruthless ambition and murder as a classic Verdi masterwork, set to some of the most magnificent music in all of opera." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

My take: I haven't seen this yet and won't get the opportunity to do so for a few weeks, but I'm recommending it anyway because I have always liked this economical and dramatically charged operatic version of Shakespeare's terse tragedy. Yes, it's more Italian than it is Scots or English, but it's rattling good yarn all the same.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents the comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream nightly except for Tuesdays through June 26. "It's time for a comedy! Last seen at the Festival in 2002, Midsummer will feature a diverse cast of actors portraying some of Shakespeare's most beloved characters as they get lost and fall in and out of love in the woods around Athens." Beginning at 6:30 the Green Show presents pre-play entertainment a variety of local performers on multiple stages. The play begins at 8 p.m. Performances take place in Shakespeare Glen next to the Art Museum in Forest Park. For more information, visit shakespearefestivalstlouis.org.

My take: I've had a soft spot for this play every since I appeared as Oberon in the St. Louis Shakespeare production many decades ago. Ann Lemmons Pollack says the production "is particularly easy-going and understandable. At times, it feels rather like a screwball comedy, not, goodness knows, that there’s anything wrong with that. ..The play is a delicious, somewhat elaborate pastry." Go and enjoy.

Pastime

Review: A bloody good Macbeth at Opera Theatre of St. Louis

L-R: Robert Pomakov, Roland Wood, Julie Makerov
Photo: Ken Howard

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Verdi, like many nineteenth-century composers, was a huge fan of Shakespeare. Two of his most highly regarded operas-Otello (1887) and Falstaff (1893)-were based on The Bard's plays. He even planned a musical treatment of King Lear, but it never came to fruition.

This season, Opera Theatre is presenting Verdi's first Shakespeare opera, Macbeth, in the revised version the composer prepared for Paris in 1865. It's not generally regarded as being in the same league with the other two (although according to Operabase it's just as popular worldwide), but in the skilled hands of director Lee Blakeley and conductor (and OTSL Music Director) Stephen Lord it makes for a rattling good melodrama and an irresistible evening of musical theatre.

The libretto by Francesco Maria Piave and Andrea Maffei follows the bare bones of Shakespeare's original, although the story has been considerably streamlined and many secondary characters have been eliminated. The big moments are still there, though: the scenes with the witches, Lady Macbeth's "letter" and sleepwalking scenes, Macbeth's "dagger" monologue and, of course, the banquet with Banquo's ghost. And in Verdi's hands, they form the basis for very powerful theatrical moments.

Roland Wood and witches
Photo: Ken Howard

OTSL has a great cast on hand, headed by British baritone Roland Wood in the very large and demanding title role. His powerful, clear voice and imposing stage presence were a perfect fit for the part. Canadian bass Robert Pomakov was just as impressive as Banquo, forcefully and easily projecting even the lowest notes.

Speaking of low notes, the role of Lady Macbeth, although officially a soprano part, often drops quite low as well-so much so that it has sometimes been played by a mezzo. Julie Makerov sings the role here and while she's a soprano, she sounded entirely at ease with the part's range, top to bottom, and handled the coloratura-style elements in the banquet scene easily. Like her co-stars, she's a compelling actress, as credible in the fierce "letter" scene as in the Act IV "sleepwalking" aria "La luce langue" ("The light fades")-one of the numbers Verdi added for Paris audiences.

The tenor role of Macduff is less important in the opera than in the play-he only gets one aria, and that one quickly turns into a duet with the opera's other tenor, Malcolm. Matthew Plenk did a brilliant job with it, though, provoking enthusiastic applause when we saw the show. Tenor Evan Leroy Johnson cuts a striking figure as Malcolm.

L-R: Matthew Plenk and Roland Wood
Photo: Ken Howard

Director Lee Blakeley's stark set, inspired by the bare-bones quality of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, makes scene changes quick and fluid, and his staging highlights the loneliness of the Macbeths, as their relentless and bloody struggle for power alienates everyone they haven't killed or exiled. He and lighting designer Christopher Akerlind have made it a mostly very dark set as well-sometimes too much so. Still, it's a nice visual analogue for an opera in which dark, low voices predominate, and it works nearly all of the time.

The orchestra of St. Louis Symphony musicians performs flawlessly under Stephen Lord's baton, and Robert Ainsley's chorus sings with sometimes overwhelming power and exactitude. The women's chorus is especially impressive in the two scenes with Macbeth and the witches, where Verdi replaced Shakespeare's trio of crones with an entire cackling choir divided into three covens.

You have one more chance to catch OTSL's Macbeth on Sunday, June 26 2016, at 7 p.m. and-trust me on this-you don't want to miss it. I can't recall the last time it was performed here in St. Louis, so this could be your only chance to catch this violent and compelling work. As with all OTSL operas, it's sung in English with projected English text. For more information, visit the Opera Theatre web site.

Saturday, June 18, 2016

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of June 20, 2016

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Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Center Stage – One Night Only on Tuesday, June 21, at 8 p.m. " Hear the next generation of opera stars in this second annual recital celebrating the talents of our 2016 Richard Gaddes Festival Artists and Gerdine Young Artists. Out of over 1,000 applicants, only 38 singers were chosen to be part of this season’s young artist programs. Usually seen in ensemble roles during mainstage productions, these exceptionally talented artists take center stage in a one-night-only concert, accompanied on stage by the members of the St. Louis Symphony. Featuring performances of opera’s greatest hits and cherished rarities, this night is the perfect operatic sampler." The performance takes place at the Loretto-Hilton Center, 135 Edgar Road in Webster Groves on the Webster University campus. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Martin Herman conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in Live and Let Die: A Symphonic Tribute to Paul McCartney on Friday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m. "The STL Symphony is joined by a four piece band performing the works of Paul McCartney like you've never heard before! Beatlemania and Classical Mystery Tour veteran, Tony Kishman, joins the orchestra for a rockin' tribute to the music of McCartney and includes some of the most famous songs of the Beatles era and solo works including “Hey Jude,” “Penny Lane,” “Yesterday,” “Uncle Albert,” “Jet,” “When I'm Sixty-Four” and many more!" The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Thomas Ben Jackson

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents classical guitarist Thomas Ben Jackson an all Spanish program featuring 20th century composers such as, Villa-Lobos, Torroba, Albeniz, and on Thursday, June 23, at 8 p.m. "Thomas Ben Jackson is a Classical Guitarist based out of Southeast Missouri. Jackson began teaching himself guitar at the age of six years old, and by age eleven he fell in love with classical music. He began taking classical guitar lessons from Patrick Rafferty (Adjunct Professor at Southeast Missouri State University) and studied with him until graduating from high school. Thomas Ben Jackson is now enrolled in the Jacob's School of Music in Bloomington Indiana, studying with Maestro Ernesto Bitetti, and frequently performs in Indiana and around the Heartland." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Ken Kulosa and Patti Wolf

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a concert by cellist Ken Kulosa and pianist Patti Wolf on Friday, June 24, at 8 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a concert by duo pianists Charles Croissant and Joe Marcus on Saturday, June 25, at 7:30 p.m. "Pianists Charles Croissant & Joe Marcus sit side-by-side at the Baldwin to perform some of their favorite arrangements from the orchestra repertoire." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The University City Summer Band presents a concert on Tuesday, June 21, at 7 p.m. "Concerts last about 80 minutes, and include a short intermission. Seating is on the lawn. Bring a lawn chair or blanket as available seating is limited. Bring your children! Bring a picnic!" The concert takes place in Heman Park, 1028 Midland in University City. For more information: ucsummerband.org.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of June 20, 2016

[Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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The Muny presents the musical 42nd Street opening on Friday, June 24, and running nightly at 8:15 pm through June 30 in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "All-singing! All-tapping! One of the biggest, boldest, brashest musicals in Broadway history, this song-and-dance extravaganza remains the ultimate backstage musical. Yet, beneath all the hip hooray and ballyhoo, this 'lullaby of Broadway' reminds us that Broadway dreams still do come true." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Ariadne on Naxos
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Richard Strauss's comedy Ariadne on Naxos running through June 24. "The wealthiest man in Vienna has hired both divas and clowns to perform two separate shows at the end of a lavish dinner party. When dinner runs long, the artists are stunned to find they must all take the stage together. What results is a mashup of slapstick comedy and deeply profound romance - mixing coloratura fireworks with spectacular arias." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

New Line Theatre presents the St. Louis premiere of the musical Atomic Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through June 25. "New Line continues its 25h season with the regional premiere of the exhilarating and provocative new rock musical ATOMIC, based on the true story of the creation of the atomic bomb. With book and lyrics by Danny Ginges, and music and lyrics by Philip Foxman, this powerful rock musical blasts open the doors of The Manhattan Project, a government-funded program of top scientists with the task of creating the world's first Atomic Bomb." Performances take place at the Marcelle Theater, 3310 Samuel Shepard Drive, three blocks east of Grand, in Grand Center. For more information, visit newlinetheatre.com or call 314-534-1111.

La Bohème
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Puccini's La Bohème running through June 25. "One of the most performed operas of all time, La bohème has gripped audiences for over a century. Rodolfo and his friends scrape by as bohemian artists, using their wit and charm to escape life's harsher consequences. Rodolfo can't imagine how love will change him until he encounters a beautiful dressmaker, Mimì. Set to lush, irresistible music, Puccini's masterpiece never fails to move audiences to both laughter and tears." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644. Read my 88.1 KDHX review!

Act Inc presents Neil Simon's autobiographical comedy Brighton Beach Memoris June 25-26. " Precocious 15-year-old Eugene Jerome comes of age in the bosom of his close-knit family during the Great Depression. Take this unique opportunity to be a "fly on the wall" and discover the environment that bred a comic genius!" Performances take place in the Emerson Black Box Theatre at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, visit actincstl.com.

Broken Bone Bathtub
Photo: Kimberly N.

That Uppity Theatre Company and The Drama Club Stl present the St. Louis Premiere of Broken Bone Bathtub Thursdays at 7 and 9:30 p.m, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. through June 26. "Created and performed by Siobhan O'Loughlin, this performance piece highlights disability-temporary or ongoing, vulnerability, the female body, community, and innovative theatre. Broken Bone Bathtub is an immersive theatre experience taking place inside a bathtub, in an actual home. After a serious bike accident, a young woman musters up the courage to ask for help, and shares her story, exploring themes of trauma, suffering, human generosity, and connection. The audience takes on the role of Siobhan's close friends; not only listening but sharing in their experiences, and assisting the cast-clad artist in the actual ritual of taking a bath." Friday through Sunday performances take place at the Lemp Mansion, 3322 DeMenil Place in south St. Louis. Thursday performances take place in bathtubs of private homes throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. For more information: uppityco.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Bullets in the Bathtub through July 30. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: mansion.com

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Center Stage – One Night Only on Tuesday, June 21, at 8 p.m. " Hear the next generation of opera stars in this second annual recital celebrating the talents of our 2016 Richard Gaddes Festival Artists and Gerdine Young Artists. Out of over 1,000 applicants, only 38 singers were chosen to be part of this season’s young artist programs. Usually seen in ensemble roles during mainstage productions, these exceptionally talented artists take center stage in a one-night-only concert, accompanied on stage by the members of the St. Louis Symphony. Featuring performances of opera’s greatest hits and cherished rarities, this night is the perfect operatic sampler." The performance takes place at the Loretto-Hilton Center, 135 Edgar Road in Webster Groves on the Webster University campus. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Company

Insight Theatre Company presents Stephen Sondheim's musical Company through July 3. Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Disney's Alice in Wonderland through July 3. "Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice as she falls into the madcap world of Wonderland and meets such extraordinary characters as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and the frantically late White Rabbit. Inviting and magical, Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND is a fantastic adventure the whole family can enjoy! Based on the classic literary tales of Lewis Carroll and the beloved Walt Disney film, this whimsical journey to a land beyond imagination is sure to bring you and yours the perfect“Zip-A-Dee-Do-Dah” day." Performances take place in at the Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

Five Women Wearing the Same Dress

Stray Dog Theatre presents the comedy Five Women Wearing the Same Dress Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through June 25. “During a grandiose wedding reception at a Southern estate, five identically clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom. Each woman has a different reason for avoiding the festivities below. As the afternoon wears on, they find a common bond in a joyously irreverent and touching celebration of the female spirit." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

Clayton Community Theatre presents the drama Inherit the Wind Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., through June 26. "Inherit the Wind is far more than a dramatic retelling of the Scopes Trial of 1925. It is a parable about attempting to mold society by enforcing a specific worldview or philosophy. It seeks, instead, to celebrate the individuality of man as a reasoning being, capable of living life according to his own personal convictions." Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre. For more information, call 314-721-9228 or visit placeseveryone.org.

Act Inc presents J.B. Priestley's drama An Inspector Calls June 24-25. "Set in a pre-WWI English industrial town, nothing is as it seems for the Birling family when the curious Police Inspector Goole interrupts a celebratory dinner to investigate the tragic demise of a young woman. Who is responsible for her untimely death? Is anybody guilty? Is anybody truly innocent? Are there any answers at all?" Performances take place in the Emerson Black Box Theatre at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, visit actincstl.com.

Stages St. Louis presents the musical It Shoulda Been You through July 3. "You are cordially invited to join us for what is certain to be the wedding of the year! Direct from Broadway and in its Mid-Western premiere, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU comes to STAGES with a mad-cap wedding celebration we know you won't want to miss! After all, who doesn't love a wedding? Especially one that includes a beautiful blushing bride, her uninvited and unrequited boyfriend, a groom with a secret, a sister with her own hidden agenda, and a pair of mothers from hell. This refreshingly modern romantic comedy has more than a few surprising twists in store as out comes the bride and groom in a wedding you are sure to remember. Be the first to say “I do” to this wonderfully witty musical that kept Broadway audiences rolling in the aisles. " Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents Java Jived on Thursday, June 23, at 7:30 p.m. "Java Jived specializes in a cappella arrangements of jazz and pop classics from the 20's to the 80's. Known for its fine blend and intonation, this high-energy ensemble performs polished stylistic renditions of challenging repertoire by the best contemporary arrangers, including Deke Sharon, Kirby Shaw, Teena Chin, and Gene Puerling, who is well known for his arrangements for The Manhattan Transfer. " The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents Lola's Flavor of the Month on Friday and Saturday June 24 and 25, at 10:30 p.m. Lola Van Ella's Flavor of the Month! A delicious assortment of sweet and new acts, featuring hand picked performers from around the Saint Louis area and curated by Lola herself! Sponsored by Lola Van Ella Studios and The Emerald Room at the Monocle! " The performances take place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: buzzonstage.com/st-louis.

Macbeth
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Verdi's Macbeth, based on the Shakespeare tragedy, running through June 26. "This opera is a thriller from start to finish - from the eerie prophecies of witches, to Lady Macbeth's sleepwalking scene, to the chilling and bloody finale. Experience Shakespeare's tale of ruthless ambition and murder as a classic Verdi masterwork, set to some of the most magnificent music in all of opera." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents the comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream nightly except for Tuesdays through June 26. "It's time for a comedy! Last seen at the Festival in 2002, Midsummer will feature a diverse cast of actors portraying some of Shakespeare's most beloved characters as they get lost and fall in and out of love in the woods around Athens." Beginning at 6:30 the Green Show presents pre-play entertainment a variety of local performers on multiple stages. The play begins at 8 p.m. Performances take place in Shakespeare Glen next to the Art Museum in Forest Park. For more information, visit shakespearefestivalstlouis.org.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Nursery Crimes through July 31. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

Circus Flora presents its new show, Pastime, through July 3 under the air-conditioned, red-and-white, big top tent in Grand Center next to Powell Hall. "Along with runs and hits, the box score will fill-up with flips, flights, and laughs throughout PASTIME. When the hometown Zephyrs struggle to get out of last place, only their biggest fan and some incredible (and unlikely) stunts can help them turn their season around. Join us, and the magic of baseball." For more information: circusflora.org.

Shalimar the Clown
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents the world premiere of Shalimar the Clown, based on the novel by Salman Rushdie, running through June 23. "Shalimar and his beloved Boonyi grow up together in a pastoral Kashmiri village, making people laugh as acrobats and dancers in a traditional folk theater. They fall in love, a youthful romance that culminates in a joyful wedding. But when the new American ambassador meets Boonyi, he seduces with the promise of a new life, sending Shalimar down a dangerous path of revenge." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

Alfresco Productions presents the Lieber and Stoller musical revue Smokey Joe's Café through June 25. Performances take place at the Alfresco Art Center, 2401 Delmar in Granite City, IL. For more information: (618) 560-1947 or www.alfrescoproductions.org.

St. Louis Community College at Meramec presents a Summer Children's Theatre production of Stuart Little, adapted from the E.B. White book by Joseph Robinette. Performances are Thursday through Saturday, June 27-29, at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Performances take place in the theatre on the campus at 11333 Big Bend Road. For more information, stlcc.edu/MC or call 314-984-7500.

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville presents Shakespeare's Two Gentlemen of Verona through June 26. Performances take place in the Metcalf Student Experimental Theater on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774 or visit siue.edu

The Wizard of Oz

The Muny presents the musical The Wizard of Oz nightly at 8:15 PM, through Wednesday, June 22, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Fly 'over the rainbow' for this all-time American and Muny classic. Whenever Dorothy and her friends follow their hearts down the yellow brick road, you're guaranteed an evening of enchantment. One of the most popular shows-if not THE most popular show - in Muny history, this lavish musical is a joyful reminder that come summer, there's no place like The Muny." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Sunday, June 12, 2016

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of June 13, 2016

Brent Havens

Brent Havens conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in A Tribute to Davd Bowie on Friday, June 17 at 7:30 p.m. "The STL Symphony, guest conductor Brent Havens and a full rock band will take you on a symphonic odyssey paying tribute to the legendary musician and epic storyteller, David Bowie. Including music spanning across five decades, this concert brings the best of Bowie's collection to the Powell Hall stage. Experience this one-of-a-kind tribute recognizing the innovative artist with “Space Oddity,” “Changes,” “Golden Years,” “Rebel Rebel” and more!" The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Steven Jarvi conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra with vocalist Terry Mike Jeffrey in The Music of Elvis on Sunday, June 19 at 3 p.m. "This Father's Day, veteran singer and songwriter Terry Mike Jeffrey joins the STL Symphony for a tribute to one of the greatest music icons that ever lived. Bringing his band to Powell Hall for an extraordinary celebration of the King of Rock and Roll, Jeffrey will perform “Suspicious Minds,” “Don't Be Cruel,” “Burning Love” and more chart-topping hits." The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a classical open stage night on Monday, June 13, from 7:30 - 9 PM. “Come by yourself or bring your quartet. Sight read through a Beethoven quartet or use this as an opportunity to put the finishing touches on that Hindemith Viola Sonata you have been working on. All ages and skill levels are welcome. We have a 6' grand piano and an accompanist.” The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Flute Society of St. Louis Adult Flute Choir

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents the Flute Society of St. Louis Adult Flute Choir on Saturday, June 18, at 2 p.m.. "The Adult Flute Choir is comprised of flutists (college age and above) from the St. Louis community of varying careers and musical backgrounds. The choir performs regularly during the season (September through May) at venues such as nursing homes, FSSL events, church services, school tours, flute recitals, etc." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents saxophonists Jessica Knopf and Jeffrey Collins in a program of music by Poulenc, Hindemith, and Wilhelm Friedemann Bach on Saturday, June 18, at 8 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The University City Summer Band presents a concert on Tuesday, June 14, at 7 p.m. "Concerts last about 80 minutes, and include a short intermission. Seating is on the lawn. Bring a lawn chair or blanket as available seating is limited. Bring your children! Bring a picnic!" The concert takes place in Heman Park, 1028 Midland in University City. For more information: ucsummerband.org.

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