St. Louis classical calendar for the week of February 17, 2020

The IN UNISON Chorus celebrates Black History Month this week and the St. Louis Cathedral Concerts bring a cappella sounds to the Cathedral Basilica.

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The Metropolitan Orchestra performs on Sunday, February 23, at 7 pm. "This concert will feature Conductors Allen Carl Larson and Andrew Peters. The orchestra will perform Mozart's Piano Concerto in C major with pianist Jerry Chan and Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A." The concert takes place at First Presbyterian Church, 100 E. Adams in Kirkwood. For more information: moslmusic.org.

VOCES8

St. Louis Cathedral Concerts presents the a cappella vocal ensembles VOCES8 and the Crossroads Quartet on Friday, February 21 at 8 pm. The concert takes place at the Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End. For more information: cathedralconcerts.org.

The St. Louis Philharmonic Orchestra presents a concert of music by Charbrier, Howard Hanson, Leonard Bernstein, and Rimsky-Korsakov on Friday, February 21, at 8 p.m. The concert takes place in the Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood University campus in St. Charles. For more information: stlphilharmonic.org.com.

The IN UNISON Chorus and SLSO

Kevin McBeth conducts the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus and soloist Oleta Adams in Lift Every Voice: A Black History Month Celebration, on Friday, February 20, at 7:30 pm. "Join the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Grammy-nominated soprano Arlissa Hudson and the IN UNISON Chorus for Join the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and IN UNISON Chorus for this cherished annual tradition - an evening of reflective and soulful music that celebrates the music of African-American and African cultures, which have inspired and influenced the St. Louis region and communities around the world." The concert takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Gemma New conducts The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and narrator Bobby Norfolk in Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf on Sunday, February 16, at 3 PM. “Join Peter and his animal friends on a symphonic adventure in Prokofiev's beloved work Peter and the Wolf. Introducing generations to orchestral music, each character in this musical fairy tale is represented by a different instrument of the orchestra. Together we experience the beautiful tapestry of orchestral color which reminds us of our own unique voices and personalities.” The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of October 1, 2018

Chanticleer returns to St. Louis this week and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents both a regular series concert and a Muny centennial tribute.

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Chanticleer

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Tuesday, October 2, at 8 p.m. St. Louis Cathedral Concerts presents the a cappella classical vocal ensemble Chanticleer. "The San Francisco based GRAMMY® award-winning ensemble Chanticleer celebrates its 40th Anniversary in 2018. Praised by the San Francisco Chronicle for its “tonal luxuriance and crisply etched clarity,” Chanticleer is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for its seamless blend of twelve male voices ranging from soprano to bass and its original interpretations of vocal literature, from Renaissance to jazz and popular genres, as well as contemporary composition." The performance takes place at The Cathedral Basilica on Lindell in the Central West End. For more information: cathedralconcerts.org.

Beth Guterman
Chu

Bramwell Tovey conducts The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and viola soloist Beth Guterman Chu Friday at 10:30 am and Saturday at 8 pm, October 5 and 6. The program consists of Beethoven's Symphony No. 6 ("Pastorale") and Berlioz's Harold in Italy. The concerts take place at Powell Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Ben Whiteley conducts The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in A Celebration of Muny at 100 on Sunday, October 7, at 3 pm. Vocal soloists Justin Michael Austin, Daniel Berryman, Cree Carrico, and Elizabeth Stanley join the orchestra and chorus in paying tribute to the Muny during their centennial with an afternoon of beautiful songs and music from its first quarter century. The program includes selections from Annie Get Your Gun, Girl Crazy, Show Boat, The Pirates of Penzance, as well as favorites by Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Victor Herbert and more. The concert takes place at Powell Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Perseid String Quartet

Second Presbyterian Church presents the Perseid String Quartet on Sunday, October 6, at 4 pm. "Formed in 2013, the St. Louis based Perseid String Quartet has already generated acclaim for its polished, energetic performances and engagement with audiences. Members of the quartet serve as faculty members at colleges and community music schools, and their collective performing experience includes positions in regional orchestras and opera productions, historically informed performances on Baroque instruments, and playing in a rock band." The church is at 4501 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information: secondchurch.net.

The University of Missouri - St. Louis presents The Arianna String Quartet in a First Mondays concert on Monday, October 1, at 6:30 pm. "This one-of-a kind concert series offers audience members a rare behind the scenes look into the craft and artistry of the string quartet, and an opportunity for informal, direct discussion and interaction with UMSL's renowned Arianna String Quartet, as they examine the dynamic process of interpretation and live performance." The event takes place at UMSL's Grand Center Location. For more information: stlpublicradio.org.

Guitarist Mark Akin

The Washington University Department of Music presents Mark Akin in a faculty guitar recital on Thursday, October 5, at 7:30 pm. The program includes the Violin Sonata No. 10, Op. 96 by Albeniz, Sibelius, and Grieg. The performance takes place at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City. For more information, music.wustl.edu.

The Washington University Department of Music presents and all-Vivaldi program featuring Nerea Berraondo, mezzo-soprano, and the Kingsbury Ensemble on Sunday, October 7, at 7 p.m. The concert takes place at the 560 Music Center at 560 Trinity in University City. For more information, music.wustl.edu or call 314-935-5566.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of March 20, 2017

The Tallis Scholars

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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis presents The Tallis Scholars on Sunday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m. "Leading performers of Renaissance sacred music, privileged to perform in the Sistine Chapel to mark the final stage of Michelangelo's frescoes restoration, The Tallis Scholars have earned world-wide renown as “a capella superstars.” They return to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis after a 12 year absence." The performance takes place at the cathedral at 4431 Lindell. For more information: www.cathedralconcerts.org.

The Foundry Art Centre presents a free concert by the St. Charles Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, March 26, at 2 PM. "Co-artistic directors Kenneth Beckham and David Peek will present a diverse orchestral concert including song selections everyone can enjoy. The performance will feature works by Vivaldi, Mozart and more! The Saint Charles Symphony is a multi-faceted ensemble consisting of professional musicians, teachers, talented adults, and gifted students. Enjoy the beautiful sounds of the symphony at this free performance and arrive early to visit the studio artists and exhibitions at the Foundry Art Centre." The Foundry Art Centre is at 520 North Main Center in St. Charles, MO. For more information: foundryartcentre.org.

Ricky Ian Gordon

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents composer Ricky Ian Gordon performing and discussing selections from his opera The Grapes of Wrath and his song cycle Green Sneakers on Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m. The event takes place at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents composer Ricky Ian Gordon in a panel discussion of his opera The Grapes of Wrath on Friday, March 24, at 7 p.m. Also on the panel are Missouri History Museum Curator Sharon Smith and Cinema St. Louis Executive Director Cliff Froehlich. The discussion is moderated by OTSL General Director Timothy O'Leary and takes place at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. For more information: experienceopera.org.

The St. Louis Classical Guitar Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with David Russell on Saturday, March 25, at 8 p.m. " World renowned for his superb musicianship and inspired artistry, Scottish guitarist David Russell was 2005 GRAMMY award winner for his CD “Aire Latino” in the category of best instrumental classical soloist!" The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: guitarstlouis.net.

David Robertson conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in The Gospel According to the Other Mary by John Adams on Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., March 24 and 26. "American composer John Adams' The Gospel According to the Other Mary combines the traditional passion story with contemporary voices of social activism and spirituality. The dramatic setting makes this biblical narrative a present and gripping reality as it weaves together stories of joy, woe and the miraculous for a powerful performance not-to-be-missed. Join David Robertson, the STL Symphony and Chorus for these electrifying concerts before they perform the work at Carnegie Hall in celebration of the composer's 70th birthday." The performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents The Arianna String Quartet in a performance of the complete string quartets of Brahms on Wednesday, March 22, at 8 PM. "For performers and audiences alike, the works of Johannes Brahms stand as some of the most cherished music of all time. In an evening that can only be described as a one-of-a-kind concert experience (and a St. Louis first!), the Arianna String Quartet offers all three of Brahms' celebrated string quartets, back to back! Brahms: Quartet in C minor, Op. 51, No.1; Quartet in A minor, Op.51, No.2; Quartet in B-flat Major, Op.67." The Touhill Performing Arts Center in on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. For more information: touhill.org.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 5, 2016

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The University of Missouri at St. Louis presents 1984, adapted from the George Orwell novel by by Michael Gene Sullivan, Friday and Saturday a 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 9 - 11. "1984 brings us the story of Winston Smith, a cog in the giant machine state of Oceania. Physically and mentally under the omnipresent eye of Big Brother, Winston has been caught struggling for scraps of love and freedom in a world awash with distrust and violence. With the brutal "help" of four Party Members, Winston is forced to confess his Thoughtcrimes before an unseen inquisitor, and the audience -- which acts as a silent witness to his torture. A ferocious and provocative adaptation of one of the most prescient works of literature of the last century." The performances take place at the Kranzberg Center at Grand and Olive in Grand Center. For more information, kranzbergartscenter.org/calendar/current-events/item/umsl-theatre-1984.

Tesseract Theatre Company presents the St. Louis premiere of Artistic Director Taylor Gruenloh's Adverse Effects, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundas at 4 p.m., December 9 - 11. "After the unexpected death of their daughter, Phil (Carl Overly Jr.) and Jessica (Musa Gurnis) must find a balance in their marriage while struggling with being middle class in the Midwest while battling against the interests of pharmaceutical reps, medical researchers, and a local journalist looking for the truth. Richard (Phil Leveling), a university scientist, is being paid by a pharmaceutical company to put his name on studies he didn't conduct. Allysa (Julianne King), the representative of the pharmaceutical company, wants a more lavish life. Maurice (Maurice Walters II), the local reporter for a small town online newspaper, wants to connect some dots." Performances take place at The .ZACK, 3224 Locust in Midtown. For more information: tesseracttheatre.org.

All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 11. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents David Mamet's American Buffalo through December 18. "This volatile drama starred Robert Duvall in the original Broadway production and has seen revivals with Al Pacino most recently on Broadway . In a Chicago junk shop three small time crooks plot to rob a man of his coin collection, the showpiece of which is a valuable “Buffalo nickel”. These high-minded grifters fancy themselves businessmen pursuing legitimate free enterprise. But the reality of the three- Donny, the oafish junk shop owner; Bobby, a young junkie Donny has taken under his wing and “Teach”, a violently paranoid braggart- is that they are merely pawns caught up in their own game of last-chance, dead-end, empty pipe dreams." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

Will Bonfiglio in Buyer and Cellar
Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the one-man comedy Buyer and Cellar through December 17. “Underemployed Los Angeles actor, Alex More, is hired to work in a faux shopping mall created by superstar, Barbra Streisand in the basement of her Malibu home. One day, the Lady Herself comes below to play. It soon feels like real bonding downstairs, but will their relationship ever make it upstairs? Buyer & Cellar is a comedic tour-de-force, fictionally drawn from fact, which explores the price of fame, the cost of things, and the oddest of odd jobs." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Gateway Men's Chorus presents A Celebration of the Season on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10, at 8 p.m. GMC unwraps their 30th anniversary season with a night of beautiful music, campy carols, and holiday favorites, including John Rutter's "Gloria" with a full brass and percussion ensemble and pipe organ. The concert takes place at Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information: gmcstl.org.

Concord Concerts presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas - Live! Friday at 11 a.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., December 9 and 10. "Join Charlie Brown on his quirky journey as he tries to direct the school Christmas pageant. While everyone is acting materialistic, he tries to restore the holiday spirit with a ragged little fir tree. Experience the power of this wonderful story live onstage as Charlie Brown turns to his best friend Linus to learn the seasons real meaning. Performances take place at Concord Trinity United Methodist Church, 5275 S. Lindbergh Blvd. For more information: www.concordconcerts.com.

A Christmas Carol
Photo: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

Through December 24, the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents A Christmas Carol, adapted by David H. Bell from the novel by Charles Dickens. "On Christmas Eve, the miser Ebenezer Scrooge is given a chance at redemption as he's visited by four ghosts - his old partner Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future - who teach him it's never too late to change." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org.

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the bawdy interactive comedy Dixie's Tupperware Party through December 18. "After a final meeting with her parole officer, this ex-con mother of three from a trailer park in Alabama straighten out her life by selling the iconic plastic bowls. She quickly became the hottest seller in the country by throwing the kind of parties you won't soon forget. With her booze-filled sippy cup, Dixie shares many alternative uses for what she calls "the most fantastic plastic crap on the planet" which made THE TODAY SHOW cheer, "This is not your grandmother's Tupperware Party." The show is bawdy and interactive and you can actually buy some Tupperware along the way. ADULT CONTENT." The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: westportstl.com.

Driving Miss Daisy
Photo: Eric Woolsey

New Jewish Theater presents Driving Miss Daisy through December 18. "In 1948 Atlanta, Daisy Werthan, a rich, sharp-tongued, Jewish, 72-year-old widow has just demolished another car. Her son Boolie informs her that he will from this point on be hiring a chauffeur for her. Thus begins the 25-year relationship between Daisy and Hoke Colburn, her driver. She regards him with disdain and he is not impressed with her patronizing tone and latent prejudice. But despite their differences, they grow closer and more dependent on each other over time. The once contentious relationship blossoms into a profound, life-altering friendship that transcends all the societal boundaries placed between them. An iconic tale of pride, changing times and the transformative power of friendship." Performances take place in the Marvin and Harlene Wool Studio Theater at the Jewish Community Center, 2 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283.

Finding Neverland
Photo: Carol Rosegg

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Finding Neverland running through December 18. "Directed by visionary Tony®-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award®-nominated film starring Johnny Depp, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world's most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys' enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie's classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts presents the musical The Glorious Ones Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 9-11. “In sixteenth-century Italy, a new form of comedic theatre is forming at the hands of Flaminio Scala: Commedia Dell'arte. Flaminio gathers a group of lowlifes together to create an acting troupe that specializes in improvisational comedy with masked characters. From the creators of Seussical and Ragtime comes a beautiful tribute to an important moment in theatre history and to the highs and lows of being an actor, then and now. Prepare yourselves for jokes that are as bawdy as they are old and as silly as they are sweet.” Performances take place in the Stage III Auditorium in Webster Hall on the Webster University campus. For more information, www.webster.edu/conservatory/season or call 314-968-7128.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical A Gnome for Christmas opening on Saturday, December 17, with performances at 11 am and 3 pm, and running through December 23. There is also a special online livestream performance on Saturday, December 10, at 11 a.m. "When Lulu's quirky father fails to sell yet another of his odd inventions, the pair must pack their bags and move to more meager accommodations. All they can afford is a rundown old farmhouse where the fence needs mending and the landlord's cranky, even at Christmastime! Lulu's about ready to give up, but when mysterious and magical things start happening, it seems that this farm might be home to more than meets the eye. This warm-hearted holiday musical reminds us of the importance of helping others and the happiness found in friends." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville presents A Good Woman an adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's The Good Soul of Szechuan by Chuck Harper and the cast and featuring original poetry by Kenny Coleman, through December 11. "A Good Woman explores what it takes to be good in a world that is not so good. Says Chuck Harper, the Director, 'It is a play that I have always wanted to work on, more because I wanted to figure it out than because I had an idea of what I wanted to do with it. In our adaptation we've rewritten the play based on several translations. It is simple in its presentation, but the situations and questions are quite complex. This is a fascinating play.' Mr. Harper also noted that this version is not for children due to the adult language used throughout the show." Performances take place in the Metcalf Theater on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774 or visit siue.edu.

The St. Peters Cultural Arts Center presents singer Tim Schall in A Holiday Celebration on Friday, December 9, at 7 p.m. Carol Schmidt is the music director for this evening of seasonal favorites. The St. Peters Cultural Arts Center is at One St. Peters Centere Blvd in St. Peters, MO. For more information: brownpapertickets.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents It's a Wonderful Death through January 8, 2017. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Making of the Star Wars Holiday Special

St. Louis Shakespeare's Magic Smoking Monkey Theatre presents The Making of the Star Wars Holiday Special Friday and Saturday at 8 and 10:30 p.m. December 9 and 10. "Hop aboard the Millennium Falcon and help Luke, Leia, Han, Artoo, and Threepio get Chewbacca home in time to celebrate Life Day with his Wookie family! Originally airing just once in 1978, Magic Smoking Monkey brings this galactic and cosmically bizarre spectacular back to life, and takes you behind the curtain to witness its creation. Featuring a kitschy cavalcade of 70s superstars like Bea Arthur, Art Carney, Charles Bronson, and other surprises - your holiday season will never be the same! Costume contest nightly - come as your favorite member of the Rebel Alliance or Wookie or Droid or Representative of the Galactic Empire or 1970's TV personality and win! (braggin' rights and a cheap prize!)" Performances take place at the Regional Arts Commission in University City. For more information: stlshakespeare.org.

Metro Theatre Company and the Missouri History Museum present The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane December 9 - 30. "Edward Tulane is a toy who cares for nobody but himself. Ripped from the arms of the little girl who adores him, this privileged china rabbit is thrown into a life-changing adventure. From the depths of the ocean to the top of a garbage heap, Edward discovers what it means to love others on his extraordinary journey home. With themes of family, empathy, home and redemption, this play is the perfect way to celebrate the warmth of the holiday season." Performances take place in the Lee Auditorium at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. For more information: mohistory.org.

Southampton Church presents Parkside by St. Louis playwright Jim Danek Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday as 2 pm, December 9-11. Southampton Church is at 4716 Macklind in South St. Louis City. For more information, email darriousvarner at yahoo.com.

Santa's Helpers Inc. presents Songs of Peace and Joy: The Music of Christmas on Sunday, December 11, at 3 p.m. "Merry Keller and her singing friends, Bob Becherer, Brian Derton, Paul MacFarlane, Katie McGrath, Angie Nicholson, and Dionna Raedeke will delight and entertain you with all your favorite holiday music! Ron Bryant is at the piano and Paul McFarlane will be on guitar. This concert will donate net proceeds to Santa's Helpers, Inc. providing the spirit of Santa to thousands of St. Louis families for over 48 years." The performance takes place at the Sun Theatre, 3625 Grandel Square in Grand Center. For more information: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2592087

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 Calendar.

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.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 2, 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:

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Boom
Photo: Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Boom Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. through December 4. "Jo, a female journalism student, and Jules, a male marine biologist, meet in a subterranean biology lab for an erotic "casual encounter." But there's nothing casual whatsoever about this particular evening. Will meaningless sex have meaning? What's going on in the fish tank? And who is that woman, Barbara, pulling levers in the corner? Something is about to explode." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: Reviews for this latest daring outing by R-S have been quite good. Tina Farmer's review for KDHX is typical. She writes that Boom "peeks into a post-apocalyptic museum where a story of unexpected doom leads to a new creation myth. The humorous pairing of humanity's potential next Adam and Eve is countered by the more clinical, yet nonetheless passionate, observations of our docent, Barbara. The story is part creation myth, part scientific embellishment, and all for laughs in the company's smartly executed retelling."

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David Meulemans

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present singer David Meluemans in December Songs on Friday, December 2, at 7 p.m. "South Florida's David Meulemans shares holiday memories and smooth vocals in this cabaret show comprised of traditional holiday favorites sprinkled with new works. You'll hear “Winter Wonderland” with a Vince Guaraldi feel, and the classic “Home for Christmas” wrapped up in beautiful new arrangements created specifically for this show, right beside some new holiday classics, including “For Christmas All I Need is You” by Bob Levy, and “Hannukah Miracle” by Carla Gordon and Wayne Richards , reflecting Meulemans' penchant for performing brand new material. December Songs makes a “one night only stop” at the Monocle on the way to Manhattan's Metropolitan Room, where Meulemans is currently Artist in Residence." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

My take: My Christmas elves tell me that this is a big, festive show with lots of great arrangements by the like of Tex Arnold and Sally Mayes. A veteran of the St. Louis Cabaret Conference, David is a smooth presence on stage and the Emerald Room is a very festive venue.

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Ari Axelrod

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents singer Ari Axelrod and pianist/music director Ron McGowan in Taking the Wheel on Saturday, December 3, at 8 p.m. "Recent Webster University graduate Ari Axelrod brings an autobiographical show about a young, ambitious man embarking on life after college. He straddles two, much different worlds only to discover that he will always have a foot in both. Contemporary Broadway, Sondheim and Hebrew Folk Music make up the songlist." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

My take: Rescheduled from its original October date, this is a show I look forward to seeing. I've seen Ari perform at the St. Louis Cabaret Conference, both from the audience and in class when I attended last year. He's a gutsy performer who has had more experience with life's ups and down than many performers with a lot more mileage behind them. Rich lives make for good cabaret, in my experience.

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Held Over:

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The 2015 cast of All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 11. “Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets.” Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: All is Calm has become an annual winter tradition at Mustard Seed. With a script by Peter Rothstein and musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach, this story of the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914—a spontaneous outbreak of peace that occurred at multiple points along the trenches in France—combines splendid and often quite complex a cappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. At a time when opportunistic politicians are pushing an agenda of hate, fear, and eternal war, this is a play that everyone needs to see. As we used to ask back in the 1960s, "what if they gave a war and nobody came?

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of November 21, 2016

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The 2015 cast of All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 11. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

R-S Theatrics presents Boom Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. through December 4. "Jo, a female journlism student, and Jules, a male marine biologist, meet in a subterranean biology lab for an erotic "casual encounter." But there's nothing casual whatsoever about this particular evening. Will meaningless sex have meaning? What's going on in the fish tank? And who is that woman, Barbara, pulling levers in the corner? Something is about to explode." Performances take place at The Chapel, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents the TheatreworksUSA production of A Christmas Carol Friday, and Saturday at 2 p.m., November 25 and 26. "This musical interpretation of the Charles Dickens' classic captures both the humorous and touching moments of the classic story with witty dialogue and fresh new songs, conveying Dickens' original message that the holiday season should be a "kind, forgiving, charitable time," a sentiment which still rings true today." Performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 314-921-5678 or visit www.florissantmo.com.

The Emerald Room at the Monocle presents singer Emily Kuhn in her cabaret debut on Saturday, November 26, at 8 p.m. A a proud St. Louis native, Emily discovered her love for performing at a young age. She earned her BFA in Musical Theater from Penn State University in 2006 and spent the subsequent years performing in New York, on cruise ships and around the country. In addition to performing, Emily reaches music and choreographs at Villa Duchesne and teaches private voice and piano lessons at Emily Knox Studios. Steve Neale is pianist and music director for the show, which is directed by Ben Nordstrom." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

Fun Home
Photo: Joan Marcus

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Fun Home opening on Tuesday, November 15, and running through November 27. "Based on Alison Bechdel's best-selling graphic memoir, Fun Home introduces us to Alison at three different ages as she explores and unravels the many mysteries of her childhood that connect with her in surprising new ways. A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, Fun Home is a refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com. Read my 88.1 KDHX review!

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents It's a Wonderful Death through January 8, 2017. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present singer Kevin Cherry in You See This Guy on Friday, November 25, at 8 p.m. "Kevin Cherry takes you through 6 decades of the nearly 80 year career of Burt Bacharach. You See This Guy comes to The Emerald Room, under the musical direction of Dr. Jeffrey Richard Carter. With a recent, very successful Off-Broadway show at The New York Theatre Workshop, Burt Bacharach is experiencing a renaissance. You'll be surprised how many Bacharach compositions you'll recognize - or maybe you won't be!" The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

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 Calendar.

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.

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.

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 Calendar.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of November 18, 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:

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Pride of Dummies at Spectrum 2016

First Run Theatre presents the 2016 Spectrum One-Act Play Festival Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, November 18 - 20. This year's plays are Placebo Effect and Reunion by David Hawley; The Technicians by Robert Stevenson; Most Real by Colin Percival McLaughlin; A Pride of Dummies and And They All Lived Happily Ever After Joe Wegescheide; Fartocalypse by Dan Viggers; and Fear of Mediocrity by Nathan R. Hinds. Performances take place in the Thomas Hunter Theatre at DeSmet Jesuit High School, 233 N New Ballas Road. For more information, call (314) 352-5114 or visit www.firstruntheatre.com.

My take: This annual collectin of new plays by local authors is always a mixed bag, but worth seeing if you're insterested in finding out what St. Louis playwrights are all about. "First Run Theatre and the local artists involved in their productions," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "offer a unique opportunity to see live theater in its nascent form, to be among the first to be moved by a new work. Or not. Not every show will hit all your buttons, but there's plenty to like. Theatergoers who enjoy a deeper dig into the art and craft of storytelling are sure to find a lot to discuss after seeing Spectrum 2016."

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Fun Home
Photo: Joan Marcus

The Fox Theatre presents the musical Fun Home opening on Tuesday, November 15, and running through November 27. "Based on Alison Bechdel's best-selling graphic memoir, Fun Home introduces us to Alison at three different ages as she explores and unravels the many mysteries of her childhood that connect with her in surprising new ways. A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, Fun Home is a refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: Originally designed for a much smaller theatre, this small-cast show may not be an ideal match for the Fox's immensity, and the story is also somewhat out of the Fox's usual Broadway hit mainstream. Like Ms. Bechdel's original graphic novel, Fun Home leaps forward and backward in time to tell the story of how she and her two siblings helped out at the small town funeral home (the "fun home" of the title) run by her father, Bruce, who was also the local high school English teacher. Still, it’s exceptionally well done by a uniformly excellent ensemble cast. And in light of the dark strains of resentment let loose in the recent Presidential campaign. It reminds us that families can be difficult and that love is not always easy regardless of anyone's sexuality. Being human can just be hard sometimes, and we all need (as the old song goes) to "try a little tenderness."

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Brooke Michael Smith

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present singer Brooke Michael Smith in The Girl I Mean to Be on Friday and Saturday, November 18 and 19, at 8 p.m. "A night of songs and stories melding contemporary and classical musical theatre, refashioned pop songs, and a few original indie-folk tunes. There will be something for everyone throughout this journey of self-discovery and songs that have influenced Brooke along her way. Brooke was born and raised in St. Louis and has also lived and performed in Los Angeles, New York, and now San Francisco, where she was recently named Best New Cabaret Artist for 2016. Eryn Allen is pianist and music director for the show, which is directed by Broadway star Faith Prince." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

My take: A local girl who made good retruns to show us what has made her the toast of San Francisco. Her Friday night show is already sold out but a few tickets remain for Saturday. The Emerald Room is a very cool space and the bar at The Monocle has a great drink selection.

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Hamlet: See What I See
Photo: Tina Farmer

Rebel and Misfits Productions presents Hamlet: See What I See, the first project in a series called The Immersive Theatre Project, through November 18. The show features an adapted script of William Shakespeare's Hamlet. Performances take place at the Barnett On Washington, Grand Center. The show begins with a cocktail hour at 7:00 PM and audiences can expect direct contact with characters from the show throughout the evening as part of the immersive theatre experience. For more information: www.theimmersivetheatreproject.com.

My take: This immersive, audience-participation deconstruction of Shakespeare is clearly not for everyone, but if you're wiilling to abandon any preconceptions, Tina Farmer at KDHX suggests it might be worth your attention. "From private tours of the castle Elsinore to the immediacy and proximity of the story's action, the audience is fully enveloped by the show," she writes. "The St. Louis production integrates music and social media into the entertainment, and audience members are encouraged to take and share photos from their experience. Shakespearean purists will find plenty to criticize in the production. Yet I found the deconstructed script delightfully enigmatic and the forced focus on the visceral impact of the story completely captivating. Though I did not always have clear sight lines at the performance I attended, there were very few moments when I missed a line, and the overall effect of the show is a truly immersive experience."

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The 2015 cast of All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays, November 11-December 4. “Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets.” Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: All is Calm has become an annual winter tradition at Mustard Seed. With a script by Peter Rothstein and musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach, this story of the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914—a spontaneous outbreak of peace that occurred at multiple points along the trenches in France—combines splendid and often quite complex a cappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. At a time when opportunistic politicians are pushing an agenda of hate, fear, and eternal war, this is a play that everyone needs to see. As we used to ask back in the 1960s, "what if they gave a war and nobody came?

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of November 11, 2016

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

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The 2015 cast of All is Calm
Photo: John Lamb

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the a cappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays, November 11-December 4. “Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets.” Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: All is Calm has become an annual winter tradition at Mustard Seed. With a script by Peter Rothstein and musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach, this story of the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914—a spontaneous outbreak of peace that occurred at multiple points along the trenches in France—combines splendid and often quite complex a cappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. At a time when opportunistic politicians are pushing an agenda of hate, fear, and eternal war, this is a play that everyone needs to see. As we used to ask back in the 1960s, "what if they gave a war and nobody came?"

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Cuddles
Photo: Joey Rumpell

Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble presents Cuddles Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., November 9 - 12. " Eve is a young vampire. Tabby is her sister. Tabby makes the rules. Eve has never left her room. All she knows about the world comes from Tabby and from Eve's storybook characters. Eve does everything a good little vampire girl should do; including drinking Tabby's blood when she has to. But one day, Tabby tires of opening her veins, her heart, and in a breath, Eve's world changes. " Performances take place at The Chapel Venue, 6238 Alexander Drive. For more information: slightlyoff.org.

My take: Ready for some things that go "bump" in the night? Slightly Askew apparently has what you're looking for in this darkly ambiguous vampire story. "As evidenced by this pensively dark, intensely nuanced and complex production of Joseph Wilde's Cuddles," writes Tina Farmer at KDHX, "Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble remains among the most artistically and intellectually stimulating theaters in the region, if not the entire Midwest. This may be reason enough for theatergoers to add the company's current production to their calendar. Add in Joe Hanrahan's viciously perceptive direction, Tibbetts and Schwetye's profoundly broken yet mesmerizing performances, and excellent stagecraft, and you get a piece of noir theater that shines with brilliance."

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The Hawthorne Players present the comedy Driving Miss Daisy through November 13. " Having recently demolished another car, Daisy Werthan, a rich, sharp-tongued Jewish widow of seventy-two, is informed by her son, Boolie, that henceforth she must rely on the services of a chauffeur. The person he hires for the job is a thoughtful, unemployed black man, Hoke, whom Miss Daisy immediately regards with disdain and who, in turn, is not impressed with his employer's patronizing tone and, he believes, her latent prejudice. The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.info.

My take: I haven't seen this production and my schedule won't give me a chance to do so, but I have loved this play ever since I played Boolie (Miss Daisy's put-upon son) in the West End Players production many years ago. And the leading actress, Nancy Crouse, is an ideal pick for the role of the cantankerous Miss Daisy. Having worked with Hawthorne Players in the past, I can also attest to the consistently high technical quality of their shows as well.

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Judy Carmichael

The Presenters Dolan presents pianist Judy Carmichael on Friday, November 11, at 8 p.m. as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Grammy-nominated Judy Carmichael, one of the world's leading interpreters of stride piano, is a flat-out wonderful entertainer - singing, playing or talking. Judy hosts her own weekly show "Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired" on SiriusXM, Public Radio and podcast. Count Basie nicknamed her "Stride," acknowledging the command with which she plays this technically and physically demanding jazz piano style. Judy has appeared frequently on Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion, and has been featured on National Public Radio's Morning Edition, Entertainment Tonight and CBS' Sunday Morning with Charles Kuralt and now with Charles Osgood." The performances take place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: As a failed pianist, I always like it when (to quote a lyric from a Jimmy Durante classic) "a real piano player sits down at the keys." I also happen to be very fond of ragtime and its immediate descendants like stride. Ms. Carmichael has an impressive resume and the intimate space of the Gaslight should be good for this kind of show.

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Ken Haller

The Presenters Dolan presents Ken Haller in The Medicine Show on Saturday, November 12, at 8 p.m. as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "Ken Haller's shows have been described as "touching," "hilarious," "intimate," and "tremendously entertaining." In The Medicine Show, where "miracle cures" are peddled, Ken weaves songs as diverse as "The Physician" (Cole Porter), "Someone to Fall Back on," (Jason Robert Brown), "Pirelli's Miracle Elixir" (Stephen Sondheim) and more, into a narrative of how becoming a doctor is only the first step toward becoming a healer." The performances take place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com.

My take: "Haller is a charming and talented performer with a voice as smooth as a brandy Alexander," wrote Robert Mitchell in a KDHX review of Ken's Sondheim show back in 2011. I couldn't agree more. Ken is an immensely talented gent with impressive credentials in both the theatrical and cabaret worlds and he has been producing top-notch cabaret here in town as well as in Chicago and New York for several years now. And right now this country very much needs a show about the healing power of music.

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Mara Bollini

The Emerald Room at the Monocle and The Presenters Dolan present singer Mara Bollini in Taking Chances on Friday, November 11, at 7 p.m. "A native of St. Louis, Mara Bollini has had the privilege of singing and dancing her way across stages throughout the area for decades. “Taking Chances,” Bollini's new cabaret show, is an artistically crafted journey blending music from across the ages as well as musical genres. Carol Schmidt is pianist and music director for the show, which is directed by Tim Schall." The performance takes place in the Emerald Room at The Monocle, 4510 Manchester in the Grove neighborhood. For more information: themonoclestl.com.

My take: We have an embarrassment of cabaret riches in St. Louis this weekend, as this show clearly indicates. Mara is a great talent and Carol Schmidt is one of our town's finest music directors. And the Emerald Room is one of the coolest music venues in town.

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Manifest / Destiny
Photo: John Lamb

The West End Players Guild opens their 106th season with the world premiere of Manifest / Destiny by Vladimir Zelevinsky Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, November 4 - 13. There will also be a show on Thursday, November 10, at 8 PM. "In a year when America's immigration history and policies have been front-and-center in political conversations, Zelevinsky's play is especially timely and insightful. An ensemble cast playing dozens of roles offers poignant vignettes of the love and suffering, bravery and betrayal endured by four centuries-worth of immigrants fleeing the Old World for a chance to reinvent themselves in the new one. " Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 North Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information, call 314-367-0025 or visit www.westendplayers.org.

My take: I'm on the board at West End Players as well as the play selection committee, so I'm pretty much pre-sold on this script. When we read it last year, we were all just bowled over by how well-written it was, but I don't think any of us could have anticipated just how relevant it would become in a year when mindless nativism once again spreads its poison over the land. We have been here before, and more than once. Zelevinsky's play reminds us that we are, in the words of JFK, a nation of immigrants. An excellent ensemble cast under the fluid direction of Steve Callahan reminds us forcefully of where we all came from and why we should remember how much our ancestors had to give up to get here.

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Mothers and Sons
Photo: Peter Wochniak

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Mothers and Sons by Terrence McNally through November 13. "Time stopped for Katharine the day her son died of AIDS. Twenty years later, she seeks out his former partner, Cal, only to discover that he has a husband and a six-year-old son. As she and Cal explore memories of someone they both loved, Katharine begins a rocky journey toward reconciliation with the side of her son that she never understood." Performances take place in the studio theater at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

My take: Like Until the Flood, the show on the Rep mainstage right now, Mothers and Sons deals with how the untimely death of a young man affects and changes the living. Unlike the characters in Until the Flood the characters in Mothers and Sons are entirely fictional. But they are also clearly inspired by playwright McNally's personal experience as a man of the theatre living through a period that brought both the triumph of marriage equality and the tragedy of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It's a powerful show with top-notch performances.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of October 3, 2016

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African Musical Arts presents the IMI Chamber Players on Sunday, October 9, at 3 p.m. "Featuring the IMI Chamber Players highlighting music by African-American composers William Grant Still, Julio Racine, Valerie Coleman, and Fred Onovwerosuoke, as well as selected works by Sigfrid Karg-Elert and W.A. Mozart." The concert takes place at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 6800 Washington in University City. For more information: africarts.org.

The Bach Society

The Bach Society of St. Louis presents Mozart's Mass in C Minor on Sunday, October 9, at 3 PM at First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, 100 East Adams Ave. “Conceived as a celebration of his marriage, Mozart's Mass in C minor was never completed. It stands, nonetheless, as a magnificent work filled with extraordinary music; this is Mozart as sheer genius. The Bach Chorus and Orchestra are joined by tenor Steven Soph, bass-baritone Dashon Burton, Dutch soprano Josefien Stoppelenburg and, from Zürich, soprano Juliet Petrus.” For more information: www.bachsociety.org.

The Chamber Music Society of St. Louis presents If It Ain't Baroque Don't Fix It on Friday, October 7, at 7:30 p.m. "A special one night only concert with Special Guest Artist Nicholas McGegan. This program features Bach's stunning double violin concerto, an absolutely delightful Vivaldi flute concerto and Charles Metz performing a Bach harpsichord concerto that will melt your heart." The performance takes place in The Sheldon Concert Hall at 3648 Washington. For more information: chambermusicstl.org.

The Chamber Project St. Louis presents Essence on Friday, October 7, at 8 PM. "Essence: We ask in this program, what are the aspects of a homeland defining its true impact on you, the individual? This program will feature our first commission of the season by Adam Maness, inspired by St. Louis. With Ligeti, we will hear a composer released from the constraints of communism finally free to express the rhythm of his homeland. Bartok and Dvorak capture the spirit of their countries in every tune they wrote. The program concludes with the masterwork by the great German composer, Brahms, who's music is the quintessential sound of his time and place." The performance takes place at Crave Coffeehouse, 3500 Caroline Street. For more information: www.chamberprojectstl.org.

Chanticleer

Thursday, October 6, at 8 p.m. St. Louis Cathedral Concerts presents the a cappella classical vocal ensemble Chanticleer. The performance takes place at The Cathedral Basilica on Lindell in the Central West End. For more information: cathedralconcerts.org.

The St. Louis Philharmonic Orchestra presents a concert of music by Elgar, Rachmaninov, Respighi, and William Schuman on Friday, October 7, at 8 p.m. The concert takes place in Purser Auditorium on the campus of Logan University, 1851 Shoettler Road in Chesterfield, MO. For more information: stlphilharmonic.org.

The St. Louis Symphony presents a chamber concert by pianist Orli Shaham and members of the orchestra on Wednesday, October 5, at 7:30 p.m. The concert features music by Steve Reich, Luciano Berio, and John Adams The Adams work includes a prepared piano arrangement by Simon Frisch from an original pre-recorded soundscape. The performance takes place at the Pulizter Foundation on Washington in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Nicholas McGegan conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, with violin soloist Jennifer Koh, in an all-Mozart program on Friday at 10:30 a.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m., October 7 and 8. "Explore the brilliance of Mozart in three of his works conducted by audience favorite Nicholas McGegan. Feel the thrill and grandness in the opening of Mozart's Symphony No. 31, alongside the delightful and elegant melodies of his Serenade No. 9." The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Brent Havens conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in A Tribute to Prince on Sunday, October 9 at 7 p.m.. "The STL Symphony and guest conductor Brent Havens pay homage to one of music's geniuses and best-selling recording artists of all time as they perform the world premiere symphonic tribute to the music of Prince." The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Yunji Shim

Second Presbyterian Church presents soprano Yunji Shim in concert on Sunday, October 9, at 4 p.m. "Soprano Yunji Shim is a winner of this year's prestigious 70th Artist Presentation Society Audition. Her program includes music of Charles Gounod, Richard Strauss, Korean art songs, and much more. Free and open to the public." The church is at 4501 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information: secondchurch.net.

The Webster University Department of Music presents the Webster University Choral Ensembles in concert on Friday, October 7, at 7 p.m. "Join the Women's Chorus, Chamber Singers, and Concert Choir for their debut concert of the 2016-17 Season. A kaleidoscope of works by composers such as Arnesen, Brahms, Britten, Bryd, Chesnokov, Chydenius, DiOrio, Hogan, Mozart, Palestrina, Purcell, and others will be performed." The concert takes place at the Community Music School of Webster University, 535 Garden Avenue on the Webster University campus. For more information: www.webster.edu/fine-arts/departments/music/.