St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of April 11, 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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Mustard Seed Theatre presents Bosnian-American: The Dance of Life, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., April 15 and 16 “Born in Bosnia and raised in St. Louis - painful history meets present reality in this collaboratively created script that celebrates the true stories of our neighbors.” Performances take place at at Grbic Restaurant Banquet Hall in the Bevo Mill . For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

The Bridges of Madison County
Photo: Matthew Murphy

The Fox Theatre presents the musical The Bridges of Madison County through April 17. "THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, one of the most romantic stories ever written, first captured the nation's attention as a best-selling novel by Robert James Waller and is now an irresistible, two time Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical. This stunning new production features gorgeous, soulful music by Tony Award®-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years) that the Daily News hails as "one of Broadway's best scores in the last decade." With a book by Pulitzer Prize Winner Marsha Norman (The Secret Garden, The Color Purple) and direction by Tony® winner Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, The Light in the Piazza), THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY is the unforgettable story of two people caught between decision and desire, as a chance encounter becomes a second chance at so much more." The Fox is on North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Clueless through April 16. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

St. Louis Community College at Meramec presents the drama Death and the Maiden by Ariel Dorfman Wednesday through Sunday, April 13-17. "Paulina Salas is a former political prisoner in an unnamed Latin American country who had been raped by her captors, led by a sadistic doctor whose face she never saw. Years later, after the (also unnamed) repressive regime has fallen, a chance encounter allows Pauline to take the doctor captive in order to put him on trial and extract a confession from him." The production is recommended for mature audiences. 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.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents the musical comedy First Date opening on Friday, April 15, at 7:30 p.m. and running through April 23. "When blind date newbie Aaron (Zachary Levi; “Chuck” and Thor: The Dark World) is set up with serial-dater Casey (Krysta Rodriguez; “Smash” and The Addams Family), a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. As the date unfolds in real time, the couple quickly finds that they are not alone on this unpredictable evening. In a delightful and unexpected twist, Casey and Aaron's inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through ice-breakers, appetizers and potential conversational land mines. Can this couple turn what could be a dating disaster into something special before the check arrives?" Performances will be held at the Kennel at Highland High School, 12760 Troxler Ave, Highland IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Clinton County Showcase presents the comedy The Foreigner opening on Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. and running through April 24. "The Foreigner is about a chronically shy man named Charlie who pretends to not speak a word of English. Misunderstandings and hilariious antics abound. Soon Charlie finds himself playing and embracing the role of the exotic foreigner and emerges from his shell all while keeping the charade. Characters include Charile's best friend Froggy, the innkeeper with a motherly role, a young couple, an not-so-bright young man, and a man who has trouble accepting racial progress." Performances take place at the Avon Theater, 525 North 2nd Street Breese IL. For more information, visit ccshowcase.com.

Great Falls
Photo: John Lamb

The West End Players Guild continues their 105th season with Lee Blessing's comedy/drama Great Falls Thursday through Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, April 14-17. "This long, strange trip is undertaken by Monkey Man, a divorced middle-aged writer, and his teenaged ex-stepdaughter, who goes by the name of Bitch. Both of them have lost their way in life, and they set off in search of answers on a road trip through the great American West. By turns funny, sad, touching and profane, Great Falls will take you on a memorable and moving theatrical tour." 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.

Stray Dog Theatre presents the rock musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through April 16. "The 'internationally ignored song stylist' Hedwig Schmidt, an East German diva, is also the victim of a botched sex-change operation. As she tours the U.S. with her loyal band, Hedwig candidly shares her life story. Raucous, soulful and wickedly funny with a brilliant rock score, this show has inspired legions of fans." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents Chicago's Second City comedy ensemble in Hooking Up With Second City Friday and 7 and 10 p.m. and Saturday at 6 and 9 p.m., April 15 and 16. "The Second City knows a few things about love - we've been looking at and laughing about relationships for over 55 years. Hooking Up With The Second City makes mirth out of missed connections, girls' night out adventures and all the crazy things we do for love. This gaspingly funny revue is a modern mix of romance, rancor and everything in between." The Touhill Performing Arts Center is on the University of Missouri St. Louis campus. For more information: touhill.org.

St. Louis University Theatre presents Oscar Wilde's comedy The Importance of Being Earnest, opening on Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. and running through April 24. "Regarded by many as the wittiest play in the English language, the University Theatre is proud to close its 2015-16 season with this audience favorite." Performances take place in Xavier Hall, 3373 West Pine Mall. For more information, call 314-977-3327 or visit slu.edu/utheatre.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Ivanov by Anton Chekov, as translated by Tom Stoppard, opening on Friday, April 15, and running through May 1. "Once a man of limitless promise, Ivanov is plunged into debt. His marriage is in crisis, and his evenings are spent negotiating loans, avoiding love affairs and fighting to resist the small town jealousies and intrigues which threaten to engulf his life." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

Lindenwood University presents the comedy The Liar by David Ives, adapted from the play by Pierre Corneille, Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., April 14-16 “Paris, 1643. Dorante is a charming young man newly arrived in the capital, and he has but a single flaw: he cannot tell the truth. In quick succession, he meets Cliton, a manservant who cannot tell a lie, and falls in love with Clarice, a charming young woman whom he unfortunately mistakes for her friend, Lucrece. What our hero regrettably does not know is that Clarice is secretly engaged to his best friend, Alcippe. Nor is he aware that his father is trying to get him married to Clarice, whom he thinks is Lucrece, who actually is in love with him.” The performance takes place on the main stage at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on the Lindenwood campus in St. Charles, MO. For more information, call 636-949-4433 or visit lindenwood.edu/center.

The Westport Playhouse presents Men Are From Mars-Women Are From Venus Live! running through April 17. "The Off-Broadway hit comedy Men Are From Mars - Women Are From Venus LIVE!, is a one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up, and is a light-hearted theatrical comedy based on the New York Times #1 best-selling book of the last decade by John Gray. Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom." Performances take place at the Westport Playhouse in Westport Plaza. For more information: marsvenuslive.com.

The Muny presents A Night With the Buddy Holly Boys on Wednesday and Thursday, April 13 and 14, at 7:30 p.m. "The boys of summer are back! Our three Buddy Holly stars reunite for a rockin' concert." The event takes place at the Sheldon Concert Hall on Washington in Grand Center. For more information: muny.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.

Our Town

The Hawthorne Players present the Thornton Wilder's Our Town through April 17. "Narrated by a stage manager and performed with minimal props and sets, audiences follow the Webb and Gibbs families as their children fall in love, marry, and eventually-in one of the most famous scenes in American theatre-die." 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.

Lutheran High School South presents the Stephen Schwartz musical Pippin Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m., April 15 and 16. Lutheran High School North is at 9515 Tesson Ferry Road in south St. Louis County. For more information: lhssstl.org.

St. Louis Shakespeare presents Shakespeare's tragedy Richard III Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., through April 17. "A brilliant military commander, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, cannot be content in peacetime. As Richard centralizes power and makes a play for the crown, his motives grow uglier, sending him, enraged, into a bloody battle at Bosworth Field against Henry Tudor." Performances take place at the Ivory Theatre, 7620 Michigan in the Carondelet neighborhood. For more information, call 314-361-5664 or visit stlshakespeare.org.

The St. Louis Art Museum presents a live HD broadcast of the Metropolitan Opera production Donizetti's Roberto Devereux on Saturday, April 16, at 11:55 a.m. " Soprano Sondra Radvanovsky takes on the extraordinary challenge of singing all three of Donizetti's Tudor queen operas in the course of a single season, a rare feat made famous by Beverly Sills-and not attempted on a New York stage since. In this climactic opera of the trilogy, she plays Queen Elizabeth I, forced to sign the death warrant of the nobleman she loves, Robert Devereux. Tenor Matthew Polenzani is Devereux, and mezzo-soprano El_na Garan_a and baritone Mariusz Kwiecien complete the principal quartet in the bel canto masterpiece, conducted by Donizetti specialist Maurizio Benini. As with the earlier Anna Bolena and Maria Stuarda, the production is by Sir David McVicar, who with this staging completes an enormously ambitious directorial accomplishment." The live digital HD video broadcast from New York takes place in The Farrell Auditorium at the Art Museum in Forest Park. For more information: slam.org.

David Guintoli

The Emerald Room Cabaret presents David Guintoli in Sinatra...The Man and His Music on Friday, April 15, at 8 p.m. "David Giuntoli sings songs that Frank Sinatra made famous. He would have been 100, if alive, and although he was from a different era, his musical stylings are a as swinging today as they were in the 40s, 50s, and 60s when he was at his peak. Sinatra had a gift of taking songs from great composers like, Cole Porter, Jimmy Van Heusen, Sammy Cahn, and, along with his fantastic arrangements, giving them that “Sinatra” stamp. The show includes these songs; I've Got the World on a String, All or Nothing at All, The Best is Yet to Come, I've Got You Under My Skin, The Way You Look Tonight, Angel Eyes, Fly Me to the Moon, Night and Day, The Lady is a Tramp and more." The show features Adam Maness on piano and Ben Wheeler on bass. The performance takes place in The Emerald Room at The Monocle Bar, 4510 Manchester in The Grove neighborhood. For more information: www.buzzonstage.com/st-louis

COCA's student dance companies - Ballet Eclectica, COCAdance and the COCA Hip-Hop Crew - conclude their seasons with an annual Spring Repertory Concerts Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., April 15-18. The concerts feature pieces from a range of local and national choreographers. COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information: cocastl.org.

Gateway Center for Performing Arts' Youth Theatre Company finishes its 2015/2016 Mainstage Season with the musical Thoroughly Modern Mille Friday at 7 p.m.., Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., April 15-17. "This Tony Award winning musical is set in 1922 follows Millie Dillmount, straight off the bus from Salina, Kansas as she searches for more in New York City. With grand plans to marry the "modern" way, for money and not love, she finds herself on a madcap adventure that proves everything is not what it seems. With music by Jeanine Tesori, lyrics by Dick Scanlan and Book by Dick Scanlan and Richard Morris, you won't want to miss tunes like Not for the Life of Me, Forget About the Boy, and Gimme Gimme in a story filled with bobbed hair, raised skirts and fiery tap numbers!" Performances take place at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School , 3125 South Kingshighway Blvd. For more information: www.gcpastl.org/thoroughly-modern-millie.

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley presents the comedy Too Much Sun by Nicky Silver opening on Friday, April 15, at 7:30 p.m. and running through April 23. Performances take place in the Fisher Theatre on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road. For more information, stlcc.edu/FV call 314-644-5522.

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.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of February 29, 2016

The Spektral Quartet

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New Music Circle and the Wasington University Music Department present The Spektral Quartet in concert on Saturday, March 5, at 7:30 PM. "Founded in 2010, the Spektral Quartet is widely regarded as one of Chicago's most charismatic and forward-thinking chamber ensembles. The group's creative approach to concert format, often shifting the role of audience member from spectator to participant, has earned it a loyal following within and beyond Chicago's city limits." The event takes place at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City. For more information: www.newmusiccircle.org.

Gilbert Varga conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and piano soloist Denis Kozhukhin in music by Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, and Shostakovich Saturday at 8 p.m.and Sunday at 3 p.m. March 5 and 6. The program is part of the Symphony's four-week Shakespeare Festival. "Prokofiev's most recognized and haunting score from one of the greatest love stories of our time, Romeo and Juliet is full of radiant textures and heart-breaking tenderness. Denis Kozhukhin makes his STL Symphony debut performing Shostakovich's light-hearted and energetic Piano Concerto No. 2, written as a birthday gift for the composer's son." The program also includes Tchaikovsky's tone poem Hamlet. Performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand.For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Arianna String Quartet

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents The Arianna String Quartet in Octet! on Friday, March 4, at 8 PM. "The Arianna Quartet welcomes the internationally acclaimed St. Petersburg String Quartet to St. Louis for a special evening of great music among friends. The Arianna Quartet kicks off the concert with a performance of Beethoven's robust Quartet in E-flat Major, Op.74, the "Harp", with the St. Petersburg Quartet following in a performance of Shostakovich Quartet No.9, a deeply personal and reflective work of immense scope. To cap the evening, the Arianna and St. Petersburg Quartets take the stage together for a performance of Felix Mendelssohn's jubilant String Octet, the ultimate party piece among friends!" The Touhill Performing Arts Center in on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. For more information: touhill.org.

The University City Symphony Orchestra presents The Seeds Continue to Flower on Sunday, March 6, at 3 p.m. "The UCSO proudly presents the 2015-2016 Season: Black Art Matters. The third concert of the season, "The Seeds Continue to Flower," expands on our in-depth look at symphonic music's African roots. We present George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," followed by James P. Johnson's "Yamekraw—Negro Rhapsody," featuring pianist Richard C. Alston. The finale will be "The Score," "a soundtrack in search of a movie," by contemporary composer Clovice A. Lewis. The performance of the piece will feature the composer as cello soloist, and projections of artwork by local elementary students, created in response to listening to Lewis' piece in their classrooms. Join Maestro Leon Burke III before the concert for a pre-concert talk in the auditorium at 2:15pm." The performance takes place at the Performing Arts Center in Haertter Hall at John Burroughs School, 755 S Price Rd. For more information: ucso.org.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of May 4, 2015

Michelle Cann

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African Musical Arts presents Epic Piano Duel, a fundraiser featuring dinner, a concert, silent auction and dessert reception, on Saturday, May 9. The dinner will begin at 6:00 p.m. followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m. The "Epic Piano Duel" will feature pianists Peter Henderson, St. Louis-based pianist with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and Michelle Cann, a dynamic piano prodigy featured on the NPR program, "From the Top." Funds raised at the benefit will fund a new project, the African Performing Arts Exchange, one of only five innovative projects who were announced as winners of the Regional Arts Commission's Innovation Fund last November. The event takes place at the Parkway UCC Auditorium, 2841 N. Ballas Road. For more information: www.africarts.org.

The Chamber Project St. Louis presents Vernacular, featuring works by Tower, Beaser, Ozgen, Allison, and Schubert on Thursday, May 7, at 7:00 PM. The performance takes place at Tavern of Fine Arts, 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: www.chamberprojectstl.org

The Maryville Symphony Orchestra presents Youthful Brilliance, a concert of music written by Schubert, Mendelssohn, and John Rutter when the composers were in the late teen and early 20s, on Sunday, May 10, at 3 p.m. The featured works are Mendelssohn's "Hebridies Overture," Rutter's "Suite for Strings," and Schubert's "Symphony No. 3." The concert takes place at the Maryville University Auditorium, 650 Maryville University Drive. For more information: maryvillesymphony.com.

Lucrecia Garcia

David Robertson conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, soprano Lucrecia Garcia, and an international roster of soloists in a complete concert performance of Verdi's Aida, including special lighting and video design by S. Katy Tucker. Performances are Thursday and Saturday at 8 p.m., May 7 and 9. The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

David Robertson conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra in Fanfare for the Common Man, the last of this season's Whitaker Foundation "Music You Know" programs of popular classics. The concert features music by Copland, Elgar, Bizet, Liszt, Vaughan Williams, and Charles Ives and takes place on Friday, May 8, at 8 p.m. The concert take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a Music and Cuisine Pairing Concert with the Illume Ensemble on Monday, May 4 at 7 PM. "We've cooked up another MUSIC and CUISINE PAIRING CONCERT with our friends the ILLUMINE ENSEMBLE featuring a fabulous menu of spring flavors, served up with equally tasty tunes." 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 senior recital by Jason Cohn (violin and viola) accompanied by Vera Parkin on the piano, on Tuesday, May 5 at 6 PM. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Merry Keller

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Merry Keller: Wade in the Water, on Tuesday, May 5 at 8 PM. "Wade in the Water is a program of arias, contemporary and classical art songs, gospel, spirituals, standards, and even a little pop sung by local artist, Merry Keller. There's something for everyone, all connected by the images and the metaphor of water. Martha Shaffer will be at the piano and Merry will be joined by Susan Kissinger for two duets and several feature numbers of her own." 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 the contemporary chamber ensemble Alarm Will Sound on Saturday, May 9 at 8 PM. "Members of Alarm Will Sound perform small ensemble works with students from Music Today! (of the Community Music School of Webster University ). The students work with AWS over the year on contemporary repertoire. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Arianna String Quartet

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents The Arianna String Quartet in Bold New World on Friday, May 8, at 8 PM. "Daring to boldly send the traditions of Western classical music in new directions, these three quartets continue to resonate as eternal masterpieces and achievements of the human spirit. JOSEPH HAYDN: Quartet in F minor, Op.20 No.5; BÉLA BARTK: String Quartet No. 5; LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN: Quartet in A minor, Op.132." The Touhill Performing Arts Center in on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. For more information: touhill.org.

UMSL Fine Arts and Communication presents a University Chorus concert on Tuesday, May 5 at 7:30 PM at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. "Join the University Chorus for this annual concert and an evening of traditional and contemporary choral music. This concert is in the Lee Theater." For more information: touhill.org.

Union Avenue Christian Church presents The Missouri Women's Chorus in So Many Angels! The Works of Gwyneth Walker on Sunday, May 10, at 3 p.m. "The concert honors the work of Dr. Gwyneth Walker, internationally acclaimed composer of music and features the world premiere of her song cycle "Gospel Songs for Women's Chorus and String Quartet." Dr. Walker will host the concert, introducing the pieces as they are presented, and be the guest of honor at a public reception following the concert." Union Avenue Christian Church is at 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information: www.missouriwomenschorus.org.

Washington University's Danforth University Chamber Music Series presents Seth Carlin, fortepiano and Pablo Mahave-Veglia, cello. in concert on Monday, May 4, at 7:30 p.m. The program consists of the "Grande Sonate" by Hélène Riese Liebmann, and the "Sonata No. 3," Op. 69 in A Major and "7 Variations on 'Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen'," by Beethoven. The concert takes place at the Danforth University Center, 1 Brookings Drive on the Washington University campus. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

Dance Review: Dance St. Louis brings sensual athleticism of Tango Buenos Aires at the Touhill

Photo: Lucrecia Laurel
dancestlouis.org

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Who: Tango Buenos Aires
What: Song of Eva Perón
When: January 30 and 31, 2015
Where: Dance St. Louis at the Touhill Center, St. Louis

"O the tango is done with a thin black moustache a wide scarlet sash, black boots and a whip."   When Jerry Leiber wrote those lyrics for "The Tango" (recorded in 1975 by Peggy Lee), he was reflecting the darkly sensual reputation this dance, with its historically murky origins, has had for over a century. 

Hector Falcón's choreography for the Tango Buenos Aires production of "Song of Eva Perón," which Dance St. Louis brought to the Touhill this past weekend, certainly pays homage to that sensuality, but expands on it with sequences of fluid virtuosity and breathtaking athleticism.

The latter is mostly on display in the Act I closer, in which the five male company members put on an astonishing display of synchronized percussive dancing using pairs of boleadoras—essentially cords with hard weights at the ends, based on the throwing weapon used by Argentine gauchos.  The increasingly complex visual and sonic patterns they produce must be seen live to be believed.  And even then, the extended solo by one member of the company (who is not, alas, indentified in the program) still seemed nearly supernatural. 

Photo: Lucrecia Laurel
dancestlouis.org

Not surprisingly, that number was interrupted frequently for applause.  But then, so were most of the others by this astonishingly talented ten-dancer ensemble.  The many tango sequences drew their share of "oohs" and "aahs" as the performers glided through elaborate variations on the dance's basic moves—all those stomps, cross steps, and lower body pivots—with that apparent ease that comes only with rigorous discipline and talent. 

The female dancers, in particular, reminded me of the old line about how Ginger Rogers was at least as good as Fred Astaire because she had do to everything he did, but backwards and in heels.  In many of the tango sequences, the women were often in more frequent and complicated motion than the men, sweeping around and entwining themselves with their partners.

There is, as you might gather from the title, a thin thread of a story in "Song of Eva Perón" about the late Argentine first lady's rise from the sticks, but for the most part it's just a framework on which to hang the show's colorful and consistently entertaining collection of dances.

An on-stage five-piece band adds to the appeal, performing music composed for the show by pianist and music director Fernando Mazán along with classics by (among others) Jacob Gade ("Celos," known as "Jealousy" in the English-speaking world) and Astor Piazzolla. There were some Argentine folk tunes in the mix as well.  Violinist Mayumi Urgino and Mr. Mazán both got impressive solo numbers while Marco Antonio Fernandez and Emiliano Guererro provided the rock-solid musical foundation on bandoneons, the wide lap-held concertinas that provide the essence of the tango sound.

Photo: Lucrecia Laruel
dancestlouis.org

Vocalist Lucia Alonso performed a pair of songs written for the show by Mr. Mazán.  She was a stunning embodiment of Evita in an elaborate cream-colored evening gown and cape, but her accent and the sound system conspired to make the lyrics incomprehensible, at least from where we sat.

Speaking of costumes, there's no designer listed for the show, so I don't know whom to congratulate for the colorful and intelligently assembled look of "Song of Eva Perón."  As Eva moves from the provinces to the big city, the looks change from simple peasant designs with earthly colors to vivid evening gowns and tuxedo jackets, culminating in a beautifully elegant finale. 

Tango Buenos Aires has already left town and they don't appear to have a web site, so I can't tell you where they'll be appearing next. As for Dance St. Louis, their season continues with the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet February 27 and 28 at the Touhill.  For more information, including details on their upcoming 50th season, see dancestlouis.org.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of Febuary 2, 2015

Todd Wilson

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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis presents organist Todd Wilson in concert on Sunday, February 8, at 2:30 p.m.  "Regarded across America and around the world as one of today’s finest concert organists, Todd Wilson is head of the Organ Department at The Cleveland Institute of Music, and Director of Music and Worship at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Cleveland, Ohio. In addition, he is Curator of the E.M. Skinner pipe organ at Severance Hall (home of The Cleveland Orchestra), and House Organist for the newly-restored Aeolian organ at the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio."  The Cathedral is at 4431 Lindell in the Central West End.  For more information: cathedralconcerts.org.

The Chamber Project St. Louis presents Roots, featuring works by Noon, McLoskey, Hartley, and Beethoven on Sunday, February 8, at 3:00 PM.  "Music takes inspiration from many sources and may stray far from tradition, but there is always a link to the past." The performance takes place at the Jefferson College Fine Arts Theater, 1000 Viking Drive in Hillsboro, MO.  For more information: www.chamberprojectstl.org

The Five Browns
Photo: Andrew Southam

McKendree College presents a The Five Browns in concert on Wednesday, February 4, at 7:30 PM.  "Ryan, Melody, Gregory, Deondra and Desirae Brown were the first family of five siblings accepted simultaneously to New York’s Juilliard School. Whether performing individually or together in various combinations from duo to complex five-piano arrangements, The 5 Browns reveal a deep connection to the intent of their material, bringing a fresh energy to classical music. Their first wave of critical attention came in February 2002, when People magazine dubbed them the “Fab Five” and they were featured on “Oprah” and “60 Minutes.” Three of their CDs went to No. 1 on Billboard Magazine’s Classical Album Chart. " The concert takes place in the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts on the college campus in Lebanon, IL.  For more information: thehett.com.

Stéphane Denève conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra with piano soloist Jean-Yves Thibaudet on Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., February 7 and 8.  "Dvořák’s pastoral and exuberant Eighth Symphony shimmers like a bright dream of nature and draws its inspiration from the Bohemian folk music that Dvořák loved. Composer James MacMillan’s music combines a modern idiom with both Catholicism and Scottish nationalism. His Piano Concerto, The Mysteries of Light, attempts to revive the ancient practice of writing music based on the structure of the Rosary." The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center.  For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents the a cappella vocal group Cantus on Friday, February 6, at 8 p.m.  "This choral ensemble is known around the world for its trademark warmth and engaging performances of music ranging from the Renaissance to the 21st century. The Washington Post hails the group’s sound as having both “exalting finesse” and “expressive power” and refers to their music-making as “spontaneous grace.”"  The Touhill Performing Arts Center in located on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus.  For more information: touhill.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents the Nylönïcä Guitar Trio on Thursday, February 5, at 8 p.m.  "Nylönïcä Guitar Trio performers solos, trios, and few duets by Bellinati, Bogdanovic, Aguado, Bach, Ginastera, and more." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood.   For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Synergies

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents classical the ensemble Synergies on Friday, February 6, at 8 p.m.  "Synergies makes its Tavern debut with a program of music by Couperin, Debussy, and Faure. Synergies is Jennifer Adams-flute, Alison Rolf-violin, Christine Banks-viola, Marcia Mann-cello, and featured guest pianists David Erwin and Diana Umali. On the program are Quatrieme Concert by Francois Couperin, Syrinx by Claude Debussy and Piano Quartet, No. 1 by Gabriel Faure."  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 the Duo Noire guitar duo on Saturday, February 7, at 6 p.m.  "Duo Noire performs “Beyond Ferguson” composed by Thomas Flippin. Duo Noire is comprised of classical guitarists Thomas Flippin and Christopher Mallett. Formed while both were attending the Yale School of Music as the first African American guitarists in the university’s history, Duo Noire has been hailed as a “virtuosic pair” and has gone on to perform across the U.S. at prestigious venues such as the Norfolk Music Festival, the 92nd Street Y, the Times Center, and for the St. Louis Guitar Society as Artists-in-Residence. “‘Beyond Ferguson’ does not offer any agenda, blame, or solution to the issues in Ferguson. Rather, it aims to document many of the sentiments that have arisen but are hard to express in words. As such, the piece begins with a melody from Michael Brown’s own music, to give him a chance to speak directly. And the piece comes to an inconclusive end, waiting to be resolved.” – Thomas Flippin."  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 tenor Nathan Ruggles, mezzo Stephanie Ruggles, and pianist Robert Valentine in a voice recital titled "Tell Me the Truth About Love" on Saturday, February 7, at 8 p.m.  "Stephanie and Nathan will perform songs by Bizet, Britten, Bernstein, Wagner, Sondheim and more!" The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood.   For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Eliot Quartet

Washington University presents the Eliot Quartet in a program of piano trios by Beethoven, Bruch, and Mendelssohn on Friday, February 6, at 8 p.m. "Violin and cello converse in low, hushed tones. The piano responds gently, mournfully, but grows increasingly emphatic. Brief pauses become tense outbursts and wrenching stops. Pianist Carl Czerny, a student of Ludwig van Beethoven, once wrote that his teacher’s Piano Trio in D major, opus 70, no. 1 (1808), reminded him of the ghost of Hamlet’s father. He was not far wrong. There is evidence that Beethoven may have intended the piece for an opera based on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.”"  The performance takes place in Holmes Lounge on the Washington University campus.  For more information: news.wustl.edu.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of December 8, 2014

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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis presents Christmas at the Cathedral on Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m., December 13 and 14. "The Tenth Annual Christmas at the Cathedral concert is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. The concert includes the Archdiocesan Adult Choir, Children’s Choir, Handbell Choir, and Orchestra all in the sonic splendor of the Cathedral Basilica. The program features Christmas classics old and new." The Cathedral is at 4431 Lindell in the Central West End. For more information: cathedralconcerts.org.

Circus Flora and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra present A Winter Fable Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 12-14. "Circus Flora joins the STL Symphony in high-wire holiday fun for the family. A Winter Fable is a classic fairy tale with an edge of romance and deceit. Circus Flora imagines a strange and wonderful world, in which the pairing of symphony and the circus arts is only the beginning of the magic you will experience. We welcome back all your favorites including the gravity-defying Flying Wallendas, the circus dog act and Circus Harmony’s St. Louis Arches!" The performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Gateway Ringers present Believe, a holiday handbell concert, on Friday, December 12, at 7:30 p.m. "Join the Gateway Ringers as we celebrate the season with our holiday concert – “Believe”. Featuring new and old holiday favorites including “White Christmas”, “Sleigh Ride” and “Believe” (from “The Polar Express”), there’s a little something for everyone. All concerts are free and open to the public. For more information, contact us at info at gatewayringers.org." The concert takes place at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 8945 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O'Fallon, MO. For more information: gatewayringers.org.

The Gateway Ringers present Believe, a holiday handbell concert, on Sunday, December 14, at 4 p.m. "Join the Gateway Ringers as we celebrate the season with our holiday concert – “Believe”. Featuring new and old holiday favorites including “White Christmas”, “Sleigh Ride” and “Believe” (from “The Polar Express”), there’s a little something for everyone. All concerts are free and open to the public. For more information, contact us at info at gatewayringers.org." The concert takes place at Messiah Lutheran Church, 2846 S. Grand Blvd. For more information: gatewayringers.org.

The Kirkwood Public Library presents the Bella Corda and Musica Viva guitar ensembles in a Christmas concert on Monday, December 15, at 7 p.m. The library is at 104 E. Jefferson in Kirkwood, MO. For more information: kirkwoodpubliclibrary.org.

The Maryville Symphony Orchestra presents a concert featuring Beethoven's "Symphony No. 5" on Sunday, December 14, at 2 p.m. The concert takes place at the Maryville University Auditorium, 650 Maryville University Drive. For more information: maryvillesymphony.com.

The St. Louis Symphony’s Crescendo Circle presents Sips and Symphonies on Thursday, December 11, at 7:30 PM. “What is Sips and Symphonies? It is a great way to learn about music in a fun, casual environment. On the third Thursday of each month, we get together at Tavern of Fine Arts to listen to and discuss a piece of music being performed at an upcoming concert at Powell Hall. We will have a different guest moderator each month who will help lead an informal conversation about the music.” A special cocktail is created for each event to accompany the music. The event takes place at The Tavern of Fine Arts, 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Saint Louis University’s Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday concert by the University Jazz Band on Monday, December 8, at 7:30 p.m. The concert takes place in the Xavier Hall Theater, 3733 West Pine, on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home.

Saint Louis University’s Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday concert by the University Concert Band on Wednesday, December 10, at 5 p.m. The concert takes place in the Xavier Hall Theater, 3733 West Pine, on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home.

The Sheldon Concert Hall presents the contemporary chamber music ensemble Alarm Will Sound in concert on Thursday, December 11, at 8 p.m. "Cutting-edge chamber orchestra Alarm Will Sound returns for its third St. Louis Season! The ensemble performs the newest music being composed today with energetic virtuosity and a sense of adventure, creating programs that not only span a wide range of styles, but also innovate the traditional concert experience itself." The Sheldon is at 3658 Washington in Grand Center. For more information: thesheldon.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a classical open stage night on Monday, December 8 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.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a Christmas concert by the River City Pops Saturday, December 13, at 8 PM. "River City Pops is not your usual choral group. We put on real shows - musical reviews that tell stories through song and choreography. Men’s and women’s voices accompanied by piano bring the great music of our time to life through multipart harmonies, duets and solos. There’s never a dull moment in a River City Pops performance - and our audiences love us for it." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents Sounds of the Season, a holiday concert by the a cappella vocal group Ambassadors of Harmony, on Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 12-14. "Each December, the International Chorus Champion Ambassadors of Harmony’s Sounds of the Season fills the Touhill with the joy and magic of the holidays. The first half of the show is an energetic look at the lighter side of Christmas. Then the chorus puts its heavenly harmonies on classic carols and songs." The Touhill Performing Arts Center in located on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. For more information: touhill.org.

The Washington University Department of Music presents the Washington University Choirs and Soloists in a Sing-Along of Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, December 14, at 3 p.m. The participatory performance takes place at Graham Chapel on the Washington University campus. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of December 1, 2014

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The Chamber Music Society of St. Louis presents Wind Serenade on Monday and Tuesday, December 1 and 3, at 7:30 PM. "Chamber Music Society of St. Louis presents an updated re-creation of the 18th Century party environment. Music of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven." The concert takes place at The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington. For more information: chambermusicstl.org.

The Jefferson College Concert Band presents a Winter Classics concert on Tuesday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m. The performance takes place in the Fine Arts Theatre at 1000 Viking Drive on the Hillsboro campus in Hillsboro, MO. For more information: jeffco.edu.

The Jefferson College Music Department presents Sounds of the Season, a choral concert, on Sunday, December 7, at 3:30 p.m. The performance takes place in the Fine Arts Theatre at 1000 Viking Drive on the Hillsboro campus in Hillsboro, MO. For more information: jeffco.edu.

The New Music Circle presents The Craig Taborn and Roscoe Mitchell Duo on Friday, December 11, at 7:30 p.m. "An internationally renowned musician, composer and innovator, Roscoe Mitchell began his distinguished career in the spirited 1960s of Chicago. In Mitchell's own opinion, his work is a product of his heritage in the fertile art communities of the AACM (Association for Advancement of Creative Musicians) and The Art Ensemble of Chicago. Both organizations spawned large networks of musicians and inspired radical approaches to performance and musical thought, thus informing his own practice for over five decades. Primarily known for his saxophone playing, Mitchell's multi-instrumental palette also includes various flutes, woodwinds and a broad range of percussion. NYC pianist and ECM recording artist, Craig Taborn, has remained a ubiquitous presence on the jazz scene for the past two decades, performing with jazz musicians and seasoned veterans as well as experimental rock and techno artists. His pianistic approach alludes to the explorations of Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, and Cecil Taylor." The performance takes place at The Stage @ KDHX, 3524 Washington in Grand Center. For more information: newmusiccircle.org.

The St. Louis Brass Band presents A Holiday Spectacular on Sunday, November 16, at 2:30 p.m. "This concert will bring a smile to your face and Ho Ho Ho to your lips as the British Brass Band presents holiday and seasonal favorites as only a brass band can. As this concert also falls on December 7th, a portion of this concert will honor the servicemen and servicewomen who have given so much to the freedoms we enjoy. The Band will also be looking forward to their annual visit from that special holiday character from the North Pole." The concert takes place at The Florissant Civic Center, 1 James J. Eagan Drive in Florissant, MO. For more information: stlbb.org.

Steven Jarvi conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra along with violin soloists Jessica Cheng, Angie Smart, Jooyeon Kong, and Alison Harney, on Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m., December 5-7. The program features Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" along with music by Barber and Wagner. "Drawing inspiration from his everyday surroundings, Vivaldi's Four Seasons evoke the sounds of nature unique among the composer's two hundred violin concertos. Resident Conductor Steven Jarvi makes his subscription debut with Vivaldi's masterwork that puts the soloists—the STL Symphony's own Jessica Cheng, Angie Smart, Jooyeon Kong, Alison Harney—and ensemble on stunning virtuosic display." The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Saint Louis University's Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday concert by the Guitar Ensemble on Wednesday, December 3, at 7:30 p.m. The concert takes place at Boileau Hall, 38 N. Vandeventer Avenue on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home.

Saint Louis University's Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday student recital on Friday, December 5, at 5:30 p.m. The concert takes place in Room 348, Xavier Hall, on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home

Saint Louis University's Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday String Orchestra concert on Friday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m. The concert takes place in the Xavier Hall Theater, 3733 West Pine, on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home

Saint Louis University's Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday concert by the University String Quartets on Sunday, December 7, at 2 p.m. The concert takes place at St. Francis Xavier College Church at the corner of Lindell and Grand on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home

Saint Louis University's Fine and Performing Arts Music Program presents a holiday concert by the University Choirs on Sunday, December 7, at 6 p.m. The concert takes place at St. Francis Xavier College Church at the corner of Lindell and Grand on the St. Louis University campus. For more information: www.slu.edu/department-of-fine-and-performing-arts-home

The Shepley Program of Music and Arts presents A Holiday Gift from Webster University on Sunday, December 7, at 2 PM. "This concert, titled 'A Holiday Gift to the People of Saint Louis' is presented and performed by the Students and Faculty of Webster University." The recital takes place at Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust. Admission is free. For more information: christchurchconcerts.org.

Cardinal String Quartet

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents The Cardinal String Quartet in a program of music by Beethoven and Dvorak on Tuesday, December 2, at 8 PM. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents a Holiday Concert on Thursday, December 4, at 7:30 PM at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. "Come Join the University Community Chorus, directed by John Smith, the University Orchestra, directed by Dr. Jim Richards, the Arianna String Quartet, and guest choirs, presenting a selection of music for the holiday season." For more information: touhill.org.

The Washington University Symphony presents a free concert on Monday, December 1, at 7:30 p.m. The program will include music by Debussy and Bizet. The performance takes place at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City, MO. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

The 442s

Washington University's Danforth University Chamber Music Series presents The 442s in concert on Tuesday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m. "What happens when you combine two outstanding members of the world-class St. Louis Symphony with two of the city's finest jazz musicians from the Erin Bode Group? You get The 442's, an exciting new acoustic instrumental quartet named for the modern standard tuning of 442 Hz! Brought together by the innovative and inspired compositions of Adam Maness, who also plays guitar, accordion, melodica and glockenspiel in the group, The 442's features Shawn Weil on violin, Bjorn Ranheim on cello and Sydney Rodway on bass. This unique collaboration combines outstanding musicianship, group singing, inventive improvisation, whistle solos and special guest appearances by famed jazz vocalist, Erin Bode. Exploring the boundaries of jazz, classical, folk and rock music, their music can move you to the edge of your seat or comfort you like a lullaby, all within the same set." The concert takes place at the Danforth University Center, 1 Brookings Drive on the Washington University campus. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

The Washington University Department of Music presents a student recital on featuring organist Ethan Schueler on Tuesday, December 2, at 8 p.m. The program includes music by Chopin, Vaughan Williams, Schumann and Beethoven. The performance takes place at Graham Chapel on the Washington University campus. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

The Washington University Department of Music presents a Guitar Gala, featuring students in the university guitar program, on Thursday, December 4, at 8 p.m. The program includes music by Bach, Fernando Sor, and Hindemeth. The performance takes place at Graham Chapel on the Washington University campus. For more information: music.wustl.edu.

The Washington University Department of Music presents the Washington University Flute Choir, Community Flute Choir, and the Clayton High School Flute Choir in a program of works for large flute ensemble. The concert takes place on Sunday, December 7, at 8 p.m. at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City, MO. For more information: For more information: music.wustl.edu.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of September 1, 2014

Third Baptist Church presents an organ concert by Stephen Price, Resident organist of Beck Chapel at Indiana University, on Friday, September 5, at 12:30 PM as part of its free Friday Pipes series. "Join us on Fridays at Third Baptist Church for Friday Pipes, the free organ recital series celebrating the restoration of the church's 72-rank Kilgen/Möller pipe organ. Each week a different performer will be presenting a program of classical, church, and theatre organ music in the beautiful sanctuary of Third Baptist. This season's performers come from across the USA, and even from around the world. Free parking is available in the church lots on Washington Avenue." Third Baptist Church is at 620 N Grand. For more information: www.third-baptist.org

The Arianna String Quartet

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents The Arianna String Quartet in "Dynamic Duo," on Friday, September 5, at 8 PM at the Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of Missouri at St. Louis campus. "The season kicks off with two legendary works of the chamber repertoire that promises a night of unforgettable expression and emotional power. LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN: Quartet in E-flat Major, Op.127; JOHANNES BRAHMS: Clarinet Quintet in B minor, Op.115 with St. Louis Symphony Orchestra principal clarinetist Scott Andrews." For more information: touhill.org.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of March 17. 2014

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 ArtsZipper site.

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That Uppity Theatre Company and The Vital Voice present Briefs: A Festival Of Short Lesbian and Gay Plays Thursday through Sunday, March 21-23. " More than a traditional theatrical production, BRIEFS is a community event, bringing together a diverse audience from the LGBT community, straight allies, local businesses, and local artists. Our slogan this year is, “Come for the play, stay for the party!” The space will stay open for at least at hour after every performance so people can visit and have a drink. Additionally, on Sunday, March 23, our final performance matinee will also honor LGBT seniors and their friends and will include a complimentary brunch for LGBT seniors from groups including SAGE, Primetimers and Older Lesbians Advocating for Change (OLAC)." Performances take place at La Perla, 312 North 8th Street, downtown. For more information, visit uppityco.com or call (314) 995-4600.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents its Bullets in the Bathtub through April 27. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com

Carol Schmidt

The Cabaret Project and 88.1 KDHX present the monthly Cabaret Open Stage Night on Wednesday, March 19, from 7 to 10 PM at the Tavern of Fine Arts. The master of ceremonies is 88.1 KDHX senior performing arts critic Chuck Lavazzi and the music director is Carol Schmidt. Bring your favorite seasonal songs and be prepared for the big sing-along! If you're planning to sing, be prepared to do one or two songs and bring music, preferably in your key. It's also recommend that you have your song memorized. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt at Waterman in the Central West End. There's free parking in the lot right across the street. For more information, visit tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com or call 314-367-7549.

Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville Department of Theater and Dance presents Pinter's The Caretaker March 21-30. The performances take place on the campus in Edwardsville, IL. For more information, call 618-650-2774.

Curtain's Up Theatre presents Cinderella Or The Story Of Bigfoot on Saturday, March 22. The performances take place in the Dunham Hall Theater on the SIU-Edwardsville campus. For more information, visit curtainsuptheater.com.

The Looking Glass Playhouse presents The Diary of Anne Frank through March 23. Performances take place at 301 West St. Louis Street in Lebanon, Ill. For more information, visit www.lookingglassplayhouse.com.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a staged reading of Every Reason to Hope and Believe by Laura Eason on Sunday March 23, at 3:00 PM as part of the Ignite! New Play Festival. “Emma, a successful St. Louis fundraiser, and Nathan, one of the city's most celebrated African American artists, couldn't make it work as a mixed race couple. When they reunite professionally to discuss creating a statue of Dred Scott to be erected in front of the Old Courthouse, their conversation quickly turns personal in this moving story of entitlement, privilege, passion, and how the past informs the present. Commissioned for Ignite! by The Rep.” The reading takes place at the Sally S. Levy Opera Center, 210 Hazel in Webster Groves. For more information, visit repstl.org.

St. Lou Fringe presents Five-Fifths: Alice In Fringeland on Friday, March 21, at 7:30 PM. "St Lou Fringe presents its newest annual benefit event and showcase of St Louis' finest indie artists, FIVE-FIFTHS. Five-Fifths presents one classic story, broken into five acts, and performed by five different performing groups. This isn't just any night of theater. With a VIP reception, after party, celebrity guests and integrating visual and ambient art, we are taking the experience of theater going to a whole new level. Welcome to Fringeland." The performance takes place a the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlfringe.com

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents Flaming Saddles through April 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

The Touhill Performing Arts Center presents The New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players production of H.M.S. Pinafore on Saturday, March 22, at 8:00 PM. The Touhill Performing Arts Center in on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. For more information, you may visit www.touhill.org or call (314) 516-4949.

St. Louis Actors' Studio continues its seventh season, themed Sins of the Father, with Kate Chopin's The Awakening, adapted for the stage by Henry I. Schvey, through March 23. "Set in New Orleans and the Southern Louisiana coast at the end of the nineteenth century, the plot centers on Edna Pontellier and her struggle to reconcile her increasingly unorthodox views on femininity and motherhood with the prevailing social attitudes of the turn-of-the-century South. It is one of the earliest American novels that focuses on women's issues without condescension. It is also widely seen as a landmark work of early feminism, generating mixed reaction from contemporary readers and criticism." Performances take place in the Des Lee Auditorium at the Missouri History Museum. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

Photo: Lon Brauer

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Michael Frayn's comedy Noises Off March 19 - April 13. “Disasters abound as a frantic, sleep-deprived touring company of actors rehearses and performs their fictional farce, Nothing On. Too many doors, too many sardines and not near enough time combine to create a riotously funny situation on and off stage for both cast and crew. Michael Frayn's intricately crafted mayhem is hailed as one of the greatest comedies ever written.” Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

Summerstage presents the musical Pippin March 20-22. Performances take place at 1350 27th St. in Granite City, IL. For more information, call (618) 451-1032.

New Jewish Theater presents Arthur Miller's The Price March 20-April 16. “Everything has a price. In one of the most emotional pieces that Arthur Miller ever wrote, two estranged brothers reunite for one day to sort and sell their deceased father's "furniture," before the building is torn down. The brothers are forced to deal with the price of decisions made in their shared past.” 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.

HotCity Theatre presents Red Light Winter by Adam Rapp through March 29. “A tempestuous love triangle smolders between two college buddies and the red light woman they share for a night. Sex, lies and decadence will change their lives forever!” Performances take place at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, visit www.hotcitytheatre.org or call 314-289-4063.

Photo: Jill Ritter Lindberg

New Line Theatre presents the rock musical Rent Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, through March 29. "New Line continues its 23rd season with Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer Prize winning, long-running rock opera Rent. This cheerfully transgressive, 1990s rock/pop riff on the classic story, set in New York City’s East Village, is best described in its creator's own words: 'In these dangerous times, where it seems the world is ripping apart at the seams, we can all learn how to survive from those who stare death squarely in the face every day and we should reach out to each other and bond as a community, rather than hide from the terrors of life at the end of the millennium.'"Performances take place at the Washington University South Campus Theatre, 6501 Clayton Road. For more information: newlinetheatre.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The St. Louis Theater Circle presents the St. Louis Theater Circle Awards on Monday, March 17, at 7 PM. The awards recognize outstanding achievement in locally produced professional theatre as judged by local theatre critics who are members of the Circle. Presenters will include KDHX's own Chuck Lavazzi. The ceremony is preceded by an optional buffet dinner at 6:00 PM from With Love Catering and takes place at COCA, the Center of Creative Arts, at 524 Trinity in University City. Tickets for both the ceremony and the buffet are available at the door or by calling 314.561.4877. The event will be broadcast and webcast live on HEC-TV Charter channel 989, U-Verse channel 99, and at hectv.org

Alton Little Theater presents Sex, Please, We're 60 Thursdays through Sundays, through March 23, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley presents a free staged readings of Joanna Baillie's comedy The Siege, on Tuesday, March 18 at 7:00 PM in Room H112 in the Humanities Building on the campus at 3400 Pershall Road in Florissant, MO. Bailllie was "an unjustly forgotten woman dramatist of the late 18th/early 19th century" and the reading is part of the celebration of Women's History Month. The show has never before been performed in Saint Louis, and rarely, if ever, staged in over 200 years.

©Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents Soups, Stews, and Casseroles: 1976 through March 30. “When the main employer in Monroe, Wisconsin is acquired by a major manufacturer, a once peaceful small town turns into a battleground as families struggle to retain their independence, identity and livelihoods. While new opportunities develop for some, difficult choices must be made, putting loyalties and relationships to the test. This world premiere play has been commissioned by The Rep and was developed through the Ignite! New Play Festival.” Performances take place in the studio theatre at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents a staged reading of Ten Questions to Ask Your Biology Teacher About Evolution by Stephen Massicotte on Wednesday March 19, at 7:30 PM as part of the Ignite! New Play Festival. “High school biology teacher Ms. Kelly encourages her students to ask questions about the world around them. But when one student starts openly questioning the very basis of her teachings and the school science curriculum, her own personal faith is put to the test.” The reading takes place at the Sally S. Levy Opera Center, 210 Hazel in Webster Groves. For more information, visit repstl.org.

The Presenters Dolan present Tim Schall: 1961 on Saturday, March 22, at 8 PM as part of the Gaslight Cabaret Festival. "In 1961 the Beatles debuted at the Cavern Club in Liverpool, Bob Dylan entered the Greenwich Village folk scene, 19 year old Carole King wrote her first #1 hit, Moon River won the Oscar for Best Song and in February of that year Tim Schall was born! Join Tim as he celebrates his birthday in a show dedicated to the music of his natal year." The performance takes place at the Gaslight Theater, 358 North Boyle. For more information: gaslightcabaretfestival.com. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

O'Fallon TheatreWorks presents Twelve Angry Jurors. at the O'Fallon Municipal Centre auditorium March 21-30. The O'Fallon Municipal Centre is located at 100 North Main Street in O'Fallon, MO. For more information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us or call 636-379-5606.

The St. Louis Family Theatre Series presents the Lightwire Theater production of The Ugly Duckling and The Tortoise and the Hare March 21 at 2:00 PM, March 22 at 7:30 PM, and March 23 at 2:00 PM. "Lightwire Theater, with its dazzling visuals, poignant choreography and creative use of music ranging from classical to jazz to pop, literally brings these classic tales into a new and brilliant light." 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 Fox Theatre presents the musical We Will Rock You March 18 - 30. "From London's West End, the worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton comes to St. Louis for a limited engagement! We Will Rock You features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. Now in its 11th year in London and seen by a staggering 15 million people worldwide, this hilarious, multi-award-winning and record-breaking phenomenon boasts a fantastic score of killer Queen tunes that you just can't resist singing along to, such as Another One Bites The Dust, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody and of course, We Will Rock You. It's the world champion of musicals and the show that rocks harder than any other, so don't miss the party - book your tickets now!" The Fox Theatre is at 517 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information, call 314-534-1678.

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.