Winterize Your Soul
Alberta Bair Theater Events Heat Up the Winter |
By Corby Skinner and Kathleen Benoit
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Aberta Bair Production
Photo by Lois Greenfield
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As frigid winds sweep across the Montana prairie this winter, the Alberta Bair Theater in Billings is keeping the heat on. A full season of international live performing arts events, stretching from January through March, promises to illuminate dark winter nights and warm the soul.
Upcoming Shows
The Great Kaplan
Friday, January 19
Virtuoso juggler, magician, inventor, musician, physical comedian, The Great Kaplan is all wrapped up in one eccentric performer. Inviting the audience into the humor is the focus of this delightful family show.
Cantabile - The London Quartet
Tuesday, January 30
Cantabile (pronounced “Can -TAH -bih –lay”) is quite simply one of the world’s top vocal groups. Outstanding in both comedy and the classics, the group delights audiences with their amazing range of programs, from a cappella favorites to the sacred music of the last millennium.
Lost in Yonkers
Saturday, February 3
Written at the height of his powers as a playwright, Lost in Yonkers is Neil Simon’s heartfelt tale of a dysfunctional family in 1940s. Montana Rep continues its exploration of great American dramas with this contemporary work by Neil Simon who was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in drama for his efforts.
Cello Octet Conjunto Iberico
Thursday, February 15
Under the direction of conductor Elias Arizcuren, this Spanish cello ensemble is unique in the world of classical music. Their repertoire is passionate Mediterranean music full of color and contrast with songs of De Falla and Granados and original work by today’s foremost composers.
The Pirates of Penzance
Friday, February 16
The Royal Carl Rosa Opera Company of London returns to Billings with another delightful Gilbert and Sullivan production. A large cast, incredible costumes, and a lively pit orchestra recreate the great age of comic opera.
Sullivan wrote a letter to his mother about the new opera, “I think it will be a great success, for it is exquisitely funny, and the music is strikingly tuneful and catching.” Right he was, as it has become one of the most popular Gilbert and
Sullivan works.
Jesus Christ Superstar
Sunday, February 18
Jesus Christ Superstar, the first masterpiece from the legendary writing team of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, exploded onto the scene in 1971, changing the world of musical theater forever. With a score of amazing songs—“I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Hosanna,” “Everything’s Alright,” “Superstar,” and “Heaven on Their Mind,” this original groundbreaking national touring production is as relevant and timeless as ever.
Ailey II
Monday, February 19
Ailey II is universally renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the country’s best young dance talent with the creative passion of today’s most outstanding emerging choreographers. Under the direction of Sylvia Water, Ailey II has become one of the most popular dance companies in the country.
Hansel & Gretel - Théâtre Sans Fil
Wednesday, February 28
This amazing theatrical adaptation of the famous Grimm Brothers’ tale features the Montreal-based Théâtre Sans Fil’s giant puppets and is underscored by classical music. It’s colorful, enchanting, and exceptionally magical family entertainment.
Samarabalouf
Saturday, March 3
This delightfully crazy music trio hails from France and plays original music in the spirit of world famous Gypsy jazz star Django Reinhardt and his rhythmic guitar. The recent addition of an accordion brings originality, humor, virtuosity, and emotion to this happy and fun group. A popular success in Europe and Canada the musicians find inspiration from calypso, blues, rock and roll, ska, and Arabic themes.
Romeo & Juliet
Tuesday, March 6
Aquila Theatre is a troupe of British and American artists dedicated to classical drama. Founded in London in 1991 by Peter Meineck, Aquila is now based in New York City and tours 60-70 cities across the U.S. each year with inventive new productions.
La Guitara
Friday, March 9
La Guitara explores the contribution of women to the evolution of modern guitar. Brain-child of guitarist/singer/songwriter Patty Larkin, the compilation CD of 14 female guitarists of varied genres was the impetus for a national tour. The concert features folk, classical and blues guitarists: Patty Larkin, Badi Assad and Ellen McIlwaine.
For ticket information call
406-256-6052 or 1-800-321-2074
or visit online at www.albertabairtheater.org.
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