| Dora the Explorer Live! Dora’s Pirate Adventure;February 10-12, 17-19, 2012 | The Nutcracker; December 2-4, 9-11, 2011 |
| Hello Dolly!; November 10-13, 17-20, 2011 | Ian Hunter; October 27, 2011 |
| Ruddigore; October 14-16, 21-23, 2011 | A Gala Tribute to Joe Negri; October 1, 2011 |
| The Full Monty; July 21-24, 28-31, 2011 | The Library & Music Hall’s 110th Birthday Party; June 25, 2011 |
| Dazzling Dance; June 4 and 5, 2011 | Leading Ladies; May 13-15, 20-22, 2011 |
| Comedy for A Cause; May 6, 2011 | An Evening with Becki Toth; April 23, 2011 |
| Royal Wedding; April 21, 2011 | Snow White; April 15-17, 2011 |
| Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi; April 8 and 10, 2011 | Cinderella; March 25-27, 2011 |
| The Gondoliers; March 11-13, 17-20, 2011 | Three Sisters; February 26, 2011 |
| Blue’s Clues Live!; February 11-13, 18-20, 2011 | Attack of the 50 ft Woman; January 20, 2011 |
| Songs for the Season; December 8, 2010 | The Nutcracker; December 3-5, 10-12, 2010 |
| The Mystery of Edwin Drood; November 5-7, 12-14, 19-20, 2010 | The Pittsburgh Savoyards; October 15-17, 21-24, 2010 |
| Marianne Cornetti Returns; October 2, 2010 | Amish Burlesque; August 28, 2010 |
| Elton John’s AIDA; August 12-14, 2010 | City of Angels; July 22-25, 29-31, and August 1, 2010 |
| [title of show]; June 10-13, 17-20, 2010 | Catch a Rising Star; June 5 and 6, 2010 |
| Deathtrap: A Stage 62 Production; May 14-16 and 21-23, 2010 | The Pittsburgh Youth Chamber Orchestra; May 2, 2010 |
| Die Zauberflote; April 23rd and 25th, 2010 | Thumbelina: The Dramatic Children’s Play; April 16th-18th, 2010 |
| Mary Poppins: The Charming Ballet; March 19th-21st, 2010 | Sleeping Beauty; February 26th-28th, March 5th-7th 2010 |
| An Evening with Mark Twain; February 13th, 2010 | The Kyiv Ukraninian Dance Ensemble Presents: The Bayan Player: February 6th, 2010 |
| Chatham Baroque:Alchemy for Three; January 31st, 2010 | Songs for the Season: Opera Scenes December 12th, 2009 |
| The Nutcracker: December 4th-6th, and 11th-13th, 2009 | Mansfield 5; November 28th, 2009 |
| Titanic: The Musical: November 6-8th, 13-15th, and 20-21st, 2009 | Senior Moments: October 16th-18th 2009 |
| All Judy, All Heart; Saturday, October 10th, 2009 | Little Shop of Horrors; July 16-19, 23-26, 2009 |
| Catch a Rising Star; June 6 and 7, 2009 | Noises Off; May 8-10, 15-17, 2009 |
| La Finta Giardiniera; April 24th and 26th, 2009 | Peter Pan; April 17-19, 2009 |
| Swan Lake; March 27-29, 2009 | The Kyiv Ukraninian Dance Ensemble; February 21, 2009 |
| Change of Season; February 19th, 2009 | Alice in Wonderland; February 6-8, 13-15, 2009 |
| Joe Negri’s Mass of Hope; December 20th, 2008 | Songs for the Season: Opera Scenes December 6th, 2008 |
| The Nutcracker: December 5th-7th, and 12th-14th, 2008 | Oliver!; November 7-9, 14-16, 21-22, 2008 |
| Songs that Oscar Taught Me; October 10th, 2008 | An Evening of Opera; October 4, 2008 |
| An Afternoon with Patricia Prattis Jennings; June 1st, 2008 | DANSAQ; February 28th, 2008 |
Stage 62 presents:Dora the Explorer Live! Dora’s Pirate Adventure
February 10 – 12 & 17 – 19
See this hour-long live performance featuring all of the favorite characters from the Nickelodeon hit show including Dora,
Diego, Boots, Swiper and more! You help Dora navigate a high seas adventure – read the map, sing, learn words and count -
to navigate over Purple Mountain and Silly Singing Bridge, confront the Pirate Piggies and reach the treasure! Created
by Chris Gifford. Fri 7:30 p.m., Sat 4:00 p.m., Sun 2:00 p.m. $10 general admission. www.stage62.org
Carnegie Performing Arts Center presents:
The Nutcracker
December 2 – 4 & 9 – 11
A Holiday Classic, the Nutcracker at Christmas is the magical dream of Clara and her handsome Nutcracker Prince. Together they battle an evil Rat King while trying to find their way through swirling snowflakes and dancing flowers on their swirling journey to the Candy Kingdom. Fri- Sat 8:00 p.m., Sun 2:00 p.m. $12 general admission; $10 seniors and students; $8 group rate for 10 or more. Shuttle service will be available from the lot located on East Main Street.
www.carnegieperformingartscenter.com/
or 412/279-8887
Stage 62 presents:
Hello Dolly!
November 10 – 20, 2011
Book: Michael Stewart
Music and Lyrics: Jerry Herman Winner of 10 Tony Awards
Winner of 10 Tony Awards, Hello Dolly! is musical theater heaven. Dolly Levi, a widowed matchmaker, takes the single men of Yonkers, New York, on an unforgettable journey to New York City. Through hat shops and high-kicking waiters, parades and polka contests, the hilarious twists and turns brings everyone back to Yonkers… and love. After all, it only takes a moment! Book by Michael Stewart, Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman. Thurs – Sat 8:00 p.m.; Sun 2:00 p.m. $15 general admission; $12 seniors and students; $12 for groups. Shuttle service will be available from the lot located on East Main Street.http://www.stage62.com
Drusky Entertainment presents:
Ian Hunter
with Special Guests: Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers
Thursday, October 27. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. / Show starts at 8:00 p.m.
Rocker, balladeer, author and ‘Classic Songwriter’ Award winner, Ian Hunter has a diamond-studded and matchless repertoire.
Ian Hunter was one of the most inventive rock writers of the early ’70s paving the way for the decade’s ‘New Wave’ with his thought-provoking, honest and gritty songs. As a solo performer he has also succeeded with an impressive catalogue of superb albums and a dedicated following.
Ian’s musical passion was first ignited by Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis and he appeared in various early bands, mainly as a bass player backing Billy Fury and Freddie ‘Fingers’ Lee. Ian also worked as a provincial journalist and later a staff songwriter in Denmark Street at the musical heart of Sixties London.
7PM Doors open, 8PM Show. Seated tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the show. Tickets go on sale August 13 at noon. Click here to purchase tickets
http://www.druskyentertainment.com
The Pittsburgh Savoyards present:
Ruddigore by Gilbert and Sullivan.
October 14 – 23, 2011
Presented by The Pittsburgh Savoyards. A parody of classic melodrama, Ruddigore is the tenth collaboration be-tween Sir Arthur Sullivan and W.S. Gilbert. G&S “supernatural” opera, also known as “The Witch’s Curse,” had its premiere in 1887 and is the perfect G&S opera to get in the mood for Halloween. Thur-Fri-Sat 8:00 p.m.; Sun 2:30 p.m. $20 general admission; $16 seniors/students; $15 groups.
www.pittsburghsavoyards.org or 412-734-8476
BNY Mellon Jazz Presents
A Gala Tribute to Joe Negri
Saturday, October 1 at 8:00 p.m.
Mark your calendars and order your tickets now for a concert that’s sure to be a sell out! This annual benefit concert pays tribute to Pittsburgh’s own, Jazz’s own, Joe Negri. Joining the legendary guitarist will be Negri regulars Max Leake on piano, Tom Wendt on drums and Tony DiPaolis on bass. Guest performers include a lineup of jazz luminaries: vocalist Maureen Budway; saxophonist Mike Tomaro; drummer Roger Humphries and trumpeter Sean Jones.
The October 1 concert will be followed by an after-theater party throughout the ACFL&MH’s historic facility. Tickets are $125 ($90 tax deductible) for reserved seats in the orchestra or $75 ($40 tax deductible) for open historic seating in the balcony. Proceeds benefit the Chartiers Valley Partnership’s campaign to restore the Library & Music Hall facility. To order tickets please call 412-276-3456, Ext. 6, as seating is becoming very limited.
Watch the Post Gazette’s video on Joe Negri
Stage 62 presents
July 21st-24th, and 28th-31st, 2011
Click Here to read an awesome review of the show!
Six unemployed steelworkers in Buffalo, New York are miserable, with no cash and no prospects. Meanwhile, they catch their wives and other women going crazy over male strippers. The six men then set out to make some quick cash showing off their ‘real man’ bodies (including “the full monty”) by becoming a team of male strippers. As the guys work through their fears, self-consciousness and anxieties they find strength as a group to overcome their inner demons. This show contains adult language and themes; audience discretion is advised. Thursday-Saturday 8:00 p.m.; Sunday2:00 p.m. www.stage62.com or 412/429-6262.
ACFL&MH presents
The Library & Music Hall’s 110th Birthday Party
Saturday, June 25th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library has been service its community for 110 years. It opened to the public on May 1, 1901, though the formal dedication attended by benefactor Andrew Carnegie took place with great ceremony nearly a year later on April 22, 1902. The Carnegie Carnegie will be celebrating this milestone birthday on June 25th, the first Saturday of summer. This will be an ideal time to have an old-fashioned ice cream and cake party, provided by Bob’s Diner, to which everyone is invited! The Library & Music Hall’s 110th Birthday is free and open to the public and it will take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a very special performance by “The Get Down Gang” at 3:00 p.m.
Carnegie Performing Arts Center Presents
Dazzling Dance
June 4th-5th, 2011
The spring showcase features the students of the Carnegie Performing Arts Center School performing many different dance forms including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and hip hop. Contact Carnegie Performing Arts Center at 412-279-8887. Saturday 8:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m., $12 (10 seniors/ students) www.carnegieperformingartscenter.com
Stage 62 Presents:
Leading Ladies
May 13th-15th, and 20th-22nd, 2011
In this hilarious comedy by the author of Lend Me A Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo, two English actors find themselves so down on their luck that they are performing “Scenes from Shakespeare” on the Moose Lodge circuit. When they hear an old lady in York, PA is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long-lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash…but when they get to York, they find the relatives aren’t nephews, but nieces! Romantic entanglements abound, especially when one actor falls head-over-petticoat in love with the old lady’s vivacious niece.
Comedy For a Cause
Friday, May 6, 2011
Three hilarious comedians in one night at the Music Hall. A $25 donation includes the show, appetizers, and 2 drink vouchers. Doors opened at 6:30 PM and the show starts at 8:00 PM. The proceeds from the show benefitted Mainstay Life Services.
Stage 62 presents
An Evening with Becki Toth
April 23
A night of fabulous show tunes to benefit the Stage 62 2011 season. For one night only, join Stage 62′s most celebrated performer, Becki Toth, along with a few other Stage 62 stars as they presented a fabulous evening of show tunes followed by a dessert reception. The show started at 8:00 PM.
Presented by Chessboard Creative
“Royal Wedding.”
April 21
An evening of fun and film
Chessboard Creative will provide pre-film commentary about the film, especially the famous scene where Fred Astaire dances on the ceiling! Musical entertainment will also be provided by a special guest. Come dressed in your royal best! Prizes were awarded for the most elegant and/or outrageous lord and lady. Follow www.chessboardcreative.com on Facebook!
Carnegie Performing Arts Center Presents
Snow White
April 15-17
the Dramatic Children’s Play is the story of Snow White as she is forced to flee her home because of her jealous stepmother. Seven dwarfs befriend Snow White and try to protect her from the evil Queen.
http://carnegieperformingartscenter.com/
Duquesne University Opera Studio
April 8 and 10
The performance begins with Puccini’s heart-wrenching tale of Suor Angelica, which follows the events that occur after Suor Angelica learns about the death of her illegitimate child. Ending with the power of redemption, the opera features soaring melodies and gripping vocal lines. Just the opposite of tragedy, the story of Gianni Schicchi will delight the audience as a greedy family tries to change the will of their relative only to find themselves outsmarted by Mr. Schicchi.
http://www.duq.edu.
Carnegie Performing Arts Center Presents
Cinderella
March 25-27
The classic tale of young Cinderella who is forced to work as a servant in her own home. Only with the help of her Fairy Godmother is Cinderella able to go to the ball and dance with the Prince of her dreams.
www.carnegieperformingartscenter.com
The Pittsburgh Savoyards Present
The Gondoliers
March 11-13, 17-20
Venice comes alive with the sound of tarantellas, cachuchas, and boleros as brothers Marco and Giuseppe Palmieri, who are gondoliers, about to be married to Gianetta and Tessa. T, then they discover that one of them is the King of Barataria. But which one?
http://www.pittsburghsavoyards.org
Kyiv Ukrainian Dance Ensemble Presents
Three Sisters
February 26
Once again Kyiv Ukrainian Dance Ensemble builds upon its tradition of Ukrainianfolk lore, dance and music in this brand new production. Special Guests include: Carpathian Music Ensemble of the University of Pittsburgh. The Ukrainian Market Place with traditional foods and merchandise will take place prior to the concert. We invite you to enjoy this kaleidoscope of 50 dancers and musicians – breathing taking movement and sound. http://www.kyivdance.net
Stage 62 Presents
Blue’s Clues Live! The Most Spectacular Place
February 11-13, 18-20
The musical featured all of the characters that kids know and love from the critically acclaimed Nickelodeon television series. Blue and Steve will lead the audience on a clue-based journey through Storybook Forest and outer space itself, in search of the most spectacular place of all.
http://www.stage62.com
Chessboard Creative presents
Attack of the 50ft Woman!
Thursday, January 20th, 2011 at 7 PM
Rampaging giants from outer space, cheesy-beyond-cheese dialogue, and UFO’s suspended by unashamedly visible strings –what better way to spend a Thursday evening in January! The evening will feature a hilarious pre-film commentary by Black King of Chessboard, Brian Edward, as well as musical performances inspired by the movie – including “She’s so High Above Me,” and “Your Love (Keeps Lifting Me Higher)” performed by Anna Elder and Greg Richards.
http://chessboardcreative.com/
Carnegie Performing Arts Center Presents
The Nutcracker
December 3-5, 10-12
A Holiday Classic, the Nutcracker at Christmas is the magical dream of Clara and her handsome Nutcracker Prince. Together they battle an evil Rat King and find their way through swirling snowflakes and dancing flowers on their thrilling journey to the Candy Kingdom.
Stage 62 Presents
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
November 5-7, 12-14, 19-20, 2010
Winner of 5 Tony Awards and 8 Drama Desk awards – and a runaway hit with sellout audiences when Stage 62 first performed it in 1996 – this wildly warm-hearted theatrical experience kicks off with the vivacious Victorian musical troupe of the Music Hall Royale presenting its flamboyant rendition of the unfinished Dickens novel. The story iteself deals with John Jasper, a Jekyll-and-Hyde choirmaster who is quite madly in love with his music student, the fair Miss Rosa Bud. Miss Bud is, in turn, engaged to Jaspers’ nephew, young Edwin Drood. Our title character disappears mysteriously one stormy Christmas Eve – but has Edwin Drood been murdered? And if so, whodunit? Our audience will vote on the solution each night and lead it to a unique and fun-filled finale.
The Pittsburgh Savoyards presents:
Trial by Jury and Gianna Schicchi
October 15-17, 21-24, 2010
The Pittsburgh Savoyards returned to present a musical doubled treat: Gianni Schicchi, Puccini’s only comic opera features greedy relatives, young love, and of course Gianni Schicchi. Followed by Gilbert & Sullivan’s beloved Trial by Jury; Witness the trial of Edwin, sued by Angelina for breach of promise of marriage.
Marianne Cornetti Returns to Carnegie Carnegie Hall
October 2, 2010
Internationally acclaimed mezzo soprano Marianne Cornetti returns to Carnegie for the ACFL&MH’s annual benefit performance. Ms. Cornetti has won accolades at the world’s great opera houses – the Met, Covent Garden, LaScala – and Carnegie Carnegie Hall! The Post Gazette named her 2005 concert here “one of the top ten classical performances” of that year. Ms. Cornetti’s 2010 performance features an eclectic assortment of arias by Verdi, Gounod and Francesco Cilea as well as beloved showtunes and spirituals. Her performance will be followed by a reception throughout the historic facility.
Amish Burlesque
Saturday, August 28
WARNING: Girls Gone MILD!
Goody Plenty, Apple Betty, and Jezebel Jones attempt bawdy burlesque through song, dance, and the occasional flash of a bare ankle! Amish Burlesque’s devilishly discreet parodies and musical numbers will have you rolling in the aisles, lampooning Broadway’s finest from Chicago and West Side Story to Gypsy and 42nd Street, — as well as your favorite Pop divas from Cher to Nancy Sinatra! Amish Burlesque has been described as a cross between Nunsense and Cabaret, tied together with the quick-witted charm of classic vaudeville. It’s a guaranteed laugh-a-minute musical comedy created by Brian Edward with musical arrangements by Emmy Award-winning composer Jace Vek. You’ll laugh ‘til thy sides ache — It’s the cleanest dirty show in town!
Elton John’s AIDA
August 12-14, 2010
SPAS Productions presents Elton John and Tim Rice’s AIDA, a contemporary musical take on a grand classic tale of the timeless bond between an enslaved Nubian princess and an Egyptian soldier. With a pop-rock score that features stirring ballads and rousing choral numbers, Elton John and Tim Rice’s AIDA is a modern crowd-pleaser that embraces multi-cultural casting and exuberant dancing, staging and singing.
City of Angels
July 22-25th, 29-31st, and August 1st, 2010
Maybe the funniest musical comedy ever (written by Larry Gelbart of Mash fame) and winner of six Tony Awards and nine Drama Desk Awards, City of Angels is set in glamourous, seductive 1940s Hollywood – the world of film studios and flimsy negligees. It follows the misadventures of neurotic novelist Stine and his print alter ego, rugged film-noire detective Stone. The fabulous score combines be-bop jazz (a la Manhattan Transfer) with big-band Broadway showstopper tunes.
[title of show]
June 10-13, 17-20, 2010
Unpredictable, funny, tune-filled, and unabashedly self-aware, [title of show] is a new musical about two talented young songwriters in New York trying to write a new musical about two talented young songwriters in New York. With a couple of actress friends in tow, they’re on a true Cinderella journey from the unemployment line to the Great White Way, picking up tips on defeating “vampires” who’d sap your will to live and why it’s more important to be nine people’s favorite thing than a hundred people’s ninth favorite thing.
Catch a Rising Star
June 5th and 6th, 2010
Carnegie Performing Arts Center annual spring recital showcases its students performing many different dance forms including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop.
Deathtrap
May 14-16, 21-23, 2010
This ingenious dark comedy blends gasp-inducing thrills with giggles. An aging, down-and-out playwright gets a murder mystery script from his student and concocts a deadly plot of his own with twists and turns that hold audiences spellbound until the last moment.
The Pittsburgh Youth Chamber Orchestra
May 2nd, 2010
An inspiring evening of classical and popular music presented by the musicians of the Pittsburgh Youth Chamber Orchestra, guest artists and featured performers under the direction of music director Pablo Ardiles.
Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute)
April 23rd and 25th, 2010
Perhaps the most beloved opera by perhaps the world’s most beloved composer! Duquesne University’s Opera Workshop performed Mozart’s Die Zauberflote to near capacity audiences. This was Duquesne’s fourth Mozart opera directed by Guenko Guechev; Maestro Sidney Harth once again returned to the podium to conduct Duquesne’s Symphony Orchestra. The enchanting plot of the operafeatures Tamino, a lost prince, Papageno, a comical bird catcher, the beautiful princess Pamina, the scheming Queen of the Night, the mysterious Sarastro, thrilling high and low Fs (sung by different characters) and a magic flute. The whimsical plot is steeped in Masonic elements.
Carnegie Performing Arts Center Presents:
Thumbelina
April 16-18, 2010
The famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen is the story of a tiny girl no bigger than the tip of your thumb. Her many adventures include being kidnapped by a toad, becoming friends with a field mouse, and finally meeting a fairy prince just her size.
Carnegie Performing Arts Center presents;
Mary Poppins: The Charming Ballet.
March 19th-21st, 2010
The beloved classic children’s story by P.L. Travers introduces London’s famous nanny, who takes her charges, the Banks children, on a dancing tour of London’s chimney sweeps, shopkeepers, and entertains them with magical adventures.
Stage 62 presents;
Sleeping Beauty
February 26th-28th, March 5th-7th 2010
Adapted from the Brothers Grimm classic fairy tale.
Stage 62 presents
An Evening with Mark Twain
February 13th, 2010
Pittsburgh’s celebrated Mark Twain scholar, Dr. Alan Solter, presents his one man show of lectures and stories straight from Samuel Clemens, the master behind himself. This special event program presented by Stage 62 celebrated the re-opening of the Espy Post.
The Kyiv Ukraninian Dance Ensemble Presents:
The Bayan Player
February 6th, 2010
Special guests the Carpathian Music Ensemble and the Girls in the Kitchen Trio.
Chatham Baroque presents:
Alchemy for Three
January 31st, 2010
This program showcased the artistry of Chatham Baroque players as soloists, accompanists, and equal partners in works by Bach, Corelli, Kapsperger, Biber and Schmelzer. Chatham Baroque, described as, “a splendid period-instruments ensemble based in Pittsburgh,” by the Chicago Tribune, as lauded as “…musically impeccable…” by the Washington Post, recently recorded the works of Giovanni Girolamo Kapsperger in the Music Hall.
Duquesne University presents:
Songs for the Season: Opera Scenes
Students from Duquesne University’s acclaimed Opera Workshop return for a holiday smorgasbord of short scenes from the varied repertoire of opera’s masters.
Mansfield 5
November 28th, 2009
This beloved oldies band set the Music Hall a-rockin’ while showcasing the Hall’s comfortable new seats.
Stage 62 presents
Titanic: The Musical;
November 6-8th, 13-15th, and 20-21st, 2009
The musical that swept the 1997 Tony Awards with its moving story and powerful score faithfully tells the tale through the eyes of crew and passengers alike. Barrett, the stoker whose fiancée awaits his return; immigrants who yearn for a btter life in America; Isidor Straus and his wife Ida who refuses to leave his side; and Titanic’s architect Thomas Andrews, who despairs his ship’s flaws as she begins her inevitable decent.
A Stage 62 presents
Senior Moments
October 16th-18th 2009
What happens when you’re dating at 65 instead of 16? A comic romp celebrating romance in the senior circuit.
All Judy, All Heart 
This annual benefit to support the campaign to restore the Library & Music Hall took place October 10,2009. Contralto Daphne Alderson (who captivated audiences with last year’s salute to Oscar Hammerstein), returned with a tribute to one of America’s most beloved singers: Judy Garland. Daphne proved that there’s so much more to Ms. Garland than Over the Rainbow — especially with her show-stopping Edith Piaf number Milord! In addition to an extraordinary evening of song (Daphne again collaborated with pianist/arranger Dougas Levine, guitarist John Marcinizyn, and first timers Jeff Mangone [on bass], and Al Wrublesky [on drums]), the Music Hall’s long-anticipated comfortable new seats made their debut at the concert. Both Ms. Alderson and the seating earned enthusiastic approval from a very happy audience.
Little Shop of Horrors
July 16-19, 23-26, 2009
One of the longest-running Off-Broadway shows of all time, this affectionate spoof of 1950s sci-fi movies has become a household name, thanks to a score by the songwriting team of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. A down-and-out skid row floral assistant becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a mysterious craving for fresh blood. Soon “Audrey II” grows into an ill-tempered, R&B singing carnivore who offers him fame and fortune in exchange for feeding it’s growing appetite.
Noises Off
May 8-10, 15-17, 2009
Proclaimed the funniest farce ever written, enjoy this glorious opportunity to watch 1 broken window, 7 slamming doors, 17 false entrances, and 30 trips up and down stairs, while listening to 73 flubbed lines, 46 miscues, 22 double entendres, 6 regular entendres, and 1 dramatic highlight and a million laughs all while trying to find a missing plate of sardines.
Duquesne University presents:
La Finta Giardiniera
April 24th and 26th, 2009
Duquesne University’s Opera Workshop once again captivated audiences with a performance of a early and rare Mozart opera on April 24th and 26th of 2009. This was the Opera Workshop’s third fully staged Mozart opera performed in the Music Hall. Perhaps the most under-appreciated of Mozart’s operas, La Finta Giardiniera is his second comic opera with a libretto that is a curious blend of buffa and seria. Despite its critical place in Mozart’s musical development, this beautiful work remains largely unknown today. This new production by Duquesne’s Opera Studio under the direction of Guenko Guechev featured guest conductor Nicoletta Conti, and was performed in the original Italian version with English subtitles. See photos .
Carnegie Performing Arts Center presents
Peter Pan
April 17-19, 2009
The classic children’s play about the mischievous boy who flies and refuses to grow up. On the famous island of Neverland, Peter must battle pirates in order to save Wendy and the Lost Boys.
Carnegie Performing Arts Center presents
Swan Lake
March 27-29, 2009
The charming ballet set to the score of a symphonic composer, it tells the story of Prince Siegfried and his enchanted princess, Odette. Odette, held under the spell of evil von Rothbart must compel Prince Siegfried to save her.
The Kyiv Ukraninian Dance Ensemble
February 21, 2009
Enjoy the exciting and energetic world of Ukranian Folk Dancing. Over 40 dancers entertained those in attendance with beautiful authentic costumes, fast footwork, and engaging story telling. Also enjoy special guest 3 Rivers Mandolin Consort who highlighted the music of Ukraine and Eastern Europe.
Change of Season
On February 19, 2009 the Carnegie, Carnegie hosted a poetry reading and art exhibit featuring the work of Bernadette Kazmarski. This local artist and poet finds the beauty and rhythms of Carnegie’s local landscapes, the Chartiers Creek, and surrounding environs a source of ongoing inspiration.
“Change of Season” was Bernadette’s third poetry reading at the Carnegie Carnegie.
To read Bernadette’s poems and see her artwork visit “Change of Season”
Mr. Lincoln Comes to Washington
Edwin Coles Bearss (pronounces “bars”) drew an enthusiastic audience of more than 200 people to his February 9, 2009 lecture marking the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Described as “one of the most distinguished historians (and spellbinding storytellers) of the Civil War,” Bearrs began his career with the National Park Service in 1955 at the National Battlefield Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He ended his official career (40 years later) having served 13 year as Chief Historian for the National Park Service.
Mr. Bearrs’ talk signals the caliber of programming the ACFL&MH is committed to providing to complement its Captain Thomas Espy Post No. 153 of the Grand Army of the Republic and to further understanding of the American Civil War.
Stage 62 presents
Alice in Wonderland
February 6-8, 13-15, 2009
Lewis Carroll’s unflappable young heroine takes a tumble down an enchanted rabbit hole to an off-kilter world of mock turtles, dancing flora, punctual rabbits, and mad tea parties, where playing-cards hold court and nothing is as it seems. Whimsy and wordplay are the order of the day in this imaginative adaptation.
Joe Negri Returned to CarnegieCarnegie Hall to perform his Mass of Hope
December 20, 2008 was the holiday concert of the season! The ACFL&MH presented Joe Negri’s Mass of Hope. Members of the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh and Stage 62 joined Negri and his quartet in this beautiful ensemble piece.
Negri also performed at the Music Hall in April 2008, drawing a deeply appreciative audience. He gave ACFL&MH Executive Director Maggie Forbes a cd of his jazz mass after the concert.
“I took it home, listened to it four times in a row, and knew I wanted to do it here,” said Forbes. “Fortunately, Joe agreed that the Music Hall is an ideal setting for his mass.”
The eclectic work requires top notch musicianship. Thomas Douglas, director of the Bach Choir served as Musical Director for the program and doubled as the male cantor. Mezzo soprano Becki Toth (well known to Carnegie Carnegie audiences for her many standout roles with Stage 62) was the female cantor.
“I am so glad that Thomas was open to members of Stage 62 – ‘oh those glorious Stage 62 voices’ – joining the Bach Choir for this concert,” said Forbes.
Negri’s mass was originally commissioned by the Diocese of Pittsburgh in the early 80’s. “They wanted something original and more sophisticated than a folk mass for a teachers’ convocation,” remembers Joe. He describes the piece as nascent, not fully developed, but too good to abandon. It kicked around in his head for a few years. “The commission didn’t come to fruition until 1996.” The performance was made possible through a generous grant from The Pittsburgh Foundation.
Stage 62 presents
Oliver!
November 7-9, 14-16, 21-22, 2008
One of the most beloved British musicals. Oliver! vividly brings to life Dickens’ timeless characters with its ever-popular story of a boy who asked for more. The sensational score is full of Lionel Bart’s irresistible songs.
Songs that Oscar Taught Me
The beloved words of American lyricist Oscar Hammerstein took center stage at the Music Hall at 8:00 p.m. on Friday October 10, 2008; when Daphne Alderson sang “Songs that Oscar Taught Me.” Ms. Alderson performed for the annual benefit to restore the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall.
Classically trained in opera at Duquesne University, Europe, and New York, Daphne responded to the urging of legendary voice teacher Dodi Protero “that (her) warm contralto was the perfect instrument for cabaret. She has been happily straddling these repertoires since 2001. Daphne’s performances this year included Handel’s Messiah, Mendelssohn’s Elijah, and Pergolesi’s/Vivaldi’s Stabat Mater. She enthralled audiences with her Songs of the Little Sparrow; singing the songs of perhaps the most iconic cabaret singer of all time, Edith Piaf.
Daphne affirms the revered place that Oscar Hammerstein occupies in the annals of musical theater. “Oscar Hammerstein was an idealist who loved life and believed in people with all of their foibles and strengths. When I read or sing his lyrics, I feel enveloped in that love, that hope for humanity and the joy of living, loving and gratitude. He also was a fierce fighter for the common good and abhorred injustice, racism and cruelty, a gentle soul who was also given to fits of fury if the situation demanded. I gotta love a man like that, that’s a guy I want to celebrate, have over for dinner and share this great friendship with friends.”
B.H. Singer Studio presents
An Evening of Opera
October 4, 2008
Daring Divas, Divo, and Divettes that stirred the audiences souls.
An Afternoon with Patricia Prattis Jennings 
Pianist Patricia Prattis Jennings performed at Carnegie, Carnegie Hall on Sunday June 1, 2008. Ms. Jennings is well known and deeply admired for her more than four decades as Principal Keyboardist with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. She was one of only four native Pittsburgh musicians with the PSO when she retired in 2006. Ms. Jennings began her career with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in 1966, distinguishing herself at four keyboards — the piano, harpsichord, organ and celesta; she was a frequent soloist with the orchestra including performances at the Edinburgh and Hong Kong festivals.
An Afternoon with Patricia Prattis Jennings was the final program in the capital campaign’s “Meet the Challenge” performance series. Proceeds from this concert not only benefited the campaign to restore the Library & Music Hall but also counted towards a $500,000 conditional challenge grant.
Ms. Jennings welcomed the opportunity to perform for her own and her audience’s pleasure. “Although I’ve retired from the orchestra, I certainly haven’t retired from music; I’m still learning and memorizing pieces that I haven’t had time for until now.”
Ms. Jennings is not only an outstanding musician but a mentor committed to helping up and coming musicians. She invited violist Shundeena Beard (a junior at Pittsburgh’s Creative and Performing Arts High School) to play two short pieces with her at the June 1st concert. Shundeena is a former Pittsburgh Concert Society winner; Shundeena performed on from the top at Carnegie Hall in New York (seen on WQED). “Shundeena has enormous potential,” says Jennings.
Ms. Jennings is eclectic in her musical taste and has developed wonderful friendships with many other regional musicians during her tenure with the Pittsburgh Symphony orchestra. Joining her in popular duets was Romanian pianist Marina DiPretoro Lupinacci, who has played alongside Ms. Jennings, and toured with the Pittsburgh Symphony.
As a special treat, guitarist Marty Ashby, some of his friends from the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, and young bassist Naomi Sarchet, joined Ms. Jennings for a grand finale. Ashby (Executive Producer for Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild Jazz) is a long time fan and friend of Ms. Jennings and the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall.
Photo provided by Ms. Jennings.
American Premiere: DANSAQ – String quartet and percussive dance
“…Dansaq is an unexpected collaboration between music and dance visiting numerous styles and languages, with influences by the brilliant concept of music and movement of Tapage; with an exceptional fire and interpretation of the Cuarteto Latinoamericano. – Juan Arturo Brennan
The Cuarteto Latinoamericano (the pre-eminent interpreters of Latin American classical music) perform in concert with Tapage.The choreographic/ dance duo described as “exotic… poetic… sophisticated… fascinating… sensual ….hypnotic.”
These two international ensembles came together for the American premiere of DANSAQ at the historic landmark, Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall; thursday February 28, 2008.
Post Gazette review of DANSAQ
Tribune-Review comment on DANSAQ
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