PIFA 2018

DETAILS FOR 2018 PIFA

Festival To Take Place June 1-10, 2018

The Kimmel Center Recognized as the only U.S.- Based

Member of European Artist Network In Situ

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts announced that the Biannual Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA) will take place June 1-10, 2018. Anne Ewers, Kimmel Center’s President & CEO also announced the Kimmel’s exclusive membership in In Situ – a network of European presenters specializing in art in public spaces. The Kimmel Center is the only U.S. member, and its affiliation allows the Kimmel Center to bring unique European performances to Philadelphia.  The centerpiece of PIFA 2018 will be the return of Transe Express, The French performance troupe that PIFA lovers will remember from their amazing spectacle during the 2011 Festival when more than 200,000 visitors packed the Avenue of the Arts to witness the ‘jaw-dropping sensation’ The group will bring the World Premiere of Crystal Palace- a 30-foot human chandelier with more than 50 live performers and dancers. Crystal Palace will be a full, 90 minute performance that artistically recreates the history of dance – from The Waltz and Tango to the Charleston, the Swing and Disco – through air acrobats and integrated dance groups. There is still time to view The People’s Tower In Situ in Dilworth Park. This 88-foot community built cardboard tower will be on display until Sunday at 7:00 p.m. when the community is invited to come tear it down.

July's Upcoming Events At The Kimmel

The Buddy Holly Story will come to the Kimmel Center’s Perelman Theater for previews on June 24, 2017 after it has completed its run at the Bucks County Playhouse. Directed by Tony nominee Hunter Foster with choreography by Lorin Latarro, Buddy:The Buddy Holly Story will have its official opening on June 28, 2017 and run through July 9. Virtually the entire cast from the 2016 record-breaking run at the Bucks County Playhouse is scheduled to return for this production. Leading the talent is John Dewey, reprising his role as Buddy Holly. Also returning to the production are Zach Cossman as Jerry Allison; Andrew Frace as Hipockets Duncan; James David Larson as Joe B. Mauldin; Kent M. Lewis as Norman Petty; Brandi Chavonne Massey as Apollo Performer; Elizabeth Nestlerode as Vi Petty; Karack Osborn as “The Big Bopper” Gilbert Sanchez as Ritchie Valens; and Maximilian Sangerman as Tommy Allsupp. They will be joined by newcomer Natalie Ortega who will appear as Buddy’s wife, Maria Elena. The Buddy Holly Story features more than 20 of Holly’s greatest hits.  Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased by calling 215-893-1999, visiting online at kimmelcenter.org or at the Kimmel Center Box Office.  Group sales for 10 or more can be purchased by calling 215-790-5883.

After a successful 2016 sold-out tour, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, in association with Mills Entertainment, welcomes back Bring It! Live featuring Miss D and her Dancing Dolls. The stars of Lifetime’s hit series will perform hotter-than-ever-.never-before-seen routines with audience participation. Bring It! Live will be in the Merriam for two shows Sunday July 16, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. V IP packages include an add-on photo opportunity with Miss D and the Dolls or a deluxe option, which includes premium seating, a souvenir tour program, and a photo opportunity. Add-on VIP packages can be purchased if accompanied by a valid ticket to the live performance. Tickets are on sale now. More information is available at kimmelcenter.org. 

In honor of the 10 year anniversary of “Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!” Tim and Eric are hitting the road this summer for a special “10 Year Anniversary Awesome Tour!” Tim and Eric will have a number of new spoofs, riffs, songs and dances. The comedy duo of Tim Heidecker  and Eric Wareheim have developed a distinct and creative style with a bizarre sense of humor. They will perform on Thursday July 20, 2017 at the Merriam Theater. Tickets may be purchased at the Kimmel Center Box Office, at kimmelcenter.org, at AXS.com or by calling 215-893-1999.

Wicked, Broadway’s biggest blockbuster will return to Philadelphia’s Academy of Music on July 25 through August 27, 2017. Tickets for the return engagement are on sale now at www.kimmelcenter.org., at the Kimmel Center Box Office or by calling 215-893-1999. Wicked looks at what happened in Oz from a different angle. It’s the story of a young woman born with green skin who is smart, talented and misunderstood. Winner of over 100 international awards, including a Grammy Award and Three Tony Awards, Wicked  has been performed in over 100 cities in 14 countries around the world.

Saturday NIght Fever

Lauren Dalal &
Fran Prisco

A new iteration of Saturday Night Fever can be seen on the main stage of the Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut Street, through July 16, 2017. Put on your dancing shoes for this high energy, non-stop disco-action production. Set in Brooklyn, New York, Saturday Night Fever peers into the lives of young adults who find themselves with few things to anchor their lives outside a sense of community and a love of dancing. Fran Prisco, portraying Tony Manero, longing to be a disco king, is a dancer "par excellence". His moves on the dance floor are phenomenal. The large ensemble cast executes their dancing with precision time-and-time again. The male members can not only dance, they sing in beautiful harmonies as well. Several female ensemble members have beautiful solos, most notably Nicole Colón as Annette, Crystal Joy as Candy, and Laurel Dalal as Maria. This extremely talented cast is an excellent vehicle for the Bee Gees’ songs which comprise the mainstay of Saturday Night Fever.  The sixteen songs have almost a dozen quickly changed and very artfully done scene changes. Everything about this production works. For more information or tickets, call 215-574-3550 or 800-982-2787.  Tickets are also available 24/7 by visiting www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster.

Witness For The Prosecution

Keith Baker &
Eleanor Handley

Bristol Riverside Theatre, located at 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pa, is presenting Agatha Christie’s crime drama Witness For the Prosecution through May 28. This classic work features an ensemble of professional actors alongside Bucks County community members, several of whom have appeared on stage at BRT previously. Kudos to Jason Simms for a mesmerizing scenic design. The chambers of Sir Wilfrid Robarts, Q.C in London are magnificent, befitting a knighted barrister. Even more impressive is the set’s turn-around to become a paneled courtroom. Veteran actor Keith Baker is excellent in his role as Sir Wilfred Roberts, Q.C. Many witnesses appear on the stand. The most outstanding by far is Sharon Alexander, portraying Janet Mackenzie, the housekeeper. To enhance the illusion of a real trial, a sound track is added in the background with voices murmuring after each witness testifies. Eleanor Handley plays a very convincing role as Romaine Vole, the defendant’s wife. Matt Leisy plays Leonard Vole, the prosecuted husband. Watch out for the twists at the end.  There is more than one surprise ending!  This is Agatha Christie at her best and a delightful performance to watch. For more information or tickets, call 215-785-0100 or visit online at brtstage.org. 

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM EXTENDED

Arden Theatre Company Announces

One-Week Extension for

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

Show now runs through April 15, 2017

The Arden Theatre Company will extend the run of William Shakespeare’s A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM through April 15, 2017.  The show was originally scheduled to close on Sunday, April 9^th. Three 10:00 a.m. student performances and four public performances have been added.  A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM is  Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy, with an enchanted forest and fairies, humans and amateur actors putting on a play. Additional performances  include Tuesday, April 11 – 10 a.m, Wednesday, April 12 – 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Thursday April 13-10 a.m., Friday April 14 – 8 p.m., Saturday April 15 – 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. For tickets, call 215-922-1122, visit www.ardentheatre.org, or walk up at the box office at 40 N. 2^nd Street in Old City, Philadelphia.

Jesus Christ Superstar

A fantastic rock opera like no other, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is being performed at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, through April 16, 2017, Told from Judas’s perspective, this 1971 Broadway hit, which has been updated with selfie sticks and remarkable projections, is truly a delight. The amazing stairway, on which cast members, sing, dance and climb up and down, is periodically transformed into clouds, ocean waves, a small fire, and frequently series of words to describe the action or locale The multi-member ensemble is incredible. Bursting with energy, their dance routines are  full of pizazz and their singing, often in the form of repetitive choral chanting has beautiful harmonies and is very effective in moving the story along. Adam Kemmerer (Judas) has a very strong voice as do Darren Ritchie (Pontius Pilate) Steve Steiner (Caiaphas), Robert Farruggia (Annas) and Danny Rutigliano (King Herod)), all of whom have many shows to their credit. Ciji Prosser (Mary Magdalene) has a voice that is so rich it seems to have been heaven sent. It is no exaggeration to say that that the superstar of the show is Patrick H. Dunn who portrays Jesus of Nazareth. His voice is astounding and  his acting is awe-inspiring. For more information or tickets, call 215-785-0100, visit online at brtstage.org or visit the box office at 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, Pa.

Coriolanus

Tina Packer &Mary Lee Bednarek

The Lantern Theater Company, located at 10^th and Ludlow Streets, next to St. Stephens Church, is presenting William Shakespeare’s Coriolanus through April 16^th, 2017. One of Shakespeare’s lesser-known works, this production of Coriolanus is so well done that it should be required viewing for all theater-goers, Shakespeare fans and non-devotées alike. Scenic designer Meghan Jones and lighting designer Drew Billiau have designed an intricate set that surrounds the audience.  Actors, always on the move, are backlit as they move from one arena to the next.  Robert Lyons, an accomplished Shakespearean actor, is outstanding as Coriolanus, the superb warrior and patrician who has little empathy for the common man that elects him to counsel. Tina Packer is brilliant as his mother Volumnia. The depth of anguish she portrays seems to emanate from her toes and ebb throughout her body. In addition to the war scenes, there are several hand-to-hand battles. Fight director J. Alex Cordaro has choreographed the most outstanding combat sequences ever to hit the stage. Shakespeare was thinking of class unrest in England when he wrote this piece about class distinctions in the newly formed Republic near Ancient Rome. Keeping in mind the similarity of the polarization of the poor and rich in our society today, this production has war scenes taking place with contemporary weapons. The Lantern continues to uphold its tradition of producing incomparable Shakespearean productions. For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0495, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org, or visit the box office at 10^th and Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia. Pa.

The Importance of Being Earnest

Daniel Fredrick,Jake Blouch,
Alanna J. Smith & Lauren Sowa

Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest is appearing on Walnut Street’s mainstage through April 30. Calling the settings of the first-act Victorian London flat and second-act Manor House garden magnificent may sound like a hyperbole, but when the curtain arose at the beginning of each act, the audience applauded wildly in appreciation. The audience is fully invested throughout the production. Oscar Wilde’s best known piece, this is a farce of epic proportions and the humor is not lost on the audience. Philadelphia favorites Mary Martello, Jake Blouch, and Ellie Mooney join the rest of the very talented ensemble cast to tell Oscar Wilde’s very funny tale of identity crisis and the powers of true love, albeit with a twist thrown in for good measure. Alanna J. Smith is excellent as the simpering Cecily Cardew, "Uncle Jack's" ward. Daniel Fredrick is every-so-silly as he pretends to be Earnest, "Uncle Jack's" brother while trying to woo Cecily. The Importance of Being Earnest may be a 19th Century piece of outrageousness, but it “holds up” today. Audiences appreciate the latest iteration as much as audiences did when the production was introduced in London in 1895. Don’t be left out.  For tickets or more information, call 215-574-3550, 800-892-2787, visit online at www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster. 

Lashed but Not Leashed

Martha Graham Cracker

The SEI Innovation Studio in the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is presenting its 5^th World Premiere through March 18, 2017. Dito Van Reigersberg created LASHED BUT NOT LEASHED for his alter-ego, Martha Graham Cracker with collaboration from songwriters and performers Vince Fererici, Eliza Hardy Jones and David Sweeny. Once everyone  is comfortably seated in the intimate setting of the Innovation Studio, Martha Graham Cracker glides up to the stage in a modest skirt and vest, claiming that she has had it with show business and is on her way to study in the library. Shortly after her announcement to this effect, she receives a “special delivery” from the library - flat shoes  to demark her new life.  Members of the audience groan as she takes off her spiked heels, pleading with her not to change her shoes, but after the shoes change, so do her movements, both on stage and off. Once in flat shoes, this “tallest drag queen in the world” can really move. She even bounces off the stage to make moves on some of the men in the audience. She is joined on the stage by back-up singers Eliza Hardy Jones and David Sweeny, very talented in their own right, and a talented three piece band. Martha Graham Cracker is a consummate entertainer and the audience loves her. In a coquettish manner she admits that she has written all the songs herself. Many are filled with innuendo and the audience roars. The songs are entertaining and varied, from slow ballads to catchy, jovial tunes. Many audience members groove right along to the upbeat rhythms. The performance is more than a plethora of original music. It is filled with quotes (attributed to their source) and quips (attributed to herself…”I wrote that!”) and a myriad of laughter from the audience.The performances are BYOB (limited to a bottle of wine or six-pack per two people) so grab yours and contact www.kimmelcenter.org to see if there are any tickets available for the remaining performances.

TORUK- The First Flight

Tipani Clan of Pandora

TORUK- The First Flight, inspired by James Cameron’s movie AVATAR, is presented at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia through March 12, with an additional performance added on Friday, March 10 at 3:30 pm. With 20 scenes of spectacular imagery, this Cirque du Soleil presentation is unlike any of the 36 productions that have preceded it. Although most Cirque du Soleil creations have a theme, this phenomenal performance not only has a theme but an actual story-line as well.  The narrator tells the story throughout the piece and members of the tribe “speak” to each other in a language one can only interpret if not fully understand. In addition, the audience has an opportunity to participate by downloading an app and following directions during specific portions of the show. In order to save their “Tree of Souls” two young members of the Omatikaya clan must collect amulets from each of the five clans of Pandora as well as capture TORUK, the flying monster. Thus goes the storyline of TORUK- The First Flight. This production is so much more than the storyline. The athleticism of the troupe members is astounding. Each of the Na’vi acrobats do similar feats in their respective clans, but with unique apparatus, ranging from ropes, sticks, ribbons, a skeletal fulcrum and scarves on wires. Projections are unbelievably realistic as waterfalls appear to the flood the stage not once but twice and “wipe out” climbers and acrobats on the rocks. The audience gasps as three Na’vi paddle out in a canoe and travel in a circular path around the stage only to climb out and settle on some rocks.  Fire later seems to demolish everything in its path. At times, the audience is immersed in a star-lit sky as twinkling lights surround them 360 degrees. Colors are incredibly brilliant, almost iridescent, against a darkened set. This phenomenal production has one special effect after another; lava flows, an earthquake shakes and swarming wood sprites sprinkle the night sky. It is a feast for the eyes and a balm for the soul as the young Na’vi who fails his first rite of passage saves the entire world of Pandora. Please don’t waste another minute. For more information or tickets for this spectacular show, visit http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/toruk.

Sh_theads

Harry Watermeirer &
Charlotte Northeast

Akuka Theatre, performing plays in the Proscenium Theatre of the Drake, 315 S. Hicks Street, is presenting  the world premiere of  Sh_theads through March 12, 2017. The ensemble cast of Akeem Davis, Charlotte Northeast, Harry Watermeier, and David Pica bring a lot of passion to their roles. Akeem, portraying Brandon and Charlotte, portraying Izzy, have “grown up” in the bike shop. Biking is a way of life  for them and sales and repair aren’t just jobs; it’s their passion as evidenced by their performances. Harry Watermeier portrays Bandon, a college-student newbie. His performance is convincing as someone who initially seems out of place  but adapts to the bike shop environment as the seasons pass. David Pica rounds out the cast as Spider, a frequent habitué of the bike shop. Laugh lines are sprinkled throughout the play, but on the whole, the story is a bleak one; workers struggling to keep a business afloat against the odds of a more modern and updated shop across the street. Set Designer Apollo Mark Weaver, in partnership with Fairmount Bicycles, has done an excellent job of creating a down-and-out bike shop. For  reservations or information about Azuka’s “pay-what-you-decide” program, call 215-563-1100 or visit online at azukatheatre.org. 

Lost Girls

Amy Frear & Molly Ward

John Pollono’s Lost Girls is  being presented at Theatre Exile, 13^th & Reed Streets, through March 12, 2017. The  talented and multi-award nominated  6-member cast depicts harsh life in a small blue-collar New England town. Struggling  to overcome the tough problems that occur in every-day living, the characters seem destined to repeat the mistakes of the past. Catherine Slusar portrays Linda, the oldest of three generations living in a small home with a too-large mortgage. Amy Frear, portraying Penny, Lou’s second wife, is the calming influence in the group.  Although originally at loggerheads with ex-wife Maggie (Molly Ward), Frear’s excellent presentation of tranquility serves as a pivotal point to the piece. This production is on a revolving stage which, during lights out, turns to present a new locale. It is in this second locale that the audience gets a glimpse of the third generation: Susanne Collins, portraying Girl and Trevor William Fayle, portraying Boy. Scenes are changed back and forth flawlessly when the house lights go off.  During a blizzard, the family’s worst nightmare is not realized, and the whole tenor of  family relationships change, leaving family members with a little hope in their lives for the first time in years. For more information or tickets, call (215)218-4022 or visit www.theatreexile.org.  

SliCE Pizza Giveaway

SliCE –Free Pizza Giveaway

SliCE celebrates its 10^th Anniversary with a free pizza giveaway on Friday, February 24.  During lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. SliCE will give away free pizza  slices at all locations (Rittenhouse, Italian Market, Fishtown and Washington Township.) Each location will have a rotating selection of pies during the two hours. There is no purchase required and there will be a limit of one slice per person. On Saturday February 25 and Sunday February 26 every location will offer large pizzas  for only $10 for dine-in or take-out including every signature variety on the menu. For a full menu of signature pies, listed by locations, visit www.slicepa.com.   

Driving Miss Daisy

Lucy Martin & Marvin Bell

This heartwarming, if somewhat disturbing one act drama, Driving Miss Daisy, is appearing at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol Pa, through February 12. Set designer Charles Morgan and Projections designer Stivo Aronczy have created a brilliant background for this tale of the strong bond of friendship and interdependence which develops between Daisy Werthan, (Lucy Martin) and her chauffeur Hoke Colburn (Marvin Bell). After Daisy totals a brand-new car, her son Boolie (Michael Samuel Kaplan) decides that no insurance company will insure her; thus he hires Hoke to drive his mother wherever she wants to go.  The fiercely independent Daisy initially resists, but Hoke doesn’t go away and she finally relents. As the play progresses and the two learn about each other’s lives, the projections on the screen above and around them detail scenes from current events and headlines from the daily news. Troubles erupt for Jews and blacks alike and are almost mirror images. As excellent as the acting is (and the performances are incredible as the actors age and mature over a 25 year time span), the sound designer Amy Altadonna deserves special mention for the outstanding effects that are put into this piece. For more information or tickets for this wonderful production, call 215-785-0100, visit online at brtstage.org, or walk up to the box office at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street.

Upcoming Events in March at the Kimmel

The first-ever live tour of the hit Nickelodeon show Paw Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue”, coming to the Merriam theater on March 3-5, 2017, is presented by the Kimmel Center for the Preforming Arts in association with VStar Entertainment. Based on the hit animated TV series on Nickelodeon that airs weekdays at 12:p.m., Paw Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue" brings the pups to the stage for an action-packed, high energy, musical adventure. These favorite characters teach children to use teamwork to solve everyday problems. Children of all ages learn lessons about citizenship, social skills and problem solving as the characters use their unique skills.

World-renowned vocal trio IL Volo will have a one night only performance of Une Notte Magica- A Tribute to Three Tenors at Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. The three young Italian tenors, Piero Barone, Ignazio Boshetto and Gianluca Ginoble will provide a night of music that fuses classical and pop influences with traditional Italian, Spanish and English songs complemented by a full orchestra. The trio has won numerous awards and returns to America following their time at #1 on the Billboard Classical chart. 

Drumline Live's World Tour is bringing a brand new production to the Merriam Theater March 9-10, 2017.  Drumline Live exemplifies the soulful, high-stepping style of the Historically Black College and University HBCU marching band experience with rhythms, beats and high energy all set to classic music and top 40 hits. Drumline Live is an international tour with content based on HBCU marching band tradition, incorporating original composition and soul-infused interpretations of today’s top songs.

Shaping Sound, America’s hottest dance company will perform a new show entitled After the Curtain at the Kimmel Center’s Merriam Theater on Tuesday, March 7, 2017. Founded in 2012 by Emmy Award winning choreographer Travis Wall, the company is a collaboration of diverse artists who describe themselves as “visual musicians.” After the Curtain is the second show for this dance company. Travis Wall will be dancing in the show and will be joined in various cities by Kyle Robinson and Nick Lazzarini.

Philadelphia’s favorite Drag Queen, Martha Graham Cracker, is returning to the Kimmel Center’s SEI Innovation Studio in a brand new musical Lashed but Not Leashed. Martha Graham Cracker is Dito van Reigersberg’s alter ego and will perform March 16-18. The musical was written for and stars Martha Graham Cracker where she belts out a bevy of original and eccentric songs. Directed by Joanna Settle, the show is a collaboration between van Reigersberg and David Sweeny, Vince Federici and Eliza Hardy Jones. Dito van Reigersberg is an alumnus of the Kimmel Center’s Theater Residency Program which annually invites world-class performing artists to join their program to create new works.

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in partnership with Sun and Sky Entertainment, welcomes back 16-year old piano prodigy and philanthropist Ethan Bortnick to the Perelman Theater on Friday March 17 at 8:00 p.m. Recognized by Guinness World Record as “The World’s Youngest Solo Musician to Headline His Own Concert Tour.” Ethan raised more than $40 million for charity. Ethan’s performance will include a performance from cover artists, great classical artists, and original works.

Joey Alexander, the world’s youngest Grammy nominee makes his Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts debut at the Perelman Theater March 18-19, 2017. He will perform music from his recording debut album My Favorite Things and his upcoming album, Countdown. Fresh off his performances at the GRAMMY Awards and ABC’s CMA Country Christmas Special, Alexander will appear with his Trio for these performances, a group that has performed in major festivals and well-known venues across the United States and all over the world. His 2015 debut album My Favorite Things won two Grammy nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album and “Best Improvised Solo.”

Tony® and Emmy Award®-winning comedian, actor, producer, writer and director, Billy Crystal, has added two shows to his Spend the Night with Billy Crystal Tour. It will be in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center on March 20 and 21. A stand-up comic turned television star, Crystal hosted the Academy Awards nine times, starred in movies, such as “When Harry Met Sally”, and has written best-selling books.

The 2016-17 Broadway Philadelphia Season, presented in collaboration between the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and The Shubert Organization continues with the national tour of the Lincoln Center Theater Production of Rogers and Hammerstein’s The King & I, which will play at the Academy of Music March 22-April 2, 2017. The King and I won four 2015 Tony Awards® including Best Revival of a Musical. The creative team has many awards to their credit as well.

tenThing, the internationally acclaimed Norwegian brass ensemble, makes its Kimmel Center debut in a program that combines original works for brass with pieces that feature Verizon Hall’s Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ. The program, which takes place on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at 8:00 p.m., will feature the 10 member all-female group alongside organist Jeffrey Brillhart, to perform non-traditional and original works. Formed in 2007 by Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth, tenThing is rapidly establishing itself on the international music scene.

Black History Month at the Kimmel

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH

AT

THE KIMMEL CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts celebrates the heritage, accomplishments and culture of African-Americans in February by shining a spotlight on some of these creative accomplishments. Black History comes to life on the Kimmel Center Campus in February. The world renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater kicks things off with performances on February 3-4, featuring Hope Boykin’s r-Evolution, Dream, inspired by speeches and sermons of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as well as the three-part work Untitled America about the impact of the prison system on African American families. In addition, audiences will experience Ailey’s master work, Revelations, dance movements to traditional African American spirituals now seen in 70 countries. On February 8, 2017 there is a STUDENT EVENT which must be booked by an educator. In a matinee performance, Philadanco features a tribute to jazz icons Prince and Earth, Wind and Fire, with choreography by Tally Beatty. A  Q & A session will follow the program.  To register, please email maec@kimmelcenter.org or call 215-790-5896.  Brazil’s premiere folkloric dance company Balé Folcórico da Bahía is bringing Carnival to Philadelphia on February 17^th. This 38-member troupe of dancers, singers and musicians perform “Bahían” dances of African origin including samba, slave dances,and capoeira- a form of martial arts designed to look like dance that was once performed by enslaved Africans. There will also be two free community Carnival events. On Tuesday, February 7, 2017, 12:00 p.m. there will be free capoeira dance lessons in Hamilton Garden led by Philadelphia based dance company Project Capoeira, a Philadelphia non-profit.  On Friday, February 17, 2017, 6:00 p.m. the entire community is invited to “Carnival at the Kimmel Center,” a free dance party that will parade down Broad Street to The Merriam Theater in time for the 7:30 p.m. performance of Balé Folclórico da Bahía. 

John

Carla Belver, Kevin Meehan
& Nancy Boykin

The Arden Theatre Company, located at 40 N. 2^nd Street, is presenting The Philadelphia Premiere of John by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Annie Baker through February 26, 2017 on its Arcadia stage. This three act play, set in a B & B in Gettysburg, Pa., explores relationships between people, inanimate objects and silence. B & B proprietor Mertis Katherine Graven …You can call me Kitty… (Nancy Boykin) is the linchpin of the drama. Ever-so gently interacting with her guests without seeming to pry into their affairs; she offers hospitality, advice and a willing ear. Ms. Boykin demonstrates both perseverance and patience as she caters to her blind friend Genevieve (Carla Belver) and cares for an ailing husband who is never seen on-stage. Elias (Kevin Meehan) and Jenny (Jing Xu) are guests at the establishment. Elias has a strong bond with the Civil War and Jenny has a strong bond with a childhood doll, a replica of which is in the B & B. Can they maintain a strong relationship between themselves and not engage in a civil war of their own? This is one of many questions which must be answered while watching John. The four-member ensemble cast is excellent.  For more information or tickets, call 215-922-1122, visit www.ardentheatre.org, or walk-up at the box office at 40 N. 2^nd Street.

Mid-End of February Events at the Kimmel

MID TO END OF FEBRUARY

EVENTS AT THE KIMMEL

In celebration of her latest album The Big Picture and in anticipation of her 2017 album release, Jazz singer and songwriter Kat Edmonson will perform her own songs as well as favorites from the Great American Songbook at the Perelman Theater on February 12, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. An American vintage pop jazz vocalist, she incorporates early Rock N’ Roll, blues, folk and traditional jazz and swing styles. Kat was introduced to the spotlight during the second season of American Idol and has been enchanting audiences ever since.

Balé Folclórico de Bahía, Brazil’s premiere folkloric dance company, celebrates nearly 30 years of world-class repertory of folkloric Afro-Brazilian dances with a performance at the Kimmel Center’s Merriam Theater February 17, at 8:00 p.m. Formed in 1988 by Walson Botelho and Ninho Reis, the company works to preserve and share the vibrant dances and music of their region with the world. Bahía is the historical and cultural heart of Brazil and the company presents its most important values under a contemporary theatrical vision. Over the last 29 years, Balé Folclórico de Bahía has gained national and international success for their outstanding performances during festivals and tours. They have performed in 88 U.S cities.

Four-time Emmy® nominee Tony® Award-winning actor and activist Alan Cumming brings his critically-acclaimed cabaret show, Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs to the Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall Sunday February 19, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. Appearing with Cumming are Music Director Lance Horne and cellist Eleanor Norton. Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs originated when Cumming was asked to develop a concert for a two-week run at New York’s Café Carlyle. He followed with a tour throughout the United States, Canada and Australia.

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and The Shubert Organization announce the Broadway Philadelphia run of the hit musical The Bodyguard as part of the show’s first U.S. National tour. The Bodyguard will play the Kimmel Center’s Academy of Music from February 21-26, 2017 starring Grammy Award-nominated and film/TV actress Deborah Cox as Rachael Marron. Television star Judson Mills will play the role of bodyguard Frank Farmer. Based on Lawrence Kaden’s 1992 Oscar-nominated film, The Bodyguard was nominated for four Lawrence Olivier Awards. A romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features many well-known classics, including One Moment in Time and I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Other principal cast members are Alex Corrido, Charles Gray, Jonathon Hadley, Jorge Paniagua, Jasmin Richardson, and Douglas Baldeo and Kevelin B. Jones III alternating in the role of Rachel’s son. For more information, visit thebodyguardmusical.com.   

Tickets for all of the above shows are available now and can be purchased by calling 215-893-1999, visiting online at www.kimmelcenter  or at the Kimmel Center Box Office. Tickets for groups of 10 or more may be purchased by calling 215-790-5883.

The 2016-17 Broadway Philadelphia season presented in collaboration with Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and the Shubert Organization continues with the National Theatre production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. The critically-acclaimed Tony Award-winning new play by Simon Stephens, adopted by Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel and directed by Tony winner Marianne Elliot, will make its Philadelphia Premiere at the Kimmel Center’s Academy of Music for a one-week engagement February 28-March 5, 2017 as part of a North American tour. The Kimmel Center and The Free Library of Philadelphia will host a free book discussion on Thursday, February 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., enhanced by clips from the Broadway show and a chat back with Frances Egler, Director of Programming and Presentations at the Kimmel Center. Curious Incident on Broadway is the recipient of five Tony Awards, including Best Play, six Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Play, five Outer Circle Awards including Outstanding New Broadway Play and the Drama League Award for Outstanding Production of a Broadway or Off-Broadway Play. For more information, visit www.curiousonbroadway.com

Tickets for this show are available now and can be purchased by calling 215-893-3333,visiting www.kimmelcentercenter.org or the Kimmel Center Box Office. Groups of 10 or more may purchase tickets at 215-790-5833.

February Events at the Kimmel

Upcoming Events in Early February

At the Kimmel

The Second City, Chicago’s famous improv theater troupe, will appear at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts’ Perelman Theater for three performances of their show We’re All In This Room Together on Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4. The show features improv comedy, audience interaction and spontaneous sketches and songs from the legendary sketch comedy archives. The Second City began in 1959 and is now the world’s predominant comedy and improv club with shows every night in Chicago, Toronto and Hollywood.

The internationally acclaimed dance company Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts February 3 and 4 at the Merriam Theater including new works and long-standing favorites, launching a 19-city North American tour.  The performances, taking place at the start of Black History Month, will feature works that explore the African American experience and social justice. The 32 member dance company performs a variety of new and old-time favorite pieces, including Alvin Ailey’s American masterpiece Revolution.

The critically-acclaimed Off-Broadway show Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man comes to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts’ Perelman Theater for four hilarious performances on February 9 at 8:00 p.m., February 10 at 8:00 p.m. and February 11 at 4:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Based on the best-selling book of the same name, this comedy provides tips to heterosexual women on how to please a man in bed. Sex Tips is a “romantic comedy that takes the audience on a hilarious wild ride where no topic is taboo and the insider tips come straight from the source: a gay man.”

Writer and entertainer Ryan Raftery brings his one-man show, Ryan Raftery is the Most Powerful Woman in Fashion-The Anna Wintour Musical, February 9-11, 2017 to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts’ SEI Innovation Studio. This one-man musical tells the story of Vogue editor and media powerhouse Anna Wintour through popular music. Ryan Raftery has written seven shows that have played all over New York City and across the country. He has been featured in Entertainment Weekly, New York magazine and People magazine.  He has also appeared on several TV shows. This is a designated BYO performance. Acceptable forms of BYO are a 6-pack of beer and/or a 750 ml bottle of wine only. There is a limit of one six pack or one bottle of wine per two patrons.  No corkscrews or rolling coolers are permitted

Extraordinary lighting effects combined with remarkable dance moves and high-energy music create an unforgettable performance experience by America’s Got Talent finalists iLuminate. The New York-based group performs in electrifying glow-in-the-dark suits on a darkened stage to create a one-of-a-kind visual experience.  The show will run for three performances, February 10-11, 2017 at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts’ Merriam Theater. Enhanced by patented iLuminate technology, the crew and dancers produce explosive perfomances with wireless lighting programs. After their  third place win on America's Got Talent, iLuminate has become a household name.

Tickets for all shows can be purchased now by calling 215-893-1999, visiting online at kimmelcenter.org or at the Kimmel Center Box Office. Group tickets for 10 or more can be purchased at 215-790-5883.

The Carols

Anthony Lawton & Mary Martello

1812 Productions is presenting the world premiere musical The Carols through December 2016 at Philadelphia Plays and Players Theater, 17^th and Delancey Sts. Written and directed by Jennifer Childs, with music by Monica Stephenson and lyrics by Jen, this production is  a recipe for wildly funny entertainment and it does not disappoint. The three Carol sisters, Lily (Rachel Camp), Rose (Caroline Dooner and Sylvia (Emily Kleimo) want to put on a Christmas pageant but all eligible young men are away at war. The three sing beautiful harmonies throughout the production, much of it acapella. When the only one to answer their request for auditions for the pageant is an entertainer from the Catskills, the girls want to have him in the show but Miss Betty is against it, thinking that his background is inappropriate for the role. Curmudgeon Miss Betty (Mary Martello) sits down at a table with Melvin Shaatz (Anthony Lawton),cup of coffee in her hand, and Mel looks up from his paper and says,” I see you have a  cup of coffee.” When Martello replies, “Oh, so you’re an observant Jew,” the audience roars. The incomparable Mary Martello sings and dances her way across the stage with aplomb once her secret past is   revealed. This is a fractured tale as only the inimitable Jennifer Childs could create. It is done with good taste, grace, humor (lots of humor) and exquisite originality. The Carols is sure to be the feel good hit of the season. For more information or tickets, call 215-592-9560 or visit online at www.1812productions.org