onstage 2014-15 fall/winter

KNIGHT THEATERLevine Center for the Arts

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTERBelk Theater • Booth Playhouse

Stage Door Theater

SPIRIT SQUAREMcGlohon Theater

Duke Energy Theater

onstageFall/Winter 2014-15

Newsies: The Phenomenon Onstage p. 10

The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible p. 14

Cinderella:The Classic Tale Reimagined p. 7

TABLE OF CONTENTSFall/Winter 2014-15

3 ..............................................................................Letter From the President4 ..................................................................................................... News Briefs5 .......................... Blumenthal's YouTube Channel Keeps Viewers Informed6 ..................................................... Belk Theater Renovations Are Complete7 .................................................Cinderella as You've Never Seen Her Before8 .............................................. Blumenthal Brings the Community Together9 ................................ Charlotte Talent Shines Again in The Blumey Awards10 .......................................Newsies: The Phenomenon Comes to the Stage11 .............................Local Student Experiences the Tony Awards in Person 12 ..................................................................................Charlotte Gets Jazzed14 ............................................. Witness the Impossible With The Illusionists16 ................................................................Great One-night-only Attractions17 .................................Participatory Arts Programs Taking Off in a Big Way18 ......................Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young Wow Audiences in Joseph20 ................................ Holiday Happenings at Blumenthal Performing Arts21 ...................................................................................Blumenthal Talk Back22 ..........................................Calendar of Upcoming Shows and Attractions24 ...........................Blumenthal, PNC Bank Take on New Broadway Season 25 ............................................... News on Membership, Corporate Partners

Facebook.com/NCBPAC Twitter.com/BlumenthalArts YouTube.com/NCBPAC BlumenthalArtsBlog.org

2 onstage | Fall/Winter 2014-15 Tickets: 704.372.1000 | BlumenthalArts.org

Cutting-edge Entertainment Keeps Sales Soaring

Charlotte theater fans love to see Broadway shows at Blumenthal Performing Arts; the proof is in the ticket sales. This year, Season Ticket sales are again hitting record-breaking numbers. With shows like Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular

new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, Disney’s crowd-pleasing musical Newsies, and the smash hit Motown The Musical in the lineup, it’s easy to see what's stirring up all the excitement.

“Fan support has made us one of the top 10 touring markets for Broadway shows in the country and part of the reason we’re able to present the latest and greatest shows first, like The Illusionists – heading to Charlotte straight from its Broadway run at the Marquis Theater,” said Blumenthal President and CEO Tom Gabbard.

Sales for the 2014-2015 PNC Broadway Lights season are up over last year’s record-breaking numbers with nearly 10,000 Season Tickets sold. Such success drives the support of other innovative, new projects like PostSecret The Show, which made its world premiere in Charlotte’s Booth Playhouse last spring.

“Our Broadway season helps us present the most diverse programming possible and create new shows, allowing the city to experience cutting-edge entertainment,” explained Gabbard.

Concerts and attractions like chef Alton Brown and and musician John Legend are also drawing big audiences and selling out. New partnerships are also top of mind at Blumenthal, such as the recent partnership with Lonnie Davis of Jazz Arts Initiative on The Jazz Room series, which has been selling out at Stage Door Theater.

“We strive to do everything we can at Blumenthal to create an energy around the arts as a whole," said Gabbard. "This not only helps build a vibrant community, it also brings people to uptown Charlotte and fuels the Charlotte economy.” n

Kevin James, The Inventor, and dancers, from The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible.

BOARD ofTRUSTEESRiaz H. Bhamani

Amy Rice Blumenthal

Laura Bondesen

Kristin Hills Bradberry

James Bullock

Joni Y. Davis

James F. Downs

J. Porter Durham Jr.

Charlie Elberson

Dorlisa K. Flur, past chair

David M. Goodman

Molly B. Griffin

Timothy L. Gunter, secretary

Greg Haislip

Jeffrey S. Hay

Rebecca S. Henderson

Lloyd E. Johnson

Dr. Edith Valladares McElroy

Edwin B. Peacock III

Rick D. Puckett, chair

George A. Raftelis

Ed Rose

Anne Stolz

Bill Sullivan, treasurer

Catherine Warfield

V. Curtis Watkins

Amy Wooden

onstageOnstage magazine is produced by the Blumenthal Performing Arts marketing staff.

Wendy Oglesby, vice president of marketing

Mark Wallace, creative services manager n Onstage editor and graphic designer

Elise Esasky, communications manager n Onstage writer and content coordinator

Contributing writer:Crystal Dempsey

Editing support:Lorrie HenryJohn Luebke Jenna MacFarlane

Cover photos: The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible full cast; Paige Faure, Andy Jones and the Cinderella Broadway company, photo by Carol Rosegg; Broadway company of Newsies, ©Disney, photo by Deen van Meer.

PRESIDENT’SwordsTOM GABBARD

Your next visit to the Belk Theater just got better. With the replacement of all the seats and doubling of the women’s restroom on the orchestra level, attending a show will be

an even better experience than before. Other improvements include new

concession stands, fresh paint and wallpaper, energy efficient light fixtures and new wireless connections. The city of Charlotte owns the Belk Theater and is responsible for major capital maintenance. Blumenthal

Performing Arts is responsible for the cost of operations and programs, including daily maintenance. We are very grateful for the city’s commitment to keeping the theater as a flagship for arts and entertainment in this region.

Three years ago when we began our High School Musical Theater Awards, we had high expectations for using the Blumey Awards to celebrate and nurture talented kids in our region. Those goals were exceeded when 20 schools participated in year one, then

32 in year two, and 39 in year three. Among our goals was to create a regional feeder program

to the National High School Musical Theater Awards in New York. It’s incredible that in two of those three years, we’ve had finalists in the National show competing for the Best Actor or Best Actress awards. One of those finalists – Eva Noblezada from Northwest School of the Arts – at 18 years old, is now starring in the London revival of Miss Saigon.

All of this has happened in three short years. It’s thrilling to think what new success stories are ahead for our Blumey Awards and the talented students who participate as this program continues to grow.

The jazz scene in Charlotte continues to improve, thanks in part to the vision and hard work of Lonnie Davis, the executive director of Jazz Arts Initiative. We’re thrilled to host the monthly Jazz Room concerts that have been selling out at Stage Door Theater.

We believe in Lonnie and are working on other programs, such as the new Find Your Jazz Day and the launch of the Loonis McGlohon Young Jazz Artist Competition.

All these efforts are looking ahead to the goal of launching a multiday Classic Jazz Festival in Charlotte. Working with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center, we envision an

annual celebration of classic jazz that includes both paid and free events, national and regional artists, as well as education programs that nurture the skills of jazz students.

PNC Bank begins its partnership with us in the upcoming run of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Bringing the best of Broadway to Charlotte is an expensive undertaking. PNC Bank knows how much this community loves the Broadway Lights shows and how people look forward to these shows in a big way. Memories that last a lifetime occur at each performance. Local restaurants and other businesses rely on the activity these shows generate. We’re grateful for PNC Bank’s commitment to serving and strengthening our community.

There is so much happening at Blumenthal that even I have trouble keeping up. Many important programs don’t have big advertising budgets to tell their story, so they may slip by you. Last year we made a decision to improve our online video assets and hired Elise Esasky, an experienced journalist formerly at News-14 Carolina, to help us with that.

Now you can go online to view regular stories about our programs. Many of these programs are hidden gems that you may not be aware of but are having an important impact on our community, and particularly our kids. Please subscribe to our channel to stay up to date with stories that I know you’ll enjoy.

We’re very grateful for this community’s support of the arts and for the opportunity we have to serve it.

Looking forward to seeing you at the theater!

Dear Friends:

Tickets: 704.372.1000 | BlumenthalArts.org onstage | Fall/Winter 2014-15 3

Tom [email protected]

The Blumey Awards

Belk TheaterRefreshened

The Jazz Scene

PNC Partnership

YouTube Channel

Affinity Groups Nurture Friendships, Theater Fans

NEWSbriefs


The Broadway League has recognized Blumenthal Vice President of Marketing Wendy Oglesby for Outstanding Achievement in Road Marketing, making it the second time

a member of Blumenthal Performing Arts’ senior management has been honored by the League.

The annual Broadway League Awards, honoring excellence and achievement for Touring Broadway, are announced during the Broadway League’s Spring Road Conference each May. In 2012, Blumenthal President and CEO Tom Gabbard received the Outstanding Achievement in Presenter Management award.

Prior to joining Blumenthal in 2003 as vice president of marketing, Oglesby worked in a variety of entertainment marketing roles, including general manager for sales and marketing for the Oregon Arena Project, vice president of marketing at Paramount’s Carowinds and marketing director for Charlotte Coliseum. Her interest in arts marketing began at the University of

South Carolina, where early in her career, she managed publicity for USC’s School of Music and Theater Department and directed the Carolina Concerts Series. She also served as director of marketing for Carolina Coliseum and Koger Center for the Arts at USC.

Oglesby is an award-winning writer. She has won awards from Charlotte Writers Club, including first place in the Elizabeth Simpson Smith Short Story Contest. One of her nonfiction works won first place in this year’s South Carolina Writers Workshops

Carrie McCray Memorial Literary Awards and will be published, along with an excerpt from her novel in progress, in this year’s edition of The Petigru Review.

First presented in 1992, the Broadway League Awards recognize the contributions of those who have displayed exemplary service to the Broadway industry and are considered innovators of their craft. Blumenthal Performing Arts is proud to be among those recognized by the League. n

Blumenthal Celebrates 2nd Broadway League Award

Blumenthal Performing Arts’ Affinity Groups – Charlotte Live!, Club Blume, Teacher’s Lounge and Out on the Town – are in full swing for the 2014-15 season.

Affinity Groups are informal social clubs that get together around select shows throughout the year. Members enjoy free pre- or post-show parties plus discounts on show tickets. Additionally, some events provide educational activities that enable members to become ambassadors for the arts.

Holly Mason, a teacher in Gaston County, has been bringing her students to Charlotte Live! for the past several seasons.

“Charlotte Live has given my students – those who might not get the chance to see professional theater – an amazing learning experience as well as the chance to share my love for theater,” Mason said. “Many of them had never been to live theater before, so this opportunity is such a blessing!”

Jessica Burns has been part of Club Blume for three years. “It is such a fantastic program that gives people an opportunity to learn more about upcoming shows, network with fellow theater lovers, try new restaurants around town, purchase discounted tickets for the show and have a night out with friends!" she said. "The friends I have made because of Club Blume alone is reason enough to join.”

Affinity Groups include Club Blume for young adults; Charlotte Live! for students; Teacher’s Lounge for educators; and Out on the Town for the LGBT community. n

Affinity Groups Bring Theater Fans Together

Club Blume members pose during an “informance” event about Potted Potter, which sold out in McGlohon Theater last fall.

Charlotte Live! students sit down with choreographer Matthew Bourne and the cast of Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty for an exclusive talk back last November.

Want to Learn More?For information about Affinity Groups and upcoming events, visit

BlumenthalArts.org/affin ty

Above left, Wendy Oglesby, vice president of marketing, was recognized by The Broadway League for outstanding achievement in road marketing. Above right, Blumenthal President Tom Gabbard was recognized by The League in 2012 for outstanding achievement in presenter management.


By Crystal DempseySpecial Correspondent

On Blumenthal Performing Arts’ YouTube channel, you will find an exciting video playlist of the 2014-15 PNC Broadway Lights shows, including Rodgers +

Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Newsies, The Phantom of the Opera and more.

But in the last year, subscribers to our YouTube channel may have noticed an increase in engaging, informative videos about educational programs and special events that showcase local and regional talent. With coverage that includes the popular Open Mic program, a peek at the thrills of The Blumey Awards

ceremony, an interview with the local student who attended the Tony Awards and more, these clips provide the inside scoop.

“These videos are a great way to document and communicate the outreach and impact of our education programs,” said Blumenthal Performing Arts President and CEO Tom Gabbard. “While a photo may be worth a thousand words, a great video is often worth 100,000.”

The Blumenthal-produced videos have greatly improved, thanks to the hard work of Communications Manager Elise Esasky. A former TV reporter who joined the Blumenthal staff in 2013, Esasky approaches the videos with a storyteller’s eye and ear.

Producing quality videos is important because more than a billion people visit YouTube each month. Among the social networking channels, the video platform delivers a hands-down win for sharing content.

“YouTube takes home the crown because viewers are simply used to spending minutes – perhaps, hours – educating and entertaining themselves with awesome video and may have fewer qualms about taking extra time to discover more great content post-click,” said Danny Wong in a post for the Shareaholic blog.

In other words, people often visit a YouTube channel and explore. Show of hands, who hasn’t spent more time than they should watching one video after another?

Blumenthal Performing Arts often curates custom playlists for concerts and theatrical attractions presented in its venues, as well. If you’re not familiar with a show, a musician or a band, visit Blumenthal’s YouTube channel to learn more about them. n

Get in the KnowTo find the Blumenthal Performing Arts YouTube

channel, go online to YouTube.com/user/NCBPAC, or go to YouTube.com and search for “Blumenthal Performing Arts.”

BECOME A BLUMENTHAL YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBER!

When you subscribe to Blumenthal’s YouTube channel, you’ll receive updates whenever new videos are uploaded.

First, you have to have a YouTube account to be able to subscribe, and since Google owns YouTube, that means you will need a Google account. If you don't already have one, you can go to https://accounts.google.com/SignUp.

Then, on our channel at YouTube.com/user/NCBPAC, click the red “Subscribe” button in the upper right corner.

RECEIVE EMAIL ALERTS ABOUT NEW VIDEOS

If you aren’t a big YouTube user, you may want to get email alerts when a new video is uploaded to our channel. We usually upload three to five videos a month.

To get alerts, on your YouTube page, click “Manage My Subscriptions” in the upper left panel of the page. Select “Send me updates” in the Manage Subscriptions area, and then watch your inbox for updates. n

Blumenthal's YouTube channel

keeps viewers informed

At the top and above, the YouTube channel for Blumenthal Performing Arts.

Elise Esasky


BELK THEATERIS READY FOR ITS

Close-up C

PHOTO BY JESSSICA CLELAND

PHOTOS BY BRANDON CARTER

THE WORK IN PROGRESS

Renovations inside the already beautiful Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center are complete and the theater is ready for

excited show fans to experience it anew this season. One of the major changes you will notice is the

new theater seating. The former seats, which had seen better days, were original to the building's construction in 1992.

“The new theater seats are state of the art, with built-in lighting and cup holders, but above all, the seats are comfortable and will not squeak during performances,” said Blumenthal President and CEO Tom Gabbard.

The lobby areas also received a face-lift, with added lighting, fresh paint and a new color scheme. The other major portion of the renovation was the much-needed women’s restroom expansion on the orchestra level, which has doubled in size. n

The newly renovated women's restroom brings welcome relief. Longtime season subscriber Linda Franzese, a member since Blumenthal’s first season, said: “I particularly like the modern decorating and clean lines. Another benefi is that the traffic flow is exceptional. There was even time to enjoy a beverage before intermission was over.”

Above, the Belk Theater sports new state-of-the-art seats. Below left, clockwise from left: 1. Belk Theater is stripped of its seats during renovations; 2. New seats are installed; 3. Even the Belk Theater lobby gets a face-lift; 4. The women's restroom on the orchestra level is renovated and doubled in size.


C

What better way to open the 2014-2015 PNC Broadway Lights season than by inviting you into the enchanting world of

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella? It’s a beloved tale retold again and again around the world. Most people know a version of the story, but now Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is waltzing onto the stage with completely new steps. You’ll still enjoy some of the same classic elements but with some surprising new twists you won’t want to miss!

So, what makes this version so fresh and new? Along with some of the most beloved songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein, including, “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” you will love the new songs in the show written by the duo. These are known as “trunk songs,” which are songs written for other shows that were not used for various reasons.

You will also notice a stronger more outspoken Cinderella character, known as Ella in this version. She’s on a mission. With a more modern sensibility as a woman of action, Ella's character is self-confident and empowered throughout the show.

The team behind Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella truly created a new magical world visually as well. William Ivey Long, who won the Tony Award for his costumes for the show (and also grew up in our neck of the woods, in Rock Hill, S.C.), designed 330 sumptuous period

costumes for Cinderella. He used a new forest-inspired feel to go along with Scenic Designer

Anna Louizos’ equally sumptuous forest-inspired setting.

“You can always sense nature around the house,” Louizos said. “Even the vines are crawling up and covering up some of the wallpaper.”

Louizos believes this version of Cinderella is a fairy tale that will appeal to everyone: “We approached it as any other brand new musical. It’s not a children’s show; it’s a Broadway show that adults should be able to appreciate and enjoy and be entertained just as much as children would.” n

CinderellaAS YOU’VE NEVERSEEN HER BEFOREThe classic tale unfolds in a fresh, new light

Rodgers + Hammerstein's

CinderellaNov. 4-9, 2014 Belk Theater

M emories of Cinderella“I remember seeing the movie version of Cinderella as a very little girl, and I loved every second of it. I’m really

excited to see this new production because

I’m certain it will combine the two things I love about the story, the dancing

and the songs, in the very best way. Here’s to

hoping I can crush on this prince, too.”

– WBTV News anchor Kristen Miranda

“Like many little girls, I was introduced to the Cinderella story at a young age. I loved it when she finally met her Prince! I am a newlywed now, just married in August, and the fairytale is renewed for me as I realize dreams really can come true.”

– Channel 9 Evening News anchor Erica Bryant

“The beauty of Cinderella – centered around her gracious, lovely and even sophisticated personality – is what drew me ... as a child. This beauty showed through regardless of her clothes, bedroom, and the station she held in life. It served to all that it is a person’s true self that shines through, and you can be whatever you dream.”

– Vera Helton, theater patron

Paige Faure, Andy Jones and the Cinderella Broadway company.

PHO

TOS

BY

CAR

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SEG

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Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella Original Broadway Company



Theater-lovers enjoy being entertained, so it’s no surprise many of them want to share their passion for performing arts with others. Whether it’s a girls' night out or couples on a double date, seeing a Tony Award-winning musical straight from Broadway or a new theatrical is often a special treat and cause for celebration.

“Blumenthal shows are a really great way to spend time with friends because they’re different. Instead of the usual meal out or a movie, the musicals, plays and concerts offer a great way to experience Charlotte’s cultural offerings in the heart of uptown,” said Chelsea Cote of Charlotte. “Seeing a show at Belk Theater always feels like a special occasion and facilitates great discussion.”

Blumenthal President Tom Gabbard said creating these kinds of connections are part of Blumenthal Performing Arts’ mission. “The arts are one of the key ingredients in creating a healthy community,” Gabbard said. “Our facilities very uniquely bring the community together, and we really believe that we are where Charlotte comes together.”

Angela Stefanini, the director of Fine Arts at Charlotte Preparatory School, is a big fan of the group experience. While Stefanini regularly brings students for field trips, she also has rented a party bus for friends and coworkers for an adult night out.

“We have wine and cheese; we pop the CD of the musical in the radio and sing along to the songs on the way to the show. The

bus ride makes for a great time with friends or coworkers,” said Stefanini.

For the student trips, Stefanini works with the group sales and education departments to create special experiences before the show, such as face painting for Disney’s The Lion King and drumming workshops for Stomp. Lunch can be catered, she said. The kids often wait outside the stage door to get cast members to sign their programs.

“With children, be sure to prepare songs from the musical and introduce them to the storyline before they arrive,” she advised.

Solomon Willis, who teaches at Gaston Day School and Cleveland Community College, almost serves as an ambassador of theater for family, friends and co-workers. He’s a longtime season subscriber, but he often arranges group outings to shows.

Willis’ favorite time for a show is the Saturday matinee. “We almost always have lunch prior to the show and sometimes dinner afterwards,” he said. “We make a whole day of it in uptown Charlotte! There is no finer way to spend a Saturday afternoon (or evening) than in the Belk Theater enjoying a live performance! To me, live theater is so much more fun and more engaging than watching a movie!”

Willis’ advice: Get your group together and secure the best seats possible as early as you can.

Always arrive early to get a good parking spot.Give yourself time to visit the merchandise stand and hang out

with others in the lobby. “Everyone there will be excited about the show they are about to see,” Willis said. n

Charlotte comes together season after season at Blumenthal Performing Arts

To make opening night even more exciting for audiences, Blumenthal

Performing Arts added a special place for fans to take photos in the theater lobbies.

The custom-made backdrop, often called a step-and-repeat, may feature photos and logos of the show that is opening that night. The

banner makes the perfect place for a photo opportunity with your friends and family.

“It’s a great way to capture the moment and the fun … and to let your friends know that you came to see a Broadway show,” said Halley Theorin of

Charlotte. “It’s so much more fun than just standing in front of a poster outside.”The step-and-repeat includes special lighting to help your photos look their best. Signs will be

posted nearby with the official hashtag for the show in case you’re posting to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or other social media channels. n

Blumenthal Rolls Out the Red Carpet

for Opening Night

Besides the Broadway shows, you may see the step-and-repeat banners at special events such as The Blumey Awards and the annual Tony Awards Viewing Party, above.

ConnectionsCOMMUNITY


Once again, a local Blumey Awards winner has scored high at the national level. Mekhai Lee, named best actor in The Blumey Awards, was one of the top three male

finalists in the best actor category at the 2014 National High School Musical Theater Awards, also known as the Jimmy Awards, in New York City this summer.

This year was the second time one of Charlotte’s winners made the top group at the Jimmys. Eva Noblezada was among the four actresses invited to perform a solo for the judges last year, and she went on to land the lead role of Kim in Miss Saigon, now playing in London’s West End.

“We are very proud of Mekhai Lee, and we’re thrilled to have yet another one of our Charlotte representatives be among the finalists in the national competition in only the third year of The Blumey Awards,” said Blumenthal Performing Arts President Tom Gabbard. “It speaks to the quality of the high school musical theater programs and the teachers leading these efforts in our region.”

The Jimmy Awards is a weeklong Broadway “boot camp” and competition for the winners of high school musical theater awards from across the United States. Fifty-six high school students from 28 organizations competed in the Jimmys this summer at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. The

show was held on Broadway at the Minskoff Theater, home to Disney’s The Lion King, as an orchestra, featuring some of Broadway’s top musicians, played in the pit.

Participants performed an opening and closing group number to a medley of songs from various shows arranged by Michael Moricz; received intense coaching on their solo songs from Broadway veterans; and were taken on a field trip to see Kinky Boots on Broadway after dining at famed theater-district restaurant Sardi’s.

“It was such an exhilarating week,” said Lee. “Hearing my name called out as a finalist that night was an unreal experience. It is truly something I will never forget.”

Lee, of Northwest School of the Arts, and Ashlyn Uribe, of Carmel Christian School, represented Charlotte in New York after competing in the 2014 Blumey Awards in May at Belk Theater. Best actress Abby Corrigan could not attend the Jimmy Awards due to illness and was replaced by runner-up Uribe.

Sponsored by Wells Fargo, The Blumey Awards was created by Blumenthal Performing Arts to recognize,

celebrate and nurture the talents of high school theater students in the Charlotte region, as well as offer area students a pathway to the national competition in New York. Thirty-nine schools participated in The Blumey Awards this year. n

Wells Fargo Best Musical Northwest School of the Arts – Shrek the Musical

Best Actor Northwest School of the Arts – Mekhai Lee as Shrek (Shrek the Musical)

Best Actress Northwest School of the Arts – Abby Corrigan as Princess Fiona (Shrek the Musical)

Best Supporting Actor Northwest School of the Arts – Phillip Johnson as Donkey (Shrek the Musical)

Best Supporting Actress Northwest School of the Arts – Keston Steele as Dragon (Shrek the Musical)

Best Featured Performer Northwest School of the Arts – Hank Santos as Pinocchio (Shrek the Musical)

Best Overall Direction Northwest School of the Arts – Shrek the Musical

Best Ensemble/Chorus Northwest School of the Arts – Shrek the Musical

Best Choreography Execution Northwest School of the Arts – Shrek the Musical

Best Student Orchestra Providence High School – The Drowsy Chaperone

Best Costume Creation South Pointe High School – Tarzan

Best Set Construction South Pointe High School – Tarzan

CHARLOTTE TALENT

Shines

Blumey Awards best actor a finalist in national competition

Mekhai Lee performs solo during the Jimmy Awards ceremony on June 30, 2014.

Don't Miss the 2015 Blumey Awards

Mark your calendars now for the 2015 Blumey Awards,

May 17 at the Belk Theater.

Winners of the Third Annual Blumey Awards

Besides the Broadway shows, you may see the step-and-repeat banners at special events such as The Blumey Awards and the annual Tony Awards Viewing Party, above.


©DISNEY. PHOTOS BY DEEN VAN MEER

Broadway company of Newsies.

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! The Tony Award-winning Disney hit Newsies is coming to Charlotte Jan. 6-11 in Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. The

New York City boys from 1899 have been delivering papers, as well as justice, onstage since the Broadway premiere of their smash-hit show in 2012. Now the musical takes to the road on its first national tour.

Based on a true story about the Newsboys Strike in 1899 in New York City, these young runaways and orphans called themselves newsies and delivered the city its news from well-known publishers around the area. This story follows Jack Kelly, one of the many newsies, who is always dreaming of a better life outside the skyscrapers and tall towers of The Big Apple. However when two of the esteemed publishers, Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst, raise the distribution prices, these rapscallions struggle as it cuts into their compensation. Torn between following his dream and his newly discovered duty, Jack must decide if fighting for a cause is worth the price.

In the real-life story, the attempt to increase distribution prices fueled a strike led by a boy named Kid Blink (on account of him being blind in one eye). It resulted in a win for the newsies, who received more money for their work.

To this day, this strike left a legacy

of what was to be the standard of treating young people in the workforce. Disney fictionalized the event in the 1992 movie Newsies.

Fun fact: Disney included Kid Blink in the film; however, they developed a new leader by the name of Jack Kelly in the film. This film inspired a following of devoted fans over the years, which prompted Disney in March of 2012 to produce the musical show people now know and love.

Some say the story garnered such a long-lasting cult following that a stage version was, in some ways, a given. Disney Theatrical Group President Thomas Schumacher says he knew there was something unique about the film version right off the bat.

“It has a very theatrical quality to it. There’s a sense that it’s actually happening in front of you, and because of that, all across the country, summer camps, high schools, fraternity houses all began to do their own versions of Newsies.”

Winner of the 2012 Tony Awards for best score and best choreography, this show has been nothing short of a historically heart-pounding, breathtaking masterpiece that the New York Times called “a musical worth singing about!”

Be sure to see it when it plays at Belk Theater in January! n

Newsies: The Phenomenon Comes to the Stage

NewsiesJan. 6-11, 2015 Belk Theater

Broadway company of Newsies.


Star Struck

Local student experiences the Tony Awards in person

For some, it’s the ultimate dream to hop on a plane to spend the weekend in New York City. What if someone told you the trip also included a ticket to Broadway’s Tony

Awards show, where you would have a chance to sit among the stars?

One area student had the opportunity to do just that as she won the Blumenthal contest to be a designated “seat filler” at the Tony Awards in June. Seat fillers help keep the theater looking full on camera when guests get up to go to the restroom, present an award or grab another cocktail, for example.

This year, the lucky winner was Bailey Patterson, a student at Stuart W. Cramer High School in Gaston County.

“Everyone I know who is involved in theater has at least one thing in common: They love the Tony Awards,” she said. “It’s the one night of the year where people stop and admire the insanely amazing talent our beloved Broadway stars possess. When I got the news that I was headed to see the Tony’s live, I flipped out, as did all of my theater friends.”

Blumenthal Performing Arts requests a pair of seat-filler tickets to the Tony Awards show each year. This year, the tickets Blumenthal received were tied into The Blumey Awards program as a drawing, which is how rising sophomore Patterson was chosen to attend the 68th annual Tony Awards in New York City on June 8.

Patterson, along with a Blumenthal staff member chaperon, set off for an action packed weekend, which included touring the city and seeing Disney’s Newsies on Broadway. But Patterson said the moment that topped them all was the time she spent in Radio City Music Hall at the Tony Awards.

“That night, we got all dressed up and left the hotel for what I will remember as the best night of my life,” she said. “I saw so many famous people and was absolutely star struck the entire evening! The performances were amazing, and the awards were presented to all of my favorite stars.

“Perhaps the best moment of the night was when I got to take the stage during the Rocky performance,” said Patterson. “Earlier that day our group had been divided into three sections, and I was lucky enough to be in the group that was going to get to cheer in the background of the Best Musical-nominated cast! There are absolutely no words to describe the feeling that you get when you stand on a stage of that magnitude in front of the 6,000 people in the crowd and the millions more watching at home!”

Blumenthal President Tom Gabbard said The Broadway League has generously supported Blumenthal’s request for two seat-filler positions as a way to build Charlotte connections to the Tony Awards in New York.

“Tying it to The Blumey Awards was a great fit. We want to inspire our kids to aim high and dream big dreams,” said Gabbard. “Big, memorable experiences like participating in The Blumey Awards and going to the Tony Awards are helping us to nurture good things in our kids.”

Months later, Patterson is still reeling from her experience and said the opportunity is one she will treasure for years to come.

“I am eternally grateful to everyone at Blumenthal Performing Arts for giving me the chance to live out my dreams. I will never forget my experience in New York, and I will forever cherish every memory I have from that fabulous night!” n

Background photo: 68th Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall. Inset photo: Bailey Patterson gets all dressed up to head off to the Tony Awards ceremony held at Radio City Music Hall.


Lonnie Davis, executive director of Jazz Arts Initiative, is on a mission. She wants to connect Charlotte and the region’s cultural community and develop robust

audiences for jazz through performances, education and support of musicians.

So far, Davis and her husband, Ocie, are doing exactly that with the monthly Jazz Room series at Blumenthal’s Stage Door Theater, as well as other events, classes and camps. The Jazz Room invites the region’s top musicians to interpret and perform the works of jazz greats, from vocalists to drummers and pianists to saxophonists.

In early October, Jazz Arts Initiative partnered with Blumenthal to present the first Charlotte Classic Jazz Festival, which included an all-day jazz event on Saturday, Oct. 4, followed by the return of Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra on Oct. 7, this time in Belk Theater.

“A jazz festival is something I’ve wanted to see for a long time,” said Lonnie Davis. “The plan is to start small this year and plant seeds to grow it year after year.”

Having an annual jazz festival in the city of Charlotte is something Marsalis hoped for as well, and he supports the efforts of Blumenthal and Davis.

“Lonnie was the perfect choice to help us pull this (jazz

festival) off,” said Ralph Beck, Blumenthal’s director of education. “Her efforts in connecting area and national jazz artists with local jazz students and a rapidly emerging jazz arts following have played a significant role in positioning Charlotte for an annual festival that features professional performers and spotlights local, young talent.”

Lonnie and Ocie Davis grew up in New Orleans and studied with Ellis Marsalis Jr. at the University of New Orleans. They left after Hurricane Katrina and moved to Charlotte in 2006 after briefly living in Blacksburg, Va. The pair taught classes and private lessons; Lonnie Davis is an accomplished flutist and her husband is a drummer.

But Lonnie Davis found Charlotte’s floundering jazz scene without a core. The fans were there but live jazz or classes were hit and miss. A few clubs and restaurants regularly featured shows and jam sessions, but only a handful of folks made their living by nurturing the scene and working with students.

Davis formed Jazz Arts Initiative as a nonprofit organization in 2009 with support from friends and fellow musicians. JAI intends to create a scene the Davis duo crave and to become a “one-stop shop for jazz” that educates students and the community, while also providing support for artists. Lonnie Davis serves as JAI president and Ocie Davis serves as the artistic director.

“The Carolinas have a rich history in jazz with the greats such as John Coltrane, Nina Simone and Dizzie Gillespie,” Lonnie Davis said. “We wanted to remind people of that heritage and

Blumenthal supports organization’s initiative to nurture Charlotte’s jazz scene

JAZZED!GET

Lonnie Davis


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PHOTO BY KYLIE AKINS

create a place for it now and to grow in the future.” JAI offered classes and workshops and organized events.

It brought in clinicians and musicians and took them to the schools. The buzz started to grow. So did the funding. Grants rolled in from the Arts & Science Council, PNC Bank, Knight Foundation, Belk Foundation, Ella Fitzgerald Foundation and more. In 2013, The Jazz Room became a monthly feature at the 150-seat Stage Door Theater, and JAI became a resident company of Blumenthal Performing Arts.

The education programs have proven to be JAI’s most successful endeavors with students coming from across the region. The classes and summer camps at UNC Charlotte’s Center City building grew by leaps and bounds this year.

In addition, the monthly Jazz Room Series – which sells out regularly for both sets – has become a place for musicians and fans to connect.

“We’re usually putting together musicians that typically don’t play together, so it’s not unusual for two musicians meeting for the first time at The Jazz Room,” Davis said. The musicians tend to support each other moving forward, and the Jazz Room creates a social aspect for the audience as well, she said.

“Every month, jazz fans and great jazz minds start to have a conversation, and the next month, they end up picking up where they left off,” Davis explained about Stage Door’s intimacy. “Plus, they get to engage closely with the musicians. They can see the sweat on their brows. There is magic in that space.”

The only time The Jazz Room isn’t in Stage Door is for the holiday show. The series moves to Booth Playhouse for the holiday performances, which also sell out.

“We knew there was a niche that needed to be filled,” Davis said, “We want to put Charlotte on the map in a way that will literally shine a different light on the city.” Besides being home to corporate headquarters, NASCAR and sports teams, Davis wants the city to be known as a community that loves and nurtures jazz.

“I know that it’s in our future,” she said. “Through the work JAI is doing and with the support Blumenthal has provided, we’re heading in the right direction.” n


All performances are at Stage Door Theater with the exception of the holiday show, which is held in Booth Playhouse.• Nov. 21: Dawn Anthony sings Ella

Fitzgerald.• Dec. 9: Holiday Edition: Music of Vince

Guaraldi (Booth Playhouse).• Jan. 16, 2015: Shannon Hoover plays

Paul Chambers.• Feb. 20, 2015: Special Edition: Jeremy

Davenport sings Frank Sinatra.• March 20, 2015: Charles Craig plays

Oscar Peterson.

For information, go online to www.TheJazzArts.org. For tickets, visit www.BlumenthalArts.org.

The Jazz Room Series for 2014-15

Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Return

The legendary Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra returned to Charlotte after a triumphant performance of “‘Abyssinian: A Gospel Celebration” last

fall at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. On Oct. 7, the orchestra, under the musical direction of

Marsalis, took the stage at Belk Theater for an unforgettable evening of world-class jazz.

The show, sponsored by The Knight Foundation, drew from an extensive repertoire including original compositions by Marsalis, Ted Nash and other orchestra members, along with classics and gems by Ellington, Mingus, Coltrane and more.

The Daily Telegraph in London called the musicians the “finest big band in the world today.” That’s not hard to believe when you look at their resumes.

Marsalis, the orchestra leader and trumpet virtuoso, has received nine Grammy Awards, the Louis Armstrong Memorial Medal and the National Medal of Arts, and he was the first jazz musician to win the Pulitzer Prize for music. With a lineup including members from the Duke Ellington Orchestra and Marsalis’ original septet, the 15-piece Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra features some of the genre’s best soloists, ensemble players and arrangers.

“Ellington’s era may have come and gone, but the model he established still resonates in our culture, nowhere more than in the work of (Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra),” said The Chicago Tribune.

Learn more about the orchestra online at jazz.org. n

Continued from Page 12

Wynton Marsalis performs with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.PHOTO BY FRANK STEWART

Witness the

Everything is not what it seems with The Illusionists at Knight Theater

Prepare to have your mind blown and your sense of reality challenged as the magical and death-defying show, The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible, comes directly from

its Broadway run at the Marquis Theater to Charlotte’s Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts in January. Part of the 2014-15 PNC Broadway Lights lineup, it is the world’s best-selling magic show.

Local magician Scott Robinson said these performers are some of the top magicians in the field, and seeing them all together on the Knight Theater stage is something he’s not going to miss!

“It’s very rare to have such a high caliber of talent in one show. These master magicians span many magic genres, so you are guaranteed a constantly evolving experience,” Robinson said. “This is a chance for everyone to see the best the magic world has to offer in one show. I have seen these amazing acts before, and I can’t wait to see them again right here in Charlotte!”

This thrilling spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth: The

Anti-Conjuror, The Warrior, The Futurist, The Inventor, The Trickster, The Escapologist and The Manipulator. Each man has his own specialty, crafted over years of dedication to the art of illusions and mind-boggling escapes. Together, these men of mystery and magic put on a performance that dazzles and excites audiences of all ages worldwide.

The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible has shattered box office records across the globe and amazed audiences with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage.

Showcasing classic tricks and turns from legends like Harry Houdini, these magicians also incorporate a contemporary flair into their stunts, which include grand

illusions, levitation (with the help of a few audience members), disappearance and for the first time in history, a full-view water box escape.

This nonstop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. Visit BlumenthalArts.org to get tickets to The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible before they disappear! n

The Illusionists:Witness the Impossible

Jan. 27-Feb. 1, 2015 Belk Theater

The cast of The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible.

PHOTO BY TYUKODI LASZLO


THE ANTI-CONJUROR (Dan Sperry) Specialty: Shock Illusions

Going beyond the typical extravagant style and use of flashy costumes, Dan Sperry combines the art of magic with the macabre, leaving audiences in a state of shock and amazement. He’s not for the fainthearted. You’ve been warned.

THE WARRIOR (Aaron Crow)Specialty: Weapon Magic

The Warrior, Aaron Crow, a strong and silent type specializing in weapon magic, has mastered some of the most dangerous acts ever performed onstage. He thrills and captivates audiences without saying a single word, using swords, paintball guns and powerful crossbows to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

THE FUTURIST (Adam Trent)Specialty: Technology Illusions

He’s a star for a new generation of magic fans, fusing classic techniques, dancing, comedy and technology in a show that shatters stereotypes for those who think they’ve seen it all. His edgy, fun style has been described as Justin Timberlake meets David Copperfield and has put him on a fast-track to global fame.

THE INVENTOR (Kevin James)Specialty: Magic Innovation

He is one of today’s most groundbreaking and innovative illusionists. His illusions and magic acts are also performed by other stars, from David Copperfield to Nicholas Cage in

the Hollywood film Adaptation. He is an inventor, comedian and collector of the strange and unusual. He believes he has a responsibility to bring out the childlike wonder and awe in everyone.

THE TRICKSTER (Jeff Hobson) Specialty: Comedy Magic

He’s king of comedy in Las Vegas and is the epitome of glamour and showmanship. He leaves audiences laughing long after the curtain goes down. Don’t be fooled by his innocent appearance. The Trickster will get you every time.

THE ESCAPOLOGIST (Andrew Basso)Specialty: Death Defying Acts

He is Italy’s star escape artist and is fast becoming one of the world’s favorite illusionists. His hero is Harry Houdini, and his thrilling escapes take place under water, 150 feet in the air and everywhere in between. Explosives, water boxes, handcuffs, chains, padlocks, straightjackets, cars bursting into flames ... his escapes place him within seconds of life and death.

THE MANIPULATOR (Yu Ho-Jin) Specialty: Manipulator of Mystery and Wonder

Through elegant manipulation and mystery, the artistic Yu Ho-Jin has the ability to turn anyone into a loyal fan. Yu was recently named Magician of the Year (2014) by the Academy of Magical Arts.

Often referred to as “The Future of Magic,” Yu has won numerous magic competitions with his emotional performances. n

MEET THE AMAZING MEN BEHIND THE MAGIC


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THEMANIPULATOR

THEFUTURIST

THEANTI-CONJUROR

THEESCAPOLOGIST

THEINVENTOR

THETRICKSTER

One Night

Blumenthal Performing Arts has some of the most exciting and diverse shows just around the corner. These shows are here for one night only, so don’t miss the chance

to be wildly entertained by some of the biggest names in the business and some of the most unique stage shows to ever come to Charlotte.

Star-studded EntertainmentAUDRA MCDONALDFeb. 8, 2015 – Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts

Audra McDonald is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry, as a singer and an actress. With a record six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards, and a long list of other accolades to her name, she is among today’s most highly regarded performers.

Now the Emmy-nominated “Live From Lincoln Center” host returns to the concert stage, dazzling audiences with favorite show tunes, popular standards and songs from her latest album, “Go Back Home.”

CHITA: A LEGENDARY CELEBRATIONFeb. 22, 2015 –McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square

Come celebrate the one and only Chita Rivera in a unique and intimate solo concert event celebrating the Broadway legend’s 80th birthday! The two-time Tony Award winner will recreate signature moments from her legendary career, including numbers from West Side Story; Sweet Charity; Chicago; Kiss of the Spider Woman; Bye, Bye, Birdie and The Rink. In addition to a special tribute to her dear friends John Kander and Fred Ebb, the show will feature the timeless music of Leonard Bernstein, Charles Strouse, Jerry Herman and Stephen Sondheim with live orchestral accompaniment.

Now for Something Completely Different …SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: SEASON 11 ON TOURNov. 10, 2014 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

“So You Think You Can Dance,” the 11-time Primetime Emmy Award-winning show that sparked America’s fascination with dance, is set to captivate audiences again this fall live on tour, featuring this season’s most popular routines, as well as original pieces created specifically for the nationwide tour.

EVIL DEAD THE MUSCIALNov. 11, 2014 – Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts

Evil Dead The Musical, the hilarious, record-breaking musical, tells the outrageous story of five college friends spending the weekend in an abandoned cabin in the woods after accidentally unleashing an evil force that turns them all into demons.

MYTHBUSTERS: BEHIND THE MYTHS TOURNov. 24, 2014 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

The all-new, live stage show MythBusters Behind the Myths Tour, starring Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Emmy-nominated Discovery series “MythBusters,” promises to be an unexpected evening of onstage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-scenes stories.

SISTER ACTDec. 1, 2014 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Sister Act tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a want-to-be disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to look – a convent! Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL UKULELE ORCHESTRAJan. 14, 2015 – McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square

The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra is one of the world’s great modern ukulele acts, renowned for its winning combination of charming Kiwi humor, the disarmingly small ukulele and sublime musicality. The group presents the ukulele as it has never been played before, featuring songs made famous by artists such as Justin Timberlake, Dolly Parton, Elvis, The Beatles, Hall and Oates, Cyndi Lauper, Prince, Kenny Rogers and Kings of Leon, alongside tunes from the South Pacific, packaged into a spectacular funfest. n


ONLY Don’t miss these great attractions that will be here and gone in a flash

McDonald

Chita Rivera

In 2013, Blumenthal Performing Arts set out to start an official “participatory arts” program, which it named Whirl. Blumenthal counted on the Queen City and surrounding

areas to do just that – give the arts a “whirl!” At each event, the programs under this umbrella seem to

grow. The audiences are getting larger, the participants are getting more enthusiastic and the programs are flourishing in the way Blumenthal hoped they would.

“We want to be a place that enriches and feeds people’s creative souls,” said Blumenthal President Tom Gabbard. “Our goal is to see that Blumenthal is the premiere gathering place for Charlotte. Bringing people together through the arts is exactly what we’re trying to accomplish.”

Sponsored by Piedmont Natural Gas, Whirl is gaining more and more traction in the community through programs like Open Mic and National Dance Day. Blumenthal Education Director Ralph Beck finds the response encouraging.

“I believe each of us has an inborn need for artistic/creative expression,” said Beck. “In the year and a half since we began our almost monthly Open Mic program, over a thousand individuals have entered our lottery system for an opportunity to perform onstage. It feels great to know that Blumenthal is providing opportunities for artistic expression.”

Open Mic invites local talent to perform on the beautiful McGlohon Theater stage

at Spirit Square. The free events have drawn large crowds, both in terms of participants and audiences. The laid back environment inside a professional venue offers the perfect atmosphere for folks seeking a creative outlet, and the audiences have walked away thoroughly entertained at the end of each event.

National Dance Day is another example of how Whirl is taking Charlotte by storm. The second annual event, presented by Carolinas HealthCare System this year, was held at Wells Fargo Plaza Saturday, July 26, where hundreds of people danced side by side. The weather was perfect, the energy was high and the event brought everyone together in a big, bold way.

“It was amazing! To see the Charlotte dance community come together the way they did confirms that our city's dance movement is something very special and powerful,” said founder of The Dance District Ana Ogbueze. “It's a beautiful thing to see dancers of all ages and all walks of life learn, grow and come together through dance. National Dance Day was truly a blessed day in Charlotte."

Don’t miss next year’s National Dance Day celebration! It will be held at Wells Fargo Plaza on Saturday, July 25, 2015. For details about National Dance Day, the bimonthly Open

Mic events, or any new events that could be added to the Whirl initiative, please visit BlumenthalArts.org/whirl online. n


Participatory arts programs taking off n a big way

At left, students from various dance studios across the area celebrate National Dance Day; above, performers have fun on the McGlohon Theater stage after an Open MIc event; and right, Alan Gilbert performs for the crowd during Open Mic July 18.

PART OF THE

Above, a crowd gathers to learn the Salsa routine on the Wells Fargo Plaza.

At right, people of all ages join in the fun on National Dance Day.

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OPEN MIC PHOTOS BY JENNY KAEMMERLEN

As if the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Israel’s favorite son Joseph wasn’t enough, wait until you see who is starring in the new production

coming to Belk Theater in February! Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, one of the most enduring shows of all time, will feature Broadway/television star Diana DeGarmo as The Narrator and Broadway star Ace Young as Joseph.

The best part? They’re newlyweds! Before they made it to Broadway, you may recall both of

their names from “American Idol.” DeGarmo was season three runner-up, while Young appeared in season five. This won’t be the first time DeGarmo has graced one of our stages though. She starred in 9 to 5: The Musical, presented by Blumenthal Performing Arts in 2010.

Young and DeGarmo started dating while performing in Hair on Broadway.

Now, they talk about married life, hitting the road on a national tour, and this amazing show we all have to look forward to in a few short months!

Q&A With Stars Diana DeGarmo and Ace YoungDescribe Joseph and his amazing technicolor dreamcoat in one word.

Young: It’s right there in the title … “AMAZING!”

DeGarmo: It doesn’t matter if you are young or old, if you have seen every Broadway show or you are a first timer. This show has stood the test of time because it truly has something for everyone. When you come to the show, be prepared to be amazed.

Briefly, describe a day in the life of a musical tour star.

Young: On tour or on Broadway, we have eight shows a week, no matter what. The biggest difference on a tour is that we get to be tourists in our off time. It’s awesome! We are traveling to the biggest cities in the country, and we get

to take in all their food and culture.

How does doing Joseph compare to American Idol on Tour?

DeGarmo: Completely opposite. The “Idol” tour was a “one and done” type of tour. We would do one show and then travel that night to the next city. We didn’t get to take in any part of any city. The only way we knew where we were was by reading the city name taped to the

backstage stairs as we started each show!

Young: Our Joseph National Tour is in each city for one to three weeks at a time. We have almost 50 people traveling with the tour at all times, and we get to employ locals in

Husband and wife stars Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young hit the road together


The

WOWFACTOR

Josephand the Amazing

Technicolor DreamcoatFeb. 24-March 1, 2015

Belk Theater

Continued on Page 19

Ace Young as Joseph and Diana DeGarmo as The Narrator in “Jacob & Sons.”

PHOTO BY DANIEL A. SWALEC


each theater (dressers, stage hands, theater executives, etc.). Our show is art every night. I am blown away with how seamlessly we all work together creating every moment of the show. Our director-choreographer, Andy Blankenbuehler, has created a new and fresh Joseph – keeping the songs you love, while pushing the creative limits of dancing, acting, singing, lighting and staging. This is a show you don’t want to miss!

What’s been the most challenging aspect for you while on tour, as an artist and as a couple?

DeGarmo: We recently celebrated our first year of marriage and we couldn’t be happier! We love working together. We met over four years ago working on the Broadway revival of Hair. Now being on the road, we get to write music and be creative in our off time. It’s nice to let our song ideas grow while we are on the road, that way we can record them when we are home in Nashville during our tour breaks.

What’s been the most bizarre fan reaction or gift?

Young: Ever since our “Idol” tour days, there’s nothing too shocking. We really appreciate our fans. We are happy to say hello at the stage door after our shows. This tour we have received everything from clothing and food to framed posters. The best thing is meeting people who have seen the show.

Have you developed any rituals, bad habits (be honest) while on tour?

DeGarmo: We have our pre-show rituals. Nothing crazy, just warming up our bodies and voices. This show uses every ounce of energy you never thought you had. We make sure to get enough sleep and good food in order to stay healthy for our eight-show weeks.

How do you relax between shows? Favorite read? Guilty pleasure?

DeGarmo: We love HGTV! We are in the nesting phase, so we want to remodel every room in our house! n

Continued from Page 18

PHOTO BY DANIEL A. SWALEC

Ace Young as Joseph, Ryan Williams as Pharaoh, and company in “Song of the King.”

Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

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Holiday Happenings


Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Albert-George Schram: "Magic of Christmas"

Charlotte Ballet: Nutcracker

Celebrate the holiday season with family, friends and shows at BlumenthalCELTIC THUNDER SYMPHONY TOURNov. 18 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

The Celtic Thunder Symphony Show is a dynamic, live-music experience, hugely accentuated by the instrumentals of a full Symphony Orchestra. This is the first Symphony Tour for Celtic Thunder, which will depart from its traditional and critically-acclaimed large set productions to perform songs from the group’s latest album, “Holiday Symphony.” The breathtaking show will feature holiday favorites ranging from traditional carols “Away in A Manger,” “Silent Night,” “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” and “O Holy Night” to classical tunes “Gaudete,” “Ave Maria” and “Comfort Ye,” plus other holiday staples. Celtic Thunder will perform a mixture of solo, duets and ensemble numbers in this memorable setting and will also introduce its newest member, Emmett O’Hanlon, to Celtic Thunder audiences.

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMASNov. 23 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Mannheim Steamroller is the work of producer/composer Chip Davis. In the mid ’70s, Davis was one of the first composers on the nascent New Age scene, releasing a five album series called “Fresh Aire” and combining elements of modern classical music with what was still in the process of becoming New Age electronic music. Davis hit the jackpot in 1984 when his first attempt at holiday music, "Mannheim Steamroller Christmas," became a huge success with over 5 million copies sold, thanks to a New Age-style take on “Deck the Halls.” Christmas music (and holiday music in general) became a staple of Steamroller’s subsequent releases, with

seven Christmas-themed albums and two Halloween-focused records released over the next 15 years. Since the mid-1990s, Mannheim Steamroller has been widely recognized as the largest purveyor of holiday music in the industry.

CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY POPS: 'MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS'Dec. 4-7 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Albert-George Schram, returns to the podium to conduct "Magic of Christmas." Don’t miss this seasonal tradition as Schram leads a festive program complete with singalongs and surprises.

CLARA’S TRIP: A NUTCRACKER STORYDec. 12-13 – Booth Playhouse at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Presented by Caroline Calouche & Company, this modern twist on a holiday classic is a story about Clara LeBlanc, who trips at a holiday party and is whisked off to the hospital to learn that her ankle is broken. That night her friends and get-well gifts swirl in her dreams. This show is the perfect family event during the holiday season.

CHARLOTTE BALLET: NUTCRACKERDec. 12-23 – Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center

Charlotte’s favorite holiday tradition, Nutcracker, celebrates the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Bring your family and friends along for this holiday voyage featuring choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, live music from the Charlotte Symphony and over 100 performers. You’ll be amazed by a magical snowfall at each performance! n


Blumenthal Talk BackAnswers to burning questions at our theaters

Charlotte Squawks X: Ten Carolina Commandments John Legend The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess

May I rent a theater or space inside a venue for my event?

All six of Blumenthal’s uptown theaters are available to rent. The largest are Belk Theater, which has 2,097 seats, and the newest theater, Knight Theater, which can hold 1,192 patrons. Resident companies – Charlotte Symphony, Opera Carolina and Charlotte Ballet – frequently present in Belk and Knight theaters.

The convertible Stage Door Theater has a capacity of 140 seats and can be used for theatrical performances, receptions or parties. Blumenthal’s theaters are often rented for conferences, community recitals and performances presented by local theater companies.

In addition to McGlohon Theater and Duke Energy Theater, the Spirit Square campus houses several multifunction spaces that are perfect for meetings, rehearsals and receptions. The Knight Gallery features a beautiful open space with walls lined in local artists’ artwork and is frequently used for wedding receptions and cocktail parties. Three dance studios serve as rehearsal and teaching spaces. The BB&T Meeting Room is often used for business meetings and open auditions.

If you are interested in renting a theater or space, please visit BlumenthalArts.org/Rentals or contact the rentals team at 704-379-1388 or 704-379-1243. I went to buy tickets and noticed prices were higher than when I first looked?

Much like airlines and hotels, Blumenthal’s ticket prices rise as demand increases and fewer seats are open to purchase. To secure the lowest price, get tickets early. As the advertising campaign for a show begins and the supply of tickets decreases, prices will typically rise. If the show is a multiday run, be sure to check ticket availability on all days since some performance days and times are more popular than others, making them more expensive. For example, Saturday night tickets are more in demand than Sunday night tickets, and the best values follow accordingly.

Buying early is also important because our performances frequently sell out. Charlotte Squawks X: Ten Carolina Commandments and The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess each had multiple sold-out performances this summer. John Legend’s debut performance at Belk Theater sold out in less than a month.

Where should I have dinner before the show?

Uptown Charlotte is booming with some of the best cuisine the city has to offer. Consider visiting a Blumenthal Dining Partner before or after the performance. Many dining partners offer exclusive discounts to Blumenthal theatergoers – all you have to do is present your theater tickets. For a formal experience, try The Capital Grille, which offers a free calamari appetizer with the purchase of an entrée. For a more relaxed environment, check out Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, which also offers a free appetizer with any purchase. Other dining partners include Aria Tuscan Grill, BLT Steak, Blue Restaurant and Bar, Bubble, Chima Brazilian Steakhouse and The Asbury. For a complete list of Dining Partners and special offers, go online to BlumenthalArts.org/visiting/dining-partners.

Does Blumenthal offer gift certificates?

Absolutely! Blumenthal gift certificates are easy to buy and sure to please anyone. They are the perfect last-minute gift and can be the answer when you’re just not sure what to give. You can customize them for any amount, include a personal message and print them at home. Gift certificates can be used toward the purchase of any event sold through CarolinaTix, from the best of Broadway at Belk Theater to exciting concerts at Knight Theater. Visit BlumenthalArts.org/GiftCertificates online for information.

What is the history of McGlohon Theater?

Before it was restored and opened in 1980, McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square was the sanctuary for First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Original church features, such as the stained glass windows and Byzantine dome, add to the intimate, unique experience of watching a performance in McGlohon Theater.

The venue is named for the late, great musician and Charlotte resident Loonis McGlohon, an esteemed jazz pianist and composer who played a crucial role in building the Charlotte arts community. Great talents have graced the McGlohon Theater stage, including notable performers within the past year: Lucinda Williams, Kevin Bacon and Preservation Hall Jazz Band. n

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OCTOBER

29 The Milk Carton Kids & Sara Jarosz AC Entertainment Knight Theater

30-Nov. 1 Beethoven’s “Emperor” Charlotte Symphony Belk Theater

NOVEMBER

4-9 Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella Belk Theater

5-8 From the Depths Moving Poets Booth Playhouse

6 Home Free McGlohon Theater

7-8 A John Denver Celebration Charlotte Symphony Pops Knight Theater

8 The Emperor’s New Clothes Charlotte Symphony Lollipops Knight Theater

9 Buddy Guy Knight Theater

9 Christopher Titus: The Angry Pursuit of Happiness Combustion Live McGlohon Theater

10 So You Think You Can Dance: Season 11 Tour Belk Theater

11 Evil Dead The Musical Knight Theater

14 DaveMason’sTraffi Jam McGlohon Theater

14-15 Brahms “A German Requiem” Charlotte Symphony Belk Theater

15 Evening of Hope and Inspiration Different Roads Home Inc. McGlohon Theater

17 Justin Townes Earle McGlohon Theater

18 Celtic Thunder: Christmas Voices Symphony Tour Belk Theater

21 SlamCharlotte Poetry Slam Booth Playhouse

21-22 Cirque Musica Charlotte Symphony Pops Belk Theater

23 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Belk Theater

24 Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour Belk Theater

DECEMBER

1 Sister Act Belk Theater

4-7 Magic of Christmas Charlotte Symphony Pops Belk Theater

6 Un Sueno Llamado Danza El Alma de la Luna McGlohon Theater

12-13 Clara’s Trip: A Nutcracker Story Caroline Calouche & Co. Booth Playhouse

12-23 Nutcracker Charlotte Ballet Belk Theater

Audra McDonald

Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra

Chita Rivera

Buddy Guy

Shows and Attractions

Tickets: 704.372.1000 | BlumenthalArts.org onstage | Fall/Winter 2014 -15 23

13-14 Singing Christmas Tree Carolina Voices Ovens Auditorium

17 Messiah Charlotte Symphony Belk Theater

18-19 A Soulful Noel On Q Productions McGlohon Theater


JANUARY

6-11 Newsies Belk Theater

9-10 Classic Soul Charlotte Symphony Pops Knight Theater

14 Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra McGlohon Theater


16-17 Don Quixote Charlotte Symphony Belk Theater

17 Tosco Music Party Tosco Music Parties Inc. Knight Theater

20 Martha Graham Dance Company Knight Theater

22 Black Violin McGlohon Theater

22 Turandot Student Night at the Opera Opera Carolina Belk Theater

24-Feb. 1 Turandot Opera Carolina Belk Theater

27-Feb. 1 The Illusionists: Witness the Impossible Knight Theater

FEBRUARY

4-15 The Phantom of the Opera Belk Theater

6 Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes McGlohon Theater

6 KnightSounds: So You Think You Can Waltz Charlotte Symphony Knight Theater

8 Audra McDonald Knight Theater

13-14 A Symphonic Valentine Charlotte Symphony Pops Knight Theater

14 Beethoven Lives Upstairs Charlotte Symphony Lollipops Knight Theater


20-21 Mozart, Strauss & Brahms Charlotte Symphony Belk Theater

22 Chita: A Legendary Celebration McGlohon Theater

22 The Time Jumpers Knight Theater

24- March 1 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Belk Theater

27 Manhattan Transfer Knight Theater

Please visit BlumenthalArts.org for the latest details on all shows. Manhattan Transfer

The Time JumpersThe Phantom of the Opera

Sister Act

Evil Dead The Muscal

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Blumenthal Performing Arts is pleased to have PNC Bank on board as the title sponsor of the 2014-15 Broadway season, PNC Broadway Lights, which features eight

touring productions. After a hugely successful partnership last season on the PNC Celebrity Series, Blumenthal is proud to work with PNC on the Broadway season.

A 30-year veteran of the financial services industry, Barb Bascom serves as the client and community relations director for PNC’s Western Carolina market. Through her oversight of PNC’s philanthropic work in the region and arts grants made through the PNC Foundation, Bascom has worked with nonprofit agencies from Asheville to Greensboro.

Bascom, a Michigan native who moved to Charlotte in 2012, says what she likes most about the area is its warm and welcoming residents.

Five Questions for PNC’s Barb BascomHow does support of the arts align with PNC’s business philosophy?

It’s simple. Communities flourish when organizations offer meaningful experiences and introduce new ideas, especially to those who may not have easy access to art or cultural events. Who hasn’t seen a play or studied a painting or heard a symphony and found it thought-provoking or even life-changing?

Art makes stronger connections between us and forges a more inclusive community. And strong communities thrive and are great places in which to live and play.

We know PNC funds arts programs for young students. How does that work?

We know the arts have a great impact on the development of a child’s brain when it comes to creativity, problem-solving and math concepts. And beyond theory, we’ve seen firsthand the impact arts can have on a young person’s life. We had a young student come to our leadership meeting recently who was an excellent violinist. His mother shared with us the impact music had on building her son’s self-esteem. He went from a struggling student to an honor student. Music gave him the confidence and discipline to participate in school.

PNC has supported numerous arts and cultural groups. What are the things you consider when deciding what to support?

We look at a lot of different opportunities. We focus on what we think would be most engaging for the community. For example, the Bechtler Jazz series, where our support allowed the museum to double the number of performances, is something people seem to enjoy, as the performances are sold out. We also like to support a variety of acts, from individual performers like Michael McDonald during last year’s Celebrity Series, to the PNC Music Pavilion and acts like One Direction and Lionel Richie.

What’s been the best part of PNC’s involvement in the arts?

To me, it’s all about seeing people enjoy themselves. It’s fun to bring exhibitions to Charlotte that otherwise may not have made it here, like “Women of Vision: National Geographic Photographers on Assignment.” We look for important works to share with our community about relevant topics, and that feels great and makes us proud.

Anything coming up that you can share with us?

We have a lot of big projects in the works, and later this fall we’ll share exciting news about upcoming exhibits and community projects. Stay tuned. n

Blumenthal, PNC Bank Take on New Broadway Season

“Investing in fresh and imaginative arts programs helps to enrich our community and strengthen our economy by providing employment, boosting tourism and making the region attractive for businesses, residents and visitors. The level of creativity and collaboration demonstrated by our local arts community will have a positive impact on the economic and cultural vitality of this region.”

Weston M. AndressRegional president of

Western Carolina for PNC Bank

The PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group (NYSE: PNC), actively supports organizations that provide services for the benefit of communities in which it has a significant presence. The foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood

education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture. Through Grow Up Great, its signature cause that began in 2004, PNC has created a $350 million, multiyear initiative to help prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life.

Barb Bascom

PNC Foundation

ChairmanPeg and Jay AdamczykDr. Milton and Arlene Berkman Philanthropic FundVickie and Tom GabbardBarbara and David GoodmanRenee and Chris HobartMr. and Mrs. William B. McGuire, Jr.Michael, Jaime and Allie MondayJeanne and Rick Puckett

DirectorBelinda and Timothy GunterWendy and Michael Kahn

President Anonymous (2)Cathy and Jim BailyMr. William M. Barnhardt and Mrs. Nancy B. ThomasChristine and Arthur BeckerThe Blumenthal Foundation – Amy and Philip BlumenthalBetsy and Alfred BrandMr. William K. Diehl, Jr.Victoria and Porter DurhamElizabeth and James FaulknerDorlisa and Peter FlurSandra and Stephen GodofskyBeverly and Jim HanceDiane and Chuck HarringtonDavid and Nancy HauserSally Hawk and Tommi LeviLaura and Jeff HayKearns Saldinger Charitable FoundationJulie and Howard LevineMr. and Mrs. George RaftelisLynn and Bill SullivanKaren and Edgar Whitener

BenefactorAnonymous (1)Julie and Riaz BhamaniJennifer and John BlumerRobin and Lea BurtNan and Hal ClarkeAmy and Alfred DawsonJim Donahue

Charlie ElbersonGrace, Michael and John GallowayDouglas R. and Elizabeth G. GoldsteinMrs. Gail GrimLisa and Greg HaislipRebecca S. Henderson and J. Michael BooeNora and Thomas HughesSusan and David JamisonJuanita and Lloyd JohnsonHedy and John ManryAnna and Tom NelsonWendy and Frank RosenBrenda and Bill RyanJane and Nelson SchwabLisa and Glenn SherrillNorma and Rodney ShortThe Levine-Sklut Family Foundation – Lori and Eric SklutAnne and Robert StolzJacqueline A. TuckerMr. E. I. Weisiger, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. WhiteLisa and Kenny WilsonAmy Wooden and Joe KolodziejJoan and Robert Zimmerman

InvestorAnonymous (1)Holly and Jeff AtkinsMs. Elizabeth AustinJohn and Anne BarryJoyce and Andrew BergerThe Donald H. and Barbara K.– Bernstein Family FoundationMr. and Mrs. Thomas A.BlockerMr. and Mrs. Alan BlumenthalLaura BondesenPeggy and Ray BouleyMeghann and Ben BournePat and Tim BrierMary and Frank BrownKaty and James BullockJeff and Anne Brady CarlsonKarmen CassellElaine and Steve CoatsGloria and Peter De ArcangelisLee Ann and Steve DeCarlo

Michele DurkinBeth and Jonathan FeitLandrum and Kathie FisherTodd E. Gardner, MDIn Memory of Judy GerhartKaren and Greg GonzalezRandy GriffinPamela Hanna, M.D.Robin and Blaine HawkinsPatti and Mark HawleyKathy and Ben HillCarol HornMandy and Todd HouserPeggy and James HynesMichelle JohnsonMary Jean and Howard L. KushnerPatty and Chris LambertThe Leon Levine Foundation – Sandra and Leon LevineAshley and Scott MatteiJill MaxwellJane and Hugh McCollAngie and Freddie MedlinDr. Shannon Moran and Mr. Joseph LovalloJanet and Peter NixonDonald O'ShieldsJim PutnamKen RothmelJean and Matthew SalisburyMr. and Mrs. Jason C. SchmidlyRoger Shaul, Jr.Rose and Tom SherardJune SilverSherry and Tom SkainsCindy and David SolidayIngrid and Walter SteeleDia and Paul SteigerDavid ThomasonSandy and Greg VlahosCatherine and Scott WarfieldMary Ellen and Reid WilkersonJohnnie Willis and Michael GreenJennifer and John Wozniak

Grand PatronLarry AdamsValerie and Bill AlexanderLeslie Alston

Bryan and Kristen BarbozaDr. and Mrs. Edward S. BaumLinda and Ralph BeckMarinn and Scott BengelMark BernsteinLakana and Tony BikhaziCrandall and Erskine BowlesLaura and Sam BowlesKristin and Buck BradberryBill and Robin BranstromKathleen BrittonJerod BrownPeter and Cynthia BuckDr. Chris BurkettBret BurquestBrent ClevengerHarvey and Muri CorzinLori and Roger CuddyRose and Bill CummingsKarin and Sean DaviesJoni and Aaron DavisMr. and Mrs. Robert W. Deaton Donna and Alvaro de MolinaLori and Jeff DemingBetty DoriaPepper and Roddey Dowd, Sr.Brigid and James DownsMarcia and Bob DynkoKathy and Tom EwingDr. and Mrs. Roger J. FishMichele and Walter FisherJoyce Staley FordJohn R. GeorgiusAnne and George GoodyearMolly and Robert GriffinHeather and Dana HansonEllen and Ned HardisonWilliam HertzingCarolyn and Tim HiltonDr. Ann Hoscheit and Mr. Joe DavisLarissa and Ken HuberKathy and Charlie IzardDavid S. JacobsonLynn JeffreyMarie-Claire Marroum-KardousLinda and Kerry KennerVirginia A. KernJanice S. LadleyBeverly and John Lassiter

James LedbetterMelinda LeithMarc and Xhenis LevackH. Joseph MachicoteLaura and Joseph MaximStephen P. McClureBetsy and T. Bragg McLeodBarbara and Josh MeeksMs. Marie MitchellJared MobleyJill and Ed NewmanMr. Edwin PeacockDonna and Steve PernottoFidel and Laura PrietoCindy and Randy RiceDr. and Mrs. Richard S. RobertsSally and Russell RobinsonLisa and Robert RollinsWilliam R. RollinsCarla and Ed RoseSally SereniusMr. and Mrs. Charles M. Shelton, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Donald J. SherrillRita and Pat ShevlinPeggy and Pope ShufordThe Marc and Mattye Silverman FoundationSherry and Tom SkainsRosemary and Paul SmithTom E. SmithPatricia and John StewartClaudia and David StrickertCarrie and Jeff TeixeiraMr. and Mrs. Jack H. ThomasLee and George VeltriEllen and Ron VilasDan and Sylvia WarrenLarry WeemsDrs. James and Jackie WheelerTeresa and Stick WilliamsPat and Bill WilliamsonCathey and Rip Winfield

PRODUCER’S CIRCLE members

Contributions received from Sept. 1, 2013, through Sept. 1, 2014.

MEMBERSHIPHow to Become a MemberBecome a Member today and start taking advantage of the great benefits! • Visit us online at BlumenthalArts.org/Individuals then “Make a Gift” • Call Tara Spil at 704.379.1353 • Visit the Box Office in Belk Theater lobby at 130 N. Tryon St.


Producer’s Circle members received exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with the cast and crew

of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, which garnered rave reviews this summer.

The cast and crew gathered at Mert’s Heart & Soul restaurant in uptown following the opening night performance in Belk Theater. Producer’s Circle members Nila and Roger Fish and Kathleen Britton met the stars of the show and the crew there. Celebrating with the stars after a

phenomenal opening night and hearing stories of traveling with a Broadway production is a unique experience!

Producer’s Circle members also enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks prior to performances and during intermission in the Producer’s Circle Lounge on the Mezzanine Lobby of the Belk Theater, and more.

Interested in supporting the arts while receiving VIP benefits? Call Individual Giving Manager Tara Spil at 704-379-1353, or email [email protected].

Producer’s Circle Members Celebrate With the Stars

Producer’s Circle members pose with stars of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, Nathaniel Stampley, far right, and Alicia Hall Moran, far left, at the opening night cast party.

LEADERSHIP gift SIGNATURE gifts

Duke Energy Ticket Scholarship Fundan Arts for All Initiative

Presenting SponsorThe Blumey Awards

FOUNDATION gifts

THE DOCTOR FAMILY FOUNDATION

Education Programs and Student Scholarships

The Arts & Science Council supports Blumenthal Performing Arts’ 2014 fi cal year budget with a Basic Operating Grant in the amount of $312,092.

Blumenthal Performing Arts receives support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Resources.

PRESIDENTIAL partners

MAJOR gifts

Big Brothers Big Sisters Ticket Sponsoran Arts for All Initiative

Preferred Catering Partner of Blumenthal Performing Arts

Preferred Dining and Catering Partner of Blumenthal Performing Arts


partnersCORPORATE

CEO partners

Official Airline of Blumenthal Performing Arts

THE LOVETT FOUNDATION THE LEON LEVINE FOUNDATION

Broadway Lights Sponsor

Learning happens in many ways, including through

the transformative power of the performing arts. Snyder’s-Lance is proud to support educational programs at Blumenthal Performing Arts by sponsoring the Big Brothers Big Sisters Ticket Scholarship program. This program increases access to the arts and offers “Bigs” and “Littles” educational and fun experiences.

Last season, the program awarded more than 230 scholarships. Entering the third season supporting the ticket scholarship program, Snyder’s-Lance hopes even more children are able to attend a show.

“This is an easy and fun activity that mentors can do with the kids, and it doesn’t require a ticket purchase,” says Rick Puckett, Snyder’s-Lance executive vice president and Blumenthal chairman of the board. “Anytime a child gets to experience the arts, it’s a win-win for everyone.”

Snyder's-Lance Giving the Gift of the Arts

Support from Snyder’s-Lance helps enable mentors in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program to take their "Littles" to experience a show.

RESTAURANT partners


Directing PartnersErnst & Young LLPGranite Sky DesignPublix Super Markets CharitiesTeam Creatif USA

Executive PartnersBelk, IncBlackArch Partners LPBritish American Business Council Crescent Communities, LLCDeloitteFamily Dollar Stores, Inc.InterCon Building CorporationLincoln Harris LLPMcGuire Woods, LLPMidrex Technologies, Inc.North Highland CompanyNUCORParker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLPRodgers Builders Inc.SteelFab, Inc.UTC Aerospace SystemsWomble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice PLLC

Managing PartnersBaird Private Wealth ManagementC design Inc.Charlotte Paint Co. Inc.Charlotte Pipe and FoundryCohnReznick LLPCommercial Flooring SolutionsImageMarkLittleMcGladrey McMahon Truck CentersPreferred Electric Co., Inc.Raffaldini Vineyards & WineryRobinson Bradshaw & Hinson P.A.Toshiba Global Commerce SolutionsWhite Knight Engineered Products, Inc.

Associate PartnersAjax Rolled Ring & MachineAlfred Williams & CompanyBalfour Beatty ConstructionBeacon PartnersBehringer Harvard

Chicago Title Insurance CompanyCM Steel Inc.Coca-Cola Bottling Co. ConsolidatedCochrane Steel, Inc.Crosland SoutheastCSI Leasing, Inc.Datatech Information Services, Inc.Dixon Hughes Goodman LLPDSG Concrete ContractorsE.F. Belk Son IncForsythe Solutions Group, Inc.Galvan Industries IncGarmon & Company, Inc. Commercial FlooringHigh Performance Technologies Inc.Hood Hargett & Associates, Inc.Hoopaugh Grading Company, LLCHoward Brothers ElectricKatalyst Network GroupMcGrann Paper CorporationMcNeary Inc.MDI GroupMesser Construction CompanyOdell Associates

PMMCRobert E. Mason & Associates, Inc.Robert Pittenger CompanyRogers Unloading ServiceSchindler Elevator Corp.Signature ConsultantsStaley Inc.Tandus FlooringTerri DeBoo Ideas@WorkThe Secret ChocolatierTrinity ConsultingUnited Mechanical Corp.Velligan Medical Services, PCWalbridge SoutheastWillisXenTegra

Contributions received from Sept. 1, 2013, through Sept. 1, 2014.

Blumenthal recognizes the following sponsors and corporate partners for their generous support.

Aria’s Fabulous Catering Is No Myth

The Blumenthal Performing Arts’ Annual Corporate Partner Campaign is in full swing. For information on how to take a lead role as a Blumenthal Corporate Partner, scan this QR code or contact

Susan Yarber, Corporate Relations & Sponsorship manager, at 704-379-1355 or [email protected].

Take a Lead RoleBlumenthal Performing Arts Corporate Partner Campaign

Sept. 9 – Nov. 24, 2014

Aria will cater the Blumenthal Performing Arts Corporate Partner Campaign Finale where

corporate partners and campaign volunteers will enjoy heavy appetizers and desserts before attending Mythbusters: Behind The Myths Tour in the Belk Theater.

Aria Tuscan Grill, located in Founder’s Hall, is a favorite pre-show dinner venue. Aria captures the colors and flavors of Tuscany, serving mouth-watering Old World comfort food reimagined in a modern Italian setting. Using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, Executive Chef Frank Altomare finds his inspiration in the simplicity of flavors found throughout the Tuscan coast and countryside. Aria's menu is

complimented by its predominantly Italian wine list, house-made Limoncello and specialty cocktails.

Aria is the flagship restaurant of locally grown Sonoma Restaurant Group, which originated in the uptown market 17 years ago. The group now includes Aria Tuscan Grill, City Smoke, SRG Catering and Founders Hall Special Events.

Whether you need dinner reservations, a late night bite or catering for a special event, Pierre Bader and Sonoma Restaurant Group offer something for everyone.

Blumenthal Performing Arts is grateful to Aria Tuscan Grill for serving as Blumenthal's preferred dining and catering partner.

704.972.4380bltsteak.com

704.927.2583 bluerestaurantandbar.com

704.733.9427bubblecharlotte.com

704.601.4141chima.cc

704.643.1664deandeluca.com

704.334.2739www.rockbottom.com

704.342.1193theasbury.com

704.348.1400thecapitalgrille.com

onstageFall/Winter 2014-15

BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS130 N. Tryon St.Charlotte, NC 28202

Feb. 4-15, 2015 • Belk TheaterON SALE NOW

onstage 2014-15 fall/winter

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