SMU Page Series to host Canadian trio Vishtén

WINONA, Minn. — The Canadian trio Vishtén will take to the Saint Mary’s Page Theatre stage 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, with spirited percussive rhythms, impressive three-part harmonies and high-stepping footwork.

Each performance is a warm, dynamic rendering of French-rooted, Celtic-infused traditions. Yet Vishtén uniquely blends together songs that are four centuries old with fresh melodies that are newly minted by the band. They successfully and dynamically incorporate elements of new influences while retaining and staying true to the essential Acadian spirit of their roots.

Twin sisters Emmanuelle and Pastelle LeBlanc grew up thinking everyone had kitchens full of music and that everyone had house parties where visitors step-danced, sang, and fiddled into the wee hours. Joined by Pascal Miousse, their mesmerizing live shows capture the freewheeling, upbeat feeling of a kitchen music-making marathon.

The band members are accomplished multi-instrumentalists and step-dancers incorporating the fiddle, guitar, accordion, penny-whistle, mandolin, piano, jaw-harp and bodhran into each performance.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hand-Knit Worn by You Contest

The members of Vishtén are avid knitters. In honor of this time-honored craft, patrons are invited to come early and show off their hand-knit clothing and accessories in the lobby of the Performance Center. Photo ops will be available. Participants will be eligible to win prizes including tickets to future events, gift certificates from Yarnology, and more.