Explore the comedic side of science with Doktor Kaboom Jan. 16 at SMU

WINONA, Minn. — Audiences will explode with laughter as Doktor Kaboom takes the stage during Saint Mary’s University’s next Page Series offering Thursday, Jan. 16.

The event, which begins at 6:30 p.m. in SMU’s Page Theatre, creatively blends theatre arts with the wonders of scientific exploration. Doktor Kaboom keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter. Join him for a sidesplitting journey of increasingly spectacular, and often successful, experiments and demonstrations. Using masterful improvisational skills, the artist takes his audience on an amusing tour of the modern scientific method while demonstrating spectacular applications of the physical sciences.

Doktor Kaboom is the creation of actor/comedian David Epley, who says he has been fortunate enough to discover two passions in his life. His first, science, took him to studies at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. His second, performing, became his career, and for 20 years Epley has made his living writing, performing and directing original interactive comedy across the U.S. and Canada. He now brings his passions together with an explosive style that refuses to allow his audiences time to catch a breath.

Tickets are $14 for adults, $6 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., (507) 457-1715, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Page Series to bring classic fairy tales with warped twists to life Oct. 3 at SMU

WINONA, Minn. — Young and old alike will enjoy the Griffin Theatre Company performance of “
Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales” 
Thursday, Oct. 3, at Saint Mary’s University.

This Page Series production will begin at 6:30 p.m. in SMU’s Page Theatre.

Jack has a problem. He’s successfully grown an enormous beanstalk, scaled to the top, and stolen a golden harp and gold-laying goose from the sleeping giant. Things get a bit sketchy when said giant wakes up. Find out how old, slightly warped, fairy tales come to his rescue.


Over the past 22 years, the Griffin Theatre Company of Chicago has provided a wide range of work including world and mid-west premieres of acclaimed scripts, critically lauded productions of Shakespeare and original adaptations of novels.


Tickets are $14 for adults, $6 for seniors and students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

A “Gathering for Jack” will begin at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, in the Winona Public Library Children’s Room. Enjoy some tall tales and fabulous shorts, and take a chance at winning tickets to the Oct. 3 performance.

Saint Mary’s welcomes The Second City Sept. 5 to kick off 2013-14 Page Series

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University kicks off its Page Series offerings with the side-splitting comedic talents of The Second City Thursday, Sept. 5.

Drawing on classic material from The Second City archives as well as scenes ripped from the morning headlines, The Second City’s Happily Ever Laughter is your chance to see comedy stars in the making in an evening of smart, cutting edge comedy.

The Second City continues to deliver the leading voices in comedy while touring the globe. With scripted and improvisational elements, audiences always enjoy being part of the show and playing along with the next generation of comic legends. Many of comedy’s brightest stars have hit the road with The Second City Touring Company including Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, Bill Murray, Keegan Michael Key and most recently, current Saturday Night Live stars Cecily Strong, Tim Robinson and Jason Sudeikis.

The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. Tickets are $27 for adults, $24 for seniors and students and are available online at www.pagetheatre.org, or at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

‘Guys and Dolls’ on stage Feb. 23-26 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Department of Theatre and Dance will present the classic Broadway musical “Guys and Dolls” from Feb. 23-26.

The Tony-Award-winning musical, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, was first presented in 1950 and has enjoyed many revivals. It's considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy.

Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, “Guys and Dolls” soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to a legendary cast of vivid characters: Sarah Brown, the upright but uptight missionary out to reform the evildoers of Time Square; Sky Masterson, the slick, high-rolling gambler who woos her on a bet and ends up falling in love; Adelaide, the chronically ill nightclub performer whose condition is brought on by a 14-year marriage engagement; and Nathan Detroit, her devoted fiancé, desperate as always to find a spot for his infamous floating craps game.

“Guys and Dolls” is directed by Gary Diomandes with music direction by Judy Myers and choreography by Christine Martin. Showtimes in SMU’s Page Theatre are 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 23-25, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. They’re available online at www.pagetheatre.org or at the Performance Center Box Office, (507) 457-1715, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saint Mary’s Page Series hosts Luna Negra Dance Theatre Oct. 22

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University will come alive with colorful costumes and spirited dance as the Luna Negra Dance Theatre takes the stage Saturday, Oct. 22.

A representative from the Latin dance company will present a free pre-show at 6:30 p.m. in Figliulo Recital Hall, just prior to the 7:30 p.m. performance in Page Theatre. Both locations are in the SMU Performance Center.

Founded in 1999 by Cuban-born dancer and choreographer Eduardo Vilaro, Luna Negra Dance Theater makes its home in Chicago.

Dedicated to the creation of bold works by Latino contemporary choreographers, Luna Negra serves as a springboard for Latino artists to give expression to their stories and bring new, spirited life to the cultures of their communities.

Luna Negra offers its audiences effervescent, energetic and passionate contemporary Latino dance that blends the discipline of ballet with the fiery energy of Latin and Afro-Caribbean forms and rhythms. This innovative company collaborates with visual and media artists, musicians, and composers to consistently push the creative limits of their performances.

Tickets for this Page Series performance are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students.

To order, go online to www.pagetheatre.org or call the box office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

This visit is supported, in part, by Arts Midwest.

Saint Mary’s is a fiscal year 2011 recipient of an Institutional Presenter Support grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on Nov. 4, 2008.

Dance Repertory Company to present spring concert

WINONA, Minn. — The 2010-2011 Saint Mary’s University performance season will conclude with the Dance Repertory Company’s annual spring concert, “Dance Mosaic,” Friday and Saturday, April 29 and 30.

The events, which are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. April 29 and 3 p.m. April 30, will be held in Page Theater.

In honor of National Dance Week, these performances will feature five works including “A Tender Age,” a contemporary ballet about the coming of age of young women “Summer Sons,” a tap piece with live jazz music accompaniment; “In Flux,” a student choreographed piece from which an excerpt represented the university at this year’s American College Dance Festival; “Having/Making/Taking,” a modern work that explores the relationship between people and time; and “Love It!,” a jazz piece set to the music of Lyle Lovett.

For close to four decades, the Dance Repertory Company has provided the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works. This year, the DRC presents contemporary ballet, jazz, tap and modern dance.

Performed by the dancers who currently train at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and Saint Mary’s University, “Dance Mosaic,” will showcase their effervescent spirit, vibrant energy, and technical and artistic abilities.

The company’s artistic director, Tammy Schmidt, as well as Heidi Draskoci-Johnson, Lydia Feuerhelm, Christine Martin, and guest artist Tony Smith of Houston, Texas, choreographed this year’s concert.

Cast members in “Dance Mosaic” include: Dot Armstrong, Caroline Bartz, Jarod Boltjes, Jack Bryant, Mary Doctor, Keegan Eide, Lydia Feuerhelm, Anne Flicek, Courtney Klein, Bryony Livesey, Cory Meier, Joanna Mills, Bryan Moore, Colette Penic, Danielle Schleich, Adelle Vietor, Kaitlyn Vietor, Hannah Virlee, Danielle Weir and Anna Wolner.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or by calling the box office at (507) 457-1715 Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dance Repertory Company is the pre-professional performance group of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. Company members participate in rehearsals, technique classes and stage performances. Past productions of the company include: “The Firebird,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Nutcracker,” “Excerpts from Swan Lake,” “Cinderella,” “An Evening with Benny Goodman,” “Youth In Motion,” “Tappin' to Connick,” “Pure Entertainment,” “Dance Chronicles,” and “Time to Move.”

This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on Nov. 4, 2008.

For more information about The Dance Repertory Company other arts programming at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Dance Repertory Company presents spring concert April 23-24

WINONA, Minn. — The Dance Repertory Company’s performance season will conclude with a recital titled “An Evening with Benny Goodman,” at Saint Mary’s University. This performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 23, and at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 24, in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

For more than three decades, the Dance Repertory Company has delighted the Winona community with quality dance productions featuring local dancers in classical and contemporary works. This year, the DRC presents contemporary dance to the timeless music of Benny Goodman.

The concert will feature three restaged works, “Bugle Call Rag,” “Christopher Columbus,” and “Sing, Sing, Sing,” from the company’s repertoire in the 2000 production of “The Goodman Suite,” as well as eight new works including: “Don’t Be That Way,” “King Porter’s Stomp,” “Sometimes I’m Happy,” “Let’s Dance,” “Ti-Pin-Ti,” “These Foolish Things,” “Goody Goody,” and “I Would Do Anything For You.” Heidi Draskoci-Johnson, Christine Martin, Andrea Mirenda, Juliana Piscitiello and the company’s artistic director, Tammy Schmidt, choreographed this year’s concert featuring tap, jazz, contemporary ballet, swing and modern dance.

“This year marks the 10th anniversary of “The Goodman Suite” and as our nation celebrates Benny Goodman’s 100th birthday as well as national dance week, this concert is the perfect way to spend an evening at the Page,” said Christine Martin, production coordinator.

The dancers of this performance currently train at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts and at Saint Mary’s University. Cast members include: Dot Armstrong, Jarod Boltjes, Lauren Callahan, Jennifer Cambio, Fallon Devine, Genna Draskoci-Johnson, Keegan Eide, Lydia Feuerhelm, Jami Fonfara, Annie Garrigan, Charlotte Hardick, Caitlin Kaman, Kate Larson, Justine Meinke, Joanna Mills, Bryan Moore, Rachael Moore, Laura-Leigh Newton, Jocelyn Olson, Colette Penic, Matt Polum, Miranda Ruben, Danielle Schleich, Laura Schleich, Natalie Schleich, Claire Smart, Brian Smith, Phil Soulides, Danny Spiess, Eldon Vaselaar, Adelle Vietor, Kaitlyn Vietor, Nicole Volner, Calli Jo Wagner and Anna Wolner.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. The Page Theatre will admit children ages 5 and older to the April 23 evening performance. The April 24 afternoon performance is considered a family event and children ages 2 and older are welcome. At this time the Page Theatre/SMU Performance Center facilities and programs are not equipped to serve the needs of infants. Tickets are available online at www.pagetheatre.org or by calling the SMU Performance Center at (507) 457-1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Saint Mary’s jazz groups to perform April 16

WINONA, Minn. — The 18-piece Saint Mary’s University Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I will perform their final concert of the semester at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 16, in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center. The featured soloist will be trumpeter Dr. Joe Morgan of Rochester. Both groups are directed by professor of music, Dr. John Paulson.

Some of the selections include a new arrangement of the “007” James Bond theme by recent graduate and vibraphonist Jeremy Johnston; an arrangement of “Secret Love” featuring the trombone section; the Wayne Shorter tune “One by One” arranged by Mark Taylor; and a new arrangement of Gershwin’s “My Ship” by Dave Rivello, featuring baritone saxophonist Benjamin Scott. Tenor saxophonist Ross Nixon of Winona Senior High School will play the solo part on “Midnight Voyage” by Michael Brecker, and alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams will be featured on the Grammy-winning Quincy Jones selection “Quintessence.”

The Jazz Ensemble has been recording their first CD “Staycation,” which they started recording during February break. Music technology students from Saint Mary’s are recording under the supervision of engineer and SMU adjunct instructor Brett Huus, along with input from Dr. Paulson. They hope to release the CD at Family Weekend next September.



Guest musician Dr. Morgan has been performing, composing and teaching professionally for nearly 10 years. While pursuing a degree in trumpet performance at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, he had the opportunity to study with Edmund Cord, former principal trumpet of the Israel Philharmonic and Utah Symphony Orchestras, as well as do jazz improvisation with Pat Harbison and renowned jazz pedagogue David Baker. While at IU, Dr. Morgan led the acclaimed brass quintet 58 Feet of Tubing and organized a re-recording and performance of Columbia Records’ Grammy award-winning 1968 LP The Antiphonal Music of Gabrieli by brass faculty and students, including two members of the original personnel.

Since then, he has performed with a variety of orchestral and big band ensembles, including the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Columbus Symphony, and Bloomington Pops, as well as the New Millennium Jazz Orchestra, and has shared the stage with several notable jazz musicians, including Mark Colby, Tom “Bones” Malone, Bob Mintzer, Mark Van Cleave and Ernie Watts. He plays on a Bach Stradivarius trumpet and a Yamaha flugelhorn and has been published in national music and medical professional journals.
Dr. Morgan also pursued his medical education at the Indiana University School of Medicine, finishing coursework in 2009. He is currently a clinical research fellow in Orthopedic Sports Medicine at the Mayo Clinic.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors, and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU Page Series hosts Moscow Festival Ballet

WINONA, Minn. — The Moscow Festival Ballet will present “Giselle” — a story of love, betrayal, madness, revenge and forgiveness — at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Saint Mary’s University’s Page Theatre.

The Moscow Festival Ballet, under the direction of former Bolshoi principal dancer Sergei Radchenko, has amassed a loyal following across the United States for its technically precise and respectful interpretations of grand ballet in the admired Russian tradition.

“Giselle” is the story of a pure and innocent peasant girl who is jilted by a rich nobleman. Driven insane by the ending of their relationship, she dies and enters the graveyard world of ghosts of vengeful brides betrayed by undeserving suitors. The role of Giselle is one of the most sought-after in all of ballet, as it requires technical perfection, dazzling grace, lyricism and great dramatic skill.

The Moscow Festival Ballet was founded in 1989 when Radchenko sought to bring together the highest classical elements of the great Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies in an independent new company within the framework of Russian classic ballet.

Tickets are $27 for adults, $25 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make it dinner and a show! Pre-show dinners, provided by Chartwells Catering, will be available, beginning at 6 p.m. in the President's Room of the Toner Student Center. Orders will be accepted up to one week prior to each event. Reservations can be made online or through the box office. Adult dinners are $22 and include chicken, beef and vegetarian options. Children's dinners are $14.

SMU Page Series offers ‘If you Give a Pig a Pancake’ and other stories Feb. 6

WINONA, Minn. — It’s no ordinary pig tale. Audience members will learn why it’s probably poor judgment to give a pig a pancake Friday, Feb. 6, at Saint Mary’s University. The Page Series presentation, which begins at 6:30 p.m., features Theatreworks USA in this familiar children’s story where offering a pig syrup leads to baths, baths lead to bubbles, bubbles lead to rubber ducks, and rubber ducks lead to wanting a trip to the farm. This, along with many other favorite kids’ storybooks will come to life on the SMU Page Theatre stage. Stories may include “Diary of a Worm,” “Fluffy the Classroom Guinea Pig,” “Horace & Morris but Mostly Dolores,” “How I Became a Pirate,” “Lilly’s Big Day,” “The Paper Bag Princess” and “Ruby Mae Has Something to Say.”

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Ticket reduction deadline nears for 2008-09 Page Series

WINONA, Minn. — Friday, Aug. 1, is the last day to save up to 25 percent on season tickets for the Saint Mary’s University 2008-09 Page Series. Returning subscribers can save up to 25 percent when they order tickets from three or more shows in the series. New subscribers can save 10 percent.

This year’s lineup promises to entertain, educate or enlighten every member of the household. From the Song & Dance Ensemble of West Africa on Oct. 28 to the Acrobats of China Feb. 3, the Page Series programming is filled with international flare. Dance fans will enjoy the fiery footwork of Compañia Flamenco José Porcel, Oct. 8, and the graceful classic “Sleeping Beauty,” performed by the Russian National Ballet Jan. 27. For music lovers, pianist George Winston takes the stage Dec. 19, and the Dave Munnelly Band will bring their Irish music to SMU March 5, just in time for Saint Patrick’s Day.

All of the shows are suitable for families, but a full lineup of children’s shows is planned including: Omaha Theatre Company’s Horribly Harry, Nov. 5; Grammy nominated performer Red Grammer, Jan. 13; TheatreworksUSA’s If you Give a Pig a Pancake Feb. 6; and Einstein Alive! March 12. Since there’s no age limit on fun; adults are always welcome!

Order your tickets now and save; reserve the best seats in town all season long. Order online at www.pagetheatre.org or through the Box Office, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at (507) 457-1715.

Individual tickets go on sale Aug. 18.

SMU announces ’08-09 Page Series season

Compania Flamenco (top) and the Acrobats of China are just two acts scheduled for the 2008-09 Page Series season.

WINONA, Minn. — From flying acrobats to pigs with pancakes and from flamenco dance flamboyance to Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s 2008-2009 Page Series promises something for everyone.

The Page Series, celebrating its 22nd year, continues its longstanding tradition of bringing world-class professional performing artists to Winona. This year’s artists come from Russia, Ireland, Africa, Spain — and straight from the pages of storybooks.

Oct. 8 — 7:30 p.m., Compania Flamenco José Porcel
$22, $18 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush

Direct from Spain, the stunning José Porcel and his company of talented dancers represent the best in classic, traditional flamenco while flawlessly melding contemporary styles and moves. Prepare for an evening of fiery footwork, brilliant costumes and evocative, sensual choreography. The October program features eight dances, ranging from electrifying solos by Porcel to larger pieces for the company of eight men and women. In addition, the audience will be treated to live performances by a musical ensemble and traditional flamenco singers.

Oct. 28 — 7:30 p.m., The Song and Dance Ensemble of West Africa
$22, $18 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush

This unique ensemble is formed from the rich musical dance traditions of the countries of West Africa. Comprised of singers, dancers, and musicians, this company combines traditional instruments, folklore, and mythology from the countries of Mali, Senegal, Ghana and the Ivory Coast to paint a colorful and exciting picture of the oral and musical traditions of these diverse peoples. Musical styles of the Western world, including reggae and Latin beats, are blended in to create a music that moves its listeners.

Nov. 5 — 6:30 p.m., Omaha Theater Company: Horrible Harry
$10, $5 seniors or students
* Daytime school matinee 10 a.m. Nov. 5

How much trouble can a second-grader cause? How horrible can Horrible Harry really be? This world premiere performance, adapted for the stage by the Omaha Theater Company’s Artistic Director James Larson, features favorite stories from the popular book series by Suzy Kline. Fun-loving and full of mischief, Harry is always the center of attention with his string of nonstop pranks and antics. When his sworn enemy, Sydney, accidentally kills Harry’s pet spider, he gets even with her on the school field trip to the scary prison and creepy copper mine.

Dec. 19 — 7:30 p.m., George Winston
$25, $20 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush
Pre-show dinner available: $20 adult/$12 children

Described as mellow, atmospheric and emotional, pianist George Winston is best known for his melodic rural folk piano style. Frequently drawing from the transcendent beauty of nature and the changing seasons, he also pays tribute to the musicians of New Orleans. The musician will play selections from his latest CD, “Gulf Coast Blues and Impressions-A Hurricane Relief Benefit,” as well as from his melodic seasonal recordings including “December” and “Winter Into Spring.”

Jan. 13 — 6:30 p.m., Red Grammer
$10, $5 seniors or students
* Daytime school matinee 10 a.m. Jan. 13

Grammy-nominated family entertainer Red Grammer is one of the premier entertainers of children and families in America. Described by Parents Magazine as “the best voice in children’s music,” Red has set the gold standard for writing and performing music that playfully reconnects each one of us with the best in ourselves. Red will play tunes from “BeBop Your Best! … Music To Build Character By,” his new Grammy-nominated collection of songs for kids of all ages. “Picking the best of Red Grammer is like picking the best chocolate from a box of Godiva: there’s no way you can lose...” Parents’ Choice Awards

Jan. 27 — 7:30 p.m., Russian National Ballet: Sleeping Beauty
$25, $20 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush
Pre-show dinner available: $20 adult/$12 children

The forces of good and evil and musical fantasies are brought to life in this ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. “Sleeping Beauty” has been a perennial favorite since its first Western debut by Serge Diaghilev in London in 1921. The first ballet seen in the West by the Russian master Marius Petipa, “Sleeping Beauty” has established itself as one of the classical repertoire’s most famous ballets. The Russian National Ballet Theatre was founded in Moscow during the transitional period of Perestroika in the late 1980s; it has been led by the legendary Bolshoi principal dancer Sergei Radchenko since 1994.

Feb. 3 — 7:30 p.m., Acrobats of China
$22, $18 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush

In a night of wonder for the whole family, the Acrobats of China will combine martial arts, spectacular costumes and breathtaking acrobatics. In this long-established Chinese tradition, every-day objects become tools to showcase the skills of the jugglers, spinners, and acrobats of this present-day troupe. Watch in amazement as 15 people balance on a bicycle, performers spin dozens of cups and saucers while doing the splits, and many other amazing feats of strength and flexibility.

Feb 6 — 6:30 p.m., Theatreworks USA: Give a Pig a Pancake and other Story Books
$10, $5 seniors or students
* Daytime school matinee 10 a.m. Feb. 6

Pigs can be so demanding. This is why it is probably poor judgment to give a pig a pancake. Syrup leads to baths; baths lead to bubbles; bubbles lead to rubber ducks; and rubber ducks lead to wanting a trip to the farm, playing out the classic scenario of “If you give an inch, they’ll take a mile.” Theatreworks USA will bring this loveable pig tale — along with many other favorite kids storybooks — to life. Stories may include: “Diary of a Worm,” “Fluffy the Classroom Guinea Pig,” “Horace & Morris but Mostly Dolores,” “How I Became a Pirate,” “Lilly’s Big Day,” “The Paper Bag Princess” and “Ruby Mae Has Something to Say.”

March 5, 7:30 p.m. — David Munnelly Band
$20, $17 seniors or students (ages 5 and older), $10 student rush

Ireland's young, multi-award winning David Munnelly Band is fast becoming one of the most sought after groups in Irish music. Led by button accordion wizard David Munnelly, who toured with The Chieftains for four years, as well as with DeDanaan and other legendary groups, the band plays with an exuberant style not often duplicated. The exciting sextet combines button accordion, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, banjo, piano, bodhrán and flute for a high-spirited instrumental sound colored with a bit of jazz and ragtime.

March 12 — 6:30 p.m., Einstein Alive!
$10, $5 seniors or students
* Daytime school matinees 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. March 12

Marc Spiegel's Einstein Alive! is a one-man show that is both entertaining and educational for audiences of all ages. Through theater, sing-along songs and audience participation, Spiegel vividly and realistically brings Einstein to life as he takes you on an adventure into the great genius' mind. Audience members will find themselves laughing while they learn complicated scientific theories, including Einstein’s Theory of Relativity.

Tickets for the 2008-2009 Season

Season tickets go on sale May 27. New season subscribers can save 10 percent when they buy three or more tickets for different events. Returning ’07-08 season subscribers can save 25 percent.
Individual tickets go on sale Aug. 18 for the first half of the season.
New this year will be “student rush tickets.” Any student can purchase a “rush” ticket 20 minutes before the beginning of an event for $10. Students provide a valid picture ID; there’s a limit of one ticket per student and no reserved seats.

Pre-show dinners
Plan a full evening with a pre-show dinner — catered by Chartwells — right next door in the Toner Student Center. A full menu will be announced later this summer. Performances with pre-show dinner options include George Winston and the Russian National Ballet

Daytime School Matinees
For more information about bringing your school or class to a matinee, e-mail the SMU Box Office at tickets@smumn.edu.

School matinee productions include:
• Omaha Theater Company’s “Horrible Harry” on Nov. 5
• Red Grammer on Jan. 13
• Theatreworks USA’s “If You Give a Pig a Pancake and Other Story Books” on Feb. 6
• and Marc Speigel’s “Einstein Alive!” March 12.

Additional school-matinee-only performances include:

Oct. 22, 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. — Pushcart Players: Stone Soup and Other Stories

A charming, well-seasoned blend, these carefully selected folk tales from around the world support the literacy movement's emphasis on the joy of reading. “Stone Soup...” is on the gourmet “not to be missed” list of young viewers! Story favorites from Africa, India, Eastern Europe, and the United States are filled with music, colors, fantasy, and fun. Each tale introduces the spirit and customs of other cultures while reinforcing the shared values of all peoples.

Dec. 3, Wednesday, 10 a.m. — Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts’ “The Nutcracker”

The ballet tells the heartwarming story of young Clara, who on Christmas Eve dreams of a battle pitting the Nutcracker Prince against the Rat King and his band of mice. At a pivotal moment, Clara comes to the aid of the Prince and helps him win the battle. To reward Clara for her help, the Prince takes her to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy and sees a beautiful array of ethnic dancers such as Spanish Coffee, Arabian, and Chinese Tea.

Thursday, May 14, 10 a.m. — Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts: Dance Repertory Company

Suitable and appealing for all ages, the annual spring concert by Dance Repertory Company offers a well-rounded dance experience by including a variety of dance styles in its performances. Full of youthful exuberance, effervescent spirit and burgeoning talent, the company upholds high artistic standards and commitment to technique, discipline and fun. From contemporary ballet to tap, and from jazz to hip hop, this annual concert promises delightful choreography performed by an equally delightful company of student dancers.

Sacrificing our children for victory: SMU theatre arts students to stage Greek tragedy ‘Iphigenia’ April 18-21

WINONA, Minn. —The Greek tragedy “Iphigenia at Aulis” will take on chilling contemporary significance during the Saint Mary’s University’s Department of Theatre Arts production April 18-21.

“Iphigenia at Aulis,” by Euripides, centers on Iphigenia, the teenage daughter of Agamemnon, the Commander in Chief of the Coalition of Greek Forces. While waiting to attack the town of Troy, Agamemnon offends the goddess, Artemis, who denies the army the wind of modern warfare, technology, stranding the fleet in the bay of Aulis. The Priest Calchas tells him that he must sacrifice his daughter, Iphigenia, to restore the wind and achieve ultimate victory.

SMU’s contemporary version of the tragedy — adapted and directed by Dr. Steven Bouler — explores the dark side of patriotism and war fever, and how far a politician-turned-warrior will go to secure a victory, even if it means sacrificing his own child.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, April 18, 19 and 21. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, April 20.

Tickets for the show — to be held in Page Theatre — are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU Page Series to present San Jose Taiko March 10

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University’s Page Series will host the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of San Jose Taiko 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 10.

Taiko — the Japanese drum — is an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and the heartbeat of Japan and its people. Priests used taiko to chase evil spirits and the insects from the rice fields; samurai used taiko to bolster their courage and to instill fear in the enemy; villagers used taiko to pray for rain, to enliven festivals and to give thanks for bountiful harvests.

San Jose Taiko has adopted these traditional values and infused the art of taiko with the vitality and freshness of their American spirit to create a dynamic and compelling Asian American art form. The music of San Jose Taiko weaves traditional Japanese sounds with the beat of world rhythms. African, Balinese, Latin, American rock and jazz merge to produce an innovative contemporary sound that brings diverse styles and resonates with the soul.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $20, $14 for seniors, $12 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU Page Series to present vocal talents of Chic Gamine

WINONA, Minn. —The rhythmic voices of Chic Gamine will fill Saint Mary’s Page Theatre with a unique harmonious blend of soulful music Wednesday, Feb. 20. SMU’s Page Series will present the all-women vocal group, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Performance Center.

Chic Gamine, a French-Canadian group of five women, uses a male solo percussionist as their only musical support. Their voices become their instruments as they launch into intricate string arrangements, bass-heavy rhythm sections and melodious harmonies. Together they create a sound that resounds with passion and their own particular brand of humor that leaves audiences begging for more.

The members of the group have been singing together in various formations since 1997. Most recently, three of them were members of the acclaimed world vocal ensemble Madrigaia, and look to embellish that legacy with new, original material. Their performance will draw from “soul, world and roots” – including African, Middle-Eastern, South-American music and, of course, French-Canadian Folk.

Tickets are $18, $12 for seniors, $10 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

SMU Page Series presents ‘Hansel and Gretel’ Feb. 7

WINONA, Minn. — A musical performance of “Hansel and Gretel,” will come to life through giant puppets, special effects, and beautiful costumes, Thursday, Feb. 7, at Saint Mary’s University. The Page Series will host the performance, produced by Theatre Sans Fil, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, located in the SMU Performance Center.

The familiar children’s tale will be accompanied by an orchestral soundtrack, created by Engelbert Humperdinck, that is based on Grimms’ fairly tale.

In “Hansel and Gretel,” the brother and sister are sent into the woods in search of strawberries, but are abandoned by their evil stepmother. Lost in the woods, they find a house made of candies and – unable to resist – they begin to eat it. The inhabitant of the house, an old woman, is actually a witch who has built the house to capture children, so that she may fatten and eat them. The children must rely on the only thing they have to save their lives – their wit.

Theatre Sans Fil, founded in Quebec in 1971, has performed across four continents in more than 25 countries, and has earned international recognition for its works with adults and children.

All tickets are $6, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

Saint Mary’s Page Series hosts Saint Petersburg Ballet Theatre

WINONA, Minn. — The world-renowned Saint Petersburg Ballet Theatre will stage the passionate tragedy of “Carmen” — a story of forbidden love, jealousy and murder — Jan. 24 at Saint Mary’s University.

The performance, part of SMU’s Page Series, will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre, located in the Performance Center.

Founded in 1966 by Peter Gusev, the Saint Petersburg Ballet Theatre was the first of its kind in Russia. The professional company is one of few ballet companies in Russia (along with the Kirov and the Bolshoi State and Academic Ballet Theatres) that has been given the title of “State and Academic Ballet,” the highest official status and honor by the Russian government.

In December 2000, the celebrated choreographer Yuri Petukhov became the company’s artistic director.

In the upcoming performance of “Carmen,” a soldier, Don Jose, abandons his regiment to run away with the beautiful gypsy Carmen. When the cards foretell of her and Don Jose’s deaths, she abandons him and runs to the bullfighter Escamillo. At the bullfight in Seville, Don Jose finds Carmen alone and begs her to run away with him. She insists their love affair is over and that she now loves Escamillo. In a rage, Don Jose murders Carmen as the crowd inside the bullring cheers Escamillo.

Tickets are $22, $16 for seniors and $14 for students and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

Saint Mary’s concert features jazz, percussion ensembles

Saint Mary’s will host an evening of rhythmic jazz and the unique ethnic sounds of Batucada Nossa Senhora, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre.

The 18-piece Saint Mary's Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will burn away any thoughts of snow when they perform with Wisconsin vocalist and swing singer Judi K.

Judi K began her career singing at weddings and in church; it was not until she met the great mandolinist, Jethro Burns, that her career truly began.

Her two recordings, “It’s Been A Long, Long Time” and “I’m Nobody's Baby,” feature the talents of Jim Beebe, Jethro Burns, Truck Parham, Connie Jones and tenor-saxophonist Franz Jackson.

Judi K has also performed with many musicians from around the United States. She performs at jazz festivals, outdoor concerts and private affairs. She recently returned from New Mexico, where she sang with the great Houston Person and several other musicians from across the country.

The big band's set with Judi K will include an arrangement of Irving Mill's ever-popular “Moonglow” and Johnny Mercer's “I Remember You.” Judi will also jam with Jazz Combo I on Ellington's famous tune “Don't Get Around Much Anymore.” Dave Wolpe arranged all of the pieces mentioned above. Other soloists with the big band include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams performing a Mike Tomaro arrangement of Thelonius Monk's haunting melody “'Round Midnight.” Tenor saxophonist Tony Freeman will solo on several selections with the jazz combo as well as the big band including “Cold Duck” time by Eddie Harris arranged by Mark Taylor and Horace Silver's up tempo tune “Sister Sadie,” arranged by Bryan Kidd.

The SMU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I will tour the Twin Cities in January, and then attend the International Association of Jazz Educators' Convention in Toronto, Ont., Jan. 9-13, 2008.

Also during the evening, the SMU Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and the voice of Judi K will all join forces with Batucada Nossa Senhora (percussion ensemble of our lady). Batucada Nossa Senhora, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will warm your hearts with two forms of Maracatu from Bahia in Northeastern Brazil, a West African drum medley from the Ewe people of Ghana, and a set of Sambas from Brazil.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. Tickets are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.
Saint Mary’s concerts
feature jazz, percussion ensembles

Saint Mary’s will host an evening of rhythmic jazz and the unique ethnic sounds of Batucada Nossa Senhora, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre.

The 18-piece Saint Mary's Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will burn away any thoughts of snow when they perform with Wisconsin vocalist and swing singer Judi K.

Judi K began her career singing at weddings and in church; it was not until she met the great mandolinist, Jethro Burns, that her career truly began.

Her two recordings, “It’s Been A Long, Long Time” and “I’m Nobody's Baby,” feature the talents of Jim Beebe, Jethro Burns, Truck Parham, Connie Jones and tenor-saxophonist Franz Jackson.

Judi K has also performed with many musicians from around the United States. She performs at jazz festivals, outdoor concerts and private affairs. She recently returned from New Mexico, where she sang with the great Houston Person and several other musicians from across the country.

The big band's set with Judi K will include an arrangement of Irving Mill's ever-popular “Mooglow” and Johnny Mercer's “I Remember You.” Judi will also jam with Jazz Combo I on Ellington's famous tune “Don't Get Around Much Anymore.” Dave Wolpe arranged all of the pieces mentioned above. Other soloists with the big band include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams performing a Mike Tomaro arrangement of Thelonius Monk's haunting melody “'Round Midnight.” Tenor saxophonist Tony Freeman will solo on several selections with the jazz combo as well as the big band including “Cold Duck” time by Eddie Harris arranged by Mark Taylor and Horace Silver's up tempo tune “Sister Sadie,” arranged by Bryan Kidd.

The SMU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I will tour the Twin Cities in January, and then attend the International Association of Jazz Educators' Convention in Toronto, Ont., Jan. 9-13, 2008.

Also during the evening, the SMU Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and the voice of Judi K will all join forces with Batucada Nossa Senhora (percussion ensemble of our lady). Batucada Nossa Senhora, under the direction of Denny McGuire, will warm your hearts with two forms of Maracatu from Bahia in Northeastern Brazil, a West African drum medley from the Ewe people of Ghana, and a set of Sambas from Brazil.

Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. Tickets are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU Page Series presents Koresh Dance Company Nov. 17

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Series will host the unique and exciting Koresh Dance Company, featuring “Looking Back: Music of the ’40s & ’50s” on Saturday, Nov. 17.

The program will feature original dance pieces that break through boundaries of traditional choreography. “Looking Back: Music of the ’40s & ’50s” evokes all the romance and rebellion of the era, complete with lively jazz and swing choreography, along with a delightful cast of characters and stories. Koresh will showcase a dance experience that will excite audiences of all ages beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the SMU Performance Center’s Page Theatre.

The dancers will perform to such well-known artists as Louis Armstrong, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Ray Charles and many more.

Make it dinner and a show. Pre-show dinners are provided by Chartwells Catering. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Toner Student Center, located next to the Performance Center. Adult dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef, and vegetarian options, along with beverages and dessert. Bottles of wine may be purchased for an extra fee. Children’s dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with sides, beverages, and dessert. Orders will be accepted up to three days prior to the event; order online or by phone.

Tickets are $22, $16 for seniors, $14 for students and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, during regular office hours 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

This Page Series event is co-sponsored by the Kaplan Forum on the Jewish Experience.

SMU theatre students stage tragedy — ‘Yerma’ — Nov. 9-12

WINONA, Minn. — A young woman’s painful yearning to be a mother leads to the gradual untangling of her mind in the Saint Mary’s University’s Department of Theatre Arts production of “Yerma” Nov. 9-12.

The dark tragedy, “Yerma,” by Spanish playwright Federico Garcia Lorca, centers on a childless young woman, trapped in a bitter and loveless marriage. Trapped too by social attitudes and conventions, Yerma is prevented from loving another man. Her internal conflict and mental instability seal her fate in a tragic climax befitting her tragic life.

The basic themes of this compelling tale — directed by Judy Myers — resemble the themes in every woman’s life: love, passion, desperation, sexuality and marriage.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Monday, Nov. 9, 10 and 12. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11.

Tickets for the show — to be held in Page Theatre — are $8, $6 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.