This week, "Art and Soul" focuses on the local performance arts scene. WEMU's Lisa Barry and Wendy Wright talk with the artistic director of the "Neighborhood Theatre Group," Kristin Anne Danko.
Founded in 2015, the Neighborhood Theatre Group in Ypsilanti considers itself "theatre from scratch," according to the group's artistic director, Kristin Anne Danko. That means all of its performances are original works, ranging from plays to musicals to sketch comedies. Its first show was performed at Ypsilanti's recently-renovated Back Office Studio.
The group's upcoming events include:
- Season 5 Kickoff Fundraiser on Saturday, September 14 at the Riverside Arts Center Art Gallery.
- 5th Annual Monologue Competition on Friday, October 4 at the Back Office Studio (It's free!).
- "Black Cat Cabaret" - The group's annual Halloween celebration on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19.
- "A Man for Christmas: A Made-for-TV Musical" on December 13-15.
- "Thoughts and Prayers" - a new play by resident playwright A.M. Dean on February 28-March 1 and March 6-8 2020.
For more information on the Neighborhood Theatre Group, check out its official website and its business site. You can also follow the group on Facebook and Instagram.
UPCOMING PERFORMING EVENTS:
THEATER
Adapted by Jeanine Tesori and Lisa Kron
The Encore Musical Theatre Company – Dexter
Directed by Vincent J. Cardinal (U of M Musical Theatre Chair)
Opens Thursday, September 12th
Fun Home is based on the Alison Bechdel graphic novel memoir won 5 Tony Awards (including Best Musical) in 2016. The story concerns Bechdel's discovery of her own sexuality, her relationship with her gay father, and her attempts to unlock the mysteries surrounding his life.
MOVIE WITH MUSIC
UMS – Hill Auditorium
Sunday, September 15th 2PM
Mozart’s celebrated works performed live by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the UMS Choral Union. Experience the multi-Academy Award® winning 1984 motion picture, Amadeus on a vast HD screen performed in-sync by the full orchestra and choir.
COMEDY
Mr. Tasty Presents: Sept Flavor of the Month -Live Sketch Comedy
Riverside Arts Center – Ypsilanti
Saturday, September 7th 8 & 10PM
Late-night sketch comedy show written and performed by some of Michigan's most talented comedians.
MUSIC
Michigan Theater
Saturday, September 14th – 7:30PM
Over the past two decades, Keb’ has cultivated a reputation as a modern master of American roots music through the understated excellence of his live and studio performances.
Kerrytown Concert House
Wednesday, September 4th – 8PM
One of the finest exponents of swing tenor alive today. A master interpreter of standards
The Blue Llama Jazz Club
Thurs – Sat, September 19-21 – 5:30-11PM
The A2 Jazz Fest mission is to showcase and promote jazz by presenting live performances of original compositions and jazz standards by Michigan-based artists. All events are free and open to the public!
The Blue Llama Jazz Club
Fri & Sat, September 6-7, 7 & 9:30 P.M.
His laid-back style and affability seems to belie the concentration and focus that have made him successful both as a consummate musician and a household name for late-night TV viewers.
Wednesday, September 25th, 7 & 9:30 P.M
Chico Freeman is a modern jazz tenor saxophonist and son of jazz saxophonist Von Freeman.
The Ark
George Bedard: From the Windy City to New Orleans
Saturday, August 24th – 8:00 PM
The 7th concert in his popular series exploring the history of American roots music. Tonight they honor the musical heritage of New Orleans
Sunday, September 8th – 8:00 PM
The King of slydeco!
Monday, September 23rd – 8:00 PM
Much-awaited new music from the son of Steve Earle
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— Lisa Barry is the host of All Things Considered on WEMU. You can contact Lisa at 734.487.3363, on Twitter @LisaWEMU, or email her at lbarryma@emich.edu
