Word Up Reader's Theatre Brings Writings of Cummings, Poe, and Others to Life
Word Up Reader's Theatre, a new concept in entertainment at SSU, has begun its inaugural journey with a series of short essays, poetry readings and short fiction in five performances in December. Under the skillful direction of Stephanie Hunt, members of the Acting Block of the Theatre Arts Department read, speak and interpret the words of some of the finest writers in Warren Auditorium.
On Dec. 9, in "On The Brink," the words of Edgar Allan Poe, George Bernard Shaw, E. E. Cummings, and other notable writers will be on display at 8 p.m. on . A combination of edgy writing involving revenge, terror, love and transcendance will fill the staging area.
“Whose America" is the name of the performance at 8 p.m. on Dec. 8. A multitude of voices, from Abraham Lincoln to Hunter S. Thompson and from Dorothy Parker to Langston Hughes will enthrall listeners. The last piece, "Second Star To The Right" at 3 p.m. on Dec. 10, has a bit of a holiday mix with captivating children's stories, along with funny and charming adult essays about the winter holidays. J.M. Barrie's "Peter Pan," excerpts from Charles Dickens and a little something from Dr. Suess make up the evening's entertainment.
Tickets are $6 and can be purchased online at the new CPA Web site at http://www.sonoma.edu/performingarts/perf/cal_0612.shtml.
Winter Choral Arts Courses in January
Faculty and staff with a choralbent are encouraged to consider two classes, taught by experienced professionals in their field, offered in January by Extended Education. The fee for the general public is $85 and for SSU or high school students is $60.
Ready, Set, Sing! Voice Class
Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24; 7-9:30 p.m., Ives 119
Designed in the beginning with the more experienced level singer in mind, each participant will leave with a new understanding of their own instrument as well as tools and exercises designed specifically for them through ensemble singing and mini voice lessons. Solo singing is encouraged but not mandatory. and beginners are welcome. Instructor Chris Fritzsche is internationally recognized for his effortless countertenor voice and can be heard on well over a dozen recordings.
The Feldenkrais Method for Performing Artists
Saturday, Jan. 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 14, 2-6 p.m., Ives 80
A weekend intensive of Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement lessons augmented by individual Functional Integration lessons.
This workshop explores:
° Improving technical skill through sensory awareness
° Imagination and intention in performance
° Taking the Feldenkrais Method¨ into the practice room
° How to have more fun and effective practicing
Instructor Karen Clark, contralto, has received international acclaim for her performances with some of the world's leading chamber music ensembles. She has taught in music departments of Princeton University, Swarthmore College, and currently is lecturer in the music department here. For more information or to register, contact the School of Extended Education at 4-2394.