SubscribeEvents & Entertainment
2008 - October
'Polarities' Runs Through October at U Art Gallery
Cal Poly's University Arts Gallery is hosting an "Polarities and Intersections" by artists Brian Taylor and Stanley Smith. The exhibit runs through Oct. 31 in the University Art Gallery (Dexter Building 34).
More on "Polarities"
See the University Art Gallery web
Cal Poly Celebrates Latino Heritage Month in October
Cal Poly’s MultiCultural Center and Student Life and Leadership celebrate Latino Heritage Month with speakers, poetry, film showings and more throughout the month of October, both on and off campus. All events are free and open to the public.
More on Latino Heritage Month events
See Jazz Great Branford Marsalis at the PAC October 9
In a celebration of revered Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos, Grammy Award- winning jazz saxophonist Branford Marsalis joins Maestro Gil Jardim and the renowned Philarmonia Brasileira in an innovative new project commemorating the 50th anniversary of Villa- Lobos’ death. The Orchestra is known for its remarkable work with the composer’s oeuvre, which is uniquely suited to Marsalis’ mastery of jazz and classical music. The collaboration promises to be a truly musically-sumptuous evening.
More on Marselis in Concert
See the Bungee Jumpin' Cows October 11
The Bungee Jumpin’ Cows – described as “the Far Side” of music – deliver cool, funny, hard-driving, and original science education music. In a wide variety of energetic styles, including rock, funk, pop, surf, and rap, a Cows concert is a feast of visual imagery with wild characters and crazy costumes plus fun audience participation and shenanigans.
More on the Cows Concert
Swanton Pacific Ranch Hosts Annual Cal Poly Day October 12
Cal Poly's Swanton Pacific Ranch will host the annual Al Smith Day Sunday, Oct. 12, at the ranch, just north of Santa Cruz. Friends and Cal Poly alumni are invited to come and join in the festivities. The all day event includes train rides from 10 a.m. to - 4 p.m., plus a Santa Maria style barbecue. Barbecue tickets are $15 for adults, and $8 for children 8 years and under. For details, email Ed Carnegie.
Visit Cal Poly's Swanton Pacific Ranch Web site
Millenia Consort Brings Brass, Percussion October 12
With a wide-ranging repertoire, California’s premier “organ plus” ensemble presents a unique concert experience featuring brass and percussion accompaniment to the Forbes Pipe organ. The afternoon will feature Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky and new works by Bay Area composer/organist John Karl Hirten, including a set of four Irish tunes entitled Ceathair and a premiere performance of The Pinot Suite.
More on the Millenia Consort
To Be or Not to Be: Hamlet Decides October 14
When Massachusetts-based Shakespeare & Company staged their stunning New York production of Hamlet, the New York Times praised the 30 year-old company for “...speak(ing) the speech so clearly and comprehendingly that even theatre- goers new to Shakespeare grasp the plot and characters." Now America’s foremost center for Shakespearean performance and studies brings a “pared- down, revved-up” version of The Bard’s uncontested masterpiece to audiences here in San Luis Obispo. Special 7 p.m. curtain time.
More on Hamlet
Learn Dairy Technology 101 at the Dairy Tech Center October 14-15
The Cal Poly Dairy Products Technology Center will hold a Dariy Technology 101 course Oct. 14-15. Dairy Technology 101- Course will emphasize the basics of milk quality and basic unit operations in milk handling and processing. Location to be announced. Pre-registration is required.
More on the October Dairy 101 course
World-Renowned Expert in Online Gaming and Security Speaks Oct. 16
Orfalea College of Business hosts a guest lecture by Gary McGraw, a global expert in the economics of online gaming, piracy, cheating and software security, at Cal Poly Oct. 16. Free and open to the public, McGraw is first in the Fall Distinguished Speaker Series hosted by the College.
See details to attend McGraw's presentation
Read about other events in the Orfalea College of Business
Jazz Vocalist Sophie Milman at the PAC October 16
By way of Russia, Israel, and Canada comes a promising young jazz luminary, Sophie Milman. Milman – with a nod to Diana Krall and Norah Jones – is “turning heads in the jazz world” (Billboard Magazine). Her richly- nuanced vocal levels and sold-out tours are earning her rave reviews from critics and fans alike – she just received the 2008 “Vocal Jazz Album of the Year” Juno Award, surely the first in a long line of celebrations.
More on Milman
Antarctica, Global Warming the Focus of Oct. 17 Presentation
Cal Poly will host award-winning photographer and filmmaker Sebastian Copeland Friday, Oct. 17, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in Spanos Theatre. Copeland will give a lecture and media presentation on his book “Antarctica: The Global Warning.” The event is free and open to the public. In 2006 and 2007, Copeland trekked to Antarctica with a team of researchers to collect data and document how global warming is affecting that continent.
More on Copeland's appearance
Make it Through the Night
with Kris Kristofferson October 17
Heralded as an “artist’s artist” with an unvarnished voice and an uncanny ear for lyrics and music, Kris Kristofferson is a three- time Grammy- winning singer/songwriter has delivered a myriad of multi-covered hits over the last three decades. Those include “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Help Me Make It Through The Night,” “For The Good Times,” and “Loving Her Was Easier...” Our solo acoustic show is about the songs; as Kristofferson himself describes it: “It’s like being an old blues guy, just completely stripped away.”
More on Kristofferson's concert
Cal Poly Music Department Presents
Poems of E.E. Cummings October 18
Katherine Arthur, soprano, and Susan Azaret Davies, piano, will perform a song cycle of eight poems by E.E. Cummings set to music by Kenneth S. Habib. The lecture-recital set for On Saturday, Oct. 18, at 2 p.m., in the Davidson Music Center, Room 218, will feature a discussion of the compositional design of the song cycle by Habib along with elucidative performance demonstrations by Arthur and Davies followed by the premiere of the entire cycle. Tickets at the door: $5 general; $2 students and seniors (not available for discount).
More on the Oct. 18 recital
Annual Parents' Weekend Set for October 25-26
Parents: this year you have your own weekend at Cal Poly! Cal Poly Parents' Weekend 2008 is set for Oct. 25-26. Come down and visit your student, take a tour of campus, and enjoy a Tailgate BBQ featuring music by Cal Poly's University Jazz Band before the Cal Poly Mustangs take on Southern Utah State in Alex G. Spanos Stadium on campus. Watch the Cal Poly Parent Program Web Site for details and registration.
Lubovitch Dancers Offer 'Men Stories' October 25
Lar Lubovitch, one of America’s most versatile, popular, and highly acclaimed choreographers, returns to Cal Poly in celebration of his 40th anniversary season. This will mark the company’s first U.S. tour in more than a decade. The lyrical and lushly romantic 12-member company offers Men Stories – a powerful exploration of masculinity that has never before been seen on tour – as well as Dvorak Serenade and Little Rhapsodies, set to Schumann’s symphonic etudes.
More on Lubovitch
Cal Poly Choirs' Debut Concert:
American Idols October 25
Meet the 2008-09 Cal Poly Choirs as they present music of our American heritage. PolyPhonics, The University Singers, and the Early Music Ensemble will be joined by our barbershop quartets and our award-winning a capella ensemble, Take It SLO. Selections will include folksongs, barbershop harmony, patriotic songs and spirituals. Renowned composers include Stephen Foster, Aaron Copland and Randall Thompson. Toe-tappers to soothing ballads! Outstanding student soloists! The event is set for Saturday, Oct. 25, at 8 p.m. in the Christopher Cohan Center.
More on the Choirs' debut concert
MCC Presents 11th Annual Culturefest Oct. 26
The Cal Poly MultiCultural Center presents the 11th annual Culturefest Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mitchell Park. The park is located on the corner of Pismo and Osos Streets in San Luis Obispo. More than 20 campus and community organizations will showcase their rich heritages with booths and displays. This year's theme is "USS Culturefest: Sea of Diversity." Visitors can enjoy music, dance, hands-on activities, entertainment, performances, and food.
More on Culturefest
Death Cab for Cutie In Concert October 27 at Rec Center
ASI Events and Otter Productions present Indy rock band Death Cab for Cutie live in concert at the Cal Poly Recreation Center on Monday, Oct. 27. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. $25 student tickets are available at the Mustang Ticket office Sept. 22 thru Oct. 3 (Cal Poly student I.D. required). $30 general admission tickets go on sale October 3, at the Mustang Ticket office and online at Vallitix.com.
More on the Cutie concert
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Manager Speaks October 29
The Orfalea College of Business Distinguished Speaker Series presents Cheryl O’Leary, Vice President and Acting Site General Manager for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Oct. 29. O'Leary will speak at 2:10 p.m. in the Pavilion at the Performing Arts Center. The event is free and open to the public.
Order Tickets by Oct. 31
Travel to Wisconsin
to See the Mustangs take on the Badgers
Looking for a real autumnal experience? The Mustang Football team and fans are headed to Madison Saturday, Nov. 22, where the Mustangs will face the University of Wisconsin Badgers. Join the Cal Poly Alumni Association for a pre-game tailgate and then cheer on the Mustangs in Camp Randall Stadium at UW. Ticket purchase deadline is Oct. 31. CPAA's pre-game Tailgate starts at Union South roughly three hours before kick-off.
Click here for details and to order tickets online
November
Bring the Family to 'Spelling Bee' November 3, 5 at the PAC
"The Putnam County Spelling Bee" makes its Central Coast debut. A riotous, Tony Award- winning new musical comedy in which six young people in the throes of puberty – overseen by grown-ups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves – learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a “loser.” This tuneful, offbeat, and often heart-warming show even offers willing audience members the opportunity to become part of the action as on-stage spellers. Due to language, recommended for ages 14 and over.
More on the Bee
Mars Exhibit Landing at Kennedy Library Nov. 7 - Jan. 12
Experience another world in a unique and engaging way with “Mars Within Reach: Arctic Melodies and Science from the Red Planet,” an interactive exhibit scheduled at Cal Poly. The free and public exhibit is scheduled to run Nov. 7 through Jan. 12 in the Kennedy Library Gallery at the Commons. An opening reception is set at the same location on Friday, Nov. 14 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The exhibit will allow visitors to touch, hear, and interact with data from several recent Mars missions. It blends planetary science, engineering, and music to demonstrate scholarship related to the exploration of the Martian Arctic, with special attention to making the content accessible to persons with visual impairments.
More about Mars exhibit
Homecoming 2008 Game Set for November 8
It's official: The Cal Poly Mustangs will take on North Carolina Central in Alex G. Spanos Stadium in the big game on Homecoming 2008, Saturday, Nov. 8. Watch for details this fall, and get your tickets early - the Homecoming game sells out at least a week in advance. Cal Poly's Homecoming celebrations will be held November 6-8. Cal Poly's Alumni Relations Office is planning a 50-year reunion for the Class of 1958. The alumni office will again team up with Cal Poly Athletics for to offer the Homecoming Tailgate BBQ and Wine Tasting on the O'Neill Green in front of the Orfalea College of Business building. Cal Poly's University Jazz Band will perform at the BBQ. Mark your calendars and watch for details on the Homecoming Web Site.
The Music Department Presents
Bandfest ’08: "Mi Alma Latina” November 15
A festive season opener that starts with a bang and never looks back. Get swept away by the fascinating rhythms of Spain, Cuba, and Central and South America. With more than 200 collegiate wind and percussion musicians in action, this concert will be a band fan’s dream-come-true. You’ll have a blast! In addition, the Pride of the Pacific Mustang Marching Band will fill the hall with its dazzling arrangements performed at halftime in Spanos Stadium. The free event is set for Saturday, Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. in the Christopher Cohan Center.
Visit the Music Department's Web site for ticket information
Cal Poly Symphony Fall Concert is November 16
Russian music: passionate, brilliant and powerful. Join the Cal Poly Symphony Saturday, Nov. 16, at 3 p.m., in the Christoper Cohan Center, as we explore two masterworks conceived for the piano. Pianist W. Terrence Spiller will be our featured soloist for Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto, a tour de force that has thrilled audiences since its premiere in 1901. The Cal Poly Symphony will also play Mussorgsky’s "Pictures at an Exhibition," a work originally written for solo piano and later orchestrated by Maurice Ravel. The Symphony will also perform music of Latin America.
Ticket Information
A&E Network Executive Speaks November 20
The Orfalea College of Business Distinguished Speaker Series presents Libby Haight O'Connell, Ph.D., Chief Historian & Senior Vice President for Corporate Outreach at A&E Television Networks. O'Connell will speak at 11:10 a.m. in the Spanos Theatre on campus. The event is free and open to the public.
American Ballet Theatre
Dances into PAC November 20
American Ballet Theatre is of one of the world’s most revered and innovative dance companies. Under its auspices comes ABT II, a classical company of 13 young dancers of outstanding talent, hand-picked from around the world. The ABT II corps vigorously trains under the direction of former ABT principal Wes Chapman, who offers us a preview of protégés who will surely become some of ABT’s finest dancers.
More on the ABT II performance
Takács String Quartet Performs November 24
Recognized as one of the world’s premiere string quartets, the Takács Quartet is renowned for the ability to fuse four distinct, expressive musical personalities into gripping, unified interpretations so strong that one could believe “there’s no other possible way the music should go” (Gramophone). The program will include Haydn’s Quartet Op. 77 No. 2 in F Major, Bartók’s Quartet No. 2, and Schumann’s Quartet Op. 41 No. 1.
More on Takács Quartet
December
'Sweeny Todd' Comes to the Cohan Center December 4
Live, on stage: experience the musical that inspired the Tim Burton-Johnny Depp movie. This revolutionary modern dress revival from Tony Award- winning director/ designer John Doyle features a multi- talented ensemble of 10 actor/musicians. Don’t miss the Central Coast premiere of this phenomenal ground- breaking minimalist production that rocked the socks off New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco audiences. Multiple Tony Award-winner Stephen Sondheim’s renowned musical has never been in better hands and the music soars like never before.
More on Sweeny Todd
Winter Commencement Set for December 13
Cal Poly's winter commencement ceremonies have been set for Saturday, Dec. 13, at 9 a.m., 1:30 and 3 p.m. in the ASI Recreation Center on campus. December ceremonies last approximately two hours. Immediately following the ceremony, a punch and cookie reception is held in the fitness room, which is located adjacent to the Rec Center. This reception offers graduates and guests the opportunity to visit with faculty and friends.
More on December Commencement
January
'Jesus Christ, Superstar' at PAC January 6
"Jesus Christ Superstar," the first masterpiece from the legendary writing team of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, exploded onto the scene in 1971 changing the world of musical theatre forever. With a score of amazing songs, like “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Hosanna,” “Everything’s Alright,” “What’s the Buzz,” “Superstar,” and “Heaven on Their Minds,” this original ground-breaking production starring Ted Neeley – who starred in the film version – in the title role and Living Colour’s Corey Glover as Judas, is as relevant and timeless as ever.
More on Superstar
National Acrobats of China Here January 15
Since 1956, the National Acrobats of China have been one of the most influential large-scale acrobatic troupes in the world. The colorful costumes and traditional music of China augment the 35 members who perform thrilling circus acts, precise martial artistry, mesmerizing illusions, and breathtaking stunts - such as daring cycling, bench juggling, plate spinning, and chair balancing. Curtain time is 7 p.m.
More on the acrobats
'Annie' Comes to the PAC January 19, 20
Leapin’ lizards! Annie is coming back in SLO! The timeless tale of Little Orphan Annie will give a whole new generation the chance to experience this classic musical about never giving up hope. Boasting one of Broadway’s most memorable scores, including “It’s a Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and the ever-optimistic, “Tomorrow,” Annie is a delightful theatrical experience. Don’t miss this all-new national touring production that Variety calls “a winner!”
More on 'Annie'
San Francisco Symphony Plays in Harman Hall January 23
The San Francisco Symphony has developed a distinguished history and since 1995, its outstanding musicianship under Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas has been lauded worldwide and become known for innovative programming and symphonic brilliance. Stopping in San Luis Obispo on one of their rare touring events, the evening will include Our Town by Copland, Berg’s Three Pieces for Orchestra, Opus 6, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Opus 64.
More on the SF Symphony
Early Music Ensemble Plays Monteverdi January 24
On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Early Music Ensemble will present "Monteverdi’s Masterpieces" at 8 p.m. in the Pavilion of the Performing Arts Center on campus. Vocal and instrumental forces combine to present the vast variety of madrigal styles composed by the great Italian composer, Claudio Monteverdi. Conductor Thomas Davies will outline the differences in Monteverdi’s compositional approach in a lecture-recital format.
More on Monteverde
Hear 'The Best of Doo-Wop' January 25
Bop to the beat of the fabulous 50’s and 60’s as the Harman Hall stage fills with Doo Wop legends and Rock-and- Roll Hall of Famers. This musical extravaganza is dedicated to the swing, rhythm, and blues of yesteryear with the greats that made the great music: Danny and the Juniors (“At The Hop,” “Rock and Roll Is Here To Stay”); The Buck Ram Platters (“The Great Pretender,” “Only You”); The Crew Cuts (“Sh-Boom,” “Earth Angel”); The Olympics (“Western Movies,” “Hully Gully”), and Brenda Holloway (“You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” “When I’m Gone”). Comedian/host Scott Wood takes you down Memory Lane and the American Gold Band will make sure your spirit is dancing every step of the way.
More on 'Doo Wop'
Students Perform in Free Piano Recital Jan. 27
The Cal Poly Music Department will host a free student piano recital on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m. in the Davidson Music Center (Room 218).
February
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Annual 'Night at the Mission' Concert Benefits
Cal Poly Music Department February 7
The Cal Poly Music Department will present it's annual "A Night at the Mission" benefit concert on Saturday, Feb. 7 at 8 p.m. in Mission San Luis Obispo. An evening of beautiful music performed by talented chamber ensembles. Performing at this event will be the Aurora Borealis Wind Quintet, Celestial Winds Quintet, Saxophone Quartets, Horn Choir, Clarinet Ensemble, Brass Quintets, Trombone Choir and Brass Choir.
More on A Night at the Mission
Forbes Organ Concert is February 8
A native of San Luis Obispo, Kimberly Keller Moody currently resides in Utah and frequently performs as a Guest Organist on the world-famous Tabernacle organ in Salt Lake City. Her program will feature music from a wide variety of styles, periods and composers, including Nicolas de Grigny, Johann Sebastian Bach, Felix Mendelssohn, Louis Vierne, Dale Wood, and Robert Elmore.
More on Moody's concert
Russian Ballet Dances 'Cinderella' February 10
With a nod to the classic fairy tale, The State Ballet of Russia's international production of "Cinderella" is a delightful parody of enormous egos versus simple dreams. Choreographer Vladimir Vasiliev’s staging imagin- ation and the technical prowess of the 54-member company, backed by Sergei Prokofiev’s luscious score, creates a wondrous evening to remind us all that impossible dreams can indeed come true. The Palm Beach Daily News calls the production “Resplendent beauty – manifest not only in choreog- raphy and dancing, but in a beautifully unified costume, set, and lighting design."
More on 'Cinderella'
Rod Gilfry Brings the Baritone
to Harman Hall February 12
One of today’s most sought-after and compelling operatic baritones, Rod Gilfry’s engaging solo show has also delighted pop and Broadway audiences from Los Angeles to Barcelona. Gilfry has performed in San Luis Obispo before as part of the Mozart Festival. Celebrate Valentine’s Day and life’s important moments through great songs from composers such as George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Frank Loesser, as well as some of opera’s “greatest hits” in 'My Heart is So Full of You, a glorious concert filled with the songs you love best.
More on Gilfrey
Munich Symphony Orchestra Plays February 17
Christopher Cohan Center 8pm The world class Munich Symphony Orchestra has been garnering acclaim for over 50 years. Internation- ally-renowned Philippe Entremont will lead as special guest conductor and piano soloist and the elegant evening will feature Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll, Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 15, C Major, Webern’s Fünf Sätze, Op. 5, and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, Op. 90, A Major (Italian).
More on the Munich Symphony
See Vintage 'Mark of Zorro' as it's Meant to Be February 20
The original 1920 silent classic film, “The Mark of Zorro,” is accompanied by the famed Paragon Orchestra’s live performance of the original, Spanish-tinged film score. While Douglas Fairbanks and his swashbuckling swordplay slashes Zorro’s trademark across the consciousness (and posteriors!) of corruption, the swelling strains of the Forbes Pipe Organ and zesty orchestrations will fill the hall.
More on Zorro
It's Just Jazz February 21 with Cal Poly Jazz Bands
The Cal Poly Music Department presents "Just Jazz" Saturday, Feb. 21, at 8 p.m. at the Cohan Center. This concert will have an eclectic mix of jazz standards and modern compositions, and will be performed by the University Jazz Bands No. 1 and No. 2 and the Cal Poly Jazz Combos.
More on the Just Jazz concert
Klezmatics Blend Afro, Latin, Jazz & Punk Plus More February 22
These world-renowned Grammy-winning klezmer superstars the Klezmatics erupted out of New York City’s East Village in 1986 and revitalized the sound for the new century. Their provocative music is steeped in Eastern European Jewish tradition and spirituality, while incorporating contemporary themes such as human rights and anti- fundamentalism with eclectic musical influences including Arab, African, Latin and Balkan rhythms, jazz, and punk. Absolutely unique.
More on the Klezmatics
Get 'In the Mood' February 25 at the PAC
Cal Poly Arts' March 2008 "In The Mood" performance date sold out quickly and many did not get a chance to see this feel-good burst of song and dance from a time that was like no other. "In The Mood" is a fully-staged musical that recreates moments in the lives and times of America’s “greatest generation.” Let the youthful dancing, smooth singing, and the illustrious String of Pearls Big Band make memories old and new.
More on In the Mood
Cal Poly Winter Choirs Concert is February 28
"A Celebration of the Masters" is the theme for the annual Cal Poly Choirs' Winter Concert at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Cohan Center. PolyPhonics and The University Singers will present music in honor of past masters Felix Mendelssohn and Franz Joseph Haydn. In addition, the department will premiere a new work by its own master, Cal Poly Music Professor Craig Russell.
More on the Winter Choirs Concert
March
Family Series Brings 'Junie B. Jones' March 1
TheatreWorks USA’s all-time most popular show is like a Broadway musical just for kids! Based on four beloved books by Barbara Park, this delightful, fast-paced family musical is back in SLO for more fun and friendship. Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie B. Jones fixates on new friends, new glasses, sugar cookis, the annual kickball tournament, and other various first grade angst- ridden situations. Follow Junie’s adventures as she writes down the story of her life in her “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal.”
More on June Jones
Music Students Present Free Recital March 5
Cal Poly music students will present a free instrumental student recital Thursday, March 5 at 11 a.m. in the Davidson Music Center (Room 218).
Arab Music Ensemble Winter Concert is March 6
The Cal Poly Music Department presents its Arab Music Ensemble Winter Concert at 8 p.m., Friday, March 6, in the Pavilion at the Performing Arts Center. Join the ensemble as it performs vocal and instrumental selections of some of the best-known art and popular music of the Eastern Mediterranean and larger Middle East. Renowned guest artists bring added depth and virtuosity to the concerts, and San Luis Obispo’s own Middle Eastern dancers top off the performances with folkloric dancing.
More on the Arab Music Ensemble concert
Cal Poly Symphony Winter Concert is March 8
The Cal Poly Music Department presents the Cal Poly Symphony Student Soloist Showcase 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8, in the Cohan Center. Come hear the winners of the department's annual student solo competition for a taste of Mustang musical talent. The symphony will also perform music of Latin America.
More on the symphony Winter Concert
Dervish Brings Irish Music to the PAC March 13
Direct from the Borough of Sligo comes the hauntingly passionate vocals and dazzling instrumentals of Dervish – the pre-eminent band of Ireland’s “Wild West” who has shared center stage with legends such as Sting, James Brown, and the Buena Vista Social Club. Dervish creates a myriad of tones and moods, played with fluidity and intuition, in a warm celebration of the spirit and artistry of traditional Irish music.
More on Dervish
Hear the Brass Perform 'From Russia with Love' March 14
The Cal Poly Wind Bands' Winter Concert: “From Russia With Love” is set for Saturday March 14 at 8 p.m. in the Cohan Center, featuring the Cal Poly Wind Orchestra & Wind Ensemble. From the memorable melodies, strong colors and uninhibited emotionalism of Tchaikovsky, to the inner power and technical invention of Shostakovich, this concert will bring you a basket of bold, brassy blockbusters by some of Russia’s greatest composers.
More on the Wind Bands' Winter Concert
Cherryholmes Brings Neo-Bluegrass to Life March 19
Nashville’s dynamic “first family of bluegrass” stormed the music world with award-winning shows and a Billboard chart-topping album. Just nominated for their second Grammy, the six- member band has hard-driving instrumentals and tight vocal harmonies that explode through a mixture of original songs and carefully chosen classics, filled with stellar twin fiddles, Irish step dancing, classic country yodeling, and old-time claw hammer.
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Bring the Family to 'Frankweiler' March 21
"From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler" is a quest for romance and adventure turns into a journey of self-discovery when two siblings run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they stumble upon an intriguing mystery and the most unusual friend either of them has ever known. Based on the Newbery Award-winning classic by E.L. Konigsburg, this original stage production faithfully re-creates the story where characters make many important discoveries – discoveries made for themselves and about themselves. (Recommended for ages seven and over.)
More on Mrs. Frankweiler
Spend an Evening with Marvin Hamlisch March 22
Pulitzer Prize-winner Marvin Hamlisch has won virtually every major award: three Oscars, four Grammys, three Emmys, a Tony, and three Golden Globes. The evening will feature his jazz combo and a guest vocalist joining him at the grand piano with stellar selections from his Broadway successes (A Chorus Line), his award-winning movie scores (The Way We Were), a tribute to Scott Joplin (The Sting) – and much more.
More on Hamlisch
April
See 'Altar Boyz' April 2 and 3 at the PAC
Full of spot-on spoofing, spectacular dancing, sweet harmonies, and irreverent humor, this Off-Broadway mega-hit about a heavenly heartthrob Christian boy-band from Ohio is destined to rock on. With an extraordinary mix of sidesplitting, MTV-worthy songs and lighthearted, affectionate fun, join Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan, and Abraham (a Jewish boy!) on the Boyz’s last night of their awesome “Raise the Praise” tour and become part of their faithful followers.
More on Altar Boyz
Hear Hapa Hit the Slack Key April 4
Their contemporary Pan-Polynesian music is uniquely influenced by ancient tones, the strummed ballads of Portuguese fishermen and Spanish cowboys, the voice of a missionary choir, and just a bit of American acoustic folk/rock. The Hapa experience is one of beauty and serenity, found in the majestic chants and songs, the elegant movements of the hula, and the exhilarating innovative sounds of virtuoso slack key guitar.
More on Hapa
See the Stage Version of
'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' April 5
This enchanting musical is based on C.S. Lewis’ adventure story about four children in war-torn England who accidentally enter the spellbound land of Narnia by climbing through a magic wardrobe. In this wondrous tale, faithfully translated for the stage, the children encounter the icy White Witch and her endless winter and find themselves battling to restore sunshine to the skies and Lion King Aslan to his throne.
More on LWW
Music Department Presents Songs of Berlin April 11
The Cal Poly Music Department presents "The 20th Century with Kurt Weill" Saturday, April 11, at 8 p.m. in the Spanos Theatre. A pastiche of the touching, fiery and brilliant songs of German native Kurt Weill. Hear “Mack the Knife” and “Pirate Jenny” (Threepenny Opera), “Alabama Song” (Mahagonny), “Surabaya Johnny” (Happy End), “Speak Low” (One Touch of Venus), “Lost in the Stars” and more in an homage to the music of of 1920s and ’30s Berlin.
More on the Weill concert
Watch Out for 'The Drowsy Chaperone' April 14, 15
In another Central Coast Broadway debut, get ready to be transported to a magical, wonderful world with "The Drowsy Chaperone." When a die-hard musical fan plays his favorite cast album, a 1928 smash hit called “The Drowsy Chaperone,” the show magically bursts to life in his living room. Follow the glamorous, hilarious tale of a celebrity bride and her uproarious wedding day, complete with thrills and surprises that take both the audience (metaphorically) and the cast (literally) soaring into the rafters.
More on Chaperone
Annual Open House Concert is April 18
Cal Poly will feature its student musicians Saturday, April 18, in the annual Open House Concert. This year's theme is “Around the World in 80 Minutes.” The concert features the Cal Poly Symphony, Wind Ensemble and University Jazz Band and begins at 8 p.m. in the Cohan Center. The Cal Poly Symphony will perform music of Latin America. The University Jazz Band will play selections from Ethiopia, and the Wind Ensemble will focus on Russia.
More on the Open House concert
All-State Music Festival Concert is April 19
Cal Poly once again hosts the All-State Music Festival Concert, featuring the top high school student musicians from across California. The festival Symphony Orchestra Festival Jazz Band, Festival Wind Orchestra play beginning at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 19 in the Cohan Center. Some 150 of the state’s finest young musicians participate in this spectacular Open House event.
More on the All-State Band Concert
Parisian Organ Master in Concert at the PAC April 21
Olivier Latry, titular organist of the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, will make his long-anticipated debut on the Forbes Pipe Organ. He is an improviser and ambassador of 17th to 21st century French organ music; likened to a magician, Latry’s orchestral colors shade a wide range of dynamics. Along with his own improvisation, works by Saint-Saëns, Franck, Widor, Vierne, Messiaen, Escaich, and Guillou will be featured.
More on Latry
Chumash Auditorium Hosts Salsa Party April 21
Johnny Polanco – one of the most sought after, influential Salsa bandleaders in the U.S. – headlines this exciting new Latin Groove Salsa Party. Come early and practice with Cal Poly Salsa Club members and then get ready to Salsa Party the night away with plenty of room to try out your moves. Up-tempo or slow rhythm, your dance card will be full and the evening will be nothing but fiery fun! Choose from premium table seating or standing room only.
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Swing Dance with the University Jazz Bands April 24
Swing out to the Big Band sounds of the University Jazz Band's Spring Swing Dance in Chumash Auditorium Friday, April 24. The dance concert will feature original swing-era tunes played by the Cal Poly University Jazz Band No. 1. from 8 to 10:30 p.m. in Chumash Auditorium at Cal Poly. Free swing dance lessons will be given at 7 p.m. Tickets ($10 general/$6 students) available at the door.
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Hear Music Faculty Recital April 24
The Cal Poly Music Department presents the Faculty Artists’ Song Recital Friday, April 24 at 8 p.m. in the Spanos Theatre. Join professor and soprano Katherine Arthur and professor and pianist Susan Azaret Davies for an enchanting evening of song.
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Compania National de Danza Here April 28
When CND2 debuted at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in 2003, audiences could not rave enough. Under the direction of Tony Fabre, former CND principal, CND2 offers a thrilling mix of vivid, Latin-style movement phrases and ballet in a wholly contemporary style that fires up the stage. The repertory features several signature works by founder and artistic director Nacho Duato, as well as works by promising new choreographers.
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May
Get 'Footloose' at the Cohan Center May 7
1984’s "Footloose" – the movie that made Kevin Bacon a star-– launched a nationwide dance craze. This full-scale stage musical based on that hit has the heart, the music, and the dancing to get everyone on their feet! The show’s classic 80’s chart-toppers include “Holding Out For A Hero,” “Almost Paradise,” “Let’s Hear It For The Boy,” and of course, the driving, unforgettable title song.
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Spend an Evening with Garrison Keillor May 12
The charming, witty, and always entertaining writer and humorist, best known for radio’s “A Prairie Home Companion” and his “Lake Wobegon” books, returns to Cohan Center for an all-new engagement of touching anecdotes, comic monologues, and thoughtprovoking observations. Keillor shows us once again why he is indeed America’s favorite storyteller.
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Cal Poly Choir,
Master Chorale Perform Brahms May 16
Johannes Brahms’ "Ein deutsches Requiem" is the centerpiece when the Cal Poly Choirs and Cuesta Master Chorale perform beginning at 8 p.m. in the Christopher Cohan Center Saturday, May 16. The 250-member chorus and orchestra combine to perform this most beautiful music, Brahms’ Requiem. The Cal Poly Choirs join the Cuesta Master Chorale in celebration of Thomas Davies’ 25 years of choral leadership.
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All That Brass Coming to Town May 19
Two of Cal Poly's brass quintets will join Central Coast orchestras in a free concert Tuesday, May 19, at 8 p.m. in the San Luis Obisop Methodist Church. For the second year in a row, Roy Main’s Trombone Choir and Christopher Woodruff’s Brass Choir and Cal Poly student musicians will team up for an evening of fabulous fanfares, flourishes and fantasies in "All That Brass."
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Early Music Ensemble Performs Mission Masters May 23
On Saturday, May 23 the Early Music Ensemble will present "Masters of the Mission" at 8 p.m. in Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. The evening will feature works by two giants of the Mexican Baroque: Ignacio de Jerusalem and Manuel de Sumaya. Award-winning Music Professor Craig Russell will lead an exploration of this fantastic repertoire.
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Students Present Free Piano Recital May 26
On Tuesday, May 26, Cal Poly music students will present a free piano recital at 7:30 p.m. in the Davidson Music Center (Room 218).
Instrumental Student Recital is May 28
Cal Poly music students will present a free instrumental music recital at 11 a.m. in the Davidson Music Center (Room 218).
University Jazz Night is May 29
The Cal Poly Music Department presents University Jazz Night at 8 p.m. in the Cohan Center Friday, May 29. This concert will feature an eclectic mix of jazz standards and modern compositions, and will be performed by the University Jazz Bands No. 1 and No. 2 and the Cal Poly Jazz Combos plus a guest artist.
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Cal Poly Symphony
Spring Concert
is May 30
The Cal Poly Symphony Spring Concert will present "Looking East, Looking West" at 8 p.m. in the Cohan Center Saturday, May 30. The Cultural Revolution in China was not the easiest time for virtuoso pianists or orchestral musicians. Some orchestras were banned outright from performing any Western orchestral music. But a a group of five composers rearranged a patriotic cantata from 1939 into a genre of music so closely tied to the tradition of European virtousi: a piano concerto. “The Yellow River Concerto” used patriotic material to look West, into the musical tradition of Europe, at a time when doing so was unacceptable. Hear Cal Poly student musicians perform "The Yellow River Concerto."
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June
Mixed Media Concert 'Emergent Forms' Set for June 2, 4
On Tuesday, June 2, and Thursday, June 4, the Cal Poly Music Department will present "RSVP XIV: Emergent Forms." Showtime is 8 p.m. both evenings in the Pavilion of the Christopher Cohan Center. This marks the 14th season of this diverse transmedia series celebrating electroacoustic diversity. Set in post-apocalyptic times, this year’s performance examines age-old struggles. Don’t miss this unique blend of sound, visuals and staging artistically directed by faculty member Antonio G. Barata.
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Hear 'Visions' at Cal Poly Wind Bands
Spring Concert June 6
On Saturday, June 6, the Cal Poly Music Department presents the annual Cal Poly Wind Bands Spring Concert. This year's title is “Visions” and showtime is 8 p.m. in the Christopher Cohan Center. The concert will feature Hollywood session trombonist Alex Iles and the music of Eric Ewazen’s extraordinary work for trombone and wind ensemble, “Visions of Light."
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Olivera, Forbes Organ in Powerful Concert June 7
A passionate and gifted master, Hector Olivera is famous for his prodigious technical proficiency and personal interpretations of both classical and popular music. The afternoon recital will include William Ralph Driffill’s Toccata, Johann Sebastian Bach’s Air from Suite No. 3 and Prelude and Fugue in E flat “Saint Anne,” Trumpet Tune/Air/Voluntary by Jeremiah Clark and Henry Purcell, César Franck’s Prelude, Fugue, and Variation, and Hans Friedrich Micheelsen’s Toccata, Canzona, and Fugue on Es Sungen drei Engel.
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Arab Music Ensemble Spring Concert is June 7
The Cal Poly Arab Music Ensemble Spring Concert is set for 7 p.m., Sunday, June 7 in the Spanos Theatre. Join the ensemble as it performs vocal and instrumental selections of some of the best-known art and popular music of the Eastern Mediterranean and larger Middle East. San Luis Obispo’s own Middle Eastern dancers top off the performances with folkloric dancing.
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Spring Commencement Ceremonies
Cal Poly's 2009 Spring Commencement Ceremonies have not yet been scheduled. Spring Commencment is traditionally held in June, after the end of Spring Semester finals week. Cal Poly's Student Life and Leadership Office, part of the university's Student Affairs Division, is responsible for organizing the university's commencement ceremonies. Watch for commencement details here in the coming months, or visit the Student Life and Leadership Web site periodically to check for details. (Commencement details will appear on the Student Affairs Web first).
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