Rising Star Pianist Angel Stanislav Wang Opens Steinway Society Season

Steinway Society – The Bay Area will launch its 31st season on Sunday, September 27, with a recital by 23-year-old pianist Angel Stanislav Wang at the Visual and Performing Arts Center on the De Anza College campus in Cupertino. The 2:30 p.m. program, titled Worlds Away, moves from the Spanish lyricism of Granados through Liszt’s demanding Sonata in B Minor, Debussy’s atmospheric Estampes, and the rhythmic drive of Stravinsky’s Three Movements from Petrushka.

Wang has already collected major international prizes, including silver at the Tchaikovsky Competition, first prize at the Rachmaninoff Competition, and a place as one of the youngest finalists in Van Cliburn history. Born in Los Angeles and trained in Moscow, he has performed at Carnegie Hall and the Musikverein while building a reputation for expressive power and technical command. The Cupertino appearance marks a local chance to hear an artist whose career is accelerating across major venues and series.

The intimate 400-seat hall at De Anza offers a clear acoustic setting well suited to solo piano. Steinway Society, a Silicon Valley nonprofit now entering its fourth decade, continues its focus on presenting award-winning pianists alongside an active education program. Single tickets range from $53 to $78, with senior and student discounts available; three- and six-concert subscriptions remain on offer for those who want to hear the full season.

Tickets and full season details are available through steinwaysociety.com or by calling 408-300-5635.

Playful People Productions Sets the Stage for Joyful Performances in 2026 and 2027

San Jose families will soon have new opportunities to experience the magic of live musical theater thanks to Playful People Productions and its upcoming season of shows. The nonprofit theater company prepared a diverse collection of productions drawn from popular books and films, designed to entertain while building confidence and creativity among participants from young children to adults.

Two productions will launch the season this fall with stories that have delighted generations. Shrek The Musical JR will bring the hilarious adventures of the ogre and his friends to the stage for performers ages five through seventeen. With auditions set for the first week of August, young actors can prepare for performances that run from September twenty-fifth through October fourth at the Historic Hoover Theatre. A homeschool production of Winnie the Pooh will follow a similar path, opening registration on June seventh for children ages five to twelve and offering a cozy run at the end of October.

Adults and those eighteen and older will have their own chance to shine in a secret fall musical whose details Playful People Productions kept tightly under wraps. Those curious about this true story in an unexpected setting can reach out directly to learn more and join the cast. Registration opened at six hundred dollars, with auditions in early August and performances scheduled for mid November.

The 2027 portion of the season will feature two highly anticipated titles that span comedy, adventure, and empowerment. Disney's Descendants: The Musical will arrive for performers twelve and up, bringing the story of villain kids navigating hero school to life with familiar songs and plenty of laughs. Registration will open later this year ahead of January auditions and an early April performance run. Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical JR will then take over with its clever celebration of clever kids and imaginative rebellion. Performers ages eight to fourteen plus a special circus chorus for ages four to seven will rehearse in March for a series of May performances across multiple casts.

Every production will unfold at the Historic Hoover Theatre on Park Avenue, a venue that has become a hub for local performing arts. Playful People Productions spent more than fifteen years creating inclusive environments where families perform side by side and where Positive Discipline supports every participant's growth. This season will extend that mission by inviting the entire San Jose community to take part in or attend these joyful productions that highlight the power of storytelling and togetherness.

For registration and additional information, visit www.playfulpeople.org or call (408) 878-5362.

Symphony San Jose Delivers Holiday Magic at California Theatre

Downtown San Jose invites families and friends to embrace the season with Symphony San Jose's Holiday Spectacular on December 6 and 7, 2025. Performances take place at the beautifully decorated California Theatre on 345 South First Street, with shows at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, plus 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. This symphonic celebration fills the air with warmth through classic carols, audience sing-alongs and dazzling dance numbers, creating lasting memories for all ages.

The program features beloved selections like Leroy Anderson's A Christmas Festival, Jerry Herman's We Need a Little Christmas, Vince Guaraldi's Christmas Time is Here and traditional favorites including The First Noël, Joy to the World and Silent Night. Attendees can look forward to the popular 12 Days of Silicon Valley, along with pieces such as Katharine Kennicott Davis's The Little Drummer Boy, Alan Silvestri's Believe from The Polar Express and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Arabian Dance from The Nutcracker. Additional tunes like It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year and Santa Baby round out the festive lineup.

Conductor Elena Sharkova leads Symphony San Jose, joined by Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabíle Youth Singers, New Ballet and special guests for an evening of holiday wonder. Pre-concert festivities start one hour before each show, offering photos and visits with Santa, plus a chance to decorate gingerbread cookies with royal icing for a sweet touch. These activities open the doors to joyful interactions before the music begins.

Convenient parking awaits at a nearby city-owned garage on San Carlos Street with entrances on Second and Third streets. Single tickets range from $35 to $115, with special discounts for youth including half-price options for those 17 and under when accompanying adults, or the Saturday Night SoundCheck Pass for patrons 25 and under at $25 for the season, plus companion tickets.

For tickets and additional information, visit www.symphonysanjose.org

San Jose Dance Theatre's 60th Anniversary of The Original San José Nutcracker

San Jose Dance Theatre brings back its cherished holiday tradition with the 60th anniversary of The Original San José Nutcracker, running from December 13 to 21, 2025, at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. This production stands as the longest-running holiday show in Silicon Valley, drawing families and visitors to experience a blend of classic storytelling and fresh artistic elements. Over 100 dancers from the theatre's academy join professional guests on stage, accompanied by the Cambrian Symphony under conductor Scott Krijnen, creating a vibrant display of talent right here in the heart of San Jose.

Artistic Director Nicole Haskins steps in for her first Nutcracker with the company, introducing new touches to familiar scenes like the shimmering snowflakes, marching soldiers, and the elegant Sugar Plum Fairy. The show highlights local guest artists in key roles, upholding a tradition started by the founders that fosters mentorship between seasoned performers and young students. This approach not only showcases the city's deep pool of dance talent but also strengthens community bonds through shared artistic endeavors.

To mark the milestone, the theatre rolls out themed performances that encourage audience participation. Options include a Sweaters & Sparkles Matinee on December 13 at 2:00 PM, where attendees can wear festive outfits; an Alumni Night that evening at 7:30 PM for past participants; a Candyland Matinee on December 14 at 2:00 PM with sweet surprises; Tutus & Tiaras on December 20 at 2:00 PM for young fans; Family Pride Night that evening at 7:30 PM featuring a pre-show meet-and-greet; and Storybook Sunday on December 21 at 2:00 PM with lobby activities tied to the ballet's tale.

Since its start in 1964, The Original San José Nutcracker has woven itself into the fabric of San Jose's cultural life, with many former dancers now bringing their own families to the shows. Executive Director Elizabeth Sweeney notes the gratitude toward the community for sustaining this tradition across generations. The production serves as a reminder of the city's commitment to arts that inspire and connect people year after year.

Beyond the stage, the event offers lobby carolers, a holiday boutique, and VIP options like backstage tours and character interactions. For a full San Jose holiday experience that celebrates local creativity and joy, this Nutcracker delivers.

For tickets and details, visit www.sjnutcracker.com

Playful People Productions Stages Disney's Newsies in San Jose

Playful People Productions presents Disney's Newsies from November 8 to 16, 2025, at the Historic Hoover Theater. This Tony Award-winning musical, based on the 1899 Newsboys Strike, features two casts of teen and adult performers bringing the story to life. Set in early 20th-century New York City, the production follows charismatic newsboy Jack Kelly as he leads a group of young paper sellers in a stand against powerful publishers raising prices. The tale highlights themes of unity and justice, with reporter Katherine Plumber joining the cause to prove her worth in a male-dominated field.

The show includes memorable songs like Watch What Happens, Carrying the Banner, Seize the Day, King of New York, and Santa Fe, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Jack Feldman and a book by Harvey Fierstein. Directed by Katie D'Arcey and Emily Pennington, with vocal direction from Jacqueline Whitaker and choreography by Emily Pennington, the performances promise high energy and engaging dances. Two casts, named World and Sun, alternate showtimes, offering multiple chances to catch the action. Tickets range from $22 for youth under 12 to $30 for adults, making it an affordable outing for families and friends.

As part of its 15th anniversary season, Playful People Productions continues to foster inclusive theater experiences in San Jose. Founded in 2010 and operating as a nonprofit since 2017, the organization emphasizes positive discipline and creative growth for all ages. It provides classes, camps, and multi-generational shows where family members perform together, creating bonds that extend beyond the stage. Supported by grants from the City of San Jose and SVCreates in partnership with Santa Clara County, this production exemplifies the community's commitment to arts education.

The Historic Hoover Theater is located at 1635 Park Avenue and you can find more info and tickets over here.

sanjosetheaters.org

San Jose's Music Scene Shines with 40 Upcoming Concerts in 2025

The San Jose metro welcomes a dynamic lineup of live performances this year, featuring 40 concerts across various genres that showcase the area's thriving entertainment options. From country stars to rock legends, these events at venues like SAP Center, Levi’s Stadium, and The Mountain Winery in nearby Saratoga draw crowds eager for memorable nights. Highlights include major tours and special guests, making it wise to grab tickets early before popular shows sell out.

Early August kicks off with Morgan Wallen at Levi’s Stadium on Friday, August 1, and Saturday, August 2, joined by Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn, and Anne Wilson for his I’m the Problem Tour 2025. That same weekend, Lynyrd Skynyrd brings classic rock hits like Sweet Home Alabama to The Mountain Winery on August 1, followed by Rick Springfield's I Want My ‘80s Tour with John Waite, Wang Chung, and Paul Young on August 2. Mid-month features Anuel AA's Real Hasta la Muerte 2 Tour at SAP Center on August 8, and Parker McCollum with Ashley Cooke on August 15, while Stunna Girl performs at Club Rodeo Rio that evening.

The momentum continues with The Beach Boys' Sounds of Summer Tour at The Mountain Winery on August 17, Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms on August 19, and Save Ferris at The Ritz on August 21. Marco Antonio Solís takes the stage at SAP Center on August 22, Dave Matthews Band at Shoreline Amphitheatre on August 23, and Diana Ross at The Mountain Winery on August 16. Later dates include ZZ Top with Night Ranger on August 28 and a rock triple bill of The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World, and New Found Glory at Shoreline on August 30, promising diverse sounds for every taste.

These concerts not only entertain but also highlight San Jose as a hub for cultural experiences, blending local accessibility with world-class talent.

Source: SJ Today

MACLA Presents: Esto No Tiene Nombre Performed by Denice Frohman

San José, CA – January 15, 2025 – MACLA/Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana is proud to present the West Coast debut of the full-length version of Esto No Tiene Nombre, a one-woman show written and performed by the acclaimed poet and performer Denice Frohman. The performances will take place from March 21–23, 2025, at MACLA’s Castellano Playhouse in downtown San José.

Esto No Tiene Nombre is a powerful tribute to the oral histories of Latina lesbian elders, brought to life through a series of poignant, vivid vignettes. Denice Frohman, known for her electrifying storytelling and lyrical depth, brings to life voices gathered as part of I See My Light Shining: Oral Histories of Our Elders, a project curated by MacArthur Fellow Jacqueline Woodson.

These narratives, curated under Woodson’s visionary guidance, serve as the foundation for Frohman’s powerful exploration of identity, love, and survival. The show spans stories of resilience, connection, and joy, from pre-Stonewall police raids in Philadelphia to the intimate moments of first kisses. Frohman intertwines her own personal journey with the voices of Latina lesbian elders, including activists, barbers, lovers, and chefs, to offer a moving and multidimensional portrait of their lives and legacies.

About Denice Frohman

Denice Frohman is an award-winning poet, performer, and writer from New York City whose groundbreaking work explores culture, identity, queerness, and social justice. As a queer Nuyorican and the daughter of Puerto Rican and Jewish parents, Frohman uses her craft to challenge power structures and preserve cultural heritage. A former Women of the World Poetry Slam Champion, she has performed on iconic stages like The Apollo, MoMA PS1, and The White House during the Obama Administration.

Her poetry has been featured in The New York Times, Poem-A-Day by the Academy of American Poets, and anthologies like Nepantla: An Anthology for Queer Poets of Color and The BreakBeat Poets Vol. 4: LatiNext. Supported by organizations such as The Pew Center for the Arts and Baldwin for the Arts, Frohman’s work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Website: www.denicefrohman.com

Instagram: @denicefrohman

About MACLA/Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana

MACLA is an inclusive contemporary arts space grounded in the Chicano/Latino experience that incubates new visual, literary and performance art in order to engage people in civic dialogue and community transformation.

Founded in 1989, MACLA emerged from a broad community mobilization in San José and across the nation advocating for multicultural arts. Since its inception, MACLA has envisioned arts programming as a powerful vehicle for civic dialogue and social equity serving over 38,000 people annually and produces 50 programs each year in three core program tracts: visual arts; performance and literary arts; and youth arts education.

MACLA is located at 510 South First Street, San José, CA 95113

For tickets, additional photos, media opportunties or more details about Esto No Tiene Nombre and other MACLA events, visit www.maclaarte.org, email info@maclaarte.org, or call (408) 998-ARTE.

Don’t miss this unforgettable performance that celebrates Latina lesbian history, love, and resilience. Join us for Esto No Tiene Nombre, March 21–23, 2025, at MACLA’s Castellano Playhouse!

Performance Dates:

Friday, March, 21, 2025 – Doors: 7:30 PM | Show: 8:00 PM

Saturday, March, 22, 2025 – Doors: 7:30 PM | Show: 8:00 PM

Sunday, March, 23, 2025 (Matinée) – Doors: 1:30 PM | Show: 2:00 PM

Tickets available at macla.eventbrite.com

$45 Reserved Seating

$30 General Admission

$10 Students

Run time: Approximately 75 minutes

Symphony San Jose presents HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR “Christmas at the California” December 7 and 8, 2024

Celebrate “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at the majestic and beautifully decorated California Theatre with Symphony San Jose, Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabíle Youth Singers, New Ballet, and special guests! Fun for the whole family. 

 

Rejoice in holiday classics including carols, audience sing-alongs, and the ever-popular 12 Days of Silicon Valley. Share this unforgettable part of the holiday season with your family and friends.

 

Who: Symphony San Jose presents

 

What: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR “Christmas at the California”

 

When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 2:30pm

Where: The California Theatre, 345 South First Street, downtown San Jose, 95113. Convenient, inexpensive parking is available at a city-owned garage one-and-a-half blocks from the theater at San Carlos Street with entrances on Second and Third streets. 

SINGLE TICKET PRICES: $35 - $115  

($41.50 to $121.50 with City and order fees).  Note: fees detailed below.

TICKETS: Phone: 408.286.2600  

Website: www.symphonysanjose.org  

Email: jmeyers@symphonysanjose.org

Walk-Up Box Office: 325 South First Street, San Jose, 95113. Located between San Carlos and San Salvador Street next to the California Theatre. Ticket Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 10am to 5pm.

City Fees – There is a mandatory Theatre Preservation Fee and Facility Fee of $2.50 applied to every single ticket sold.

Handling Fees – Handling fees vary depending on how tickets are purchased. For online orders, there is a $4 per ticket handling fee. For phone orders, there is a $5 per transaction handling fee. There are no fees for in person purchases.

THE PROGRAM:

J.S. Bach: Jauchzet, frohlocket (from “Christmas Oratorio”)

M.Torme/R.Wells: The Christmas Song

G.F. Handel: See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes! (from “Judas Maccabbaeus”)

 

Alan Silvestri: Polar Express Suite

G.F. Handel: That Trumpet Shall Sound (from “The Messiah”)

Albert Hague: You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch

Traditional: 12 Days of Silicon Valley

 

ARTISTS:

Elena Sharkova, Conductor

Nathan Stark, Bass-baritone

Symphony San Jose

Symphony San Jose Chorale

Cantabíle Youth Singers

New Ballet

 

Pre-concert Festivities begin one hour prior to the concert.

SAY “HELLO” TO SANTA. Join us before the concert for a jolly good time with Santa Claus himself. Capture the holiday spirit and create lasting memories as you take pictures and share “Christmas Wishes” with Santa. But keep a lookout for the mischievous Grinch who may be lurking around, trying to steal some Christmas cheer. (You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch!)

DECORATE A GINGERBREAD COOKIE! Join the fun one hour before curtain and unleash your inner pastry artist by decorating your own gingerbread cookie with royal icing. The festivity is open to everyone. Come hungry and make some sweet and delicious memories. (Note: Cookies are NOT gluten-free.)

Photo courtesy of Symphony San Jose. Photos by Fontejon Photography.

"The Other Mr. Lincoln" A World Premiere Musical

Event Title: "The Other Mr. Lincoln" A World Premiere Musical

When: Oct 10th & 11th @ 8pm, Oct 12th  @ 2PM & 8PM

Where: Hammer Theatre Center in Downtown San Jose, CA

From the tumultuous times of 1860's to the 1920's, this musical shows you life-changing events, as seen through the eyes of Robert Lincoln, who was there at all of those events! The only man in history who was! Spy intrigue, thwarting conspiracies to prevent his father from taking office, Robert lives through three Presidential assassinations. And so do you! But it’s so much more! Witness a “Scandalous” Suffragette Movement protest, and then a “Twilight Zone”-type finale!

You are entertained, enthralled, and yes, even educated! With a 12-piece orchestra playing 11 different genres of music, from ballads to ragtime, from salsa to opera, and from conspiracy concerto to rock ‘n’ roll, it takes you through history you only thought you knew! 

Lunar New Year Community Day at the San Jose Museum of Art

Tomorrow from 11am-4pm there is one more Lunar New Year event at the SJMA. Welcome the year of the dragon with cultural demonstrations, live performances, and interactive artmaking activities. These include making paper dragons, Chinese stamps, and figurines based on the Vietnamese Tet traditions.

At 11:30am there is a performance by the Korean Culture Center at the Circle of Palms in front of Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Later at 3pm there is a traditional Lion Dance performance (which is amazing).

Admission to this event is completely free and is kid-friendly.

Culture Night Market at Hillview Park in East San Jose, Sep 23

Another Culture Night Market is coming to San Jose, except this time on the East Side. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate San Jose culture through food, art, and music. 

A key goal of the event is to empower small businesses, artists, and local entrepreneurs in the area--especially those that are still recovering from the impact COVID had on our economy.

The event takes place Saturday, September 23rd from 4-10pm at Hillview Park (2255 Ocala Ave, San Jose).

New single from San Jose Band, Love District: "Feels like Home"

Four members from San Jose that fell in love with post-punk and new wave have just released a rockin new single. Their style is reminiscent of The Cure, The Smiths, and New Order with their own spin. 

The new single is entitled "Feels Like Home" and it's about life in a dense city where you can feel alone and at home at the same time. That's all the more poignant after 16 months of dealing with COVID. In their words: "It's about about how we can forget the important things in life during the endless grind and distractions in our lives. Wherever you live, whatever the situation, we all have a place we feel is our home."

I've already added it to my playlist and look forward to checking them out live in the Bay Area sometime. You can listen to "Feels Like Home" on Spotify over here.

Below is a bit more info about about band:

"After releasing their debut EP “Control,” and their album “Delusions,” Love District is looking to reestablish their sound with their upcoming releases. The group has played the Ernie Ball stage at Vans Warped Tour, worked with CocaCola, and has played many festivals and venues while becoming a staple in the Bay Area music scene."

Steinway Society Announces Performer Change for Nov 17th Concert

SAN JOSE, CA – Korean pianist Changyong Shin will be the featured artist in the third concert of the Steinway Society 25^th Anniversary Season on Sunday, November 17. He will replace Heejae Kim, who is unable to perform due to a hand injury. 

The concert will be held November 17, 2019 at 2:30 p.m. at Independence High School in San Jose. A pre-concert talk will start at 1:45 p.m. The artist will meet with audience members following the concert for questions and photos.

“We are thrilled that we are able to secure a pianist of the caliber of Changyong Shin to the South Bay on such short notice,” said Kathy Wilson, Steinway Society president. “We wish Heejae Kim a quick recovery from her recent injury.”

Born in Korea, Changyong Shin was the 2016 First Prize Winner of the Hilton Head International Piano Competition, and has taken first prize at numerous other global competitions. He made his Carnegie Hall debut in November 2016, receiving a standing ovation, and has performed in prestigious venues throughout Europe and Asia. He is also an accomplished chamber musician and has performed with groups in Korea, Paris, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco and other U.S. cities. 

"He alternates between extreme fire and melting sensitivity, each of which gains by contrast to the other."

New York Concert Review

WHO: Steinway Society presents CHANGYONG SHIN

WHAT: Piano concert  

WHEN: Sunday, November 17, 2019, at 2:30 p.m.  Pre-concert lecture (1:45 p.m.). Meet-the-artist time follows the concert.

WHERE: Independence High School Theater, 617 North Jackson Avenue, San Jose, CA 

TICKETS/INFO: Single Tickets: $40-$60. Senior/Student Discounts Available. Student Rush $10, thirty minutes prior to performance.  www.steinwaysociety.com or 408-300-5635

PROGRAM:

Beethoven:

Piano Sonata No. 30 in E major, Op. 109  

Vivace ma non troppo – Adagio espressivo

Prestissimo

Gesangvoll, mit innigster Empfindung. Andante molto cantabilie et espressivo

Chopin:
Nocturne in B major, Op. 62, No. 1 

Scherzo No. 4  I E major, Op. 54

Intermission

Ravel:

Gaspard de la Nuit 

Granados:

Goyescas No. 1 “Los Requiebros”

PHOTO: Courtesy of Steinway Society.

 Acclaimed Korean performer Changyong Shin will appear in San Jose on November 17^th as part of the Steinway Society’s 25th Anniversary Season.

 

Musical Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFSrP6sjG-g   Chopin Nocturne in B major Op. 62 No. 1

ABOUT US

Steinway Society - The Bay Area is a nonprofit organization based in Silicon Valley. Now entering its 25th season, this dedicated group of musicians, pianists, teachers and arts lovers promotes excellence in piano performance and music education. Each season, Steinway Society presents a series of classical piano concerts featuring international award-winning pianists, as well as an active school program. For more information on Season Subscriptions, the artists, and Steinway Society, go to www.SteinwaySociety.com

ROOTS & WINGS opens sjDANCEco’s 15th Anniversary Season

Now celebrating 15 years in Downtown San Jose, sjDANCEco is proud to kick off their anniversary season with "ROOTS & WINGS." The performance will pair contemporary and classic modern dance with live music by the San Jose Chamber Orchestra. The company will do three performances in San Jose at the Hammer Theater, followed by two performances in San Francisco. All of the details and links to ticket sales are in the press release below.

ROOTS & WINGS opens sjDANCEco’s 15th Anniversary Season

Performances to be held in both San Jose and San Francisco

WHO:  sjDANCEco presents

WHAT: ROOTS & WINGS (Season Opening Program shown in two different venues)

WHEN: October 12 and 14 in San Jose.  November 3 and 4 in San Francisco

WHERE:

The Hammer Theatre Center, 101 Paseo de San Antonio in downtown San Jose, CA 95113

Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:00pm

Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 2:30pm and 8:00pm

Tickets Available August 1st 

Single Tickets: $25 to $90

$25    Student

$35    Senior

$40    General

$60    VIP Thursday evening & Saturday matinee includes bests seats in the house and reception with the dancers in the lobby following performances.

$90    VIP Saturday evening includes bests seats in the house and Gala Reception with dancers on Theatre Roof Top Garden

ODC Theater, 3153 17th Street, San Francisco, CA 94110

Friday, November 3, 2017 at 8:00pm

Saturday, November 4, 2017 at 8:00pm

Tickets Available August 1st

Single Tickets: $25 to $40

$25    Student

$35    Senior

$40    General

Box Office: 408.520.9854   www.sjDANCEco.org

WHY: sjDANCEco, San José’s contemporary dance company, celebrates its 15th Anniversary Season with multiple world premieres and expanded venues including the Hammer Theatre Center in downtown San Jose (October 12 and 14), and ODC Theater in San Francisco (November 3 and 4.) According to Artistic Director Gary Masters, “this is only the second time in our fifteen years, that we have brought our company to these two marvelous venues. We are so very excited to be back. Our Season-Opening program, entitled Roots & Wings, will explore the diverse inspirations and contributions that have been the foundation…the roots of creativity...for our resident choreographers and which have made and continue to make sjDANCEco’s repertory so distinctive.”

THE PROGRAM:

sjDANCEco’s 2017-2018 season-opening program will feature four World Premieres by; sjDANCEco Artistic Director Maria Basile, sjDANCEco Choreographic Advisor & Professor of Dance at San Jose State University Fred Mathews, Company Choreographer and dancer Hsiang Hsiu Lin, and by former company dancer Nhan Ho. Each new work will explore the choreographer’s Roots and the inspirations that give them Wings to excite and motivate their creativity. Also on the program will be a revival of Journey Through the Labyrinth originally created in 1994 for the Limón West Dance Project/San José and Idance of Independence High, with choreography by Artistic Director Gary Masters and set to a new commissioned score by Michael Touchi, Creative Consultant for the San Jose Chamber Orchestra. The revival will include a new section with choreography by Los Lupeños de San José Artistic Director Sam Cortez. The “Classic Offering” for these performances will be the Company Premiere of Doris Humphrey’s masterpiece, Day on Earth (1947) set to Aaron Copland’s “Sonata for Piano.” 

Collaboration with the San Jose Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Barbara Day Turner continues to highlight the company’s signature brand of contemporary dance and classic works of the American Modern Dance Repertory.

Photo Clockwise from Top Left: Hannah McNany, Frankie Reviera, Kelisha Gardeen and Katherine House, Photo by Thomas Hassing.

Playful People Productions Presents: Disney The Aristocats KIDS

What's a cat to do? In Disney The Aristocats KIDS, Madame's jealous butler Edgar cat-naps Duchess and her Aristokittens and abandons them in the Parisian countryside. Luckily, Thomas O'Malley and his rag-tag bunch of alley cats come to their rescue! This fun musical, based on the Disney film, features many of your favorite characters from Thomas O’Malley the Alley cat to Amelia and Abigail the bold Geese Sisters

This feline adventure is sure to get you tapping your feet to its upbeat, jazzy beat with a score that includes the Disney favorites "The Aristocats," "Scales and Arpeggios" and "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat.” 

Our shows often sell out prior to the show weekend. Be sure to buy your tickets early, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic production. 

All Shows at the Historic Hoover Theatre, 1635 Park Ave  San Jose, CA 95126

 

Show Times:

Friday, July 21st - 7:00pm

Saturday, July 22nd - 11:00am, 3:00pm and 7:00pm

 

Tickets available at www.playfulpeople.net

$12 attendees 12 and up, $8 children 11 and under,  and $6 Children’s floor seating

 

Tickets at the door (30 minutes prior to curtain)

$15 attendees 12 and up, $10 children 11 and under, and $6 Children’s floor seating

 

For questions: barb@galiotto.com

 

Founded in 2010, Playful People Production’s mission is to provide a quality, caring environment where children, teens and their families can have positive theater experiences. We strive to involve all family members in the many aspects of on stage and backstage theater in a safe and fun environment and offer participation in theatrical productions, classes, summer stock and camps for ages 3-103

Playful People Productions Presents: Fiddler on the Roof

A gem from Broadway's Golden Age of musicals, Fiddler on the Roof  is set in the little village of Anatevka in 1905. The story centers on Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters. We watch as Tevye attempts to preserve his family’s traditions in a changing world. Tevye’s daughter Tzeitel wants to marry a poor tailor instead of the middle-aged butcher her father has chosen for her in the tradition of arranged marriages. Tevye is forced to choose between his daughter’s happiness and his culture’s beloved traditions. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia. Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof's universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness.

Fiddler on the Roof first appeared on Broadway in 1964 and swept the Tony's with nine "Best" awards including Best Musical for a score that features "Matchmaker, Matchmaker," "If I were a Rich Man," "Sunrise, Sunset," and "Do You Love Me.”

New York-based theatre artists Gary De Mattei (Director/Choreographer) and Caryn Hartglass (Musical Director) will be recreating the original Jerome Robbins choreography. This show is a full length performance, so most appropriate for kids age 8 and up. The performance will feature live music along with our usual amazing actors on stage.

Our shows often sell out prior to the show weekend. Be sure to buy your tickets early, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic production.

All Shows at the Historic Hoover Theater, 1635 Park Ave  San Jose, CA 95126

Show Times: (show will run approx 3 hrs with an intermission)
Thursday, March 2nd - 7:00pm
Friday, March 3rd - 7:00pm
Saturday, March 4th -  1:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, March 5th - 1:00pm and 6:00pm


Tickets available at www.playfulpeople.net
$15 attendees 12 and up, and  $10 children 11 and under

Tickets at the door (30 minutes prior to curtain)
$18 attendees 12 and up, and  $12 children 11 and under

For questions: barb@galiotto.com

Founded in 2010, Playful People Production’s mission is to provide a quality, caring environment where children, teens and their families can have positive theater experiences. We strive to involve all family members in the many aspects of on stage and backstage theater in a safe and fun environment and offer participation in theatrical productions, classes, summer stock and camps for ages 3-103

Cellista's "Finding San Jose"

San Jose cellist and artistic director, Cellista, is leveraging her full-length album entitled "Finding San Jose" to direct a multidisciplinary theater performance featuring the Ransom Dance Company and Haus Serpens Cabaret. Typically I wouldn't promote an event that takes place in SF, but this is a special exception. The album pays homage to Cellista's time in San Jose and tells a story of San Jose's importance in the history of the Bay Area.

The event takes place at Little Boxes Theater in San Francisco on October 29th at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10-15 and you can listen to the album at cellista.bandcamp.com for a preview. Have a look at the press release below for more details.

Cellista to Present: Finding San José  | Theatrical Album Release

A small immersive theater event incorporating Cellista’s debut album as the soundtrack for a multimedia event choreographed by Lilith Ransom and Mojo Deville.

San Francisco, CA: Cellista extends San José’s branches into San Francisco. This October, San Jose cellist, artistic director and performer Cellista (Freya Seeburger) presents Finding San José, a one-of-a-kind multimedia performance that incorporates original choreography created and performed by Lilith Ransom (Ransom Dance) and Mojo Deville (Haus Serpens Cabaret). The presentation interweaves film by Brian Favorite (Heklina), Jennifer Gigantino, Arash Maleki, and Cellista into a small immersive setting for a presentation of dance, theater, and poetry.

Composed in narrative format, Finding San José was engineered and mixed by Maryam Qudus (Doe Eye) and Cellista. The album is reminiscent of the French avant garde, functioning as a stepping stone for many of her collaborators (Rykarda Parasol, Emcee Infinite, rapper Demone Carter, and members of the Juxtapositions Chamber Ensemble) into new disciplines.

The album is a pastiche of genres including classical, hip hop, spoken word and field recordings, showcasing Cellista’s strength as a curator and artistic director. It serves as a soundtrack for film and commercial use, functioning as Cellista’s crossover into production.

Finding San José parallels the diversity of the Bay Area at large and reinforces Cellista’s dedication to creating and producing art that reflects the community she is based in.

This presentation at Little Boxes Theater (1661 Tennessee Street, San Francisco) builds on Cellista’s work in storytelling and interweaves San Jose’s narrative into a piece, showing the immediacy of San Jose’s narrative as important to the Bay Area’s story of growth, gentrification, and more.

Finding San Jose Theatrical album release debuts on Saturday, October 29th, 2016 at 7:30PM at Little Boxes Theater in San Francisco.

Tickets $10-15 Available at the door or online via Cellista.net
21+
 
Little Boxes Theater
1661 Tennessee St
San Francisco California 94107

Listen to the album: cellista.bandcamp.com
Find out more about Cellista Cellista.net

“Freya (Cellista) is a classically trained, punk rock spirited girl with the charm and elegance to defy the stereotype that classical music isn’t cool.”
— Belle Foundation

Playful People Productions Presents: Disney Jungle Book KIDS

Our tale begins deep in the heart of the Jungle. A baby boy, lost and abandoned, is raised by wolves. He is called “Mowgli”. On the run from Shere Khan, a ferocious tiger who has banished him from the jungle, a human boy named Mowgli is aided by an agile panther named Bagheera. Along the way, the two meet a sinister snake named Kaa, a herd of elephants, and a giant bear named Baloo, who teaches them the swingin’ musical rhythms of the jungle. After surviving a dangerous encounter with a band of monkeys led by King Louie, Mowgli and Bagheera are forced to run for their lives. Shere Khan returns, leading our protagonists to rally their follow jungle creatures into battle and restore peace to the jungle.

Our shows often sell out prior to the show weekend. Be sure to buy your tickets early, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic production.

All Shows at the Historic Hoover Theater, 1635 Park Ave  San Jose, CA 95126

Show Times:
Friday, August 5th - 7:00pm
Saturday, August 6th - 11:00am, 3:00pm and 7:00pm

Tickets available at www.playfulpeople.net
$12 attendees 12 and up, $8 children 11 and under, and $6 Children’s floor seating

Tickets at the door (30 minutes prior to curtain)
$15 attendees 12 and up, $10 children 11 and under, and $6 Children’s floor seating

Founded in 2010, Playful People Production’s mission is to provide a quality, caring environment where children, teens and their families can have positive theater experiences. We strive to involve all family members in the many aspects of on stage and backstage theater in a safe and fun environment and offer participation in theatrical productions, classes, summer stock and camps for ages 3-103

Bryan Adams headlines Big Bang Concert on the Fourth of July

94.5 KBAY & Mix 106.5 fireworks viewing party gets even bigger

SAN JOSE – 94.5 KBAY and Mix 106.5 are bringing rocker Bryan Adams to San Jose’s premiere fireworks viewing party this Fourth of July.

Adams, known for hits including Cuts Like A Knife, Summer of ’69 and more, is on tour with his album Get Up!. Mix 106.5 and 94.5 K-BAY are hosting the show, which will include a great view of the Rotary Fireworks, food trucks, kids activities, pre-order BBQ, beer, wine and more.

Tickets are now available at www.sjdowntown.com/BigBang

Bryan Adams concert & fireworks viewing party
Center for Performing Arts Plaza, downtown San Jose
4 p.m. – 10 p.m. July 4.
$25 advance VIP area access with tables, chairs.
$15 advance General admission
Pre-order BBQ: $15 adult, $10 child under 12

A VIP viewing area will be set up along Almaden Boulevard for prime fireworks viewing.

"Behind the Magic of Performance" at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph

The San Jose Dance Theatre and NoonArts & Lectures will be doing a community performance at the Cathedral today from 12:45pm to 1:30pm. San Jose Dance Theatre is a non-profit, pre-professional dance company focused on providing performance opportunities and training to Silicon Valley youth. All of the details are on the flyer below (click to enlarge).