Saturday, December 20, 2008

Soo Theatre Project Announces Membership Drive

We are excited to announce the First Soo Theatre Membership Drive. Belong to Something Big!

By becoming a member, you are sharing in a community effort and supporting programs that are impacting thousands of people in the Eastern Upper Peninsula. We want to continue to share with even more people.

Volunteers at the Soo Theatre Project have made great strides since March of 2003 when we purchased our huge building complex in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie. We have repaired the building and opened the theatre to dozens of shows, have put hundreds of local performers (including lots of kids) on stage, and have welcomed amazing entertainers from all over the US and Canada to our area. For a sample of what's been happening at the Soo Theatre, check out our Photo Galleries.

STARS*, the Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios, has grown to more than 400 students, and our many performing groups have performed on our own stage and at many events throughout the area. For a brochure listing our current class offerings, see the STARS home page .

We encourage you to help us pay our heat, light, insurance, and other bills by making a commitment to whatever amount you can give us on an annual or perhaps a monthly basis. Every donation is important to us!

Belong to Something Big! Become a member today!

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*STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Don't Miss Holiday Christmas Classics on Dec 14

Come and enjoy Christmas and holiday music on Sunday, December 14 at 2:00pm at the Lake Superior State University Arts Center.

The whole family will enjoy singing along with their favorite carols and holiday tunes, as well as performances by the LSSU Chorus and Vocal Ensembles, the STARS Youth Chorus, the STARS Youth Orchestra. Also featured will be soloists Karen Hughes and Trisha Wells, along with guest performers from the Sault Area, STARS, and LSSU. The finale will be the Hallelujah Chorus.

Tickets are $10 and $5 for students & children. Seating will be general admission so be sure to arrive early to get your choice of seat. For tickets call the LSSU Norris Center Ticket Office at (906) 635-2602 or the STARS Ticket Office at (906) 632-1930.

Proceeds will benefit the LSSU Arts Center programs and STARS music education.

STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex.

Photos from the performance

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

STP is on TV!

Early on a Thursday morning the Soo Theatre Project got a chance to put its story out on the television airwaves.

Michigan This Morning comes to the Soo Theatre stage! 9&10 News photojournalist Corey Adkins (at far left) and reporter Kalee Iacoangeli (center) prepare a segment with Karen Hughes (left) and Taylor Brugman (right) of the Soo Theatre Project. Photo courtesy of Tom Ewing.


Each weekday morning TV 9&10 News reporter Kalee Iacoangeli and photojournalist Corey Adkins take to the road, visiting northern Michigan places and people on the Michigan This Morning show. On November 13, they traveled in the cold and dark to Sault Ste. Marie. Their objective: to feature the Soo Theatre Project and our Legacy Fund capital campaign.

To see a bit of what they found, check out the video clip on the 9&10 News website.

And you can also see a few photos of their visit .


Michigan This Morning reporter Kalee Iacoangeli (center) interviews Colleen Arbic (left) and Dianna George (right) about plans to turn the second floor of the Soo Theatre Complex into 3,000 square feet of dance and music studio space. Photo courtesy of Tom Ewing.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Rotary Show of Shows Coming October 5th

Over 100 of the very best performers from Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area will join forces onstage Sunday, October 5th at 2pm for a benefit variety show at the Soo Theatre in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.

The Sault Ste. Marie Rotary Club and the Chippewa Sunrise Rotary Club are presenting the first ever Rotary Show of Shows with all proceeds going directly to the Soo Theatre Project to help continue its teaching, entertaining, and restoration.

The fast-paced program includes a host of the area’s favorite singers, musical groups, and dancers. Rotarians will serve as theatre volunteers and hosts for the afternoon of fun.

Music styles range from Broadway to country, jazz to hip hop, and rock to classical. Families are encouraged to be sure to bring the whole family. The audience will also be a part of the show as well. Show stoppers from Soo Theatre productions will be featured and a number of surprises are also planned.

Performers scheduled to appear, in alphabetical order, include International Idol winner K.T. Antler; Susan Askwith; Denny Brooks, Bill Stanaway and Dave Stanaway; Melanie Case; The City Band; Maureen Delaney-Lehman; Lisa Dunn; The Footlight Dance Theatre (and friends); Dianna George; Judy Hendrickson; Karen Hughes; Liz Jacobus; Lola Kennedy; Sean Ley; The Lock Cities Chorus of Sweet Adelines International; The Methodist Bell Choir; Mark San Angelo; Jim Schmidt; Josh and Sam Scott; Singers United; George Snider; and Lise White.

Tickets are just $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under, and are available at the Soo Theatre box office.

Tickets are available at the door with special discounts available for groups of 15 or more. Call the Soo Theatre at (906) 632-1930 for more information, or visit the website at www.sootheatre.org.

Photos of the performance

Friday, September 19, 2008

Soo Theatre Presents On Golden Pond Sep 27

This summer's successful production of On Golden Pond will be on the Soo Theatre stage on Saturday, Sept. 27, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 28, at 2:30 p.m.

Director David Rhinard of DeTour Village will also perform as Billy Ray in this memorable play.

Ralph Shiplett, a newcomer to the stage, plays a wonderful Norman Thayer. He said he relates well to the role, being the same age (76) as Henry Fonda when he starred in the movie classic.

Sandy Wytiaz, who has been in several productions, such as Steel Magnolias, brings a combination of feistiness and tenderness to Ethel that will tug at the audience's heartstrings.

In this story of a lovable elderly couple spending the summer at their cottage on Golden Pond, Norman fears he is getting too old to enjoy life. The unexpected arrival of Billy, the son of Bill Ray, Ellen Thayer's romantic interest, breathes new life into him.

The smart-mouthed city kid is played by another first-time actor, Tyler Davis, who takes to the stage like a duck to water.

Heather VanDaele, a newcomer to DeTour and an experienced actor, wrestles with her belief that her father doesn't love her, pushing her mother, Ethel, to her limits.

Dan Harris of Sault Ste. Marie, a veteran actor in E.U.P. productions, plays Charlie Martin, the mailman who has been pining for Ellen since they were kids.

Somehow the dysfunctional relationships all get resolved, but you won't want to miss the fun along the way.

This cast received standing ovations at the end of all of their performances in DeTour in June and in Curtis in July. Those who haven't seen On Golden Pond shouldn't miss this opportunity!

Tickets are available at the door with special discounts available for groups of 15 or more.

Call the Soo Theatre at (906) 632-1930 for more information.

Performance Photos

Monday, September 8, 2008

Hughes Goes From Countess to Baroness This Summer


Die Fledermaus in rehearsal (L-R): Daniel Webb, Lance Hedlund, Rosemary Hollingsworth, Eric Shaw, and Karen Hughes.


Karen Hughes, Pickford, lives a fairly ordinary life most of the year, but the STARS resident soprano and harpist does find opportunities to travel to distant places and share her wonderful voice internationally. This past winter one of her grad school opera directors let her know that auditions were being held for Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro for performances in Italy. She traveled to Lincoln, Nebraska where one of the 10 U.S. auditions were held and, in April, learned that she had earned the role of the Countess.

Karen had just completed the production of the Soo Theatre’s A Grand Night For Singing when she took off to a small mountain town outside of Rimini on Italy’s eastern coast, called Novafeltria. The 200-seat opera house called a teatro sociale with three round balconies and seating on the main floor is also used for community theatre, public meetings, and music concerts.

Another performance was in Bellaria, a tourist town on the Adriatic Ocean. Hughes said the company arrived with their sets and costumes and walked through the sand and sunbathers to the stage. The sun worshippers made their way to a lovely outdoor dinner theatre performance literally on the oceanside.

Hughes left for Novafeltria thinking she knew only the director. She actually renewed acquaintances with a former apprentice director she knew at Des Moines Metro Opera in 2003, a voice teacher with whom she had shared a masters class, another voice teacher from Minnesota, a Nebraska graduate she’d seen perform at her alma mater DePauw, and three of the singers in the chorus who are currently attending DePauw. It was exciting to find many persons that she had just met there all had close friends in common.

“The music world really has its own little network,” Hughes said. “You often get the next job from the last one.”

Hughes admits opera is more popular in Italy than in the United States. “Most people know the stories and the history even if they do not attend the performances,” she remarked. Hughes struck up a conversation with her gondolier driver on a day trip to Venice. He talked about Mozart and drove her party past the home of Casanova who had been a good friend of Mozart’s number one librettist, the person who writes the story for the music.

She said that, just as she is trying to expose young people from the Eastern Upper Peninsula to the opera art form, the Italians are just as excited about getting young people from their town into the opera house. Hughes said she chose Hansel and Gretel for the first opera at the Soo Theatre because it is a story that everyone knows. The Magic Flute was next--a fairy tale with princes and princesses and a magical story of courage and honor.

This year’s production of Die Fledermaus will appeal to all ages, as it is a comic operetta by Strauss. It will be sung in English and is basically the German form of the American musical. Also known as The Revenge of the Bat, it is the story of Baron von Eisenstein playing a bad joke on a friend who plans to get back at him. The plot has a number of comical twists; and the cast is made up of many of Hughes's old friends and some new ones, along with local favorites like Anna Wilson, Rich Morrison, Mark San Angelo, Chris Friese, Trisha Wells, and a number of STARS students and other area performers.

Eric Shaw, who grew up in Sault, Ontario, plays Herr Eisenstein and Hughes is his wife Rosalinda. Rosemary Hollingsworth, who was so wonderful in A Grand Night For Singing, is in the cast. Other guest singers have come from Knoxville and Omaha.

This will be a chance to hear the lilting music of Strauss sung by marvelous voices and played by a talented orchestra. It is also a chance to laugh a lot as the story and song weave their magic. Tickets are available at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun, 906-632-1930 for performances Thursday, September 11 and Saturday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinée at 2:30 p.m. on September 14. Go online to the Soo Theatre website at sootheatre.org to learn more.

Here's another article about Die Fledermaus with links to photos.

STARS Fall Classes Start Sep 15; Sign Up Now!

Registration is now open for fall classes at Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS.) The 16 week fall term begins September 15 and runs through January 17. Interested students should register in person at the STARS office, weekdays 10 am to 6 pm. Brochures listing class times and tuition fees are available at STARS or on the web at www.sootheatre.org.

Class offerings in dance include Movement & Dance, Pre-Ballet, Ballet I, Ballet/Jazz II, III, and IV-V, Pre-Pointe and Pointe, Ballet/Jazz A-B, Footlights Dance Company, Tap I and II-III, Jazz /Hip Hop and Ballroom I and II. All dance classes will be taught by Dianna George. Acting for teens will be taught by David Rhinard. Dianna George will be teaching Musical Theater and Acting for ages 8-12 and teens.

Nancy Powers will be teaching Tunes for Toddlers for preschool children with parent. Karen Hughes will be offering Elementary Musical Theater and Voice Performance Class. Beginning Piano Classes for children, teens and adults will be offered by Ronda McGreevy.

Handmade Book workshops for children will be taught by Linda Warrington. Lee Carlson will be offering yoga classes for adults.

Private lessons will be available in violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, recorder, voice, harp, trumpet, trombone, French horn and piano. Nancy Powers will also offer Suzuki violin instruction for children ages 3 and older. Individual and group lessons with parent participation are a part of the Suzuki program.

STARS musical groups meeting during the fall term will be Children’s Choir, Youth Chorus, Flute Choir, Flute Club, Recorder Consort, Young Readers Orchestra, Intermediate Youth Orchestra, Senior Youth Orchestra and “Not Quite Ready for Prime Time” Players for adult string players.

For more information on any of these classes, lessons and workshops, contact the STARS office, 534 Ashmun St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI, 906-632-1930, or email: stars@lighthouse.net.

STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Fall 2008 Programs at the Soo Theatre (Corrected)

(Editor's note: Please note the change in the graphic. On Golden Pond's first performance is Saturday, September 27, not Friday. We apologize for any confusion.)

Soo Theatre Project, Inc. announces its programming for fall 2008 at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Tickets are available now at the Soo Theatre office and at the door.

Discounts may be available for groups of 20 or more. Please call the Soo Theatre office at (906) 632-1930.

September 11, 13, & 14
Die Fledermaus (Johann Strauss II opera).
Thursday, September 11 and Saturday, September 13 evening performances: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $18 adults, $12 children 12 and under.
Sunday, September 14 matinee: 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 children 12 and under.
More details...

September 27 & 28
EUP Fine Arts Council's On Golden Pond (drama).
Saturday, September 27 evening performance: 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 28 matinee: 2:30 p.m.
Tickets: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $7 students K-12.

October 5
Rotary Show of Shows (benefit for the Soo Theatre)
Sunday, October 5 matinee: 2:00 p.m.
Tickets: $10 adults, $5 children.
Come join the fun as the Rotary Clubs of Sault, Michigan join forces to stage a benefit show for the Soo Theatre Project. The fast-paced afternoon will include many of your favorite local performers, many of the fabulous entertainers from STARS, and some surprises from the members of the Sault Ste. Marie Rotary Club and the Chippewa County Sunrise Rotary Club!

Halloween Week
Haunted Theatre Three!
Watch for details.

Soo Theatre Project, Inc.

Fall 2008 Programs at the Soo Theatre

Soo Theatre Project, Inc. announces its programming for fall 2008 at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

See the corrected announcement.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Hughes Brings Singers to the Soo Theatre for The Revenge of the Bat

Daniel Webb, Lance Hedlund, and Eric Shaw perform a scene from Die Fledermaus at the pre-show Around the Piano fundraising event.

Resident artist and soprano Karen Hughes brings her friends to Sault Ste. Marie to star in the Soo Theatre Project’s September 11, 13, and 14 production of Die Fledermaus or The Revenge of the Bat. These guest singers will be coming from as far away as Toronto and Omaha, Nebraska.

Toronto-based tenor Eric Shaw returns to the Soo Theatre to sing the role of Herr Eisenstein, husband to Rosalinde (Karen Hughes). Shaw performed in the Soo Theatre’s first season, giving his time and superb talents to That’s Amore! in 2006. Shaw was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and was raised in Soo, Ontario. Shaw’s aunt and uncle, Phyllis and Dave Bigelow, will be hosting Eric for his time-in-residence as well as hosting a benefit soirĂ©e featuring all of the singers.

Baritone Daniel Webb comes to us from Knoxville, Tennessee to play the role of Prison Warden Frank. Hughes met Webb this summer in Italy where they performed together in The Marriage of Figaro. Webb played the role of Figaro to Hughes’s Countess. Webb recently performed the role of Colline in Baz Luhrman’s La Bohème on Broadway in over three hundred performances.

Guest artist and tenor Lance Hedlund was a graduate school friend of Hughes at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Hughes and Hedlund frequently performed the famous love duet from La Bohème at many a venue during their three years in Nebraska. Hedlund, too, made his Italian debut in 2007 in Novafeltria, Italy, singing the role of Edgardo in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor.

Lifelong friends Rosemary and Chris Hollingsworth will return to the Soo Theatre stage for the second time this season, their first appearance in A Grand Night for Singing: Broadway and Opera Favorites! Rosemary will be singing the role of Adèle, the chambermaid of the Eisensteins. Rosemary’s beauty and graceful high notes will be perfect in this charming role. Husband (in real life) Chris will return to sing the role of Falke, the mastermind of the revenge plot on his friend Eisenstein (Eric Shaw). Both Hollingsworths and Hughes attended DePauw University where they earned their degrees in music performance. Rosemary and Chris went on to Tri-Cities Opera as resident artists at Binghamton University where they earned their master’s degrees in vocal performance. These friends are not strangers to the Upper Peninsula, as they have visited the Hugheses in Hessel many a summer.

Eric Shaw proposes a toast as Rosemary Hollingsworth and other cast members of Die Fledermaus look on at the pre-show Around the Piano fundraising event.

Local favorites who will appear in the show include: Maureen Delaney-Lehman as the bored Prince Orlovsky; Anna Wilson who plays Sally, friend to Adèle, the chambermaid; Chris Friese, recently seen as Lt. Buzz Adams in South Pacific, in the role of Frosch the jailor; and Mark San Angelo, South Pacific’s riveting Luther Billis, in the role of Ivan. The Chamber Singers of Algoma will make up the guest chorus at the ball with Lola Kennedy, Melanie Case, Liz Jacobus, Dianna George, and new resident opera star, Trisha Wells, leading up the stage chorus. On opening night there will be surprise performances during the Act II party scene, including Cedarville’s Lisa Dunn and the men of South Pacific!

Daniel Webb and Karen Hughes perform a duet from Die Fledermaus at the pre-show Around the Piano fundraising event.

Tickets are available at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Thursday, September 11 and Saturday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. adults $18 and students $10. Matinee Sunday, September 14th at 2:30 p.m. adults $15 and students $10. Contact the Soo Theatre by phone at (906) 632-1930 or by email at sootheatre@lighthouse.net.

Die Fledermaus Photos:

Around the Piano event Part 1

Around the Piano event Part 2

Tuesday Night Dress Rehearsal

Wednesday Night Dress Rehearsal

Opening Night Performance



Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Our Summer 2008 Newsletter Is Now Available


Our summer 2008 Newsletter is now available online in PDF format (1.3 Mb).

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Children's Ballet Theatre to Perform August 21


Soo Theatre is glad to welcome back Children’s Ballet Theatre of Lansing, Michigan August 21, 2008 at 7:30 pm. Gregory George, brother of Dianna George, STARS Dance Instructor and founder of Soo Theatre Project, directs this talented company of dancers from the Lower Michigan area. Their mission is to provide a youth-oriented, community-based ballet performance company in Michigan with the highest possible dance, artistic, and performance standards, while fostering a greater appreciation of ballet as an art form.

For 25 years, CBT has thrilled mid-Michigan audiences with the talent and exuberance of its young dancers. Its annual Nutcracker during Thanksgiving weekend at the Wharton Center has turned this much-loved holiday classic into a can’t-miss local tradition. In addition to Nutcracker, the company performs classic ballets such as Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, in the annual spring show.

They will be performing pieces from earlier shows, solo pieces, ensemble pieces, and our own STARS dance students will perform with the Children’s Ballet Theatre. “We are so excited to dance with Mr. George’s group. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Soo Theatre and STARS”, said Footlights Dance Theatre member Elizabeth Jacobus of Rudyard.

Come one, come all, Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 7:30 pm at the Soo Theatre Project on 534 Ashmun St. Tickets are $10 and free admission for STARS students. Any questions please call (906) 632-1930 and/or email us at www.sootheatre.org.

Photos from the performance

Friday, August 8, 2008

Don't Miss Mia Johnson on Friday, August 22 at the Soo Theatre

Soo Theatre Project presents Cedarville native Mia Johnson. Mia is originally from Cedarville but calls Philadelphia, Pennsylvania her home as well. Mia is a singer-songwriter-guitarist; a triple threat in her own way. She began playing and writing whilst in Cedarville, eventually relocating to Philly where her music began to flourish along with her talents. She began performing anywhere that would allow, beginning on the street, since she was not of age to perform in bars. Not long after she was playing full gigs in café houses, bars, and anywhere she could.

Mia has a melody-led, rhythm-driven, acoustic rock fleshed out by clever lyrics, solid vocals, and ingenious instrumentation. She combines this with a full rock rhythm section of cello, acoustic guitar, and electric guitars. Her sound has been compared with artists such as Ani DiFranco, Alanis Morissette, and Janis Joplin. Mia will be joined on stage by cellist and Philly native Erin Ryan. Erin never stays in one spot for too long; she performs with Mia Johnson, The Good Problems, local Philly bands, and is an active studio musician.

Mia Johnson and cellist Erin Ryan will be performing at the Soo Theatre Project on Friday, August 22, 2008 at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at the Soo Theatre Project lobby and will be sold at the door an hour before the show. Summer hours are Monday - Thursday 10 – 6 and Friday 10 – 5. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students of STARS, Grooves, and Steve's Music.

Come and enjoy this unique duo!!!

Photos from the performance

Find out more at her websites: www.miajohnson.net and www.myspace.com/miajohnson

YouTube Video: Mia Johnson performing “Sailor,” a track from her album, Hello Again

Friday, August 1, 2008

South Pacific To Open August 7; Get Your Tickets Now!

Lise White, a well-known local singer throughout the Eastern Upper Peninsula and Soo, Ontario is a multi-talented singer-actress that brings a rarely-seen spunkiness to the character Nellie Forbush. Her comedic timing and solid vocals polish her character to perfection. Tom Lehman portraying the local Frenchman Emile de Becque has an ease on stage that is very apparent. Tom has been performing for years and gives Emile a natural, easygoing personality that attracts the eyes and melts the heart. Tom has a natural ease portraying Emile, he gives him a relatable persona. Audiences will fall in love with these two very different yet complimentary leads.

Lise White as Nellie Forbush and Tom Lehman as Emile de Becque from South Pacific
Nellie Forbush is a naive U.S. Navy nurse from Arkansas who falls in love with Frenchman Emile de Becque. Although their love is strong, Nellie is still fickle and afraid to commit to Emile, who wants to spend the rest of his life with Nellie. Her feelings for Emile run hot and cold, but the audience knows they are meant for each other…let's hope. See South Pacific at Soo Theatre Project to find out the juicy details, touching moments, famous songs, and comedic interludes.

Lise White as Nellie Forbush from South Pacific

All local talent headlines this adaptation of Roger's and Hammerstein's South Pacific. Love, laughs, singing, and dancing are just a couple of words to describe this great production. You will be on the edge of your seat with laughter at Luther Billis's (Mark San Angelo) and Nellie Forbush's (Lise White) "Honey Bun," then pulled back when you see the love between Nellie Forbush and Emile de Becque with "Some Enchanted Evening." Bloody Mary (Lisa Dunn) will grab you with her famous song "Bali Ha'i" and then send you for a loop with her adaptation of the English language. Lt. Joseph Cable (Joseph Kargiannakis) is a courageous young Marine, he sings "Younger than Springtime" making his intentions known to the South Pacific native Liat (Mary Witucki). Only a week left until this Tony Award-winning musical is performed on the Soo Theatre Project's stage, get tickets now.

Tickets are available at the door and/or at the Soo Theatre Project lobby located on 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Soo Theatre Project lobby hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, August 7, 8, and 9 at 7:30 p.m. with tickets at $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. In addition, a Sunday matinee on August 10 will start at 2:00 p.m. with tickets at $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

Discounts are available for groups of fifteen or more on tickets purchased prior to the show date. Any questions, please contact Soo Theatre Project at (906) 632-1930 and/or www.sootheatre.org

Photos:
  1. South Pacific "sneak preview" at the Sault Summer Arts Festival
  2. South Pacific rehearsals
  3. South Pacific production photos
  4. More photos of South Pacific people

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

And the International Idol Is...KT Antler


A Truly International Finish to International Idol: L-R: Judge "Gentleman" George Snider, Lake Street Studio proprietor Taylor Brugman, International Idol KT Antler, Judge Trisha Wells, and Emcee Jack Bradway. Photo courtesy of Tom Ewing.

The final week of the marathon series International Idol at the Soo Theatre was a barn-burner. Each performer pulled out all the stops as they had a mere six minutes to impress judges and audience alike for one last time. Costume changes, personal dedications, flag waving, instrumental accompaniment, and even a bit of rule-bending was on the docket.

Finally, after all of the challenges, surprises, twists, and turns had put the very best vocal performers in the Greater Sault Area to the test, one emerged to be crowned The International Idol.

Besting the other eighteen contestants by showcasing her dynamic charisma, vocal quality, and guitar skill, KT Antler of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, walked away the grand champion and recipient of a $1,000 gift certificate to record at Lake Street Studio courtesy of Taylor Brugman.

At only thirteen years of age, Danielle Petingalo of Kincheloe, Michigan, came in a close second.

Of course, all the contestants were winners. Throughout the competition they received assistance with song selection from Jennifer Compo of All Good Soundz, and expert judges "Gentleman" George Snider and Trisha Wells helped hone the contestants' talents.

Who will win the next International Idol series? Do you have what it takes?

Photos from the Contest Finals (Week 4)

Photos from Week 1 of the Contest

Photos from Week 2 of the Contest

Thursday, July 24, 2008

July 27: International Idol Grand Finale!

Week Three of the four-part marathon series, International Idol, rocked the Soo Theatre stage this past Sunday. Contestants were dared to go beyond their own personal expertise and work with one of their rivals in the Duet Challenge.

The caliber of talent was never questioned; nevertheless, some duos showed more polish than others. Two by two, they wowed judges and audience alike. After six duets, the assembled crowd was duly impressed. Then, the final pairing of Week Two's winner, KT Antler and her handpicked partner, Michael Williams, took the competition to an entirely new level. Even in its own era, Grease never looked or sounded so good. Those assembled reacted the only way appropriate with the first standing ovation of the International Idol competition.

Three weeks have elapsed. One to go.

Nineteen contestants have graced the stage. Thirteen remain.

Week Four's final performance is up to the competitors. After weeks of challenges and expert critiques by the judges, the competitors are now the ones who have to decide what they will do to prove that they are indeed the best performer in the Twin Saults.

Who will win the grand prize of $1,000 recording time at Lake Street Studio? Will it be the rock band leader, opera singer, pre-sporting-event national anthem specialist, middle school student, or one of the other incredibly talented performers?

To find out you need to be at Soo Theatre stage this Sunday, July 27th at 6:00 p.m. for the grand finale of International Idol.

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For more information on the contest, see the previous posting.

Photos from Week 1 of the Contest

Photos from Week 2 of the Contest

Coming August 7-10: South Pacific at the Soo Theatre!

Nellie Forbush and the nurses (from top to bottom): Lise White, Shirley Wilkinson, Martina Vollman, Melissa Kargiannakis, Elizabeth Jacobus, Julie Meier, and Robin Bergsma.
Set during World War II, an Arkansas country girl, Nellie Forbush, played by Lise White, is a U.S. Navy nurse caring for U.S. Navy soldiers in the South Pacific. After a couple of weeks Nellie met local Frenchman Emile De Becque, played by Tom Lehman. Nellie and Emile immediately are drawn to each other and fall in love but, naturally, as any good romantic comedy goes, there are obstacles in their way. The U.S. Navy sailors with a combination of the U.S. Navy nurses add a lovely banter of comedy between the scenes that Nellie and Emile are apart. The comedic relief is enough to give the show its charisma, but the love between Nellie and Emile keep the audience wanting more. Some Enchanted Evening, I’m Gonna Wash that Man Right Outta My Hair, and Bali Hai are just a few favorite songs from this famous Broadway musical. At the 2008 Tony Awards South Pacific took 7 awards, including "Best Revival of a Musical" and "Best Direction of a Musical."

U.S. Navy sailors (from left to right): Carl Meyer, Scott Gilbertson, Mark San Angelo, Nick Meier, and Michael Irvine.

The 35-member cast of South Pacific is made of all local performers from around the Eastern Upper Peninsula and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The show is also being run by local performers: director Dave Rhinard, music director Karen Hughes, choreographer Dianna George, and piano accompanist Maureen Delaney-Lehman. The directors are very pleased with the cast and feel optimistic that the audiences will fall in love with this production.


South Pacific is being performed at the Soo Theatre Project on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, August 7, 8, and 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. There will also be a matinée on Sunday, August 10 at 2 p.m., with tickets at $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Groups of 15 or more will be discounted $5 from each ticket. Please call in advance to give the box office enough time to accommodate your group.

If you have any questions, please contact the Soo Theatre Project at (906) 632-1930. Thank you and hope to see you at the show!

STP Seeks Singers and Actors for Die Fledermaus

The Soo Theatre Project is seeking singers/actors for September 11,13, and 14, 2008 production of Die Fledermaus at the Soo Theatre in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

The Soo Theatre Project is casting the remaining roles in its September operetta, Die Fledermaus, or The Revenge of the Bat. This comic show, with music by Johann Strauss, combines musical numbers with dialogue scenes. We are seeking singers/dancers for the chorus in all voice parts. We are also casting some remaining lead and secondary roles.

You do not have to sing to be in this production. There is one comedic speaking role, Frosch the jailor, in addition to Ivan the butler and various other acting parts. Please contact Karen Hughes at karenrebeccahughes@gmail.com for more information.

Or you may call the theatre and leave a message at 906-632-1930. Please be sure to say you are calling about Fledermaus auditions.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

International Idol Competition Continues July 20

KT Antler wins International Idol's Week Two challenge at the Soo Theatre on July 13.

International Idol action at the Soo Theatre was humming – no – make that singing to the rafters on Sunday night. Two weeks into the four-week marathon competition, the contestants stepped up the challenge. Each contestant was given a genre of music to perform, often outside of their comfort zone.

Some were tripped up by the challenge as blues, country, jazz, show-tune, rock, and even rap were thrown at the contestants. Others embraced their challenge with gusto. Highlights from the evening included Anna Wilson's well thought-out rendition of "Big Spender," Bill Kritselis's a capella serenade to judge Trisha Wells, and an impromptu duet by Marlee Fox and Brandon Carr.
Once the scores had been tabulated, the winner of week two's challenge was KT Antler. Three others were thanked for their efforts, but eliminated from further competition.

Bill Kritselis serenades Judge Trisha Wells in Week 2 of the International Idol Vocal Competition at the Soo Theatre on July 13.

Dynamic Week Three action will begin on the Soo Theatre stage on Sunday, July 20 at 6:00 p.m. Twists, turns, surprises, and general unknowns await the remaining fifteen contestants as they battle for the grand prize of $1,000 worth of studio time at Lake Street Studio. Of course, the true winner is always the audience as they are treated to the very best performers and performances the Twin Saults have to offer.

For more information on the contest, see the previous posting.

Photos from Week 1 of the Contest

Photos from Week 2 of the Contest

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Enjoy The Best Little Theatre in Town on July 18!

“A hardworking and enthusiastic group of kids, we are having so much fun! This two-week camp is really showcasing how much young talent we have in this area,” said directors Dottie Case and Dianna George. Case and George are directing the Soo Theatre Project and STARS Musical Theatre Day Camp production of The Best Little Theatre in Town. A talented and energetic cast of middle and high school students will perform.

This engaging musical is a “play within a play” centered on a shady accountant, James P. Penny Packer. Packer announces that he’ll have to shut down the best little theatre in town, due to lack of funds. That’s when the theatre’s owner Mrs. Goodman, popular director Cecille Deville, and the tightly-knit cast go into action to keep “the best little theatre in town” running.

Sit back and have fun while supporting STARS Musical Theatre Day Camp. The Best Little Theatre in Town will be performed on the Soo Theatre Project stage at 534 Ashmun Street on Friday, July 18, at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Tickets are selling now and will also be sold at the door. For more information, please call (906) 632-1930.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.

STARS summer arts camps are supported in part by a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

See a few photos of the musical camp students as they prepared for the performance

Photos of the performance

Saturday, July 12, 2008

There's Still Time to Sign Up for International Idol!


Last week's International Idol contestants wowed the judges. This week's competition will be on Sunday, July 13, at 6 p.m. at the Soo Theatre. From left, Executive Director/MC Jack Bradway, William Kritsellis, Jennifer Payment, Annis George, Corrine Koenemann, Lola Kennedy, Danielle Petingalo, M-E Polquin, Anna Wilson, and Brandon Carr. Seated are judges Mark San Angelo and "Gentleman George" Snider.

Sunday July 7, 2008 on the Soo Theatre Project's stage at 6 p.m. was the first of many International Idol vocal competitions being held every Sunday of July. Nine local talents took the stage, each unique in performance and style of music. The competitors ranged in ages from 13 to 80, with 2 male performers and 7 female performers.

The celebrity judges were "Gentleman George" Snider and radio announcer Mark San Angelo. Both judges had constructive criticism for each performer's first time on the Soo Theatre Project stage. The judges were especially wowed by Danielle Petingalo, the youngest competitor. She not only had the stage presence of a performing veteran, she sang with a maturity that is hard to find in the oldest performers out there now.

Each performance is accompanied by the karaoke styling of All Good Soundz. All Good Soundz has many songs to choose from and the latest technology out there. If they do not have what you want, send an e-mail to admin@allgoodsoundz.com and they will find what you are looking for. They can also answer any questions you may have.

On Sunday July 13, 2008, you should expect many twist and turns. There will be prizes and surprises each Sunday, all leading up to the grand prize of $1,000 of studio time with the Lake Street Studio in Brimley, Michigan. Lake Street Studio is located on the waterfront of Brimley and is always accepting musicians looking to broaden their experience.

If you love singing and performing, this is the competition for you! There is still time for new applicants to join the competition series this Sunday July 13, 2008. New applicants can pick up registration forms at the Soo Theatre Project between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Friday. The Theatre asks for contestants to be ready and at the Theatre by 5:30 p.m. each Sunday. If you have any questions, please call the Soo Theatre office at (906) 632-1930.

For more information on the contest, see the previous posting.

Photos from Week 1 of the Contest

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

One Night Only! Rock Starz In Concert July 11!

Soo Theatre Project presents Rock Starz, featuring B3NT Rollercoaster, Set to Random, The Darwin Project, and Scofflaw on Friday July 11, 2008 at 5 p.m.

These four uniquely talented Northern Michigan bands will be performing as a benefit for the Soo Theatre Project. All representing a certain genre of rock, you won't want to miss this distinctive combination.

B3NT Rollercoaster has exclusive stage energy that is not worth missing. Set to Random has a grounded earthly sound all their own. The Darwin Project has a hardworking, grassroots approach to performing live, and Scofflaw are full of an energy that is hard to forget.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and are available in advance or at the door at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun St. in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. For more information, call the theatre at (906) 632-1930.

Preview the bands on www.myspace.com under the music search engine and attend this one-time-only performance.

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Don't Miss Don Ross and Andy McKee This Thursday, July 3!

“The thing that came from somewhere” is on its way to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. World-renowned guitarists Don Ross and Andy McKee will be performing their technical, artistically brilliant work at the Soo Theatre on Thursday, July 3 at 8 p.m.

The two virtuosos are quickly becoming household names. Don Ross has the distinction of being the only person ever to win the U.S. National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship twice, in 1996 and also back in 1988. Andy McKee is YouTube’s Most Downloaded Artist in the World. His live recording of “Drifting” has been downloaded over 12 million times since 2006. You may have also heard McKee’s playing on Josh Groban’s 2007 Christmas album, Noel. The album reached the pinnacle of popularity, #1 on The Billboard 200.

Taking a time-out on their European tour to visit our small corner of the world, Ross and McKee will be performing duets and solos. Their unique styles feature techniques that are progressive, percussive, animated, and laden with a healthy dose of humor.

This is a rare opportunity to see preeminent musicians in an intimate setting. Show time is 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $22 for adults, $18 for students of STARS, Grooves Music, and Steve’s Music. Tickets are on sale at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun St. in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. For more information, call the theatre at (906) 632-1930.

Find out more at their website: Don Ross & Andy McKee

YouTube Video: Don Ross & Andy McKee performing “Tight Trite Night,” a track from their latest album, the thing that came from somewhere

Monday, June 16, 2008

International Idol Competition Starts Jul 6: Do You Have What It Takes?

Soo Theatre Project, Inc. & All Good Soundz Present... International Idol!

International Idol is American Idol meets Rockstar INXS. Contestants will be judged – sometimes harshly – based on technique, presence, audience rapport, and that magical quality that makes a great performer.

This is not a vocal-quality-only, Karaoke-style competition. We are looking for the best Frontperson in the Twin Sault Area. Own the song, stage, audience. Do you have what it takes?

Competition starts at 6:00 p.m. on July 6th and contestants compete every Sunday until July 27th when one is crowned as the International Idol. And, yes, there will be challenges, surprises and eliminations along the way.

Grand Prize is $1,000 studio time at Lake Street Studio in Brimley.

Download a sign-up form from the Soo Theatre website or stop by the Soo Theatre office to register. Registration is FREE!

For more information, call the Soo Theatre office at (906) 632-1930.

Photos: Week 1 Week 2

Sign Up Now for Stage-Fighting Workshop Starting Jun 30

A stage-fighting workshop in progress. Courtesy of the EDGE website.
Orion Couling, Kinross native, is returning back to the area to teach a stage-fighting workshop and performance at Soo Theatre Project. Since Kinross, Orion has graduated with honors from Northern Michigan University, founded EDGE (Esteem Development Through Greater Expectations), is the Artistic Director of Eudaimonia Professional Theatre and Gymkhana Studios, teaches studio classes in Chicago area, fight-directs with independent films, is recognized as an Associate teacher for Dueling Arts, and is an Advanced Actor Combatant for the Society of American Fight Directors (SAFD).

Orion will be joined by his sister, Emily Couling. Emily is attending Northern Michigan University majoring in Theatre and Voice. Emily has been in many productions around this area and with Soo Theatre Project as well. Among the many productions that she was associated with last year, she directed All I Really Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten at the Soo Theatre and was the lead in Warrior performed through Northern Michigan University.

The two day stage-fighting workshops are June 30 and July 2 from 6-8 p.m. and will be performed Saturday, July 5, at 7:30 p.m. at Soo Theatre Project in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. If you enjoy Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean, or you have dreamed of knowing the secrets held within being a Jedi or a Kung Fu Master, then this is your stop.

Middle School, High School, College Students, and anyone ready to know the secrets behind stage-fighting are welcome. Register at Soo Theatre Project in person or over the phone (906) 632-1930. Hope to see you there!

Photos from the July 5 performance

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Don't Miss A Grand Night for Singing: Opera and Broadway Favorites, June 5 and 6

Pickford local soprano Karen Hughes will be singing in A Grand Night for Singing: Opera and Broadway Favorites. Tenor Dr. Christopher Hollingsworth, soprano Rosemary Hollingsworth, pianist Rachelle Deresti, string quartet Simply Strings, and local talent will be joining Hughes. A Grand Night for Singing will have pieces from Wicked, My Fair Lady, La Traviata, Così fan tutte, and pieces from Die Fledermaus, an opera that is being performed at the Soo Theatre Project in September.

Tenor Dr. Hollingsworth has performed leading and featured roles in Don Giovanni, Così fan tutte, The Magic Flute, Le nozze di Figaro, Madama Butterfly, Roméo et Juliette, La Traviata, Die Fledermaus, and others. Dr. Hollingsworth is currently an Assistant Professor of Voice at Illinois State University where he serves as Coordinator of the Voice Department.

Soprano Rosemary Hollingsworth has performed leading roles in Tales of Hoffman, Don Giovanni, Die Fledermaus, The Magic Flute, Roméo et Juliette, Kismet, Così fan tutte, and The Medium. Ms. Hollingsworth has served on the voice faculty of Illinois Wesleyan, Lycoming College, and Illinois State University.

Soprano Rosemary Hollingsworth and tenor Dr. Christopher Hollingsworth

Soprano Karen Hughes has performed extensively in opera, musical theatre, and oratorio in the United States and abroad. Hughes will head to Italy this summer to sing the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro with La Musica Lirica in July. Hughes holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Harp Performance from DePauw University and Master’s Degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Nebraska.

Soprano Karen Hughes

Pianist Rachelle Deresti holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Piano Performance from the University of Saskatchewan and a Master of Music Degree in Piano Chamber Music from the University of Toronto. Rachelle returns to the Soo Theatre for Grand Night, having been the rehearsal accompanist for The Magic Flute and the pianist in the orchestra for Annie. Rachelle teaches piano at the Algoma Conservatory in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

A Grand Night for Singing: Opera and Broadway Favorites is being performed at the Soo Theatre Project on Thursday, June 5th and Friday, June 6th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. There will be a June 6th Special: $30 tickets for the middle section towards the front will include an after-performance on-stage reception to meet the artists. Wine, punch, coffee, and light appetizers will be provided.

For advance tickets or more information, call the Soo Theatre office at (906) 632-1930. The Soo Theatre is located at 534 Ashmun Street in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Photos from the Performance

Friday, May 23, 2008

WWII Revue Salutes Veterans on June 1

Back by popular demand, WWII Revue is being performed in Soo, Michigan. Recently performed in Soo, Ontario, this performance showcases the great talents of the Northland Barbershop Chorus and the Lock Cities Chorus of Sweet Adelines. Both choruses are known for their harmonies and energetic stage presence.

The show is a salute to all veterans, especially those who served in WWII, with a night of song and skits. All of the WWII greats will be there: FDR, Bob Hope, Carmen Miranda, Kate Smith, and more. There will also be an authentic tank parked in front of the Soo Theatre Project as another form of commemoration.

The WWII Revue will be performed at the Soo Theatre on Sunday, June 1st at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 and WWII veterans have free admission.

Photos of Soo Theatre's WWII "Makeover"

Photos of the Performance

More Photos of the Performance

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

STARS Summer Classes Start June 2; Sign Up Now!

Registration is now open for summer classes at the Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS.) The summer term begins June 2. Classes, workshops, lessons and day camps for children, teens and adults are offered in dance, music, acting, visual arts and yoga. Brochures listing class time and tuition fees are available at the STARS office or online at www.sootheatre.org. Interested students should register in person at the STARS office weekdays 10 am to 6 pm.

Arts Day Camps for children and teens will be offered during July. Musical theater camp for middle school and high school students will be July 7-18, concluding with a performance of “The Best Little Theater in Town.” Elementary musical theater camp will be July 28-August 1, concluding with a performance of “This Old Gingerbread House.” Elementary arts exploration camp will be July 21-25.

Class offerings in dance include Movement & Dance, Pre-Ballet, Ballet I, II, III & IV, Pre-Pointe and Pointe, and Footlights Dance Company. All dance classes are taught by Dianna George. Ronda McGreevy will be teaching Beginning Piano Classes for ages 9-12, 13-16 and adult. Tunes for Toddlers, parent-child music classes for preschoolers, will be offered by Nancy Powers. Chamber Music, Fiddle Club and “Not Quite Ready for Prime Time” Players offer ensemble opportunities for string players of all ages. Lee Carlson will teach yoga classes for adults. Meg Stevens will lead the Flute Choir. Stage-fighting Workshop for teens will be offered June 30-July 5. Private lessons will be available in violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, voice and piano.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.

STARS summer arts camps are supported in part by a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Friday, May 9, 2008

STARS Students Dance to the Top Hits of All Time May 16 and 17

Top Hits of All Time
STARS Student Dance Show
LSSU
Arts Center
May 16 & 17
7:00 p.m. both nights
Tickets: $10 at Soo Theatre office (534 Ashmun Street ) or at the door

Roll over Beethoven and get jiggy with it. Students of the Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) and Ms. Dianna George are taking to the stage at LSSU's Arts Center on May 16 and 17. Over 150 students of ballet, ballroom, hip-hop, jazz, and tap will wow audiences with choreographed moves to some of the greatest hits from the last 200 years.

The show will open with special guests, the STARS Youth Choir, singing a couple of numbers, and then the dancers will take to the limelight.

Performers range from 3-year-olds doing what they do best--acting incredibly cute--to teens and adults who have been honing their talents for years. Audiences will also be regaled with the inaugural performance of the Footlights Dance Theatre, a cadre of highly skilled dancers who will be touring the Eastern Upper Peninsula this summer.

Showtime is 7 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $10 for all seats and can be purchased at the Soo Theatre offices (534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan) or at the door.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.

Photos of the show

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Announcing the Summer 2008 Season at the Soo Theatre

Soo Theatre Project, Inc. announces its summer 2008 season of programs at the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Tickets will be available starting May 1. All tickets are available at the Soo Theatre offices and at the door.

Discounts may be available for groups of 20 or more. Please call Jack or Lola at (906) 632-1930.

Printable PDF versions of ticket information (15Kb) and poster at right (492Kb) are available on the website.

June 1
WWII Revue performed by Northland Barbershop Chorus & Lock Cities Chorus of Sweet Adelines. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 everyone, WWII veterans free.

June 5 & 6
A Grand Night for Singing (Broadway and Opera favorites). 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 adults, $5 children 12 and under.
June 6 Special: $30 tickets for the middle section towards the front include an after-performance on-stage reception to meet the artists. Wine, punch, coffee, and light appetizers will be provided.

July 3
Don Ross & Andy McKee. Don Ross is the only person to ever win the U.S. National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship, twice! Andy McKee is YouTube’s #1 Most Downloaded Artist. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $22 adults, $18 students of STARS, Grooves Music, and Steve’s Music.

July 5
E.D.G.E. (stage fighting performance). 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $5 everyone.

July 6, 13, 20, and 27
International Idol (vocal competition series). 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $5 everyone.

July 11
Rock Starz (four local rock bands). 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $10 everyone.

July 18
The Best Little Theatre in Town (middle/high school musical performance). 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $5 everyone.

July 25
Elementary School Arts Exploration Camp Open House. 2:00 p.m. Free admission.

August 1
This Old Gingerbread House (elementary school musical performance). 2:00 p.m. Free admission.

August 7–10
South Pacific (Rodgers & Hammerstein musical).
August 7-9 evening performances: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $18 adults, $12 children 12 and under.
August 10 matinee: 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 children 12 and under.

August 21
Children's Ballet Theatre (More details to come.)

August 22
Mia Johnson (acoustic guitar and cello duo from Philadelphia). 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $10 adults, $8 students of STARS, Grooves Music, and Steve’s Music.

August 23
Grooves Rock Camp 2008 (student concert). 3:00 p.m. All tickets: $5. Bands scheduled to perform include: Unleashed, Intrepid, Disaster, Blind-Sphere, and Free Refill. Photos from the performance

September 11, 13, & 14
Die Fledermaus (Johann Strauss II opera).
September 11 and 13 evening performances: 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $18 adults, $12 children 12 and under.
September 14 matinee: 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 children 12 and under.

More shows will be added.

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

STARS Student Solo Recitals May 2, 9, and 10

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) will present a series of student solo recitals Friday May 2, 7 pm., Friday May 9, 7 pm. and Saturday May 10, 2 pm. at Central United Methodist Church, 111 E. Spruce St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Featured performers will be voice, violin, viola, cello, clarinet, piano, and harp students of Dottie Case, Karen Hughes, Ronda McGreevy and Nancy Powers.

The public is invited to these year-end performances. Donations will be accepted at the door to benefit the STARS Music Department.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.

Photos from the recitals

Sunday, April 27, 2008

STARS Presents Spring Ensemble Concert May 4

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) will present a spring ensemble concert Sunday May 4, at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 555 Bingham St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Donations will be accepted to benefit the STARS music department.

Featured on this program will be the Flute Choir, Flute Club, Intermediate Youth Orchestra, Senior Youth Orchestra, and the Youth Chorus. Also performing on the program will be the string quartet of Melanie Case, Anna Hirt, Cara VanDusen, and Elizabeth Jacobus, as well as mezzo soprano Shirley Wilkinson and soprano Lola Kennedy. All musicians performing are students of STARS.

The Flute Choir and Flute Club are under the direction of Meg Stevens. The Youth Chorus is directed by Karen Hughes. Nancy Powers conducts the Intermediate Youth Orchestra and Dottie Case leads the Senior Youth Orchestra.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.

Photos of the Concert

STARS Announces Summer 2008 Classes and Day Camps

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) announces summer classes and day camps. Complete schedule and tuition fee information is available online and at the STARS office. Registration opens May 5 at the STARS office at 534 Ashmun St., Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, or call (906) 632-1930.

DANCE
Dianna George, instructor
Movement and Dance ages 3-5
Pre-Ballet ages 5-7
Ballet I ages 7-12
Ballet II-III-IV ages 8-12 with previous experience
Ballet/Jazz A-B teen-adult
Ballet/Jazz C-D teen-adult, by audition
Pre-Pointe and Pointe must be a STARS ballet student

MUSIC
Tunes for Toddlers
Nancy Powers, instructor
Ages 2-4 with parent

Beginning Piano classes
Ronda McGreevy, instructor
Ages 9-12, 13-16 and adult
Must have a piano or keyboard for at home practice

Chamber Music
Dottie Case and Nancy Powers, directors
For advancing middle school and high school string players

“Not Quite Ready for Prime Time” Players
Nancy Powers, director
For adults who are learning or re-learning a string instrument

Private music lessons
Violin, viola - Dottie Case, Nancy Powers
Cello - Nancy Powers
Flute - Meg Stevens
Clarinet - Dottie Case
Piano - Dottie Case, Ronda McGreevy
Voice - Karen Hughes, Ronda McGreevy

YOGA
Lee Carlson, instructor

THEATRE
Stage-fighting Workshop June 30-July 5
Orion Couling, workshop director

Whether you are a Jedi, Lord of the Rings, Kung Fu Master, or Pirate of the Caribbean, you have one thing in common—you are a stage fighter. Now, you can learn the secrets of fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping action from one of the leading experts in the film and stage industry.

Mr. Orion Couling will be teaching a two-day workshop, June 30 and July 2, at 6-8 p.m. The workshop will culminate in an on-stage production Saturday July 5, at 7:30 p.m. The workshop is limited to 30 middle and high school students. Tuition is $48.

ARTS DAY CAMPS
Musical Theater Day Camp July 7-18
Dottie Case and Dianna George, directors

When James P. Penny Packer (a shady accountant) announces that he’ll have to shut down “The Best Little Theater in Town” due to lack of funds, the theater’s owner Mrs. Goodman, popular director Cecille Deville, and the tightly-knit cast go into action! Be a part of this fun-filled “play within a play” as the small town theater company struggles to make ends meet.

This day camp is limited to 30 middle and high school students (grade 6-12). No previous experience is needed. Students will meet Monday through Friday 9 am to 3 pm. Tuition is $150 for the two-week session. The performance of “The Best Little Theater in Town” will be Friday July 18, at 7 p.m. on the Soo Theatre stage. Admission will be $5 per person.
Be a part of the production of “The Best Little Theater in Town.”

Elementary Arts Exploration Camp July 21-25
Ronda McGreevy, Nancy Powers and Linda Warrington, instructors

Take an adventure around the world through music, dance, storytelling, creative writing and art. Come sing and play music using the piano, recorder, Boomwhackers and other instruments. Write stories, do art work and learn dances inspired by life in countries around the world.

This day camp is limited to 30 children who have completed grades 1-5. No previous experience is needed. Students will meet Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp will conclude with an open house for families Friday July 25, at 2 p.m.

Elementary Musical Theater Camp July 28-August 1
Dottie Case and Nancy Powers, director

Hansel and Gretel have moved into the Gingerbread House in the forest. But the house is in terrible shape because their neighbors have found the temptation of the tasty house too much to ignore. So they decide to move out. Realizing they have wronged Hansel and Gretel, the neighbors pool their resources and hire the “This Old Home Improvement” team to repair the house.

“This Old Gingerbread House” is a fun musical for children who have completed grades 1-5. No previous experience is needed. Students will meet Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuition is $75. Enrollment is limited to 30 students. The performance of “This Old Gingerbread House” will be on the Soo Theatre stage on Friday August 1 at 2 pm.

Complete schedule and tuition fee information is available online and at the STARS office. Registration opens May 5 at the STARS office at 534 Ashmun St., Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, or call (906) 632-1930.

Soo Theatre Arts Resource Studios (STARS) is a community arts center offering instruction in music, dance, theater, visual arts and yoga for students of all ages. STARS is a program of the Soo Theatre Project, housed in the historic Soo Theatre complex. For more information on classes and lessons, call the STARS office, 632-1930.


STARS summer arts camps are supported in part by a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

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