Daytime Performances for Schools
This series allows the ASC to share the thrill of live performance with area students and aspiring young artists in a world-class performing arts venue. During these one-hour, interactive presentations, performers share anecdotes about their professional training and provide insight into the pieces they perform. Curriculum Guides are available for all “Meet the Artist” programs. Reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis. Free admission. To make reservations for your class, call (205) 934-0862.
Performance Schedule:
Turtle Island Quartet
Monday, October 20, 2008; 10 a.m.
Recommended grades 6 - 12
TSQ is know for pushing the boundaries of classical music by incorporating folk, bluegrass, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. In their education program, “The Art of the Groove,” they focus on the fundamental rhythmic differences between European classical and American popular forms. This event is co-presented by the ASC and Birmingham Music Club.
Paul Taylor Dance Company
Friday, October 31, 2008; 1 p.m. Recomended grades 6 - 12
Paul Taylor’s choreography is the “gold standard” for modern dance. This educational program will be in the form of a moderated, open rehearsal. Audience members will get a behind the scenes look at what it takes for dancers to prepare physically and mentally for a world-class performance!
Jungua: Descendents of the Dragon Monday, November 3, 2008; 10 a.m.
This fresh and exciting troupe celebrates the Chinese culture in an explosion of kung fu, acrobatics, music, and dance. The incredible skills of The Imperial Acrobats of China and the martial arts feats of the Shaolin Disciples combine with modern staging, exciting choreography, and dramatic music and lighting to deliver an amazing cultural experience.
"Dickens’ Vest Pocket Christmas Carol"
Monday, December 8, 2008; 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is brought to life in a unique way your students are sure to love. Join the Cratchets, Tiny Tim, all of the Spirits, and of course, Ebenezer Scrooge in his journey toward redemption and enlightenment. Adapted and directed by ASC’s own Jerry Sims, whose popular original presentations have included “Mad Hatter Tea Party” and “Down the Yellow Brick Road.”
Peabody Trio
Monday, January 12, 2009; 10 a.m.
The Peabody Trio recently celebrated its 20th year as vivid interpreters of classical chamber music and dedicated teachers and mentors to a generation of young musicians. Winner of the prestigious Naumburg Chamber Music Award in 1989, the ensemble currently serves as the resident faculty ensemble of the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore. This event is co-presented by the ASC and Birmingham Chamber Music Society.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet
Friday, January 16, 2009; 10 a.m.
Artistic Directors, Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, both former Alvin Ailey dancers, formed Complexions to encourage an appreciation of diversity through dance. In this educational program students will learn the inspiration behind the choreography and see excerpts from their acclaimed repertoire. This event is co-presented by the ASC and Alabama Dance Council.
"Alice’s (Even Bigger) Tea Party" Friday, May 1, 2009; 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Recommended for grades K - 6
The original Tea Party was so much fun we decided to do it again – only bigger! Students will join Alice and her friends on stage for this magical performance! The original inhabitants of the Tea Party will be joined by more of Lewis Carroll’s laughable and lovable characters. This show is written and directed by ASC’s own Jerry Sims.
H.T. Chen Dance Company
Thursday, May 7, 2009; 10 a.m.
Recommended for students with an interest in dance, Chinese language or culture, or for students in grades 6 - 12.
*Important Information- Many performances fill up months in advance. To accommodate as many students as possible, we request that schools only make reservations if they are sure they can attend. This will avoid last minute cancellations, which keeps others from being able to participate in our free educational performances. If however, your group must cancel, please do so no later than three weeks prior to the performance. Groups that cancel sooner than three weeks will be ineligible to receive transportation assistance and cannot make reservations to any of the next three “Meet the Artist” series performances. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and understanding.