Press Room
Contact: Nancy Mueller
Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
925-583-2306
nmueller@livermoreperformingarts.org
High Resolution Images Available Upon Request
LVPAC Announces Leadership Change
LIVERMORE, CA (Wednesday, February 17, 2010) The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) announced on Tuesday that David Dial has resigned from his post of Executive Director. Dial, who joined LVPAC in 2007, will remain on senior staff for 30 days before returning to his work as a consultant, specializing in startups and transitions, for Bay Area and West Coast non-profit organizations.
In making the announcement, Phil Wente, LVPAC’s Board Chairman said, “David has led our planning efforts toward the construction of LVPAC’s 2000-seat regional theater. He has, over the past 18 months, worked closely with our architects and construction team to ensure that the new theater will be the finest large-scale theatrical venue in the East Bay. We are most grateful for the role that he has played and we wish him much success in his future endeavors.”
Dial came to LVPAC from the Computer History Museum in Mountain View where he supervised the planning and development of the museum’s facilities and operations. “With the completion of the design and development phase and the securing of a guaranteed maximum price for the construction of the regional theater, I feel the time is right for me to move on to my next project,” Dial said. “I’ve enjoyed working with the staff and board of LVPAC and am pleased that both the Bankhead and regional theaters have received growing support from the Livermore community over these past months.”
Performing Arts Center Receives Irvine Foundation Grant
LIVERMORE, CA – (February 3, 2010) – The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) has received a two year, fifty thousand dollar grant from San Francisco’s James Irvine Foundation. The Creative Connections grant, awarded to only a handful of non-profit organizations around the Bay Area, will allow LVPAC to expand its geographic and demographic reach to develop new audiences for LVPAC Presents performances in 2010 and 2011.
Commenting on the award, LVPAC Executive Director David Dial said, “We are pleased that the Irvine Foundation has recognized our commitment to providing stimulating and entertaining performing arts activities for people of all ages and backgrounds. This grant not only helps support our performance efforts, but encourages us to explore fresh technologies and methods to reach and cultivate new audiences. These new audiences will ensure that LVPAC and the Bankhead Theater continue to prosper in the years ahead.”
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About the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center is a partnership between the City of Livermore and the non-profit Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center, Inc. LVPAC was created to build and operate two theaters as part of the City’s redevelopment of the downtown business district. The 500-seat Bankhead Theater opened in October 2007. In addition, the Center operates the Bothwell Arts Center, an arts incubator that provides classroom, studio, small performance and rehearsal space for area artists, students and arts organizations. For more information, contact the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center: 925-373-6100 or www.livermoreperformingarts.org
Exhilarating Taiko Drum Performance by TAO
Opens 2010 Bankhead Theater Family Fun Series
LIVERMORE, CA – (JANUARY 19, 2010) – Since it opened in 2007, the Bankhead Theater has offered entertainment for all audiences, including a Family Fun Series – performing arts events specifically selected to engage the imaginations of young people and their families. This year, the Family Fun Series opens on February 9, 2010 with TAO – an exhilarating mix of explosive Taiko drumming, contemporary costumes, and innovative, athletic choreography that is certain to thrill the senses of attendees of all ages. The four-event Family Fun Series continues in February with an afternoon of award-winning magic acts, and finishes in March with two entertaining and interactive science programs, sponsored in part by Lawrence Livermore National Security LLC as part of their efforts to bring science, math and technology-based programming to the local community.
When TAO was formed in 1993, the founders had a vision of expanding traditional Japanese Taiko drum performances to incorporate new styles of music and movement, as well as modern costuming and visuals. The group has worked to evolve their own original and innovative style of Taiko, melding ideas and influences from the past with a broad range of musical genres and contemporary stage theatrics from around the world. TAO, which includes highly trained Taiko performers from all over Japan, operates very much with an ensemble mentality. They practice and train together for hours each day to build and maintain team coordination and physical stamina. The powerful and dynamic performances that result from that dedication have received international acclaim for their extraordinary precision and energy, and continue to build admiring audiences for TAO’s unique art worldwide.
The performance by TAO will be followed on February 14th by a magical Valentine’s Day afternoon event for audiences of all ages. “It’s Magic” offers a variety of extraordinary magic acts that range from the comical to the mysterious. The program includes performers from The Magic Castle, the members-only Hollywood club where expert magicians and illusionists present exclusive shows in conjunction with the Academy of Magical Arts.
In March, two highly engaging science programs will command the stage, sponsored in part by a generous grant from Lawrence Livermore National Security LLC. On March 5th, audience members can jump into the fascinating world of forensic science with Mad Science: CSI Live! …. When a crime is committed at the Las Vegas premiere of the Max Spade Magic show, the CSI team springs into action! Mad Science, a leading provider of science enrichment programs known locally for its after-school and summer programs, shows how superior logic and forensic know-how can solve the crime. On Sunday afternoon May 23rd, the final event in the Family Fun Series, Let’s Go Science, enlists Professor Smart and his sidekick Dr. Knowitall to explore “how things work.” Hair will stand on end and the lights will go wild in a hilarious science lesson that will both inform and entertain students of all ages.
As with many other Bankhead Theater events, the Family Fun Series encourages family attendance by offering student pricing of $12 per ticket. The four-part Family Fun Series for 2010 includes:
TAO – Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. – This unique and modern presentation of the traditional Japanese drum style has filled theaters worldwide, captivating audiences of all ages with their exciting sounds and stunning choreography.
“It’s Magic” – Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. – An enjoyable Valentine’s Day event for the whole family features award-winning acts of comedic magic, sleight of hand, and fascinating stage illusions, including performances by magicians from the exclusive private Hollywood club, The Magic Castle.
Mad Science: CSI Live! – Friday, March 5, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. – The team from Mad Science, a leading provider of science enrichment programs, draws audience members into an exciting and highly interactive journey through the fascinating world of crime scene investigations and forensic science.
Let’s Go Science – Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. – Professor Smart and his sidekick Dr. Knowitall present a wacky and educational look at “how things work” with plenty of audience interaction, eye-catching illusions and general hilarity.
The Family Fun Series is part of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center’s LVPAC Presents series, which features a broad mix of events throughout the season – from classic jazz and cabaret acts, to traditional and modern World Music. The next performance in the LVPAC Presents series is legendary acoustic guitarist Tom Rush, who appears on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 7:00 p.m., followed by the energetic swing-band sounds of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on January 14, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
Bankhead Theater Schedule Sparkles
with a Variety of Events for the Holiday Season
LIVERMORE, CA – (NOVEMBER 14, 2009) – The Bankhead Theater brings holiday sparkle and excitement to the Tri-Valley area, with an expanded range of events certain to satisfy the musical interests and tastes of attendees throughout the region. Beginning the last weekend of November, the festive season opens with several popular annual productions by local companies and, this year, continues through December with holiday concerts by two exceptional Grammy Award-winning groups, Turtle Island Quartet and Chanticleer. The Bankhead Theater will also host its second annual New Year’s Eve celebration, a lively mix of comedy and musical entertainment, to officially close the holiday season. This gala affair sold out quickly last year and is now slated to become an annual event.
The Bankhead Theater’s six holiday-themed events for 2009 include:
Dream of the Snow Queen: This original and entertaining holiday production by the Livermore School of Dance features a blend of dance styles from ballet, jazz, and lyrical, to hip-hop and Broadway, with a range of musical selections. Saturday, November 28, 2:00 and 7:00 p.m.
Handel’s Messiah: Pacific Chamber Symphony presents this famous holiday choral work in its “original” version – scored for two oboes, two trumpets, strings, harpsichord, vocal soloists and full chorus. Tuesday, December 8, at 8:00 p.m.
The Nutcracker: The complete classical ballet by Tchaikovsky is staged in an enchantingly elegant production by Valley Dance Theatre with full orchestral accompaniment by the Livermore-Amador Symphony. Eight matinee and evening performances from December 12–20.
Turtle Island Quartet: A traditional classical string quartet aesthetic is fused with contemporary American musical styles by this Grammy Award-winning group in “Solstice Celebration” – a concert of timeless music that has been an integral part of holiday celebrations for centuries. Monday, December 21, at 7:30 p.m.
A Chanticleer Christmas: With a remarkably unique “orchestra of voices” ranging from countertenor to bass, Chanticleer returns to the Bankhead to enthrall audiences with an evening of traditional and beloved Christmas songs, from pensive Gregorian chants to ringing Gospel rhythms. Wednesday, December 23, at 7:30 p.m.
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World Music Series Expands Performing Arts Experience at the Bankhead
LIVERMORE, CA – (OCTOBER 28, 2009) – Since the Bankhead Theater opened two years ago, the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center has continued to expand the range of performing arts experi¬ences offered. This season, “LVPAC Presents” officially launched the World Music series, six perform¬ances chosen specifically to represent a broad range of cultures, instruments, and musical styles. The series opened earlier this month with a concert by international vocalist, Maria de Barros, and continues through May with a fascinating range of music from Latin rhythms to Taiko drumming and Celtic strings.
Initial expansion into World Music at the Bankhead began last year with the sold-out show, “Tango Fire,” which featured sensational Argentine dancing, followed by an evening of elegant vocals by French songstress Jill Aigrot and a concert by contemporary flamenco guitarist Ottmar Liebert. This season the focus was expanded into a full series of six events. “Satisfying our local audience with traditional arts events continues to be central to our efforts in the community,” said David Dial, executive director for LVPAC. “Our mission also includes expanding the performing arts experience and the Bankhead Theater provides an excellent opportunity to deliver different events in such an intimate setting. The World Music series was developed to build audience by appealing to local attendees interested in culturally diverse artistic experiences, as well as reach established fans of these musical styles across a wider regional area. Over time, the series opens the door to a rich representation of the varied musical traditions found within our community,” he added.
The next event in the World Music series will be Friday, November 13 at 8:00 p.m., when the sensational group Tiempo Libre takes the stage with their irresistible, dance-inducing mix of high-voltage jazz filled with the seductive rhythms and sounds of their native Cuba. Known for their incendiary, joyful perform¬ances, they recently appeared with violinist Joshua Bell on “The Tonight Show” and were featured this week on the popular television show, “Dancing with the Stars.”
The “LVPAC Presents” World Music series at the Bankhead Theater continues through May with four other events:
Turtle Island Quartet: The traditional classical string quartet aesthetic is fused with contemporary American musical styles by this Grammy Award-winning group in “Solstice Celebration” – a concert of timeless music that has been an integral part of holiday celebrations for centuries. Monday, December 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m.
TAO: Explosive Taiko drumming, contemporary costumes, and innovative, athletic choreography thrill audiences in a unique and exhilarating theatrical experience – a modern take on the traditional Japanese drum style. Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
Vagabond Opera: Sung in an astonishing 13 languages and uniting unexpected elements of Kurt Weil, Duke Ellington and Edith Piaf, this is a new wave of opera, reinvented for everyone with absurdist flair, extravagant theatrics and an old world, bohemian mood. Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.
Battlefield Band: Blending the rich heritage of Celtic music and contemporary Scottish sounds, traditional songs and newer works are enhanced by the unique music of ancient and modern instruments that range from bodhran and cittern, to bagpipe, fiddle and accordion. Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.
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Steve Senes of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Crowned
Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar 2009
San Bruno, CA (September 14, 2009) —Ten finalists battled for the international title of “Guitar Superstar” at Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar 2009 competition Saturday, September 12 at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore, California. Steve Senes of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, captivated the crowd and the judges with his fierce technique to emerge victorious in Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar competition.
First runner-up was Krisz Simonfalvi of Dallas, Texas (originally from Budapest, Hungary) and Brian Davidson of Nashville, Tennessee took second runner-up.
Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar fifth annual event was the centerpiece of Guitar Player LIVE!, a 3-day celebration of guitars, music, and gear presented by the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center in Livermore, California, east of San Francisco.
Across the globe, hundreds of “unknown” guitarists of all ages and styles answered the call to post their best performances at sonicbids.com. Ten finalists were chosen to perform onstage in front of a live audience and a panel of world-famous guitar stars that included Elliot Easton (The Cars), Jennifer Batten (guitarist for Michael Jackson, Jeff Beck), Steve Lukather (Toto), Earl Slick (David Bowie), and Greg Hampton, (producer of Alice Cooper, Ronnie Wood, Lita Ford).
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The judges provided comments after each contestant’s performance in an American Idol-style format, finding much to highlight among the uniformly high quality of the performances. Introducing each contestant and serving as master of ceremonies was Brendon Small, co-creator of Adult’s Swim’s Metalocalypse animated series.
“This event is about celebrating the awesome power of the guitar, and all ten finalists stood onstage and delivered absolutely sizzling performances,” said Guitar Player Editor in Chief Michael Molenda. “Each player is a thrilling evangelist for all that is good and holy about transcendent guitar playing, and we were honored and humbled to have them represent their technique, creativity, and passion right here at Guitar Superstar 2009.”
Senes, the tenth and final contestant of the night gave a mesmerizing performance, wowing judges and audience alike with his chops, dynamics, tone, and attitude.
Jennifer Batten said "Where did you come from and why are we just now getting to hear you?" Elliot Easton said, "We sit here and listen to ten guitarists, then all of a sudden, here YOU come. Wow". Further thrills were provided by Vicki Genfan, last year’s Guitar Superstar winner as well as from the house band Thud Factor.
All ten contestants received an all-expenses paid trip to the San Francisco Bay Area. The winner, First Runner-Up and Second Runner-Up of the event received custom trophies and complete gear packages. Steve Senes will be featured in a forthcoming article in Guitar Player magazine and he took home prizes from event sponsors—including presenting sponsors Voyage-Air Guitar, and Digitech, with additional sponsorship from Harman International–Digitech, Mesa Boogie, Taylor Guitars, D'Addario, Planet Waves, GBase, Line 6, Sennheiser, Washburn, Randall and Gallien Kruger.
The Music Player Network of publications for musicians performing and producing music includes Guitar Player, Bass Player, Keyboard, and EQ magazines and related websites, TV, enews and events. For more information please visit www.musicplayer.com. Music Player Network is a division of NewBay Media, LLC.
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FREE! Thirty Bands to Perform on Four Outdoor Stages
at Guitar Player LIVE! Weekend Celebration September 11 - 13
Livermore, CA (September 9, 2009) —Guitar Player LIVE!, a three day festival for music lovers in the Bay Area will feature free performances by regional bands on four outdoor stages, and concerts in the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center’s Bankhead Theater on September 11–13.
Guitarists can explore the latest gear from manufacturers including the Voyage-Air Guitar—the world’s first and only full-size acoustic and electric instruments that fold in half—and participate in clinics such as “How to Get a Great Sound Out of Any Guitar and Amp” with Earl Slick and a Fingerstyle Guitar Clinic with Peppino D'Aggostino.
On Saturday, September 12 Guitar Player Editor in Chief Michael Molenda will interview superstar guitarists Steve Lukather (Toto, Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson) and Earl Slick (David Bowie, John Lennon) about playing with legends, getting great guitar tones, how they come up with hit-making riffs and solos, and more. On Sunday, September 13, Guitar Player Associate Editor Matt Blackett sits with Carl Verheyen (Supertramp, Bee Gees, film and television sessions) and Laurence Juber (Paul McCartney and Wings, solo fingerstylist) to discuss the art and craft of playing movie and television sessions, and working with famous artists. Admission prices includes a screening of the just-released guitar documentary, It Might Get Loud starring Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White, at the Vine Cinema.
Other highlights of Guitar Player LIVE!, will be the first-ever exhibition of Bill Owen’s photographs of the Altamont Speedway Free Festival at the Bankhead Theater; Shrapnel Records Guitar Night Friday, September 11 at 8 p.m; Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar Competition 2009—the premier international guitar playing contest featuring ten finalists contending for the title in front of a panel of celebrity judges and a live audience on Saturday night, September 12 at 8 p.m; Triple Threat Guitar featuring Laurence Juber, Jennifer Batten, Vicki Genfan on Sunday, September 13 at 3 p.m; and a Guitar Film Fest at the Vine Cinema.
Guitar Player Live! Bankhead Theater Schedule:
• Shrapnel Records Guitar Night Friday, September 11 at 8 p.m.
• Guitar Player’s Guitar Superstar Competition Finals Saturday, September 12 at 8 p.m.
• Triple Threat Guitar – Featuring Laurence Juber, Jennifer Batten, Vicki Genfan Sunday, September 13 at 3 p.m.
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09-10 Bankhead Theater Season Announced
LIVERMORE, CA – (JULY 17, 2009) – The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) is pleased to announce its 2009-10 season of LVPAC Presents attractions. The new season, LVPAC’s third, brings the return of some Bankhead Theater favorites, The Capitol Steps, Leo Kottke, Chanticleer, and the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, as well as the introduction of new exciting attractions including Cape Verde singer, Maria de Barros; the hot young Cuban band, Tiempo Libre; guitar legend Tom Rush, and the Vagabond Opera, a wonderfully creative and zany Bohemian cabaret that is opera reinvented and liberated for everyone. Classical pianist Jeffrey Siegel also returns with his popular Keyboard Conversations – this season featuring the romantic music of Chopin. Whatever your creative interests and taste, you are sure to find appealing and rewarding artists who will delight and entertain you.
The upcoming season also marks the continuation of the highly regarded Rae Dorough Speakers Series, which brings to the Bankhead stage a diverse array of distinguished and accomplished public figures to share their thoughts on timely topics – including political commentator John Hamre, novelist Jane Hamilton, A.C.T. artistic director, Carey Perloff, and astronomer Alex Filippenko. In addition, LVPAC’s Family Fun Series returns with four exciting and stimulating events ranging from Tao, an explosive band of Taiko drummers direct from Japan, to Mad Science CSI: Live! that will enlighten and entertain both young and old alike.
Highlighting the season are three special engagements. The first, September 11 through 13, is Guitar Player Live! - a weekend celebration of the guitar and those who play them, featuring performances, competitions and a guitar gear expo. On November 15 two fundraising performances of the hit Off-Broadway musical Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding will benefit LVPAC’s annual fund. Join the hilarious and always surprising wedding party reception on the Bankhead stage and become part of the show. Finally, to celebrate New Year’s Eve, LVPAC has assembled an all-star cast of rock and roll legends who will be Rockin’ In The New Year.
Tickets for all LVPAC Presents performances go on sale to the general public on July 21, at the Bankhead Ticket Office, by phone 925.373.6800 or online at www.bankheadtheater.org. In addition to LVPAC attractions, the Bankhead Theater will play host to over 175 events in the 2009-10 season featuring the theater’s resident and visiting companies. The full line-up of events will be available in August.
LVPAC PRESENTS 2009|2010 SEASON OF PERFORMANCES
Guitar Player LIVE!
A Weekend Long Celebration of All Things Guitar
Sept 11 – 13, 2009
Chanticleer
Grammy Award-winning Orchestra of Voices
Sunday, Sept 20, 2009 at 3pm
Capitol Steps
Side-Splitting Political Satire Returns
Thursday, Oct 15, 2009 at 7:30pm
Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding
Wedding bells are ringing at the Bankhead Theater
Sunday, Nov 15, 2009 at 12pm and 5pm
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel
Wednesday, Nov 18, 2009 at 7:30pm
CHOPIN & HIS HEROES, MOZART AND BACH
Wednesday, Mar 31, 2010 at 7:30pm
CHOPIN THE STORYTELLER
Swinging with the Big Band
Starring The Tex Beneke Orchestra, The Ink Spots, Leigh Vance and The Swing Sisters
Friday, Nov 20, 2009 at 8pm
Turtle Island Quartet
A Solstice Celebration
Monday, Dec 21, 2009 at 7:30pm
Tom Rush
Rich, Melodic Folk Music
Sunday, Jan 10, 2010 at 7pm
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
America’s Favorite Little Big Band
Thursday, Jan 14, 2010 at 7:30pm
Vagabond Opera
Bohemian Cabaret with Absurdist Flair
Saturday, Feb 27, 2010 at 8pm
TICKETS $46/$36/$26/$12 students
Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
Classical Ballet Coupled with an Adventurous Repertoire
Saturday, April 10, 2010 at 8pm
Leo Kottke
Six and 12 String Guitar Virtuosi Returns
Friday, May 14, 2010 at 8pm
Doo-Wah Riders
High Energy Country with a Cajun Twist
Friday, June 11, 2010 at 8pm
HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES
A Chanticleer Christmas
Grammy Award-winning Orchestra of Voices
Wednesday, Dec 23, 2009 at 7:30pm
Rockin’ In the New Year
Featuring Buck Ram Platters, Four Preps, Safaris with Jim Stephens, & Billy and the Corvettes
Thursday, Dec 31, 2009 at 8pm
WORLD MUSIC
Maria de Barros
Cape Verdean Chanteuse
Friday, Oct 2, 2009 at 8 pm
Tiempo Libre
Dance-Inducing Afro-Cuban Music
Friday, Nov 13, 2009 at 8pm
TA0
Explosive Taiko Drumming from Japan
Tuesday, Feb 9, 2010 at 7:30pm
Battlefield Band
Celtic Music Played on a Fusion of Ancient and Modern Instruments
Saturday, Mar 6, 2010 at 8pm
RAE DOROUGH SPEAKERS SERIES
The upcoming season marks the continuation of the highly regarded Rae Dorough Speakers Series, which brings to the Bankhead stage a diverse array of distinguished and accomplished public figures to share their thoughts on timely topics. Each program begins at 7:30pm, and will include an audience Q&A following the speaker's presentation.
The American Century: Past Tense or Future Promise?
John Hamre, Rae Dorough Speaker Series
Tuesday, Oct 13, 2009 at 7:30 pm
An Evening with Jane Hamilton
Rae Dorough Speaker Series
Thursday, Nov 12, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Dark Energy and the Runaway Universe
Alex Filippenko, Rae Dorough Speaker Series
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 at 7:30pm
From Archaeology to Artistic Director: A Career in the American Theater
Carey Perloff, Rae Dorough Speaker Series
Thursday, Mar 18, 2010 at 7:30pm
LVPAC FAMILY FUN SERIES
LVPAC’s Family Fun Series offers young people and their parents exciting opportunities to experience the best in performing arts presentations from across the US and around the world. Two of the presentations make up World of Wisdom (WOW!) – fascinating and stimulating events which highlight science, math and technology components within an artistic and entertaining performance. The series is sponsored in part by Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC.
TA0
Explosive Taiko Drumming from Japan
Tuesday, Feb 9, 2010 at 7:30pm
It’s Magic!
Featuring Les Arnold & Dazzle, Eric Buss, Amos Levkovitch, Jim Bently, and more
Sunday, Feb 14, 2010 at 3pm
Mad Science CSI: LIVE!
LVPAC Presents Family Fun Series
Friday, Mar 5, 2010 at 7pm
LVPAC Presents Family Fun Series
Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 3pm
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Student Rush Tickets
Up to 50 - 75% off on best available seats!
LIVERMORE, CA – (NOVEMBER 3, 2008) –Did you know that college students can now purchase Student Rush Tickets at 50 – 70% off the best available seats in the house at the Bankhead Theater? Experience a world-class performance on a student-sized budget! Come to the Bankhead ticket office two hours prior to curtain call, bring your valid student identification, and purchase the best available seat in the house for only $12. If mid-terms have you down, turn off the computer, grab a friend and check it out!
Visit the Bankhead website calendar at www.bankheadtheater.org to confirm that the performance you are interested in has Student Rush Tickets available. There is a one ticket limit per student on select LVPAC Presents performances, based on availability.
Student Rush Tickets will be available for The Kyle Eastwood Band, Tuesday, November 11 at 8:00pm. As someone who has had a myriad of opportunities to shine, Kyle Eastwood has truly carved his own path as a musician (yes, he’s Clint’s son). Having dabbled on electric bass as a teenager, he now also plays the upright, acoustic and double bass. Kyle’s second album “Paris Blue” resonates with swing, groove, and funk overtones. Kyle says, “My roots remain in jazz but I like adding all kinds of different flavors.” The album climbed to #1 on the French Jazz charts. Kyle has composed music for the Academy Award winning films, “Mystic River” and “Million Dollar Baby,” and wrote the score for the just released film “The Changeling.” Kyle will be autographing his most recent album “Now” after the performance, stop by and meet him.
KEYBOARD CONVERSATIONS® WITH JEFFREY SIEGEL
Chopin for Lovers!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 8 pm
LUMA: THEATER OF LIGHT
Visual magic including High-tech Illuminated Objects
Sunday, November 30, 2008 at 2pm
THE BEST OF DOO WOP
Swing, Rhythm and Blues of the 50’s and 60’s
Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 8pm
PUNCH BROTHERS
Featuring Chris Thile of Nickel Creek Fame
Sunday, February 15, 2009 at 8 pm
TANGO FIRE
Buenos Aires’ Electrifying Tango Company
Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 8 pm
Bankhead Theater Family Series Returns
Livermore, CA – (October 24, 2008) – The highly acclaimed LVPAC Family Fun Series of performances specifically designed for young people and their parents returns to the Bankhead Theater on Sunday, November 30th at 2pm with the visually stunning and stimulating work of LUMA: Theatre of Light. The November 30th event, part of LVPAC’s World of Wisdom (WOW!), is partially underwritten by a generous grant from Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC and helps bring science, math and technology-based performances to the Family Series.
With darkness as a canvas and light as a brush, LUMA performers paint dazzling, sparkling images that tell stories and spin a visual magic, evoking awe and delight. National Public Radio has praised the luminescent production, calling it “pure utter beauty…in all its mythical, philosophical, and playful wonder.” Created in 1999 by comic and street performer, Michael Marlin, LUMA is the world’s first “human light show” that has audiences sitting on the edge of their seats, mesmerized by natural, artificial, and metaphysical light depicting dancing fireflies and shooting stars on a darkened stage. Add flashing screen savers and imaginary carnival rides, and LUMA becomes an “engaging show with the wonder that is light,” proclaims the San Francisco Chronicle. Inspired by the natural beauty and the splendor of the night sky, Marlin created a riveting production that has enraptured audiences of all ages by bringing to life what previously could only be imagined: mind-boggling, magical realms of light, color, motion and music.
LVPAC’s Family Fun Series features four Sunday afternoon matinees offering young people and their parents exciting opportunities to experience the best in performing arts presentations from across the US and around the world. Two of the presentations make up World of Wisdom (WOW!) – fascinating and stimulating events which highlight science, math and technology components within an artistic and entertaining performance. Additional presentations in the series include:
Masked Marvels & Wondertales – Sunday, January 11, 2009 at 2pm – Michael Cooper’s original stories of courage and wonder, breathtaking handcrafted masks and far-reaching physical repertoire.
Red Grammer – Sunday, March 1, 2009 at 2pm – The Grammy nominated songwriter and recording artist, who set the gold standard for writing and performing contemporary children’s music, returns for his second season of performances in Livermore.
Toying with Science – Sunday, May 17, 2009 at 2pm – Garry Krinsky’s fast-paced, varied and dynamic program combining circus skills, mime, music and audience involvement to explore gravity, leverage, fulcrums and simple machines. A WOW! presentation.
The Family Fun Series is a part of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center’s LVPAC Presents program. Next up in the series, on Tuesday, November 11th at 8pm is a renowned jazz trio, The Kyle Eastwood Band, followed by the return of Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations, featuring Chopin for Lovers, on Tuesday, November 18th at 8pm.
The Bankhead Theater is located at 2400 First Street in Downtown Livermore and operated by the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center. The ticket office is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. On performance days the ticket office opens at noon and remains open through intermission. To purchase tickets call 925-373-6800, or visit the LVPAC website www.livermoreperformingarts.org.
LVPAC Makes a Transition
Livermore, CA – (September 18, 2008) – Phil Wente, Board Chair of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC), today announced that Len Alexander, LVPAC’s first Executive Director, would be changing roles when his contract ends on September 30th. Alexander has worked with LVPAC through his consulting firm, Management Consultants for the Arts, since December 2005. His consulting position was expanded in June 2006 to include the responsibilities of Executive Director. To allow Alexander to return to his theater consulting business, David Dial, LVPAC’s General Manager for over a year, has been promoted to the Executive Director position effective October 1st. Alexander will be engaged as a part time LVPAC consultant.
In announcing this change, Wente noted that LVPAC has just concluded a very successful first year at the Bankhead Theater and Bothwell Arts Center. Wente said, “Len has spearheaded the opening of the Bankhead with more star-studded performances than we could ever have imagined. In every area, he has set a high standard for the organization that will serve us well. Fortunately, Len will still be available to us as a consultant.
“David, our General Manager since before the opening of the Bankhead, has been running the theater with almost all of the staff reporting directly to him, and now will be adding fundraising to his responsibilities. He brings over 20 years of experience in the management of cultural non-profit organizations. We have watched David’s professionalism over the last year, and have utmost confidence in his knowledge and judgment. His warmth and concern have made him a strong ambassador to performing arts user groups and others throughout the community.”
In discussing his decision to step back, Alexander observed, “With the Bankhead Theater starting its second year of operation and planning for the regional theater in place, it seemed like a good time for me to return to my national consulting practice. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work with the LVPAC staff, board and volunteers, as well as the many Bankhead Theater supporters in the community, to build a strong and successful arts, cultural and economic asset for Livermore and the Valley. I’m particularly proud of the variety and quality of our LVPAC Presents program which brings nationally and internationally recognized artists and ensembles to our stage.” While Alexander will return to his work with arts organizations across the country, he continues to reside in Livermore and will advise LVPAC on programming for the Bankhead and operational activities as needed.
Dial’s experience includes the design, construction and day-to-day operations of such major Bay Area cultural projects as Cal Performances, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Zeum, and Computer History Museum. “This is a very exciting time for LVPAC,” Dial said “Len has launched the Bankhead Theater as the home for performing arts in the Tri-Valley. I look forward to continuing that work and moving toward the opening of the Regional Theater.”
LVPAC recently completed its first year of operations at the Bankhead Theater. During the initial season, 201 events were presented attracting a total audience of over 76,000 including 14,000 young people. The new 2008-09 season begins on September 21st with a performance by American Ballet Theatre II and continues through August 2009. Next up will be the singer Ricki Lee Jones on October 1st, followed by the Smothers Brothers on October 3rd. In addition to operating the Bankhead Theater, LVPAC is working with the City of Livermore to develop a 2000-seat regional performing arts theater and operates the Bothwell Arts Center, an eclectic arts-incubator for area visual and performing artists.
Curtain Closes on a Successful Inaugural Season
at the Bankhead Theater
Livermore, CA – (September 8, 2008) – The inaugural season of Livermore’s new Bankhead Theater came to a successful close on August 31st. The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center’s (LVPAC) first venue, which opened on October 1, 2007, has by all measures achieved success far ahead of the expectations of both the community and LVPAC’s board and staff. According to Len Alexander, LVPAC Executive Director, “The Bankhead Theater has performed well beyond what all of us expected when the season first opened, with two weeks of non-stop performances, eleven months ago. We are gratified that over 76,000 individuals, including more than 14,000 students, have attended the 201 events that have occurred during our first season. Initial projections suggested that there would be 150 events in the hall and we have been amazed at the varied and exciting uses that the community has made of this theater.” Looking ahead to the 2008-09 season, Alexander reveled that more than 205 events are currently on the theater’s calendar with more expected to be scheduled in the coming weeks.
Beyond events and attendance, the theater sold more than 1.2 million dollars worth of tickets and returned close to 1 million dollars to the organizations, mostly not-for-profit, that used the theater. In addition, a recent survey indicated that audiences were drawn from over 33 different zip codes in the greater Bay Area. A majority of those surveyed attended more than one performance at the theater and patronized local Livermore shops and restaurants during their visits – helping to fulfill the expectation that the new theater would stimulate the downtown Livermore economy.
The Bankhead Theater serves as the home for eight local performing arts organizations including Del Valle Fine Arts, Livermore Valley Opera, Livermore-Amador Symphony, California Independent Film Festival, Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre, Valley Dance Theatre, Cantabella Children’s Chorus and the Valley Concert Chorale. In addition to outside rentals which include the Pacific Chamber Symphony and the Oakland Ballet, LVPAC presents well-known artists and ensembles for around the world. The upcoming season features The Smothers Brothers, Arlo Guthrie, Tango Fire, The Four Freshman and Tommy Tune, a five part Speakers Series and a highly acclaimed Family Series, among others. A complete listing of the Bankhead Theater’s 2008-09 Season can be found on the LVPAC website www.livermoreperformingarts.org
New Bankhead Speakers Series Unveiled
Livermore, CA – (September 2, 2008) – The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) is pleased to announce the creation of The Rae Dorough Speakers Series, named for long-time Livermore resident, real estate broker and community activist Rae Dorough. The new series will feature renowned commentators discussing interesting and timely topics ranging from oil to iPhones, and is sponsored in part by Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC. Each program begins at 7:30pm at the Bankhead Theater in downtown Livermore and will include an audience Q&A following the speaker's presentation. Special thanks to our Series advisory committee: Jay Davis, Charles Hartwig, Susan Houghton, Nadine Horner, Susan Mayall, Joyce Nevins and Lynn Seppala.
Rae Dorough was professionally known for over 30 years as a respected real estate broker and an active participant in and supporter of a number of charitable organizations and City commissions concerned with health and social issues. She was an ardent follower of the Paramount Theater’s highly acclaimed Oakland Speakers Series and would have been first in line to support a similar program for the Bankhead Theater. “Rae was witty, wise, very kind, lots of fun and much loved by many people,” according to Susan Mayall, a family friend. “She was an amazing source of knowledge on all things cultural and we miss her enormously.” Rae’s husband, Gus, and their seven children are pleased to provide the initial funding to create and sustain the new speakers series in Rae’s memory.
Launching the series, on Wednesday, October 29th, is Pulitzer Prize Winner, Richard Rhodes, author or editor of twenty-two books and the recipient of numerous fellowships and grants for research and writing. Currently he is completing his fourth volume of nuclear history, "The Twilight of the Bombs," about the post-Cold War years, which will also be the subject of his talk. Mr. Rhodes has been a host and correspondent for documentaries on public television's Frontline and American Experience series and is an affiliate of the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University.
Joining Mr. Rhodes during the inaugural season will be Dr. Morton Grosser, co-designer of the “Gossamer Albatross” the first human-powered airplane to cross the English Channel; Bob Borchers, Apple’s senior director of worldwide product marketing for the iPhone and a 1984 Livermore High School graduate; David M. Kennedy, Pulitzer Prize winner for “Freedom From Fear” and a distinguished professor of history at Stanford University; and, Amory Lovins, physicist and consultant to governments and firms worldwide on advanced energy and resource efficiency and the cofounder of the Rocky Mountain Institute.
“LVPAC, working with our community partners, is delighted to be able to present this exciting series of distinguished speakers for Livermore and the surrounding community,” said Len Alexander, LVPAC’s Executive Director. “The Bankhead Theater offers us the opportunity and venue to host interesting personalities providing insight and knowledge beyond our regular performing arts and entertainment events. From the earliest planning stages, it was hoped that the new theater would support an illustrious lecture series, and we are honored that the Dorough family has helped us create The Rae Dorough Speakers Series to accomplish that goal.”
Tickets for the individual lectures are currently on sale at the Bankhead Theater ticket office, by phone 925-373-6800 and at www.livemoreperformingarts.org Prices are $40 and $30 per evening for adults and $20 and $15 for students 21 and under. Subscription packages for the entire series are also available at a 15% discount by phone and at the ticket office.
The complete schedule includes:
Richard Rhodes, “The Twilight of the Bombs”
Pulitzer Prize winner for “The Making of the Atomic Bomb” and affiliate of Stanford’s Center for International Security and Cooperation
Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 7:30pm
Co-designer of the "Gossamer Albatross," the first human-powered airplane to cross the English Channel.
Thursday, January 15, 2009 at 7:30pm
Bob Borchers, "Innovation: The Search for New Ideas"
Apple's Senior Director of Worldwide Product Marketing for the iPhone and 1984 Livermore High School graduate.
Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 7:30pm
David M. Kennedy, "A Tale of Three Cities: How the United States Won World War II"
Pulitzer Prize winner for "Freedom from Fear" and Stanford University Professor of History.
Thursday, April 2, 2009 at 7:30pm
Amory Lovins, "Oil Solutions"
Physicist and consultant to governments and worldwide firms on advanced energy and resource efficiency, cofounder of the Rocky Mountain Institute.
Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 7:30pm
LVPAC Selects Old Lucky Site for Regional Theater
Livermore, CA – (August 11, 2008) – The Board of Directors of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) has voted to pursue a change in the proposed site of the 2000-seat regional performing arts theater from the southeast corner of First Street and South Livermore Avenue (Peet’s Coffee) to a new location within the old Lucky Shopping Center complex at Livermore and Railroad Avenues. The new site recently became available when the City of Livermore re-acquired it after the previously announced Livermore Village development was unable to obtain financing.
Reacting to suggestions from Vice Mayor John Marchand, members of the City Council and local residents, LVPAC carefully compared the two sites and determined that the Lucky site could provide significant benefits over the original location, including lower cost, better traffic circulation, and a more pleasing visual and pedestrian connection to the Bankhead Theater and the Livermore Valley Center, as well as allowing the retention of Mills Square Park and the historic AT&T building.
“While the original site had been selected by the City and LVPAC, following a detailed examination of several locations in the downtown, the unexpected availability of the old Lucky Center offered new opportunities that turned out to be too good to pass up,” according to Len Alexander, LVPAC’s Executive Director. “Although some might prefer the original location as the iconic center of our downtown, the Lucky site creates the potential to partner with a developer to create amenities, such as shops and restaurants that will complement and support the regional theater. In addition, with the City already controlling the land, the development process can advance more quickly.”
Following the action of its directors, LVPAC will submit, in association with Bay Area developer Holliday Development, its response to the City’s recent request for qualifications to develop the old Lucky site. In September, LVPAC and city staff will present additional information regarding the proposed operation and financing of the regional theater to the City Council.
LVPAC Presents 08-09 Season Announced
Livermore, CA – (JUNE 17, 2008) – The Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center has released its 2008-09 season of LVPAC Presents attractions for the 500-seat Bankhead Theater which opened in October 2007. This will be LVPAC Presents second season and will feature over twenty internationally recognized artists and ensembles ranging from the Argentinean dance company Tango Fire to the renowned folksinger Arlo Guthrie.
The season begins in mid-September with American Ballet Theatre II, the superb classical ballet company and continues through Livermore’s 2009 Rodeo Weekend with the Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel. Additional attractions include The Kyle Eastwood Band (Clint’s son), Ottmar Liebert, The Best of Doo Wop, Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile, The Aquilla Theatre Company performing Shakespeare’s A Comedy of Errors, Marcus Roberts, A Big Band Salute to Glen Miller and Gene Krupa, Jil Aigrot, Beppe Gambetta and Dan Crary. Classical pianist Jeffrey Siegel also returns with his popular Keyboard Conversations.
Highlighting the season are four special engagements. The first, on October 3rd will be a gala fundraising performance for LVPAC featuring the incomparable Smothers Brothers. To celebrate New Year’s Eve, LVPAC has scheduled a return visit from last season’s favorites, The Four Freshmen. The spring gala will feature Broadway musical star Tommy Tune and the Manhattan Rhythm Kings. Rounding out the season will be the national touring company of the 2005 Tony Award winner for Best Broadway Musical, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank.
Tickets for all LVPAC Presents performances go on sale to the general public on Monday, July 14 at the Bankhead Ticket Office, by phone or on line. In addition to LVPAC attractions, the Bankhead Theater will play host to over 180 events in the 2008-09 season featuring the theater’s resident and visiting companies. The full line-up of events will be available in early August.