Now that the heat has broken and fall is well on its way to Tucson, we hope that you plan to enjoy the bounty of cultural events happening this season. With excellent live theatre, concerts, and comedy, there is plenty for you to choose from. Here are a few of our favorite picks.
5) Arizona Theatre Company:
In Tucson this season, the Arizona Theatre Company presents two performances that thematically intertwine intimacy and personal journeys. From September 16 to October 4, Hershey Felder plays Irving Berlin: follow the story of renowned musical genius on a truly American story, from his childhood in Czarist Russia to his emigration to New York City’s Lower East Side. Later in the season, from February 11 to February 21, 2016, catch Laura Eason’s comedy Sex with Strangers about forging an unexpected personal connection within an increasingly digital world. Located at the Temple of Music and Art in downtown Tucson. For tickets, visit www.arizonatheatre.org.
4) Rogue Theatre:
For the past decade, the Rogue Theatre has been pushing the boundaries of the art in Tucson. From October 15 to November 22, catch the timeless Hamlet, which is simultaneously a journey of existential self-discovery, a coming-of-age story, and a tragedy. Paired with Hamlet is Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard, which focuses on two supporting characters from Hamlet. Both plays feature performers from the Rogue’s repertory players. For more information, visit www.theroguetheatre.org.
3) Live Theatre Workshop:
Both a theatre and an educational organization, the Live Theatre Workshop presents shows for the entire family. Until October 3, Laughter on the 32nd Floor by Neil Simon is playing. Based upon his experiences as a comedy writer for legendary comedian Sid Caesar (other writers included the likes of Woody Allen, Carl Reiner, and Mel Brooks), this comedy offers a slice of history in the early years of TV writing during the Cold War. Meanwhile, a musical adaptation of the fairy tale, The Princess and the Pea plays in the Family Theatre through September 27. For more information, visit www.livetheatreworkshop.org.
2) Tucson Symphony Orchestra:
An exciting autumn season awaits music lovers at the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. As the TSO searches for a new Musical Director, they have scheduled a season for visiting candidates to work closely with and conduct the Orchestra as well as experience the city and culture of Tucson. Audience members are encouraged to give feedback as well. Upcoming are: Andrew Grams conducting Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances and Copland’s The Promise of Living (September 25, 27); Stilian Kirov conducting Beethoven and Mozart classic masterpieces (October 10,11); and David Danzmayr conducting Brahms and Bernstein’s overture from West Side Story. For more information, visit www.tucsonsymphony.org.
1) Rialto Theatre:
Established in 1920, the Rialto Theatre is a non-profit that showcases exciting comedic and musical talent at various venues around Tucson. Nineties rockers OAR play the Fox Theatre on September 16, followed by the Old 97s at Club Congress on September 21, and the majestic sounds of Mavis Staples on October 8 at the Rialto. For a complete calendar and ticket information, visit www.rialtotheatre.com.