(Beverly Hills, CA May 3) The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (The Wallis) announced today the 2017/18 season, which features 250 performances delivering groundbreaking produced and presented works in dance, music and theater from locally, nationally and internationally renowned artists and companies. The 2017/18 season, beginning October 8, 2017, marks the second year of programming under the leadership of Artistic Director Paul Crewes, Managing Director Rachel Fine and Board Chairman David C. Bohnett, and the fifth for the institution.
“The range and accessibility of our programming—that showcases local, national, and international artists bringing wonderful stories and remarkable performances to our stages—strive to attract and reflect the diversity that encompasses us in Los Angeles,” said The Wallis’ Artistic Director Paul Crewes. “The Wallis is a home for artists and audiences alike who want to explore, celebrate and embrace creativity, and I am extremely proud of the works that we are producing and presenting in the new 2017/2018 season.”
The Wallis deepens its relationship with L.A. Dance Project, which this season becomes the institution’s Company-In-Residence. L.A. Dance Project, under the leadership of Benjamin Millepied, has quickly established itself on the international stage, and will present two programs at The Wallis, one in the fall and one in spring, as well as participate in other education and outreach activities throughout the season.
Committed to developing lasting relationships with companies, local and abroad, The Wallis produces new works and presents world renowned performances alike. The 2017/2018 season features returning artists: Arturo Sandoval, who curates a series of inspired programs spotlighting up-and-coming jazz artists along with a headlining performance; Wiesenthal’sTom Dugan and the world premiere of The Wallis’ production of Jackie Unveiled; Stephen Schwartz and the 2018 ASCAP Musical Theatre Workshop; the world-renowned Harlem Quartet; Kyle Riabko, presenting a night of groundbreaking arrangements of the songs of Richard Rodgers; Hershey Felder; Patricia Ward Kelly; and theatrical alchemists Kneehigh. The Sorting Room—the wildly successful series that transformed the Lovelace Studio Theater into an intimate nightclub—is returning in the winter of 2017 and summer of 2018, offering the best talent from a wide range of genres including the American songbook, spoken word, comedy, classic cabaret, storytelling, dance, contemporary music, and more.
The Wallis is also forging an exciting new partnership with LA Opera, to co-produce Matthew Aucoin’s Crossing in concert, featuring Rod Gilfry; as well as welcomes local artists including: Lula Washington Dance Theatre; BODYTRAFFIC; wild Up; Ory Shihor; Sheldon Epps and The Wallis’ production of Blues in the Night; Debbie Allen and the return of the highly popular Dance Sundays series; and Story Pirates.
Globally renowned artists and companies showcased in the 2017/18 season include: South African dance company Dada Masilo; pianist Jonathan Biss; violinist Sarah Chang and pianist Julio Elizalde; Stephen Hough and the Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet; Nathan and Julie Gunn; Daniel Hope and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra; Broadway’s Seth Rudetsky with special guests; actor Joe Morton as famed comic-activist Dick Gregory in the highly-acclaimed one-man show Turn Me Loose; Hamid Rahmanian and his breathtaking cinematic shadow play Feathers of Fire: A Persian Epic; David Mynne’s one-man take on Great Expectations; and Vesturport, who brings a bold new twist on the world’s most infamous outlaw in The Heart of Robin Hood. The season also features three MacArthur “Geniuses”—Michelle Dorrance, Stephen Hough and Jeremy Denk.
“It’s exhilarating for The Wallis to be a part of Los Angeles’ bustling arts scene, supporting both seasoned and new voices across all performing arts disciplines, and offering multifaceted programs that are curated with both creativity and social impact in mind,” said Managing Director Rachel Fine. “Our ambitious vision, supported by our Board of Directors, the City of Beverly Hills, and our loyal donors, positions The Wallis to be everyone’s performing arts center: a vibrant cultural hub offering a broad range of programming and vital education programs that reflect and are accessible to our increasingly diverse community.”
“Paul, Rachel and The Wallis team have assembled an extraordinary new season that is sure to resonate strongly with both our loyal supporters as well as new audiences,” said The Wallis’ Board Chairman David C. Bohnett. “It is always such a thrill to welcome new patrons who are discovering the luster of The Wallis for the first time. I know that once here, they will return time and time again to experience our substantive work and exciting cultural campus.”
Click HERE to view the 2017/18 brochure.
ABOUT THE 2017/18 SEASON:
COMPANY-IN-RESIDENCE
L.A. DANCE PROJECT
November 2 – 4, 2017 and April 5 – 7, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
The Wallis is thrilled to announce L.A. Dance Project as its first Company-In-Residence. Collaborating with the company’s Artistic Director Benjamin Millepied, The Wallis welcomes L.A. Dance Project in a series of programs in both the fall of 2017 and the spring of 2018, as well as other education and outreach activities. Locally sourced.
Fall Program:
MinEvent, choreography by Merce Cunningham
Closer, choreography by Benjamin Millepied (LADP Los Angeles Premiere)
Orpheus Highway, choreography by Benjamin Millepied (West Coast Premiere)
In Silence We Speak, choreography by Benjamin Millepied (West Coast Premiere)
Spring Program:
Yag, choreography by Ohad Naharin
(more to be announced)
“I am thrilled to find a new home in Los Angeles at The Wallis, one of the most exciting new performing arts centers. This is a wonderful opportunity for L.A. Dance Project to extend its reach to a larger community and continue its path towards becoming a major dance company in America.” – Benjamin Millepied
“L.A. Dance Project delivers mesmerizing debut at The Wallis.” – Los Angeles Times
“Benjamin Millepied’s L.A. Dance Project has thrown down the slipper in declaring the city’s standing in the ballet world.” – The Hollywood Reporter
DANCE @ THE WALLIS
DORRANCE DANCE
October 12 – 14, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Dorrance Dance honors tap dance’s unique and powerful history in a new and dynamic context by upholding its tradition while simultaneously pushing it rhythmically, technically and conceptually. Artistic Director and 2015 MacArthur “Genius” Fellow Michelle Dorrance’s Myelination premiered at New York City Center’s 2015 Fall for Dance Festival. Gia Kourlas of The New York Times responded: “Ms. Dorrance has choreographed a glittering closer that needs to have a second life…please, someone, make that happen.” In October, Dorrance Dance brings a new, fully extended version of Myelination with original live music to The Wallis, along with the rarely-seen Bessie Award-winning Three to One, and a revival of the whimsical Jungle Blues, illustrating the great range for which the company is known.
Program:
Jungle Blues
Three to One
Myelination
“Ms. Dorrance, a brilliant conductor, pushes the boundaries of tap while exposing its true nature: that it is music.” – The New York Times
LULA WASHINGTON DANCE THEATRE
January 11 – 13, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Los Angeles-based company Lula Washington Dance Theatre celebrates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by offering Wallis audiences three different programs of dance over the holiday weekend. Not to be missed, all programs are performed with Marcus L. Miller and his Freedom Jazz Movement. Locally sourced.
Program Schedule:
January 11: Program A: African-American Male Voices
January 12: Program B: Dance, Live Jazz & Social Meaning
January 13: Program C: Movement For The Soul Of It
“Infectiously enthusiastic performances.” – The New York Times
“As a choreographer and company director, Lula Washington is doing something more than right.” – The New York Times
DADA MASILO’s GISELLE
April 12 – 14, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Co-commissioned by The Joyce Theater’s Stephen and Cathy Weinroth Fund for New Work; the Hopkins Center, Dartmouth College; la Biennale de la danse de Lyon 2018, and Sadler’s Wells, with music composed by Philip Miller.
A young girl dies after having been betrayed by a man. She cannot rest in peace and is transformed into a wili, a ghost with a desire for dance—and revenge. Acclaimed South African choreographer Dada Masilo, who stunned audiences around the world with her feminist revisions of Carmen, Romeo & Juliet and Swan Lake, takes on another classic in her distinctive style of African dance and classical ballet performed at astonishing speed. Mature content, language and nudity. Recommended for ages 14+.
“The rising star is only getting started.” – CNN
BODYTRAFFIC
May 31 – June 2, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
For the past 10 years, BODYTRAFFIC has traveled the globe as Los Angeles’ most invigorating dance ambassadors. To celebrate its 10th Anniversary Season, BODYTRAFFIC comes home for its anticipated debut at The Wallis. Locally sourced.
“Invention, attitude and urban edge.” – The Boston Globe
MUSIC @ THE WALLIS
The Wallis invites audiences the chance to take a deeper dive into programs offerings through Preludes @ The Wallis. Classical KUSC Radio’s Brian Lauritzen and other guest moderators host free pre-concert conversations with the artists an hour before each classical music performance in the Bram Goldsmith Theater, along with a complimentary glass of wine. Sponsored by Classical KUSC and The Henry Wine Group.
JONATHAN BISS, piano
October 8, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
In his Wallis debut, world-renowned pianist and intellectual giant Jonathan Biss, a Steinway Artist, tackles both Beethoven’s fiery “Tempest” and Schumann’s unparalleled Fantasie in C, arguably Schumann’s greatest work for solo piano.
Program:
MOZART Sonata in A Minor, K310
LEON KIRCHNER Interlude II (2003)
BEETHOVEN Sonata in D Minor, Op. 31, No. 2 “Tempest”
SCHUMANN Fantasie in C Major, Op. 17
“One of the most striking North American pianists of the new generation.” – Toronto Globe and Mail
HARLEM QUARTET: GAME-CHANGERS
October 15, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Harlem Quartet—comprised of violinists Ilmar Gavilan and Melissa White, violist Jaime Amador and cellist Felix Umansky—returns to the Bram Goldsmith Theater after an extraordinary debut in 2016. The Quartet’s 2017 program explores game-changing works from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries—including a work by Ilmar Gavilan’s father, Guido Gavilan.
Program:
WEBERN Langsamer Satz
GABRIELA LENA FRANK Milagros
GUIDO GAVILAN Cuarteto en Guaguancó
DIZZY GILLESPIE, CHANO POZO and GIL FULLER Manteca
DEBUSSY String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 10
“They took my breath away.” – The Boston Musical Intelligencer
KYLE RIABKO: RICHARD RODGERS REIMAGINED
November 10 – 11, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
After bringing his groundbreaking arrangements of the Burt Bacharach catalogue to The Wallis last season, Kyle Riabko now turns his attention to the songs Richard Rodgers wrote with lyricists Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. Backed by his band, Riabko will bring his unique pop/rock sensibility to such classics as “Oh, What A Beautiful Morning,” “The Lady is a Tramp,” “My Favorite Things,” “Where or When,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” and “My Funny Valentine,” among others. Locally sourced.
“Heartthrob handsome Kyle Riabko searches out the emotional layers of the songs with impressive precision. Sheer musical talent.” – The New York Times
SARAH CHANG, violin, and JULIO ELIZALDE, piano
January 6, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Sarah Chang has long been recognized as one of the world’s premier violinists. Pianist Julio Elizalde is one of the most sought-after and multifaceted artists of his generation. Join both for a memorable evening of soul-stirring works by Bartok, Brahms and Franck.
Program:
BARTOK Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56
BRAHMS Sonata No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 108
FRANCK Sonata in A Major, FWV 8
“Ms. Chang was a wonder.” —The New York Times
LAST THOUGHTS: SCHUBERT’s FINAL TRILOGY
ORY SHIHOR, piano, with text by HERSHEY FELDER
January 20, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
In the last few months of his short life, Franz Schubert composed some of the most miraculous music ever created. Critically acclaimed Israeli-American pianist Ory Shihor will tell the story behind Schubert’s last three piano sonatas through music and words across a two-part evening of concerts. Locally sourced.
Program (4pm):
SCHUBERT Sonata in D Major, D. 958
(more to be announced)
Program (7:30pm):
SCHUBERT Sonata in A Major, D. 959
SCHUBERT Sonata in B-Flat Major, D. 960
Made possible in part by Camille and Arnon Adar.
“Boldly individualistic.” – The New York Times
SANDOVAL JAZZ WEEKEND
January 25 – 28, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Among the most dynamic and vivacious live performers of our time, Arturo Sandoval is a winner of six Billboard Awards, 10 GRAMMY Awards and the 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom. For his Jazz Weekend at The Wallis, Sandoval curates a series of inspired programs featuring a Master Class, two extraordinary nights spotlighting up-and-coming jazz artists—whom Sandoval is proudly calling the “Young Lions”—as well as an unforgettable evening of his own. Locally sourced.
Schedule:
Thursday, January 25: Master Class, sponsored by the Arturo Sandoval Institute
Friday, January 26: Max Haymer (Piano), Linda Briceño (Trumpet and Vocalist) and Edmar Casteñeda (Harp)
Saturday, January 27: Arturo Sandoval
Sunday, January 28: Sarpay Ozcagatay (Flute), Aubrey Logan (Trombone and Vocalist), Cyrille Aimee (Vocalist)
“Exquisite musicality.” – Los Angeles Times
THE 2018 ASCAP FOUNDATION MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DREAMWORKS ANIMATION AND THE WALLIS
February 7 – 8, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
The Wallis once again partners with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) and DreamWorks Animation to present The ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Workshop. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Stephen Schwartz, the free workshop gives selected composers and lyricist the opportunity to present selections from original musical works in progress for professional critique. Locally sourced.
The ASCAP Foundation and The Wallis Present
STEPHEN SCHWARTZ AND FRIENDS
February 9, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Stephen Schwartz, the Tony, Oscar and GRAMMY Award-winning composer/lyricist, returns to The Wallis for an evening of conversation and music with composers, lyricists and artists he has inspired and mentored.
BERLIN PHILHARMONIC WIND QUINTET with STEPHEN HOUGH, piano
February 10, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Over the course of his impressive career, Stephen Hough, a Steinway artist, has distinguished himself as a true polymath, not only securing a reputation as a uniquely insightful concert pianist, but also as a writer and composer. Hough, a MacArthur “Genius,” and the Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet perform a very special evening of Mozart, Barber and more—including an original work by Hough.
Program:
STEPHEN HOUGH Was mit den Tränen geschieht
MOZART Quintet in E-Flat Major for Piano and Winds, K. 452
JACQUES IBERT Trois pièces brèves
SAMUEL BARBER Summer Music, Op. 31
POULENC Sextet for Piano and Winds, FP 100
“Arguably the best ensemble of its kind in the world.” – Manchester Evening News
“[Hough] is known as a rare kind of visionary virtuoso [and] what I cherish in Hough’s playing is the sense that he is making up the music as he goes, even as he realizes the written score with uncommon precision.” – The New Yorker
The Wallis and Mark Cortale Present
BROADWAY @ THE WALLIS with SETH RUDETSKY and SPECIAL GUESTS
February 14, 2018 and March 29, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
After last season’s sold-out engagement with Audra McDonald, SiriusXM Radio star Seth Rudetsky returns to the Bram Goldsmith Theater with other musical theater luminaries to host two more intoxicating concerts for Broadway @ The Wallis.
“The combination of emotionally rich singing and perceptive personal stories resulted in a thrilling evening.” – Talkin’ Broadway
NATHAN & JULIE GUNN
March 15, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Nathan Gunn, among the most in-demand baritones of his day, along with his wife, pianist Julie Gunn, perform an evening of cabaret by iconic composers ranging from Leonard Bernstein and Cole Porter to Billy Joel and Tom Waits. The concert joins Leonard Bernstein at 100, the worldwide celebration of the 100th birthday of one of the most prodigiously talented and successful musicians in American history.
“Nathan Gunn commands an operatic baritone whose mighty heft and richness confer an outsize authority on everything it touches.” – The New York Times
wild Up: FUTURE FOLK
March 17, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
wild Up, under the direction of conductor Christopher Rountree, is an adventurous Los Angeles-based chamber orchestra committed to creating visceral, thought-provoking musical happenings. For its Wallis debut, wild Up will explore the music from Ancient India, modern California, post-war New York, as well as American works that reflect on a future form of music rooted in folk ethos. Locally sourced.
“A raucous, grungy, irresistibly exuberant… fun-loving, exceptionally virtuosic family!” – The New York Times
ZURICH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA with DANIEL HOPE, violin
March 22, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
British violinist Daniel Hope is the first instrumentalist to be named Music Director of the acclaimed Zurich Chamber Orchestra, one of the leading ensembles of its kind. Hope and the Orchestra will take the audience through Vivaldi’s classic The Four Seasons, followed by Max Richter’s minimalist recomposition of the Baroque masterpiece. This one-of-a-kind musical experience is not to be missed.
Program:
VIVALDI The Four Seasons
MAX RICHTER Recomposed
“The violinist, now among the best in the world as well as the most thoughtful, is as brilliant at Bach as Birtwistle.” – The Observer
JEREMY DENK, piano
April 25, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Jeremy Denk is one of America’s foremost pianists, the winner of a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship, the Avery Fisher Prize, and Musical America’s Instrumentalist of the Year award. The scintillating evening program features classics from Beethoven, Mozart and more.
Program:
MOZART Rondo in A Minor
PROKOFIEV Visions fugitives
BEETHOVEN Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109
LISZT An die ferne Geliebte, Op. 98
(more to be announced; program subject to change)
“Mr. Denk, clearly, is a pianist you want to hear no matter what he performs, in whatever combination – both for his penetrating intellectual engagement with the music and for the generosity of his playing.“ – The New York Times
Matthew Aucoin’s
CROSSING IN CONCERT
A co-production of LA Opera Off Grand and The Wallis
May 26, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Inspired by poet Walt Whitman’s experiences tending to wounded soldiers during the Civil War, this haunting and compassionate work by Matthew Aucoin, LA Opera’s Artist in Residence, explores the connections that come between us and pull us apart. As Whitman listens to wounded veterans share their memories and messages, he forges a bond with an enigmatic young soldier. Their encounter forces him to examine his own role as writer and poet. Intricately scored for chamber orchestra, with beautifully detailed choruses, Crossing shines in a special concert performance, featuring Rod Gilfry as Whitman and conducted by Aucoin himself. Locally sourced.
“Crossing is a taut, teeming and inspired work.” – The New York Times
THEATER @ THE WALLIS
The Theater @ The Wallis Series is sponsored by Montage Beverly Hills and Mercedes-Benz of Beverly Hills.
The Wallis in association with John Legend, Get Lifted Film Company, Mike Jackson, Jackie Judd, The Private Theatre, Eric Falkenstein, Ron Simons and Beth Hubbard present
Joe Morton in
TURN ME LOOSE
A Play About Comic Genius Dick Gregory
By Gretchen Law
Directed by John Gould Rubin
October 13 – 29, 2017 | Lovelace Studio Theater
Turn Me Loose is a new comedic drama about the extraordinary and explosive life of Dick Gregory—starring Tony Award-winner and “Scandal” star Joe Morton—that shines a light on the first black comedian to expose white audiences to racial comedy. Gregory confronted bigotry with shockingly disarming humor, marched alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., and deeply influenced comics from Richard Pryor to Chris Rock. He was been a prolific writer, muckraker, provocateur, candidate for Mayor of Chicago and for President of the United States. He was singled out by President Obama as one of his all-time favorite comedians. Experience the comic genius of Dick Gregory and the poetic final words of his mentor, slain civil rights activist, Medgar Evers: “Turn Me Loose.” Warning: Strong Language.
“CRITIC’S PICK – Best Theater of 2016. Scorchingly funny. Brilliant. Takes your breath away.” – The New York Times
The Wallis in collaboration with
Mark Amin present
FEATHERS OF FIRE: A PERSIAN EPIC
Conceived, designed and directed by Hamid Rahmanian
In collaboration with Larry Reed and Shadowlight Productions
October 20 – 29, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Feathers of Fire: A Persian Epic is a visually breathtaking cinematic shadow play for all ages. Inspired by the 10th-century Persian epic Shahnameh (‘The Book of Kings’), the action-packed tale follows star-crossed lovers Zaul and Rudabeh who triumph at the end against all odds. Hamid Rahmanian’s graphics, derived from the visual tradition of the region, are rendered by Larry Reed as puppets, costumes, masks, scenography and digital animation, all of which come to life in a “live animation” on a cinema-size screen. Suitable for ages 5+.
“Seeing cross-cultural and cross-generational audiences at performances of Feathers of Fire fulfills Rahmanian’s deepest dream: to share his homeland’s rich visual and literary culture with the West.” – Los Angeles Times
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
By Charles Dickens
Adapted by Andrew McPherson
Additional text by Simon Harvey and David Mynne
Directed by Simon Harvey
Performed by David Mynne
February 8 – 11, 2018 | Lovelace Studio Theater
Seven-year-old orphan Pip’s encounter with an escaped convict begins a series of events that will change his life forever. Some of Charles Dickens’ most memorable characters are vividly brought to life in this anarchic and joyful one-man-adaptation of the classic tale. Suitable for ages 10+.
“Mesmerizing theatre!” – The West Briton
The Wallis and Vesturport present
THE HEART OF ROBIN HOOD
Written by David Farr
Directed by Gisli Örn Gardarsson and Selma Björnsdóttir
November 28 – December 17, 2017 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
A classic tale goes rogue in Vesturport’s bold new twist on the world’s most infamous outlaw. Forget everything you ever knew about Robin Hood. In writer David Farr (“The Night Manager”) and acclaimed directors Gisli Örn Gardarsson and Selma Björnsdóttir’s reimagining, Robin and his unmerry gang of cutthroats steal from the rich, but it’s never occurred to them to give anything back to anyone. When wicked Prince John threatens all, bold Marion steps in to protect the poor and transform a thuggish Robin from hood to good. Suitable for ages 10+.
“It’s a romance, a comedy and a drama. It has swashbuckling, cross-dressing and acrobatics. By the time of its final glorious romantic tableau, it will be a rare theatergoer who’s not won over.” – The Boston Globe
“A great, feel-good night out at the theatre – with a fun twist on the story you probably already know and love.” – Broadway World
A World Premiere from the creators of Wiesenthal
The Wallis production of
JACKIE UNVEILED
Written by Tom Dugan
Directed by Jenny Sullivan
February 22 – March 11, 2018 | Lovelace Studio Theater
Hailed as an icon of style, grace and strength, famous for her allure and piercing sensuality, much has been written and said about America’s most popular First Lady—although the one detail usually omitted is that Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was human. From the creative team of Wiesenthal, award-winning playwright Tom Dugan’s newest one-woman drama explores the life of America’s most private public figure. Locally sourced.
This production is made possible by generous support from David C. Bohnett.
“To me, the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is the cultural heart of Los Angeles, and I’m very proud to be a part of the family.” – Tom Dugan
Kneehigh and Bristol Old Vic production of
THE FLYING LOVERS OF VITEBSK
Written by Daniel Jamieson
Directed by Emma Rice
February 23 – March 11, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Partners in life and on canvas, Marc and Bella Chagall are immortalized as having one of the most romantic marriages of the 20th Century. The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk traces the young couple as they navigate the Pogroms, the Russian Revolution and each other. Following the artistic heights of Brief Encounter and 946: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips, Kneehigh and director Emma Rice return to The Wallis with a production that combines the visuals of Chagall’s paintings with the music and dance of the Russian Jewish tradition.
“****A soaring, swooping crowd-pleaser.” – Time Out London
The Wallis production of
BLUES IN THE NIGHT
Conceived and directed by Sheldon Epps
April 27 – May 20, 2018 | Lovelace Studio Theater
The soul of the blues wails out full and strong in Blues in the Night, the scorching, Tony and Olivier Award-nominated musical. The 26 hot and torchy numbers—by icons Bessie Smith, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen, and more—tell of the sweet, sexy and sorrowful experiences that three women have with the lying, cheating, snake of a man, who represents the men who do them wrong. The Wallis is honored to have Los Angeles theater luminary Sheldon Epps return to his breakout hit. Staged in the intimate Lovelace Studio Theater, Blues in the Night will leave audiences energized, inspired and ready to wail. Locally sourced.
“Absolutely show-stopping” – The Stage
HERSHEY FELDER: BEETHOVEN
Written and performed by Hershey Felder
Directed by Joel Zwick
July 26 – August 12, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Hershey Felder, a Steinway artist, returns to The Wallis, bringing Ludwig van Beethoven to life through the eyes of a Viennese doctor who spent his boyhood by the Maestro’s side. Featuring some of the composer’s most famous works including the Moonlight Sonata, Pathetique Sonata, selections from the 5th and 9th Symphonies, Beethoven is a journey through time that will bring you closer to the essence of a genius. Locally sourced.
“A chamber music piece of exquisite beauty.” – Chicago Sun-Times
“It is heartfelt, intelligent, proficient, insightful and, at times, strangely moving. Beethoven is a piece that lingers in your head.” – Chicago Tribune
THE SORTING ROOM:
December 7 – 22, 2017 and June 22 – July 29, 2018
Audiences are invited to grab a handpicked bottle of wine at The Bar @ The Wallis and settle into the warm and inviting nightclub in the Lovelace Studio Theater. The Sorting Room delivers the best talent from a wide range of genres including the American songbook, spoken word, comedy, classic cabaret, storytelling, dance, contemporary music and more. Named in honor of the room’s original purpose as a mail sorting room during Hollywood’s golden age, The Sorting Room’s rustic elegance returns for its second multifaceted and dynamic season presenting poets, composers, jazz singers, cabaret veterans and much more! Confirmed artists include: two-time Tony-winner Christine Ebersole; Get Lit, classic and slam poets working to change literacy rates in Los Angeles; the award-winning music writing duo Kooman and Dimond; and“American Idol” alum and powerhouse vocalist Pia Toscano, with many more to be announced.
Artists for the winter series to be announced in September 2017 and tickets will be available for purchase in the fall of 2017. Artists for the summer series to be announced and tickets will be available for purchase in the spring of 2018.
The Sorting Room winter and summer series are sponsored by Delta Air Lines. The Sorting Room winter series is sponsored by Meridith Baer Home.
SPECIAL EVENTS @ THE WALLIS:
GENE KELLY: THE LEGACY
An Evening with Patricia Ward Kelly
April 18, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
Legendary actor, dancer, director and choreographer Gene Kelly brought astonishing grace and athleticism to the big screen—yet we know little about him. Patricia Ward Kelly—his wife and biographer—returns to The Wallis to present an intimate portrait of this dynamic and innovative artist who created some of the most memorable and iconic scenes in film history. This unique one-woman performance, which enjoyed two sold-out performances in The Wallis’ 2014/2015 season, combines rare and familiar film clips, previously unreleased recordings, personal memorabilia and insights culled from Kelly’s hours of interviews and conversations with her husband. Locally sourced.
“Endearingly entertaining” – The Hollywood Reporter
THE HOUSE IS BLACK
Created and performed by Sussan Deyhim
Co-directed by Robert Egan
Co-composed by Richard Horowitz
February 1 – 3, 2018 | Bram Goldsmith Theater
The House is Black is Iranian American artist Sussan Deyhim’s multimedia examination of the work of Forough Farrokhzad, one of Iran’s most influential feminist poets and filmmakers. Travel through a visual, sonic and theatrical journey into the heart of Forough’s prophetic vision, which is as relevant today as it was half a century ago. This thrilling production, first seen at Royce Hall in 2015, features a Persian and Western-influenced score by Deyhim and Golden Globe-winning composer Richard Horowitz.
“Sussan Deyhim is one of Iran’s most potent voices in exile.” – Los Angeles Times
“One of the five Iranian women visionaries you need to know.” – The New York Times
STORY PIRATES: LIVE RADIO SHOW
January 13, 2018 | Lovelace Studio Theater
A high-energy, musical sketch comedy show performed at standing microphones in the Lovelace Studio Theater that is equal parts Monty Python, Schoolhouse Rock and A Prairie Home Companion. Story Pirates Radio is an evolution of the education and media company’s successful podcast and long-running show on SiriusXM Radio. Locally sourced. Recommended for ages 3 – 12.
FREE PROGRAMMING @ THE WALLIS:
STORY PIRATES on THE WALLIS’ PROMENADE TERRACE
The Story Pirates celebrate the words and ideas of the kids of Los Angeles! Join first-rate actors and comedians on the Promenade Terrace for stories written by kids from all around the country and brand new stories written by kids in the audience. Locally sourced. Recommended for ages 3 – 12.
Schedule:
October 8 at 2:30pm: Greatest Hits Show
November 12 at 2:30pm: New Story Show
February 11 at 2:30pm: Toddler Show
March 11 at 2:30pm: New Story Show
“The Story Pirates teach kids a love of creative writing. It helps kids to see that their words and ideas are really important. I believe that what the Story Pirates are doing is helping America, nay, humanity – helping humanity itself. It’s crazy entertaining.” – Jon Stewart, The Daily Show
DANCE SUNDAYS with DEBBIE ALLEN & FRIENDS
Every second Sunday of the Month, beginning October 8, 2017 from 12 – 2pm
Three-time Emmy Award-winner Debbie Allen is back for the third season running with her wildly popular Dance Sundays, an exhilarating series of FREE outdoor dance events—Salsa, African, Tap, Hip-Hop, and more—for the whole family. Locally sourced.
TICKET INFORMATION:
2017/2018 Season tickets are currently only available for purchase through subscription. Single tickets will go on sale on Friday, July 14, 2017. For updates, more information or to purchase a subscription, visit TheWallis.org/Subscribe, call 310.746.4000, or stop by in person at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Ticket Services located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Ticket prices subject to change.
The Wallis is offering three different options to subscribe to the 2017/18 season: the Premium Subscription Series; the Design-Your-Own option; and the new 3-show Flex Pass for $99, created for busy young professionals—39 and younger—giving the most flexibility to join The Wallis family of subscribers. Learn more at TheWallis.org/Subscribe.
GROW @ THE WALLIS:
Arts learning is integral to what we do at The Wallis: connecting audiences with the very best in the performing arts; using the power of the arts to build community and address pressing social issues; and responding to critical needs in the greater community through arts leadership, collaboration and partnerships. The Wallis is thrilled to continue such GRoW @ The Wallis programs, including the School Partners Programs; Courses for Young Artists: The Art of Choreography, The Art of the Small Ensemble, Classical Music & Jazz, Creating Musical Theater and the Wallis Youth Theater Company; Partnerships with The Miracle Project, Broadway Dreams and CRE Outreach; The Wallis Student Arts Reporters; Master Classes with visiting artists; Community Classes: Dancing Through Parkinson’s with Invertigo Dance Theatre and Dance Sundays; and a number of valued Community Partners. To learn more about these programs, visit TheWallis.org/GRoW.
GRoW @ The Wallis outreach and education programs are made possible in part by the generous support of GRoW @ Annenberg Foundation / Gregory Annenberg Weingarten & Family, with additional support from Arlene & Buddy Pepp and The Wasserman Foundation.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION:
Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, The Wallis is among the most accessible theaters in all of Los Angeles County. Adjacent to our campus, hassle-free parking allows easy access to the Ticket Services office and theaters. The Wallis also has several public transportation stops nearby. Audiences are invited to arrive early or stay late, to enjoy dinner within walking distance at one of The Wallis’ restaurant partners, or a craft cocktail at our new bar. Prior to most evening performances, the Prince of Venice food truck offers fresh, handmade pasta available for purchase.
About the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (The Wallis):
Since opening its doors in October 2013, The Wallis has produced or presented more than 150 dance, theatre, opera, classical music and family programs to an ever-expanding audience. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, California, The Wallis brings audiences world-class theater, dance and music, performed by many of the world’s most talented and sought-after artists. Featuring eclectic programming that mirrors the diverse landscape of Los Angeles and its notability as the entertainment capital of the world, The Wallis offers original and revered works from across the U.S. and around the globe. The mission of The Wallis is to create, present and celebrate unique performing arts events and educational programs that reflect the rich cultural diversity of our community. Nominated for 28 Ovation Awards, four L.A. Drama Critic’s Circle Awards and the recipient of six architectural awards since opening in 2013, The Wallis is a breathtaking 70,000-square-foot venue that celebrates the classic and the modern and was designed by Zoltan E. Pali, FAIA of Studio Pali Fekete architects. The building features the restored, original 1933 Beverly Hills Post Office (on the National Register of Historic Places) that serves as the theater’s dramatic yet welcoming lobby, and houses the 150-seat Lovelace Studio Theater, GRoW at The Wallis: A Space for Arts Education (a gift of Gregory Annenberg Weingarten and Family and the Annenberg Foundation) and the contemporary 500-seat, state-of-theart Bram Goldsmith Theater. Together, these structures embrace the city’s history and its future, creating a performing arts destination for L.A.-area visitors and residents alike.
For more information about The Wallis, please visit: TheWallis.org.
For downloadable photos, please visit TheWallis.org/Press.
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