Saturday, October 27, 2007

Ancient myths ring true for modern audiences


Poetry in motion, the performance of Metamorphoses on Friday, October 26, 2007, in the Colwell Playhouse at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts was a captivating performance that engaged and delighted a rather meager audience. The play was staged by the University of Illinois’ Department of Theatre and directed by Rene Moreno. The actors were heart-breaking and hilarious, the set design was an intriguing juxtaposition of ancient and contemporary motifs, and the overall performance reached out to the modern audience, pulling them into the ancient Greek myths with themes that are still applicable to our daily lives.

Playwright Mary Zimmerman transformed Ovid’s 1st-century epic poem Metamorphoses, which describes the transformations of gods and mortals from Greek and Roman mythology, into an hour and a half play consisting of nine episodes that combine both comedy and tragedy, reflecting the natural variation of life. Her adaptation of the poem captures the essence of the ancient myths through a modern, minimalist style. Zimmerman’s compilation evokes the “celebration of love and life, creation, and spiritual transformation” and concentrates on “transformation in relation to the power of love,” according to the play bill. These transformations reflect the characters’ internal and external metamorphoses in times of tribulation and when seeking to fulfill their desires. The theme uniting the nine episodes is the “preciousness of life,” which hits home in the last scene when all the characters come together on stage to celebrate the restoration of Midas and his daughter. Overall, the play successfully reaches across time and connects these ancient myths to our contemporary lives.

The performance of the University of Illinois’ Department of Theatre was versatile and moving. Anthony Bianco in particular charmed the audience with his interpretation of King Midas as a greedy businessman who doesn’t appreciate the preciousness of his daughter, who symbolizes family and life, until it is too late. After receiving his “gift” from Baucus, the ability to turn what ever he touches to gold, he accidentally transforms his daughter into cold metal as she leaps into his arms. The actress playing his daughter, a seemingly simple and almost silent role, turns her bit part into a shockingly memorable role. Flying into her father’s arms, she immediately freezes in a longing embrace and appears chillingly solid and immovable.

Next, the set was unique and intriguing, and the actors utilized there surroundings effectively to move the story and create the mood of each scene. The focal point of the set design was the square pool in the center of the stage, where most of the action takes place. For example, one character was drowned at sea and fought other actors in the water to convey his battle with the waves. In a more comedic scene, Philemon retells his experience of reuniting with his father, the sun god Apollo, while floating on a hot-green floatation device, evoking his youth and playfulness while also evoking the contemporary audience’s picture of innocent yet petulant youth.

The set and costumes also juxtaposed the ancient and contemporary to bridge the gap of time. The ancient designs of the costumes coincide with the video screen backdrop, which added modern media to the ancient world. This juxtaposition allowed the audience to get a feel for life and religious beliefs in ancient times while also connecting it to the modern world.

Overall, the performance was intriguing and showed a modern audience that they have connections with these ancient characters and stories that span time. A warning to parents: There is male nudity and other adult content that may not be appropriate for young children. However, Zimmerman’s Metamorphoses is definitely a must-see for mythology-buffs and those who seek connection to the timeless themes that unite and bind humanity.

Lauren Mietelski
English, Secondary Education
Callboard Director

Picture courtesy of www.images.google.com

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Press Release: Taste Of The Arts

Contact: Community Outreach
Krannert Center Student Association
Email: kcsa-outreach@kcpa.uiuc.edu

Krannert Center Student Association Announces Their Annual Community Event Taste of the Arts

The Krannert Center Student Association (KCSA) will hold their annual Taste of the Arts Festival on November 3, 2007, from 12-4 pm. This is a free community event for all University students and the Champaign-Urbana community. There will be two stages featuring 10-15 minute performances throughout the event that will showcase local University talent. Performances will range from ballet to break dancing, swing dance to sign language. With various a cappella groups, juggling, and theatre, everyone can find something of interest. There will also be a kid’s craft corner and a cake decorating demonstration from the Meijer bakers. An art gallery will feature a display from the UIUC Art Club, photography by the Society of Architectural Historians, and the Krannert Costume Department. To top it off, free refreshments from the Cookie Jar and lemonade will be offered as supplies last. For a chance to win two complimentary tickets to a Krannert event, festival guests may purchase raffle tickets. All ages are invited to this free celebration of art in all forms. For more information, or a detailed performance schedule, please contact KCSA.

About the Krannert Center Student Association:
The Krannert Center Student Association is a Registered Student Organization at the University of Illinois. Members host annual community events such as Taste of the Arts, Holiday Tree Lighting, and International Fest. They produce the Murder Mystery Dinner and On the Rocks, which are completely student acted, written, and staffed. Also, the Krannert Center Student Association manages the student program that provides ushers and usher supervisors for Krannert performances. KCSA provides daily building tours at 3pm and can arrange special tours upon request.

Contact:

Vanessa Bordo
co-director of Community Outreach
vbordo2@uiuc.edu

Yan Shen
co-director of Community Outreach
yanshen2@uiuc.edu

Behind the Krannert Center



Herman and Ellnora Krannert pictured here for whom the Center is named after.

Interested in learning more about the Krannert's or about the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts?

Take a Daily Tour at the lobby of the Krannert Center everyday staring at 3pm!

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Thank you!




Thanks for "Being a Part of Art!"


Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Just imagine...



Your world, your place.
07-08

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Our Mission to the Public




Our mission-


For all our patrons in the community of Champaign and Urbana as well as visitors to the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

It reads:
The mission of the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is to nurture excellence and innovation in the Performing Arts through education, presentation, community service, and research.


Do you know where to find this statement?

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Where in the Krannert Center?


Can you guess what level of the Krannert Center this sign is from?

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Friday, October 12, 2007

For all you Weekend Warriors!


Looking for something to do this weekend? Callboard's here keep you informed and bring all the information straight to you!

I-HELP Saturday beginning at 9:30 am on the quad. Help out all over the Champaign Urbana area as Homecoming activities.It is one day only and has over 1,000 students volunteer.



AandBC Theater Company: The Tempest 7:30pm Friday and Saturday
Festival Theater $23-$40


UI Symphony Orchestra
Donald Schleicher, conductor
Yu-Chi Tai, piano

Friday, October 12 at 7:30pm
Foellinger Great Hall
$10 / SC 7 / Stu 4



Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra
Steven Larsen, music director and conductor
Tim Fain, violin
Saturday, October 13 at 7:30pm
Foellinger Great Hall
$31 / SC 28 / Stu 12
For series ticket information, visit www.cusymphony.org

Show information from http://www.kcpa.uiuc.edu/performances/

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Interested in Giving a Tour?

For anyone who has been trained and certified for tours, here is an opportunity to help out!-Eric

Hi everyone!
We're looking for some help with tours next week. We need people for Monday (15th), Friday (19th), and Saturday (20th) for daily tours. We also need help with two special tours. The first is on Tuesday (16) at 7:30 pm. The second is on Thursday (18th) at 8:45am.
Also, if you're interested in having Monday, Friday, or Saturday as your day to give tours, just let us know and we'll sign you up!

Thanks guys!
Ruth, Shawna, and Leah
KCSA Tours Directors

MMD Auditions



Don't forget!
MMD auditions are tonight and tomorrow October 10 and 11 from 7-9 in Lincoln Hall!

Don't miss your chance!

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Sunday, October 7, 2007

Some photos of the Krannert Center





Here are some winter photos I took last semester of the Krannert Center in all of its glory!

You too can submit photos to Callboard!

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

We Want You!


The Callboard department is still looking for writers, editors, and photographers for the KCSA blog. We are a very informal department and there is absolutely no experience necessary! Even if you don't want to be officially in the department, we are always willing to accept random articles, pictures, and show reviews to post on the blog from anyone in KCSA.

The picture above is of the Callboard directors (from left: Parthiban, Lauren, and Eric) and it was taken at the Administrative Board retreat at Curtis Orchard Sunday, September 30th. Our pumpkin's name is Franky (a.k.a. Frankenstein) and he is the new Callboard mascot. Join in on the fun and help us keep KCSA members informed and up to date on Krannert, campus, and city-wide events.

WE WANT YOU!

Email the Callboard directors at kcsa-callboard@kcpa.uiuc.edu if you are interested in contributing.

Lauren Mietelski
Callboard Director
Senior in English, Secondary Education

Looking for the next big thing?

Independent films are always something to be enjoyed, at least for the sake that artists are true in their art forms, not guided by a Hollywood budget. One Fine Day is no exception to this rule. The series takes a fictional look into the lives of RA's in housing and how it impacts there lives and better yet is a part of it. Taking place at University of Illinois, but not related purposely to the university in any way, the series is full of laughs, awkward moments, and a professional look. So instead of aimlessly clicking around YouTube, why not give this series a chance. The first episode can be found at http://onefinedaytv.blogspot.com/

Look for the second episode to premiere on October 18, 2007.
Check out the Facebook group- http://uillinois.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2365254089


Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Wall to Wall Guitar Festival


Although the Festival has been over for some time, I thought I would share some photos before commenting on the event. I had shot a short video clip, but it appears to be in the wrong file format. If I ever am able to get it on the blog, you will see it here!

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

Some pictures from Bunraku:The National Puppet Theatre Of Japan



Here are some photos from Saturday night's performance, Bunraku. I had to wait until the end of the performance to take these pictures, otherwise there would be more. Look for more insights and a review of the show coming soon!

Eric Gordon
Callboard Director
Journalism Major

MMD Auditions

MMD auditions are on October 10 and 11 from 7-9 in Lincoln Hall. What exactly is MMD? It is KCSA's annual Murder Mystery Dinner that happens every fall semester. Having worked on the show for two years it is a very positive experience and one you will remember once college is over. Be a part of the cast! It doesn't matter whether you are a theater major or a engineer, all are welcome to attend! The show is run entirely by students for the public. It is one of my favorite aspects of the show. Two nights, two hours each, and too good to miss!

Contact kcsa-tech@kcpa.uiuc.edu

Thursday, October 4, 2007

KCSA Notes from the Secretary

These are notes from the KCSA secretary for the first week in October:

1. volunteers needed: urbana park district celebration
2. volunteers needed: kcpa corporate night paparazzi
3. workers needed: kcpa poster project (PAID!!)
4. volunteers needed: TOURS!
5. volunteers needed: TOTA!
6. volunteers needed: USHERING! (and other ushering stuff)
7. input needed: barcrawl...oh yeah.
.........

1. The Urbana Park District is celebrating its 100 years with six days of live entertainment and community activities at their Centennial Chautauqua! Krannert Center is proud to sponsor this event and to partner with the English Hedgerow to offer delicious, organic food throughout the week's activities. You can visit the website at www.urbanaparks.org to get the schedule of activities, concerts and talks.


Krannert Center is looking for volunteers to man the Krannert/Hedgerow booth during the week. You'll be answering Krannert Center questions and helping Hedgerow if they get mobbed by customers and need help. You'll also be enjoying the Chautauqua first hand!!


We need the following shifts filled:


Tuesday, October 9
5p – 7p
7p – 9p
Wednesday, October 10
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 9p
Thursday, October 11
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 9p
Friday, October 12
11a – 2p
2p – 5p
5p – 8p
8p – 10p
Saturday, October 13
9a – 12p
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 8p
8p – 10p
Sunday, October 14
12:30p – 3p
3p – 5:30p

If you are interested in volunteering, please email Courtney or Crystal (
cegg@uiuc.edu; cwomble@uiuc.edu) with what shift SOON PLEASE!! (i.e. by the end of the week)
.........

2. kcspa development staff are in need of some enthusiastic
students to play the part of the crowd/groupies for the Corporate Night red carpet. in an ideal world they would probably want a group of anywhere from 25 - 40 folks. not only would you get to enjoy the spectacle, but you'd also get to enjoy the awesome catering. sound like something for you? e-mail deborah miller at
miller9@uiuc.edu.
.........

3. and now a message from maureen reagan, regarding a PAID opportunity:

i am looking for one or two students to deliver our first posters of the season to businesses. i'd also like one or two students, preferably the same people, to update and augment our poster distribution locations. this involves checking with our existing list to make sure they are still accepting posters and also visiting many local businesses, organizations, etc. to ask if they will display posters; information about the location then needs to be documented for our list. these are paid projects.

the students must be outgoing, good representatives of the center, confident finding and visiting many locations throughout town, already on krannert center hourly payroll, and must have access to a car. the first distribution will take several hours and must be started this week, and the update project will probably take between twenty and eighty hours. (i know that's a wide range :-) contact me directly by e-mail (
reagan@uiuc.edu) if you're interested!
.........

4. we are still in need of some help covering tours for this week. we need people for Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. let us know as soon as possible if you can help ( kcsa-tours@kcpa.uiuc.edu) ALSO! if you are interested in having one (or more) day a week set as 'your day' to give tours, please let us know BY FRIDAY (the 5th). we currently need people for Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday...and remember...tours = tickets. that simple.
.........

5. kcsa is hosting a bomb-diggity event that we think you should know about/help out with. it's called international fest, it's being held at krannert on saturday november 3rd, and it's awesome. awesome awesome awesome. there are tons of cultural groups performing, booths, arts and crafts, food, etc...it's huge. we're going to need people to work the kids' craft corner, raffle, art gallery, sound booth, food table, rehearsal rooms....basically we need help with a lot of things. we also would like people to help set up the night before. so if you think you'd be interested in helping out, e-mail the outreach girls at kcsa-outreach@kcpa.uiuc.edu. and help spread the word about this awesome event! did i mention it's awesome?
.........

6. the following shows need a little love from all you beautiful ushers (e-mail kcsa-ushering@kcpa.uiuc.edu if you've got that love in your heart):

157 Thu 10/4/07 Sinfonia da Camera: Sierra Premiere 6:15pm FGH R

163 Fri 10/5/07 SOM: Wind Symphony/Symphonic Band I 6:30pm FGH G

169 Sat 10/6/07 SOM: Varsity Men's Glee Club Dad's Day 6:15pm FGH R

175 Sat 10/6/07 In the Continuum 6:45pm STH R

178 Sun 10/7/07 SOM: Symphonic Band 2/Concert Band 1 2:00pm FGH G

187 Tue 10/9/07 SOM: Tim McGovern, bassoon 6:30pm FGH G

202 Fri 10/12/07 SOM: UI Symphony 6:30pm FGH G

211 Sat 10/13/07 CU Symphony 6:15pm FGH R

ALSO, here's information regarding shows you may have already signed up for:

You should receive an email with your assignments sometime soon (if you haven't already). You will most likely receive all the shows you requested, and should not receive any shows that you did not request. So you can use your show
requests as a guide to what you'll be assigned to. You can also check your assignments online at
http://www.kcsa.uiuc.edu/Ushering/Assignments/, once we get the assignments processed.
.........

7. ok so you've heard about the kcsa barcrawl. you're UBER-excited about it. problem is...you're not sure when to come for the fun! well the answer is: we're not sure, actually ; ) we're thinking wednesday october 17, but we want to optimize the craziness and get as many people involved as possible. so give us a little input! does the 17th work? are there better nights? better weeks? let us know! e-mail kcsa-activities@kcpa.uiuc.edu with comments.
.........

AND now i'm dead. well my fingers are. i think i'm getting carple tunnel syndrome. and it's all YOUR fault! haha no no, i copy and paste a lot. and i'm overly dramatic at this time of night and i haven't started my homework yet. whoops!


mad love,

~mc (still loves cookies)m

p.s. another random fact about myself: i like flowers that don't wilt. but then again, who doesn't?


.........

Megan McMillen
mmcmill2@uiuc.edu
megmcm@gmail.com
University of Illinois 2008
KCSA Secretary

Monday, October 1, 2007

Volunteers needed for Urbana Park District's 100th birthday

The Urbana Park District is celebrating its 100 years with six days of live entertainment and community activities at their Centennial Chautauqua! Krannert Center is proud to sponsor this event and to partner with the English Hedgerow to offer delicious, organic food throughout the week’s activities. You can visit the website at www.urbanaparks.org to get the schedule of activities, concerts and talks.

Krannert Center is looking for volunteers to man the Krannert/Hedgerow booth during the week. You'll be answering Krannert Center questions and helping Hedgerow if they get mobbed by customers and need help. You'll also be enjoying the Chautauqua first hand!!

We need the following shifts filled:

Tuesday, October 9
5p – 7p
7p – 9p

Wednesday, October 10
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 9p

Thursday, October 11
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 9p

Friday, October 12
11a – 2p
2p – 5p
5p – 8p
8p – 10p

Saturday, October 13
9a – 12p
12p – 3p
3p – 6p
6p – 8p
8p – 10p

Sunday, October 14
12:30p – 3p
3p – 5:30p

If you are interested in volunteering, please email Courtney or Crystal.

Courtney Egg
Patron Services Director
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
500 S. Goodwin Ave.
Urbana, IL 61801
217-333-9716 p
217-244-0810 f
cegg@uiuc.edu