Covering the performing arts in the Indianapolis area is a very broad pursuit, considering the myriad of organizations, large and small, and the many disciplines which comprise this examiner’s beat.
The selection of the ten most special events of this past year was based on the overall quality of each production as well as their entertainment and inspirational value.
Due to the fact that it was impossible to attend every event scheduled in a market rich with arts and entertainment opportunities, this list is certainly not definitive but one which represents this writer’s most memorable experiences in 2010.
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1. An Evening With the Stars
A gala presented by the Indianapolis City Ballet, showcased famous dancers from some of the top ballet companies around the world, who performed works by renowned choreographers.
2. Wicked
A national touring company production of a Broadway show (recounting the back-story of the witches from The Wizard of Oz), that has become a pop culture phenomenon.
3. The Mikado
A comedic tour de force presentation of a Gilbert & Sullivan classic presented by Indianapolis Opera.
4. Valentine’s Romance
An Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Pops series concert which featured Tony DeSare, an incredibly gifted singer, songwriter and pianist.
5. Mad for Musicals
A Dance Kaleidoscope concert which paid tribute to Broadway musicals and featured choreography by artistic director David Hochoy and boy wonder Nicholas Owens.
6. Yuletide Celebration
Presented by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, this annual holiday tradition featured the incomparable Sandi Patty, magician Les Arnold and Dazzle, and a medley of Irving Berlin songs from the film “White Christmas.”
7. Dreamgirls
Featuring Indianapolis native Moya Angela, who played Effie in this national touring company production. Angela brought the house down at the Murat when she sang, “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going,” and made it her own.
8. Jane Monheit at the Cabaret
Renowned Jazz singer, Monheit, performed in the kind of show that makes the Cabaret at the Columbia Club not only one of Indianapolis’ hottest night spots but one that can hold its own with any venue of its kind in this country.
9. A Christmas Carol
First time director (of this production) Richard Roberts and new Scrooge, Ryan Artzberger, gave this annual Indianapolis holiday attraction a whole new look and feel.
10. Into The Woods
This Footlite Musicals Young Artists production, featuring a cast of gifted student performers, did an amazing job of interpreting the music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim.
To read full reviews of each of these productions, please visit my examiner.com page by clicking on the link below:
http://www.examiner.com/performing-arts-in-indianapolis/tom-alvarez
