Tune, Buckley & More Set For Brooklyn Center's 2010-11 Season

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College announces its 56th season of music, dance, theater, and family programming reflecting the multicultural diversity of Brooklyn. The outstanding line-up features performances from Jamaica, Argentina, Japan, Russia and South Africa as well as the United States, and includes both Brooklyn premieres and returning favorites.

"We are proud and excited to be able to share with the Brooklyn community an astounding variety of exceptional talent in our 2010-2011 Season," said Frank L. Sonntag, Managing Director of Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts. "We work hard to make sure that our programs reflect the diversity of the borough and that they are reasonably priced so that families and regular folks can take advantage of these opportunities to experience the thrill of live performances. There will be many reasons to smile at Brooklyn Center this season!"

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2010-2011 Season includes:

* A family concert by Tom Chapin
* Aquila Theatre's A Midsummer Night's Dream
* The Klezmer Conservatory Band
* Cirque Le Masque
* The Tito Puente Jr. Orchestra
* A Brooklyn Gospel Celebration
* Tommy Tune in Steps in Time
* Contemporary dance company Philadanco
* Take 6: We Wish You a Merry Christmas
* The Colonial Nutcracker
* MLK Jr. Celebration
* Theatreworks USA's Seussical
* A Valentine's weekend concert with reggae legend Gregory Isaacs
* American Big Band
* U.S. Military Academy Band
* Tango Buenos Aires
* Ladysmith Black Mambazo
* The new Gershwin musical 'S Wonderful
* A family-friendly performance by Soh Daiko Taiko Drum Ensemble
* Betty Buckley's one-woman show Broadway by Request
* The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
* Fourth annual National Grid Earth Day Celebration
* The Russian National Ballet Theatre's Swan Lake
* American Family Theater's Beauty and the Beast

Tom Chapin in concert
Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 2pm
With eleven kids' recordings and five Grammy nominations for Best Musical Album for Children, Tom Chapin engages the hearts, minds and imaginations of children and adults alike with his clever lyrics and tuneful melodies. Parents magazine praises his showmanship, saying "Nobody today is writing and performing better kids' songs than Tom Chapin!" A Target FamilyFun event recommended for ages six and up.
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)

William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream
Sunday, October 17, 2010 at 3pm
Aquila Theatre Company's interpretation of Shakespeare's timeless comedy weaves a web of theatrical magic that takes audiences to an enchanted forest, where two sets of lovers and a bumbling troupe of amateur actors cross paths with members of the fairy kingdom, creating an endless supply of mirth, mistaken identity, and ridiculous passions.
Tickets: $27 ($30 at door)

Klezmer Conservatory Band
Sunday, October 24, 2010 at 2pm
Credited as the band that jump-started the Klezmer revival, the Klezmer Conservatory Band celebrates the centuries-old musical traditions of Eastern Europe with a joyous afternoon of Jewish dance music. Join us as the ten multitalented musicians of KCB transform the Walt Whitman Theatre into a Simcha Palace with its infectious dance beats and irresistibly expressive melodies.
Tickets: $27

Cirque Le Masque: Carnivale
SpeciAl Halloween event!
Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 3pm
Cirque Le Masque pays tribute to the time-honored traditions of European cirque troupes, unveiling unparalleled artistry with sophisticated acts from around the world. These gifted artists amaze and astound audiences as they perform feats of unbelievable strength, stamina and agility that defy both gravity and the limitations of the human body.
Tickets: $27-$37 ($30-$40 at door)

Tito Puente Jr. Orchestra
Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 8pm
Sparks will fly and ignite the stage of the Walt Whitman Theatre as the Tito Puente Jr. Orchestra presents an evening of Afro-Cuban rhythms and Latin Jazz. Led by the son of the legendary Tito Puente, this red hot ensemble carries on the legacy of the original "Mambo King" with its high voltage brand of Latin dance music, bringing Puente's musical spirit and energy to a whole new generation.
Tickets: $37 ($40 at door)

A Brooklyn Gospel Celebration
Sunday, November 7, 2010 at 4pm
This inspirational afternoon of joyful music and worship features a talented array of individuals and ensembles from throughout New York City. Promoting harmony, solidarity and community, this celebration strives to engender a strong sense of hope for a positive future. Made possible with the support of and hosted by NYS Senate Conference Leader John L. Sampson, NYS Senator Eric Adams, NYS Assemblyman Karim Camara, and NYS Council Member LetiTia James.
Tickets: FREE

Tommy Tune in Steps in Time: A Broadway Biography in Song and Dance
Featuring the Manhattan Rhythm Kings
Sunday, November 14, 2010 at 3pm
Nine-time Tony Award winner Tommy Tune teams up with longtime collaborators the Manhattan Rhythm Kings for a personal look back at his incredible career, featuring timeless standards, elegant choreography, and Tommy's own unique charm and warm-hearted humor. Don't miss this rare chance to view the personal side of this quintessential song-and-dance man.
Tickets: $32-$42 ($35-$45 at door)

Philadanco
A New Work / New York presentation
Saturday, November 20, 2010 at 8pm
Founded in 1970, the internationally acclaimed Philadanco is known for its passionate, powerful and diverse blend of African-American dance traditions with ballet, jazz and modern styles. Their 2010 Brooklyn Center appearance includes the New York premiere of "By Way of the Funk," a new work by Brooklyn's own Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, Founding and Artistic Director of Urban Bush Women.
Tickets: $30

Take 6: We Wish You a Merry Christmas
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 8pm
With a staggering eight Grammy Awards and 23 nominations, the a cappella sextet Take 6 is the most nominated Gospel, Jazz, Pop or R&B artist in Grammy history. They lend their exquisite harmonies to a joyful program of traditional and contemporary holiday favorites.
Tickets: $32-$42 ($35-$45 at door)

The Colonial Nutcracker
Sunday, December 12, 2010 at 2pm
An annual holiday favorite at Brooklyn Center, Dance Theatre in Westchester performs an abridged, narrated version of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown, complete with a red-coated mouse army and an enchanted nutcracker prince. A Target FamilyFun event recommended for ages four and up.
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)

MLK Jr. Celebration
Monday, January 17, 2011 at 6pm
DR. Martin Luther King, Jr. exemplified the difference that one person can make in this world. Celebrating the incredible legacy of a true American hero, this annual free concert brings together churches, ministries, community leaders and youth from all over Central Brooklyn to commemorate the tremendous personal sacrifice that Dr. King made for all African Americans and to promote unity and cohesion among youth and teens. Made possible with the support of NYS Senator Kevin S. Parker.
Tickets: FREE

Seussical
A Theatreworks USA production
Music by Stephen Flaherty; lyrics by Lynn Ahrens; book by Ahrens & Flaherty
Co-conceived by Ahrens, Flaherty and Eric Idle; based on the works of Dr. Seuss
Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2pm
Dr. Seuss's beloved stories collide in this unforgettable musical adaptation of the original Broadway production. Join Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, and of course The Cat in the Hat as they find themselves intertwined in a crazy adventure, in which the power of imagination saves the day. A Target FamilyFun event recommended for ages four and up.
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)

Gregory Isaacs
Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 8pm
One of Jamaica's most beloved singers, Gregory Isaacs' musical career spans three decades, from the heady days of reggae through lovers rock (a genre he virtually invented) and into the modern age. With dozens of classics to his credit, including "My Number One," "Rumors," and "Night Nurse," his status as a Jamaican reggae superstar is unquestionable. Enjoy a special Valentine's weekend concert with the man described by The New York Times as "the most exquisite vocalist in reggae."
Tickets: $36-$45 ($40-$48 at door)

American Big Band
Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 2pm
Take the A Train back to the days when Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman lit up the airwaves and Duke Ellington raised the roof at the Cotton Club in this swingin' big band revue. Featuring such memorable favorites as "String of Pearls," "Caravan," "Green Eyes," and many more, this show will get you in the mood as it spotlights how the "sound of hope" altered the course of American music forever.
Tickets: $27

Tango Buenos Aires
Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 8pm
Sometimes playful, often sensual, and always dramatic, Tango Buenos Aires presents Fuego Tango y Pasión (The Fire and Passion of Tango), a seductive journey through the history of modern tango. Experience the heart and soul of Argentina's passionate dance form with this fiery ensemble of 25 tango virtuosi, performed to live music by Piazzolla, Mores and other Argentine masters.
Tickets: $36-$45 ($40-$48 at door)

United States Military Academy Band
Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 2pm
As the U.S. Army's oldest active band, the United States Military Academy Band has served the nation for over 190 years, performing for U.S. Presidents and Heads of State. Under the direction of Lt. Col. Timothy J. Holtan, it is committed to being the standard bearer of musical excellence, instilling the best of national values, spirit and patriotism in the American public.
Tickets: FREE

Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 8pm
Almost 25 years after they acquired international superstar status with Paul Simon's Graceland album, Ladysmith Black Mambazo continues to tour the world as South Africa's cultural emissary. With a career including more than 50 recordings and three Grammy Awards, including 2009's Best Traditional World Music Album for Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu, the group continues to thrill audiences with its rich a cappella arrangements and joyously energetic performances.
Tickets: $37 ($40 at door)

'S Wonderful
Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 3pm
Like a Technicolor movie musical, 'S Wonderful paints a picture of nostalgia and entertainment as it pays tribute to the incomparable songbook of Brooklyn's own George and Ira Gershwin. From New York to Paris to Hollywood, this all-singing, all-dancing musical takes you on a journey through the different times, places, and musical styles that make the Gershwin brothers the most successful songwriting team in the history of American popular music.
Tickets: $32 ($35 at door)

Soh Daiko Taiko Drum Ensemble
Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 2pm
This family-friendly concert includes traditional pieces from the Shinto music tradition, as well as original compositions by members of the company. The performance is presented in collaboration with Carnegie Hall's Neighborhood Concert Series, a Program of the Weill Music Institute. For ages six and up.
Tickets: FREE

Betty Buckley: Broadway by Request
Brooklyn Center's Annual Gala Fundraiser
Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 8pm
In Broadway by Request, Tony Award winner Betty Buckley performs selections picked by the audience from her illustrious Broadway career in landmark musicals. A different show every time it is performed, this unique evening offers a rare opportunity to hear the first lady of the Great White Way sing all Broadway, all night. A portion of every ticket goes to support Brooklyn Center's educational program.
Gala tickets (including post-performance party): $175
Performance tickets: $45-$65 ($55-$75 at door)

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
A Theatreworks USA production
Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 2pm
While playing hide and seek in the many rooms of their uncle's country home, four siblings find a magic wardrobe through which they enter the fabled land of Narnia. There they embark on a heroic and perilous quest to defeat the evil White Witch and return the great King Aslan to the throne. Exciting adventures come to life in this musical adaptation of the C.S. Lewis classic. A Target FamilyFun event recommended for ages six and up.
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)

National Grid Earth Day Celebration
Sunday, April 10, 2011 at 3pm
Now in its fourth year, this annual event is designed to educate families on how they can play a role in caring for the Earth and creating a more sustainable future. Interactive family activities, educational displays, give-away items, street performers, and items for sale highlight the need for conserving energy, recycling in the home, and having a heightened awareness of the global issues that we face today.
Tickets: FREE

Russian National Ballet Theatre's Swan Lake
Elena Radchenko, Artistic Director
Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 2pm
With its fairy tale story of a beautiful princess, a passionate prince, and the evil enchantment that threatens their happiness together, Swan Lake is undoubtedly one of the most popular full-length ballets of all time. Set to Tchaikovsky's masterful score, this magical love story will be performed in a staging based on the 1895 revival by legendary choreographers Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov.
Tickets: $27-$37 ($30-$40 at door)

Beauty and the Beast
An American Family Theater production
Sunday, May 22, 2011 at 2pm
Imprisoned by a monstrous Beast, a young girl learns that outward appearances can be deceiving and, with a magic kiss, frees the Beast from his curse. A Target FamilyFun event recommended for ages four and up.
Tickets: $6 ($7 at door)

Multibuy (three or four performances) and Megabuy packages (five or more performances) save up to 15% off individual ticket prices. Multibuy and Megabuy discounts do not apply to Betty Buckley: Broadway by Request or to Target FamilyFun performances. Discounts are available for seniors, students, Brooklyn College faculty/staff/alumni, and groups of 15 or more. Complimentary student rush tickets are available to all Brooklyn College students, with $10 student rush tickets available to all other students.

About Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Founded in 1954, the mission of Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts is to present outstanding performing arts and arts education programs, reflective of Brooklyn's diverse communities, at affordable prices. Brooklyn Center's presentations explore both the classical traditions and the boldest contemporary performances, embracing the world culture that defines Brooklyn. Brooklyn Center welcomes over 70,000 people to the 2,400 seat Walt Whitman Theatre each season, and boasts one of the largest arts education programs in the borough, serving 46,000 schoolchildren from over 300 schools annually with its SchoolTime series. In recognition of its commitment to quality family programming, Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts was voted Brooklyn's Best Theater or Theater Group for Kids as part of Nickelodeon's 2009 ParentsConnect Parents' Picks Awards.

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College
2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn
2 train to Brooklyn College/Flatbush Avenue

Online orders: www.BrooklynCenterOnline.org
Box Office: (718) 951-4500, Tuesday - Saturday, 1pm - 6pm
Subscription orders and season brochure requests: (718) 951-4600 x25
Groups of 15 or more: (718) 951-4600 x33

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' programs are made possible in part with public funding from the City of New York Department of Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding for the 2010-2011 season is provided by: Target, JP Morgan Chase; Con Edison; Macy's Foundation; Brooklyn Community Foundation; Mertz Gilmore Foundation; National Grid; TD Bank; Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation; New England Foundation for the Arts; Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour; The Harkness Foundation for Dance; Health Plus; and the Lila Acheson Wallace Theater Fund, established in the New York Community Trust by founders of The Reader's Digest Association. Additional support provided by CNG Publications, The Brooklyn Eagle, and WBGO Jazz 88. The Sheraton Brooklyn New York Hotel is the official hotel of Brooklyn Center's 2010-2011 season. Backstage catering is graciously provided by Applebee's. Carnegie Hall's Neighborhood Concert Series is sponsored by Target.

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts gratefully acknowledges generous support from the Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York State Assembly and Speaker Sheldon Silver; Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York State Senate and Majority Conference Leader John L. Sampson; Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York City Council and Speaker Christine C. Quinn; and Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Kate Levin.