TPAC Sets Full 2015-16 Season of Theatre, Music & More

BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, the longest operating performance venue in lower Manhattan, proudly presents a wide range of events in the 2015-2016 Season, including The National Circus & Acrobats of China, performing on Wednesday, October 14 at 7:30pm, Beyond Third Wave (dance troupe), performing Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20 at 7:30pm through Sunday, May 21 at 3:00pm, David Gonzalez with City Of Dreams - Featuring the Poetic License Band performing Friday, October 23 at 8PM, and more! We also continue to present a diverse slate of Family programming, free film retrospectives, and a variety of dance, comedy, and special events. All 2015-2016 events are listed below with more information. Tickets are $15-$25 and on sale soon. To purchase tickets, call 212-220-1460 and/or visit www.tribecapac.org.

Event Information

SPECIAL EVENT

The National Circus & Acrobats of China "Peking Dreams"

Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at 7:30PM; $25

Direct from Beijing, The National Circus and Acrobats of China, one of the longest running and most distinguished circus troupes in China, presents "Peking Dreams." Outstanding acts such as the Grand Flying Trapeze, Group Contortion, Straw Hats Juggling, and Girls' Balance with Bowls to be performed. The Company has won over twenty Gold and Silver medals and various other awards at international circus festivals including the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, Cirque de Demain, Wuqiao International Circus Festival, Wuhan International Circus Festival and China National Acrobatic Competition. Fun for the entire family! Video: http://bit.ly/1R4eMzk

TRIBECA SPOTLIGHT: NEXT VOICE YOU HEAR

David Gonzalez with City Of Dreams - Featuring the Poetic License Band

Friday, October 23 at 8PM; $15

David Gonzalez performs "City of Dreams," poetry and stories of cultural identity in contemporary American Latin culture. With the Poetic License Band, Latin jazz meets spoken word in a kaleidoscopic multi-media production exploding with passion, intelligence and energy. New York's hottest jazz musicians sets Gonzalez's compelling poetry like a diamond in a mambo/funk music box. "Inspired and wonderfully evocative" - Orange County Register. Video: http://bit.ly/1egcjUk

Grip Weeds - Friday, November 20 at 8PM; $15

The Grip Weeds' releases have sported many different styles of original material, from Psychedelic and Garage Rock to Folk-based ballads and thought-provoking social commentary. This diversity has landed several Grip Weeds songs on the top of the Little Steven's Underground Garage "Coolest Song in the World" list, as well as placed Grip Weeds music in several television and film projects. Their reputation as a top shelf live band has brought them to venues across the United States, and internationally, including the South By Southwest (SXSW) conference in Austin, Texas, Liverpool, England's legendary Cavern Club, and several tours of Europe, among others. All four Grip Weeds sing, and their group vocals have been acclaimed as one of the most distinctive and natural close harmonic blends working today. Video: http://bit.ly/1FoAxVh

"Spero Plays Nyro" by the Christine Spero Group CD Release Event

Friday, December 18 at 8PM; $15

A heartfelt tribute and celebration of the music of Laura Nyro, one of the greatest pop songwriters of the 20th century featuring Christine Spero (piano & vocal), Elliot Spero (saxes & percussion), Scott Petito (bass) and Peter O'Brien (drums). In the new, one-of-a-kind show, "Spero Plays Nyro," the Christine Spero Group maintains the integrity of Laura Nyro's music while infusing it with their own unique personality. Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame member Laura Nyro's groundbreaking music crossed the genres of folk, rock, and jazz. She became one of the most covered artists in the 1960's and 1970's with such songs as "Eli's Coming "and "Wedding Bell Blues," to name a few. Video: http://yhoo.it/1Seo4Ky

The Art of Stand-Up with Rick Younger (additional comedians TBA) - Friday, February 5 at 8PM; $15

Rick Younger appears regularly on NBC's Today Show with Kathie Lee & Hoda on the segment, "Guys Tell All." Rick has made television appearances on BET's ComicView and Teen Summit, FOX's 30 Seconds to Fame, Showtime at the Apollo, and NBC's Last Comic Standing. You may also recognize him from Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Damages, commercials for Starburst, Verizon, Staples, and McDonald's, and in 2010, he appeared in the film Morning Glory, featuring Harrison Ford, Rachel McAdams, Diane Keaton, and Jeff Goldblum. Additional comics TBA.

Jayme Stone's Lomax Project - Friday, March 11 at 8PM; $15

Focusing on songs collected by folklorist and field recording pioneer Alan Lomax, this collaborator brings together some of North America's most distinctive and creative roots musicians to revive, recycle and re-imagine traditional music. The repertoire includes Bahamian sea chanties, African-American acappella singing from the Georgia Sea Islands, ancient Appalachian ballads, fiddle tunes and work songs collected from both well-known musicians and everyday folk: sea captains, cowhands, fishermen, prisoners and homemakers. Collaborators include Grammy-winning singer Tim O'Brien, Bruce Molsky, Margaret Glaspy, Moira Smiley, Brittany Haas, Julian Lage, Eli West, and more. The new album is out now on Borealis Records. Video: http://bit.ly/1ya4OXK

Brooklyn Women's Chorus - Friday, May 13 at 8PM; $15

A community chorus, The Brooklyn Women's Chorus was formed in October 1997 by Park Slope resident and musician, Bev Grant. With a repertoire ranging from South African freedom songs to socially relevant songs by contemporary American songwriters like Garth Brooks, Jackson Browne, Pat Humphries and Bev Grant, song topics range from freedom and justice to peace, resistance and women's labor history. They have recorded a CD entitled Brooklyn Women's Chorus and the Power of Song. The Brooklyn Women's Chorus is its own sanctuary for women who are seeking community and a safe place to find and raise their voice in song. Video: http://bit.ly/1dl6l4x

SCENES THROUGH THE CINEMA LENS

Scenes through the Cinema Lens is a film retrospective focusing on the performing arts curated by Krin Gabbard, professor of Comparative Literature and English at the State University of New York at Stony Brook and author of Hotter Than That: The Trumpet, Jazz, and American Culture. Viewing includes an informal Q&A.

The Triumph of Orson Welles

Tuesday, October 27 at 7:30PM - FREE

As we celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of Orson Welles's birth, we will look at scenes from Citizen Kane, The Magnificent Ambersons, The Lady from Shanghai, Too Much Johnson, Chimes at Midnight, F Is for Fake, and other films that reveal his complete mastery of the art of filmmaking.

The Sinatra Century

Tuesday, December 15 at 7:30PM - FREE

Frank Sinatra was born one hundred years ago this month. Happily, Sinatra frequently appeared on film throughout his career. We will look at the young, the mature, and the aging Sinatra on film - including some footage that has only recently become available - to document his extraordinary career.

Mutant Musicals

Tuesday, March 15 at 7:30PM - FREE

Way back in the 1930s the Hollywood musical had already become a well-established genre. We'll watch scenes from films that may or may not be called musicals, but all have striking moments that parody and/or pay conflicted tribute to the musical. Films include The Big Lebowski, The 5000 Fingers of Doctor T, Idlewild, Dancer in the Dark, Dirty Dancing, and Pennies from Heaven.

Ladies Sing the Blues

Tuesday, April 5 at 7:30PM - FREE

The first great blues artist to appear on film was Bessie Smith. Although the film attempts to portray her as a "primitive" woman who expresses herself without thinking about her music, she turned her performance into a tour de force. When she sings "St. Louis Blues," she exhibits all of her talents as an artist. Many female singers have followed her in bringing a unique artistry to the performance of the blues. We will look at great blues singing by Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln, Anita O'Day, and a few surprises.

MONK IN MOTION: NEXT FACE OF JAZZ

This year, we will be presenting Vocalists. Winners will perform here at Tribeca PAC, in concert, with his or her own band.

1st Place Winner - TBD

Saturday, Feb 6 at 7:30PM; $25

We will be presenting the 1st Place Winner of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition (Vocalist). The competition takes place in the fall of 2015.

1st Runner-Up - TBD

Saturday, Feb 20 at 7:30PM; $25

We will be presenting the 1st Runner Up of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition (Vocalist). The competition takes place in the fall of 2015.

2nd Runner-Up - TBD

Saturday, March 6 at 7:30PM; $25

We will be presenting the 1st Runner Up of the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition (Vocalist). The competition takes place in the fall of 2015.

LOST JAZZ SHRINES - 18TH SEASON

Lost Jazz Shrines: Sweet Basil - Remembering Lester Bowie

Saturday, June 4, 2016 at 8:30PM; $25
The presentation will be an evening remembering Lester Bowie. We will engage one of Lester's musical intimates to lead a program featuring Lester Bowie's music for brass ensemble, in the spirit of his Brass Fantasy bands, which he was leading at the time of his passing. In addition to our concert presentation, TPAC will present a pre-concert humanities program, at 7pm, focusing on the development and legacy of Sweet Basil. Included will be a free film screening highlighting Lester Bowie and a panel discussion on Sweet Basil featuring musicians who played the club and members of the jazz media who frequented the club and subsequently reported on its vibrant activities.

TRIBECA DANCE

B3W (Beyond Third Wave) Presents "Forgiveness"

Friday & Saturday, May 20 & 21 at 7:30PM and Sunday, May 22 at 3PM; $25

FORGIVENESS brings together artists from different forms to create a multidisciplinary performance. Conceived of and directed by Emily Berry, "Forgiveness" brings together artists from different forms to create a multidisciplinary performance. Emily directs, choreographs, and facilitates the creation of the piece. Daniel Bernard Roumain is composing the music. Gail Scott White is designing the new media scenography. Todd Craig and Sarita Covington are writing the script. While all of the collaborating artists are coming from different forms, our goals for creating art are aligned. We all share a strong desire to bring voices to under-represented groups, bringing light to issues of social injustice, including racism, homophobia, sexism, immigration and economic disparity.

"Forgiveness" is a topic that artists throughout time have addressed and remains relevant. This project provides an opportunity to witness personal struggles and stories of forgiveness that will lay a path for both personal and societal healing. The core of our creative process involves community workshops conducted throughout the US and internationally. The book, The Wisdom of Forgiveness by the Dalai Lama is being used as a springboard for development through individual journaling, group discussions, and improvisations.

WRITERS-IN-PERFORMANCE

Presentation: Friday & Saturday, Dec 4 & 5; $10 Suggested Donation

The Writers in Performance workshop is designed to give writers the opportunity to explore performing their written pieces. Whether they are playwrights, poets, monologists, writers of prose, or spoken word artist, this workshop gives the writers an opportunity to create a performance piece out of their writings. Workshop participants are chosen on the strength of their writing plus either performance ability, or willingness to explore that aspect of creativity. The workshop mixes professionals with students. Each year we include students from BMCC. (Auditions TBA in September 2015. Check our website and social media for updates.)

Tribeca Family Theater

10Club Tickets Now On Sale: The regular ticket price for all Tribeca Family events during the 2015/16 season are $25, but 10Club members enjoy 10 tickets for only $12 each. 10Club memberships are on sale now by calling 212-220-1460, online at http://tribecapac.org/family/, or visiting Ticketing Services in person, located in the lobby of the Borough of Manhattan Community College, 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY. You may also log on to www.tribecapac.org for single tickets, on sale soon.

Some of the Family events are also available a day earlier for teachers and their classes. Go to www.tribecapac.org/school-time for more information if you are a teacher.

Peter Rabbit Tales
An Enchantment Theatre Company Production
Saturday, October 17 at 1:30PM; $25

Using fantastic masks, whimsical puppets, gorgeous scenery and original music, the magical, marvelous world of Beatrix Potter comes alive on stage. When Benjamin Bunny's children disappear, he goes to his cousin, Peter Rabbit, to help him find the bunnies. Squirrel Nutkin, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Jemima Puddle-duck and Thomasina Tittlemouse all gather in on the fun. Ages 3 and up.

The Berenstain Bears Live! in Family Matters: The Musical
Saturday, November 14, 2015 at 1:30PM; $25

Come on down to Bear Country where Brother Bear, Sister Bear, Papa Bear, and Mama Bear sing and dance in this colorful new musical filled with fun for the whole family. Adapted from the classic children's book series by Stan and Jan Berenstain, The Berenstain Bears LIVE! brings everyone's favorite bear family to life in a thrilling theatrical experience. The Berenstain Bears LIVE! will give boys and girls of all ages the chance to fall in love with these characters, just as their parents did when they were growing up. Ages 3 and up.

Doktor Kaboom! Science of Santa
Saturday, December 12, 2015 at 1:30PM; $25

Creatively blending theater arts with the wonders of scientific exploration, Doktor Kaboom! keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter. Join Kaboom! for a sidesplitting journey of increasingly spectacular (and often successful) science experiments designed to involve, excite and entertain. If science and magic are the same thing, then Santa must be the greatest scientist in the world! Doktor Kaboom tries to figure out how Santa does all those wonderful things he does, in this hilarious holiday event! Ages 5 and up.

Henry & Mudge
A Theatreworks USA Production
Saturday, February 6, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

Moving from the city to a new house in the country can be tough. Luckily, Henry's got Mudge, a fun 182-pound canine buddy! He teaches his new friend to sit, heel, and shake his hand, but rolling over is one trick Henry just can't seem to teach Mudge. When Henry's cousin Annie comes for a visit, Mudge is so charmed by her that he finally rolls over at her command! Very upset, Henry runs away into the cold, dark woods to find adventures on his own. Find out what happens next in this TheatreworksUSA musical based on the best-selling series of books by Cynthia Rylant. Ages 3 and up.

Alice in Wonderland
A Pushcart Players Production
Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

Filled with Lewis Carroll's pure nonsense and madcap characters, this intriguing tale about a curious and proactive young girl has enchanted readers for many generations. Pushcart's whimsical music, design and direction offer a precious theater experience that young viewers will long remember. Alice goes on an enchanted journey of self-discovery with challenges, choices and happy conclusions. A meaningful story for anyone who has ever been on the daring adventure of growing up! Ages 4 and up.

Dr. Seuss' The Cat in The Hat
A Childsplay Production
Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

From the moment his tall, red-and-white-striped hat appears at their door, Sally and her brother know that the Cat in the Hat is the most mischievous cat they will ever meet. Suddenly the rainy afternoon is transformed by the Cat and his antics. Will their house ever be the same? Can the kids clean up before mom comes home? With some tricks (and a fish) and Thing Two and Thing One, with the Cat in The Hat, the fun's never done! Ages 3 and up.

Goodnight Moon & the Runaway Bunny
A Mermaid Theater of Nova Scotia Production
Saturday, May 7, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

Goodnight Moon is a celebration of familiar nighttime rituals, while The Runaway Bunny's pretend tale of leaving home evokes reassuring responses from his loving mum. Both tales feature endearing rabbit characters, and the soothing rhythms of bunny banter and dream-like imagery never fail to infuse young readers with a reassuring sense of security. Mermaid's staged adaptation will bring a new sense of appreciation to stories that have delighted several generations. Ages 3 and up.

Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School
A TheatreworksUSA Production
Sunday, May 22, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

Now that JUNIE B. JONES has been going to school for over one-and-a-half years, who better to write the book on EVERYTHING you need to know? From bus rules to Band-Aids, carpools to cookies, Junie B. and friends deliver the definitive word on surviving and thriving in style. With a jillion tips, tricks and trip-ups, Junie B. shares her hard-won expertise and shows us all how school is sometimes scary, sometimes super-fun, and ALWAYS something to sing about! An all-new musical adventure based on Barbara Park's popular book. Ages 4 and Up.

Charlotte's Web
A Theatreworks USA Production
Sunday, June 5, 2016 at 1:30PM; $25

Theatreworks' production of Charlotte's Web is based on E.B. White's loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte. Wilbur has a problem: how to avoid winding up as pork chops! Charlotte, a fine writer and true friend, hits on a plan to fool Farmer Zuckerman -- she will create a "miracle." Spinning the words "Some Pig" in her web, Charlotte weaves a solution which not only makes Wilbur a prize pig, but ensures his place on the farm forever. This treasured tale, featuring mad-cap and endearing farm animals, explores bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship. Ages 5 and up.

BMCC Tribeca PAC is Downtown Manhattan's premier presenter of the arts, reaching audiences from the college community, downtown residential and business communities, local schools, families, and audiences of all ages. BMCC Tribeca PAC strives to present a broad global perspective through the presentation of high-quality artistic work in music, theatre, dance, film and visual arts. BMCC Tribeca PAC is located on the Borough of Manhattan Community College campus, 199 Chambers Street (between Greenwich Avenue & West Street) and is convenient to the 2/3, A/C/E and R/W subway lines and the New Jersey Path Train. For more information please visit our website, www.tribecapac.org