Tempe Center for the Arts Brings Mash Up of Theatre and Music for Disrupt FEST

The TCA is proud to announce its first festival, Disrupt FEST, on March 18, 2017. Disrupt FEST is a live mash up of provocative theatre and music, comprised of unique artists who challenge pre-conceived concepts of the traditional performing arts. The result is a fascinating night as the senses collide - an experience which begins at 6 pm in the Tempe Center for the Arts Theater, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway in Tempe.

Disrupt FEST participants will first experience Neil LaBute's provocative play, SOME VELVET MORNING, directed by TCA Artistic Director Ralph Remington and featuring guest artists TANDEM DUO, (violinist Sarah Off and percussionist Marilyn K. Clark Silva); starring Brian Runbeck as "Fred" and Christina Denkinger-Hutchinson as "Velvet," SOME VELVET MORNING is an electrifying story of obsession, desire and the nuances of gender relationships. With themes ripped from today's headlines, the work has both sharp and subtle contrasts, which are underscored by TANDEM DUO's mesmerizing music. Curtain time is 6 pm in the Theater.

Following the performance, Disrupt FEST will present music concerts with TOTSY and ENSEMBLE MIK NAWOOJ, two bands who are known for twisting genres and smashing stereotypes to create all-new sounds and experiences.

Taking the stage at 8 pm is the ever-evolving, fun and completely quirky band TOTSY. Harkening back to the days of burlesque theatre, speak-easies and light cabaret music, TOTSY's brand of pop music takes a twist on occasion, as band members emulate the sounds of instruments and percussion using only their voices. TOTSY is led by the unique vocal stylings of Beth Curry, (Broadway star of Legally Blonde and Young Frankenstein,) and the guitar and production work of composer/songwriter, Brett Boyett.

Finally at 9:30 pm, ENSEMBLE MIK NAWOOJ takes the stage, a "Hip-Hop Orchestra," led by composer/pianist, Joe Wan Kim. ENSEMBLE MIK NAWOOJ samples classical compositions performed by leading classical musicians while vocal artists counter with spoken word and rap. The result is a fascinating blend of concepts and sound, merging into one unforgettable experience.

Participants of Disrupt FEST can enjoy craft cocktails and local food trucks throughout the event. Tickets for Disrupt FEST are $40 adults/$20 students and are available at tca.ticketforce.com or by calling (480) 350-2TCA (2822).

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