Whidbey Island Center for the Arts Announces New Dates for Events 5/7-15

Whidbey Island Center for the Arts has just released three event dates for May. Starting with the family series, "Jugglemania" on May 7, the Whidbey Island Center will also feature two musical performances: "AN EVENING WITH TROELS OXENVAD and FRIENDS" on May 8, and "THE RURAL CHARACTERS: Your Cheeks are Gonna Hurt" on May 14-15.

"JUGGLEMANIA"

For over 15 years, JuggleMania has been a favorite of theater and festival stages across North America and as far away as Japan and Denmark. Creator Rhys Thomas' credits include serving as a Smithsonian Artist-in-Residence, appearing in an NBC Disney movie, setting his head on fire on Real TV, representing the US at the World Cup Street Performers' Invitational in Japan ('99 and '03), command performances for the International Jugglers Association and European Juggler Association 2003 conventions, and appearances in over 15 US states. May 07, 2010, Fri @ 7.30pm. Tickets: adults $15, senior/military $12, youth $12 (25 and under). Call 360/221.8268 or 800/638.7631 for tickets or more information.

"AN EVENING WITH TROELS OXENVAD and FRIENDS"

Troels Oxenvad has a passion for combining existing styles into new ones, often making his music defy classification.On stage he is equally comfortable playing rhythm and lead, drawing from decades of experience performing on guitar, bass and keyboards and composing and arranging for bands and TV in a variety of styles. As Troels is constantly composing new music, part or all of the material played during the evening will be composed specifically for it. Troels' band arrangements usually leave plenty of room for improvisations, giving all performers a chance to "speak their mind" and fully contribute to the atmosphere of the evening. Troels will be joined by Robert Marsanyi (Keyboards), James Hinkley (Cello), Juan Van Dunk (Bass), and Elizabeth Lovelace (Violin). May 08, Sat @ 7.30pm. Tickets-all seats $10. Call 360/221.8268 or 800/638.7631 for tickets or more information.

"THE RURAL CHARACTERS: Your Cheeks are Gonna Hurt"

The Rural Characters are back to host the annual Locals for Locals Benefit Concert (proceeds fund the WICA Local Artist Series). The Characters portray island life through songs -- some original, some borrowed, some simply stolen -- and demonstrate how four humble Clintonites can take the stage and mangle both old and new music to fit their unique standards. The old saying, "It's hard to get more rural than Clinton " is as true as ever.

The Rural Characters -- Gordy Adams, Tom Fisher, Randy Hudson and Tom Walker -- have been singing together for 12 years. They were younger when they started, they refuse to retire, and they are generally invited to play only at benefits -- all of which results in a show featuring underpaid old guys. This year, the guys will be joined by Siri Bardarson, Greg Deer, Deana Duncan, Barbara Dunn, Russell Link, Linda Morris, Jim Scullin, Seth Sobottka, and Claudia Walker. May 14 - 15, Fri @ 7.30pm and Sat @ 7.30pm. Tickets-all seats $20. Call 360/221.8268 or 800/638.7631 for tickets or more information.

ABOUT WICA

WICA, a community performing arts center, presents diverse programs of entertainment, education, and cultural enrichment, serving South Whidbey Island and outlying areas. WICA offers patrons a consistent, affordable, quality experience and a wide range of cultural arts programs, including performances, community events, and a youth summer program. Our core programming includes the Theatre Series, Family Series, Local Artist Series, DjangoFest Northwest, Summer Youth Theatre Camps, and special events. www.wicaonline.com