Summer 2011 Now Magazine

NOW The Music Hall’s Quarterly Magazine

Summer 2011

your guide to the

2011-2012

Season

Tickets on sale to members Sat., 6/4.

To public Sat., 6/25.

k.d. lang & The Siss

Boom Bang

Tuesday, July 12 7:30pm

Food & Drink at the Loft & Historic Theater page 4

Things We Love

about summer in Portsmouth page 5

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Our new Music Hall quarterly magazine celebrates life on the Seacoast. It's full of insider tips on how to get the most out of your Music Hall experience, whether in the charming Historic Theater or the intimate new Loft, which make up our Portsmouth campus.

The Music Hall is more than just an arts organization and a regional destination. It’s a lifestyle choice that says you love life, embrace the beautiful, get a kick out of exploring and learning, and are dedicated to our community. Our members and corporate partners have some special things in common: They love to laugh, have a sense of style, and respond to authenticity whether they’re grooving with friends, entertaining clients, or weaving together memories with family. Of course the whole Portsmouth scene – the setting, restaurants, great shops, and other cultural attractions all make this the place to be.

This first issue is an overview of this summer and next year’s season! I hope you enjoy it over a glass of wine after a hectic day, or with a friend or family member to plan your special occasions throughout the year.

Here’s to an amazing, positive, beautiful, funny, and yummy 2011-2012 season.

Live large and live local!

PATRICIA LYNCH

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER P.S. Don’t forget to renew your membership. Tickets go on sale to members June 4th – walk-up sales start at 10am, phone and online sales at noon! Special thanks to everyone who has or will contribute to our Treasure the Future Campaign – which helps to create the community you want to live in.

“ the whole

Portsmouth scene... makes this the place to be”

Portsmouth photo: Philip Case Cohen/TheDailyPortsmouth.com. Patricia Lynch photo: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

Welcome to

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2011-2012 SEASON

Summer 2011

4 Staying Cool in Portsmouth

Food & Beverage manager Scot Johnson on gourmet food and signature drinks at The Music Hall

5 Show Listings

Things We Love Our top three tips on how to enjoy

summer, Portsmouth-style

Jim Brickman | June 3 | 8pm

Get The Led Out | June 4 | 8pm Ann Patchett | June 10 | 7:30pm

6 Still Time to

Treasure the Future

Help our Historic Theater maintain its

place in history

Autumn 2011

10 Mad About The Circus

Patricia Lynch talks about why she loves the circus – and why she’s psyched about the exciting new generation of artists coming to The Music Hall this season.

11 Show Listings

Telluride By the Sea | September 23-25 Stephen Greenblatt | September 27 | 7pm Keb' Mo' | September 28 | 7:30pm

Madeleine Peyroux | October 4 | 7:30pm

12 Show Listings

Chris Bohjalian | October 6 | 7pm Kings of Salsa | October 12 | 7:30pm

Martha Clarke’s Angel Reapers

October 22 | 8pm

Women Fully Clothed | October 28 | 8pm

SummerFilm: It's About Time!

Hot Summer, Cool Films

Features

Contents

Food & Drink at the Loft & Historic Theater page 4

3

Things We Love

about summer in Portsmouth page 5

Also On Screen

A roundup of our cinema programs

7

Ben Mezrich One of our upcoming authors talks about

life in the fast lane

Show Listings

Juston McKinney with Bob Lord &

The Gaudy Baubles | June 11

7:30pm & 9:30pm HD: The Importance of Being Earnest

June 18 | 7pm

8

Show Listings National Theater of London HD Broadcast:

Cherry Orchard | June 30 | 7pm

Ben Mezrich | July 21 | 7:30pm David McCullough | June 23 | 7:30pm .

9 Insider's Tips Show Listings

Author Ben Mezrich talks with Margaret Talcott, page 7

How to score the best seats

Miss Richfield 1981 | July 24 | August 21

Both shows 7pm Buddy Guy | August 23 | 7:30pm Richard Thompson | August 29 | 7:30pm

KINGS OF SALSA

13 Show Listings

Chuck Palahniuk | November 3 | 7:30pm Lily Tomlin | November 9 | 7:30pm Nat'l Acrobats of the People’s Republic of

China | November 10 | 7:30pm

Handsome Little Devils Squirm Burpee

Circus | November 25 | 8pm

On the Cover: k.d. lang SERIES SPONSORS:

SPONSORS: Ellis Insurance Agency; Pax World Investments; Veris Wealth Partners TheMusicHall.org

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CONTRIBUTORS Regina Baraban was the founding editor of Hospitality Design and contributing editor of Metropolis, both in NYC, and enjoys traveling the world for various magazines.

She is thrilled to now be on assignment closer to home, working with great people in support of a great place – long live The Music Hall!

Andree Van Oss has wanted to be a graphic designer since discovering MS Paintbrush for Windows on the family PC at age eight. She came to The Music Hall nearly seven years ago, after college in NY and a stint at a DC ad agency. See her design/fashion/art blog and series of digital collages at mediadarlingcreative.com.

Margaret Talcott does many fun things at and for The Music Hall, but top of her list are the two Writers series she produces with Patricia Lynch. A seven+ year staffer – before, in NYC, she was a book editor, a researcher for NBC news, and a speechwriter at Merrill Lynch – she’s “hung” with all sorts of powerful people, but no one more interesting than Stephen King, Madeleine Albright, and Andre Dubus III.

Kathleen Soldati Happy to work in her dream job, singing out in local clubs, hanging out with Hizzoner, and hearing from her four far-flung children, Kathleen just noticed that she will start getting the senior discount on July 3.

Marianne Pernold Young is an Aries born in Austria. The zenith of her days as a DC political photographer was becoming Jimmy Carter's campaign photographer, but her real claim to fame is making Hillary Clinton "tear up" at Cafe Espresso during the 2008 primary. Current project: www.portsmouthlookingup.com

David J. Murray, an avid photographer since his teens, turned pro and started Clear Eye Photo in 2008, after retiring from a 30-year career as a Silicon Valley executive. He specializes in nature, travel, portrait, architectural, and performance photography. See his work gracing the walls of The Music Hall Loft and at ClearEyePhoto.com.

SharpeWorks Strategic Design creative team Marsha Hatch and David Goolkasian blend past histories in music, fine art, and marketing. Goolkasian, former lead singer for The Elevator Drops, is also known as The Texas Governor. Marsha’s careers as art director and marketer for Fortune 500 companies includes five years as marketing executive for Bausch & Lomb. SharpeWorks takes pride in teaming with clients to create unique brand images for bottom-line impact.

NOW magazine Publisher Patricia Lynch, Executive Director Editorial Director Kathleen Soldati, Dir. of Marketing Editor Regina Baraban

NOW is a quarterly publication of The Music Hall, a 501c3 nonprofit managed by a professional staff with the assistance of a volunteer board. Two theaters located on a downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire campus feature curated entertainment from around the world - the 900-seat landmark Historic Theater, and the 125-seat intimate Music Hall Loft. The Music Hall operates independently with the support of 3,000 members, 300 business supporters, and 40 community partners. Welcoming more than 100,000 patrons (including 20,000 children) each year from New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts and beyond, The Music Hall is the region’s center for the performing arts, literature and education…easy to get to, impossible to forget.

Thanks to our American Treasure Sponsor:

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(603) 436-2400

Thanks to our Season Sponsor:

Thanks to:

Contributing Editor Margaret Talcott, Dir. of Strategic Communications and Associate Producer Creative Director Andree Van Oss, Graphic Design & Print Publications Manager Design Consultants SharpeWorks Strategic Design Design Intern Kaitlyn Huwe

Features

Contents 2011-2012 SEASON

Spring 2012

Winter 2011/12

Mad about the circus!

What we love about the big top, page 10

14 Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth 18 Ballet: Never Too Late Now in its seventh year! Celebrate the

winter, the warmth, the light, and the

memories of holidays past.

How New Castle resident Philip Marcus

came to appreciate ballet as an adult— and why he recommends bringing kids to see a spring ballet at The Music Hall.

19 Things We Love Show Listings

Ring in spring in Portsmouth!

15 Show Listings

Leahy Family Christmas

December 3 | 8pm | December 4 | 2pm A Merry Funny New England Christmas

December 8 | 7:30pm & December 9 | 8pm

Christmas Celtic Sojourn

December 10 | 3pm & 8pm

Messiah Sing! | December 20 | 7:30pm

16 The Met @ The Music Hall

17 Show Listings

Cirque Mechanics Boomtown

February 11 | 4pm & 8pm Soweto Gospel Choir | February 13 | 7pm

20 Kitchens in Vogue

Philip Marcus

A behind-the-scenes look at the

Seacoast's unique residential kitchens.

Plus, hot new trends for spring.

Explore + Learn

From master classes to discussion groups, we educate “students” of all ages, from elementary schoolers to lifelong learners.

21 Kids RULE!

Kids RUL

NEVER TOO LATE "I am in awe of the dancers" – Philip Marcus page 18

More than 25

events each year for children!

22 Seen @ The Music Hall

Spring is Corporate Sponsor season.

See who we spotted at our 2011-2012 Sneak Peek.

2011-2012 membership levels and

benefits, and Box Office information.

24 At A Glance

seen LL

MR. TER BUS

23 Ticket Information

2011-2012 season index of shows

SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR

Ballet:

E!

You don’t have to travel to New York City for great opera: See a live high definition broadcast of The Metropolitan Opera at The Music Hall’s elegant Historic Theater—with champagne and gourmet treats.

Altan | March 9 | 8pm

Moscow Festival Ballet: Sleeping Beauty

April 1 | 4pm

Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for

Naptime Players | May 20 | 3pm

@

USIC M THE

HA

Look for

shots of people on the scene throughout the magazine and on page 22 - were YOU there?

TheMusicHall.org

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SUMMER 2011

Staying Cool Beggar's Box & Blue Shelby

Go early to any performance at the Historic Theater, and you’ll catch the buzz of a busy bar in the Beaux Arts Founders Lobby, where “the talented staff is always willing to accommodate a guest’s request for a special drink,” says Food & Beverage Manager Scot Johnson.

Seasonal drinks (also served at the Loft) include such offerings as hot mulled cider in the winter, he adds.

Drinks and classic movie snacks – from fresh popcorn to Junior Mints – are also available at a concession stand, one floor up in the Historic Theater.

Then there’s the Original Opera Box Lunch, the crème de la crème of gourmet bites at the Historic Theater. While watching an HD broadcast of a Metropolitan Opera performance – the Met @The Music Hall – patrons can sip champagne and enjoy a freshly prepared Me & Ollie's sandwich such as a turkey club, handmade cookies, and freshly baked brownies. – RB 4

NOW

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NOW: What are some examples of the local vendors and fresh ingredients you’re using?

SJ: We get a lot of food from Me & Ollie's – freshly baked baguettes, local goat cheese, black forest ham. Our to-die-for Mexican hot cocoa is made from Taza Chocolate and we get healthy Spindrift sodas from Golden Harvest.

NOW: Does this delicious fresh food cost more?

SJ: Not at all. Food boxes at the Loft range from $4 to $10. We call it "Portsmouth affordable."

NOW: Which food box is your personal favorite?

SJ: I love the Artist's Chocolate Box, which includes a jumbo black velvet cupcake and French truffles – especially when paired with a nice glass of Coppola Cabernet.

NOW: Your signature drinks are already becoming famous.

SJ: The Blue Shelby is a blue-colored pineapple and coconut blend with Hpynotic Liquor. Another is a fresh nectar Bellini with seasonal fruit. Guests also love our non-alcoholic sparkling sodas, which are refreshing and delicious.

NOW: Can people come early to a performance if they want to eat and drink at the cool blue bar or street-side cocktail tables?

SJ: Absolutely. We open to patrons an hour before show time. For those who like to get settled at their seats early with food boxes and drinks, the theater doors open half an hour before show time.

– REGINA BARABAN

seen @ THE MUSIC HALL LOFT

All photos this page by David Murray/Clear Eye Photo, except Scott Johnson (above) and fruit (bottom right) by Pernoldphoto.com.

Opera Box Lunches & more

NOW: What’s the food and drink concept at the Loft?

SJ: Unique, healthy, fresh, local, and always evolving! The food is served in small boxes so people can bring it into the theater – there are shelves in front of the seats to set the food and drink on.

ABOUT INTIMATELY YOURS: The best concert experience in New England! Superior acoustics.

Intimate concerts. Top acts. Dazzling lobby. Convenient parking.

Diverse Dining. Charming Accommodations. Historic Portsmouth.

SPONSORS of upcoming Intimately Yours shows: BID2WIN Software, Inc.; Veris Wealth Partners; Vigilant Capital Management; Wells Fargo Advisors

Jim Brickman

Friday, June 3 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $50, $42 Double Grammy nominee – the best-selling solo pianist of all time– has six gold and platinum albums and 30 charted radio hits. He is touring behind his latest CD, Home.

SERIES SPONSOR:

EVENING SPONSORS: Bottomline Technologies; Clear Eye Photo; The Provident Bank; Secure Planning, Inc.

“A phenomenon” – Boston Herald

GET THE LED OUT

Saturday, June 4 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $32, $25 At nationwide sold-out shows, this band recreates the mythic career of the British supergroup, Led Zeppelin. Six accomplished musicians drive blues-soaked, groove-driven rock anthems.

SERIES SPONSOR:

EVENING SPONSORS: Clear Eye Photo; The Portsmouth Brewery

ABOUT WRITERS ON A NEW ENGLAND STAGE: Each Writers evening is held in the Historic Theater and features an author reading/presentation, an interview with a NHPR host, and live music performed by the house band, Dreadnaught.

ANN PATCHETT

Friday, June 10 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $13 Book: $26.99; $24.30 in advance with voucher The New York Times bestselling author of Bel Canto and Run takes the stage to discuss her provocative new novel, State of Wonder, a tale of morality and miracles, science and sacrifice set in the Amazonian jungle.

SERIES PARTNERS:

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“Expect miracles when you read Ann Patchett’s fiction.”

– NY TIMES BOOK REVIEW

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Date-night movie and popcorn with our SummerFilm GoldenTicket

3

Buying autographed copies of summer reading at Writers on a New England Stage and Writers in the Loft

TheMusicHall.org TheMusicHall.org

Things We Love

Photo: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

SERIES SPONSORS: Best Western Wynwood Hotel & Suites; Calypso Communications; New England Audio Tech; Piscataqua Landscaping Company, Inc.; RMC Research Corporation; Haunted Milk Design

Being first in line at the 2011-2012 Season tickets on sale for members at 10am June 4

“Every last sonic detail” – Philadelphia Inquirer

NOW 1 NOW 5

SUMMER 2011

The Music Hall’s Treasure the Future Campaign entered its $1 million community phase with an appeal to its 3,000 member households. The call? Now is the time to propel Portsmouth’s nonprofit cultural icon forward into the 21st century.

The campaign met a huge goal with the April 2011 opening of The Loft: Center for Performing Arts, Literature and Education.

Located in a recycled downtown space around the corner from the Historic Theater, the 125-seat Loft theater allows for creative new programming and educational initiatives. The Loft was funded with this multi-million dollar campaign launched in 2007. But there is still much work to be done in the Historic Theater to maintain its place in history with restorations to the stage and lobby while completing essential updates of its antique backstage systems.

Don’t miss your chance to take the arts on the Seacoast to the next level. Gifts of any size are appreciated, and every donor will be recognized.

Donate online today at TheMusicHall.org 6

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IT'S ABOUT TIME

Still Time to Treasure the Future!

SummerFilm 2011 June 1 – September 4, 2011 • SummerFilms showing in both the Loft and the Historic Theater look for our SummerFilm brochure for details!

Celebrate the hot months of summer by watching dozens of cool films in the comfort of the air-conditioned Historic Theater or Loft. SummerFilm celebrates the very best, from independent and foreign cinema to the latest blockbusters from Hollywood. Intrigued by temporal anomalies? This season's Wednesday theme series will feature both classic and contemporary movies that “in some way play with the notion of time,” says Chris Curtis, The Music Hall’s Programming Coordinator.

Cinephiles shouldn’t miss out on The Golden Ticket: The double Golden provides two admissions to every movie, plus two fountain drinks and one large popcorn. The single Golden provides one admission, one fountain drink, and one medium popcorn. Tickets go on sale mid-May, at The Music Hall Box Office (28 Chestnut Street), by phone at (603) 436-2400, or online at themusichall.org. For more information, call our 24-hour Film Line at (603) 436-9900.

SPONSORS: HarbourLight Strategic Marketing; PortsmouthNH.com; WSCA 106.1 FM Portsmouth Community Radio; The Wire

ALSO ON SCREEN

UPDATES: THEMUSICHALL.ORG

Extraordinary Cinema at The Music Hall: great films, enormous screen, unrivaled ambiance, knowledgeable curator, and post-film discussions. Coming soon: Films at the Loft. Music Hall cinema programs include: Kids RULE! MOVIES Once each month!

SPONSORS: Clear Channel SCREEN CLASSICS Monthly classics from any and all eras, from golden oldies to more recent insta-classics – with cult films and kid’s movies in the mix as well.

WILDCARD MOVIES Global issues. Local resources. Meet the artists.

Meet the experts. Discuss. Participate. Compelling documentaries once a month, on topics ranging from health to finance, sports to politics, and much more. Followed by a discussion and Q&A. SPONSORS: WSCA 106.1 FM Portsmouth Community Radio TELLURIDE BY THE SEA Please see page 11.

SHOW & TELL Professional film enthusiast Paul Goodwin puts the “talk” in talkies, encouraging audiences to speak their minds and hear all about the movies, their backgrounds, and even the latest gossip about the stars. Held after the end credits roll.

MET@THE MUSIC HALL Please see page 16.

NATIONAL THEATRE OF LONDON Please see page 8.

Tickets can be purchased at The Music Hall box office (28 Chestnut St., Portsmouth), on the phone at (603) 436-2400, or online at TheMusicHall.org

We caught up with Ben Mezrich, author of The Accidental Billionaires (the basis for the movie The Social Network) in Las Vegas, where he was a guest at “the ultimate bachelor party” for one of his friends – and one of the featured characters in his 2003 book Bringing Down the House: The Inside Story of Six MIT Students Who Took Vegas for Millions (made into the movie 21). He’s soon to be on the road for his new book Sex on the Moon: The Amazing Story of the Most Audacious Heist in History - and coming to The Music Hall for Writers on a New England Stage on Thursday, July 21. Here’s his report from the fast lane…

A word with

Ben Mezrich This Evening Not Yet Rated: Juston McKinney with Bob Lord & The Gaudy Baubles

Q

Ben, how “in the flow” are you with the people you write about?

A

Usually the stories I write pick me. I get random emails and phone calls all the time.

I have a listed phone number with a voicemail attached to it, and I have feelers out all over the place.

Q

How did you arrive at writing The Accidental Billionaires?

A

A Harvard connection brought me this story.

One day I got a phone call from a guy who said “My roommate at Harvard founded Facebook.”

Q Tell us about your new book, Sex on the Moon.

A It’s the true story of a brilliant college kid in the co-op program at

NASA who, to impress a 19-year-old-girl, steals a safe full of moonrocks, one from every moon landing since 1969. It’s amazing, it’s unbelievable.

He wants to give his girlfriend the moon.

Q Why do you think your work is so popular?

A In many ways I am creating my own genre – about high stakes and

kids who are pulling things off. The idea that two college kids in a dorm room could become millionaires is very appealing. This is the new American dream, to become a millionaire with an overnight caper that makes you brilliantly famous. – MARGARET TALCOTT Find the full interview at TheMusicHall.org/blog ABOUT CURRENTS @ THE LOFT: A curated series of music, spoken word, dance, comedy, and integrated arts aims to deepen audience experiences with top-notch regional artists.

Saturday, June 11 • 7:30pm; 9:30pm The Music Hall Loft • Tickets: $25

What would happen if a comedian joins a band? Experience Comedy Central star Juston McKinney with that effervescent band on the lam – Bob Lord and the Gaudy Baubles. An evening of standup comedy, rock and roll and something delicious and wicked in between.

SERIES SPONSOR: WSCA 106.1 FM Portsmouth Community Radio

Captured live in HD

“Destined for stardom” – NY TIMES “Brian Bedford is brilliant” – NY TIMES

The Importance of Being Earnest

Saturday, June 18 • 7pm The Music Hall Loft • Tickets: $24 (age 18 and under $15) Oscar Wilde’s glorious comedic masterpiece about mistaken identity, class, courtship, and good old-fashioned name dropping. Tony Award-winner Brian Bedford directs and stars as the formidable Lady Bracknell.

TheMusicHall.org

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SUMMER 2011 David McCullough

Thursday, June 23 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $13 Book: $37.50; $33.75 in advance with voucher The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Truman and John Adams takes the stage to discuss his new work, The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris, a chronicle spanning generations. Live music by Dreadnaught; rebroadcast on NH Public Radio.

EVENING SPONSOR: Bank of America; C&J SERIES PARTNERS: SERIES SPONSORS: Best Western Wynwood Hotel & Suites; Calypso Communications; New England Audio Tech; Piscataqua Landscaping Company, Inc.; RMC Research Corporation; Haunted Milk Design

NATIONAL THEATER OF LONDON HD BROADCAST:

CHERRY ORCHARD

Thursday, June 30 • 7pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $27.50; 18 & under $15

“One of our most gifted living writers” – WASHINGTON POST ABOUT NATIONAL THEATER OF LONDON HD BROADCASTS: Six top plays in HD from The National Theatre of London, one of the world’s leading theater producers of Shakespeare, international classic drama, and contemporary playwrights.

Chekhov’s play directed by NT Associate Director Howard Davies, whose recent productions of Russian plays (including Philistines, Burnt by the Sun and The White Guard) have earned huge critical acclaim. Zoë Wanamaker will play Madame Ranevskaya.

SERIES SPONSOR: Seatrade International Co., Inc.

Smash hits from the London stage to The Music Hall screen!

BEN MEZRICH

Thursday, July 21 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $13 Book: $26.95; $24.30 in advance with voucher The author of the New York Times bestseller The Accidental Billionaires (basis of the movie, The Social Network) presents his latest work, Sex on the Moon: The Amazing Story Behind the Most Audacious Heist in History, a larger-than-life true story about NASA, its moon rocks, and one man madly in love. Live music by Dreadnaught; rebroadcast on NH Public Radio.

SERIES PARTNERS: SERIES SPONSORS: Calypso Communications; New England Audio Tech; Piscataqua Landscaping Company, Inc.; RMC Research Corporation; Haunted Milk Design

EDITOR's PICK

“Mezrich’s prose has a cinematic flavor.”

– The Boston Globe

"I love bringing my summer guests to Historical Tours at The Music Hall."

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Miss Richfield 1981: 30 Years on the Throne!

Sunday, July 24 • 7pm & Sunday, August 21 • 7pm EVENING SPONSORS TheSERIES Music Hall Loft • Tickets: $35 SPONSOR:

Clear Eye Photo; Aphrodite Photo

“Garrison Keillor meets Mary Tyler Moore," says the Chicago SunTimes. Having appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," this original one-man drag show features edgy one-on-one improv with the audience, a professionally trained singing voice, and an athletic approach to physical comedy. Hysterical!

“The mustsee show in Provincetown.”

– NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

BUDDY GUY

Tuesday, August 23 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $54; $48 Six time Grammy Award winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and a huge influence on Hendrix, Clapton, and Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy pioneered the Chicago Blues Sound. He is a living link to the city’s halcyon days of electric blues.

SERIES SPONSORS:

“A master of tension and release, his every wayward impulse was riveting.” – NY Times

EVENING SPONSORS: Clear Eye Photo; Troiano Wealth Advisory of Stifel Nicolaus; Hometown Oil; Sheds USA

An Evening with

Richard Thompson (solo acoustic)

Monday, August 29 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $42; $30

“The finest rock songwriter after Bob Dylan and the best electric guitarist since Jimi Hendrix.” – L.A. Times

British musical hero, folk revolutionary, one of the world’s greatest guitarists. This prolific songwriter, and founder of Fairport Convention, is a must-see performer. Don’t miss his Music Hall debut!

SERIES SPONSORS:

EVENING SPONSORS: Clear Eye Photo; Optima Bank & Trust

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to members Saturday, June 4 10am walk-up; noon phone & online On sale to public Saturday, June 25 at noon.

Those in the know keep their membership current. Why? It’s the best way to go to the head of the line when tickets go on sale and get first dibs on seats. At the Advocate Level and above, there are discounts on ticket purchases to Music Hall Presents events. Plus, members enjoy other discounts. To become a member today, call Lauren Lenox, Membership Manager, at 603-433-3100, ext. 3014; or go online at TheMusicHall.org.

Watch for enews or postcards in your mailbox announcing new shows added throughout the season at both the Historic Theater and the Loft. The Autumn issue of NOW will include dynamic new programming in our Loft signature series: Writers in the Loft, Currents @ the Loft and Live @ the Loft (an exciting NHPR-sponsored radio show featuring national and regional singer-songwriters broadcast live from the Loft eight times a year).

Four ways to buy tickets: Online at TheMusicHall.org; by phone at (603) 436-2400; in person at the Box Office (28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth). Or, use our Ticket Order Form: pick-up at the Box Office, call to have mailed to your home, or download from TheMusicHall.org.

TheMusicHall.org

INSIDER'S TIPS

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S T KE T IC

ON SALE

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AUTUMN 2011 MAD

ABOUT

THE

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S U C CIR Inside the Big Tent This Season Music Hall Executive Director Patricia Lynch has long been captivated by the way circuses “make the impossible, possible.” We asked her to elaborate on why she loves the circus, and to talk about the new generation of circus acts.

Don’t miss the hot new circus artists coming to town this season, advises Patricia Lynch. “National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China features jugglers and contortionists – think hundreds of dancing plates, flying cranes, beautiful costumes, and unbelievable levels of accuracy and skill. On Thanksgiving weekend we’ll have a new vaudevillian circus-style company from Denver called Handsome Little Devils 'Squirm Burpee Circus,' whose sense of style, comedy, and all-out fun in a steam punk-meetsVictoriana spectacular will be great fun for the whole family. And there’s Boom Town with Cirque Mechanics, who blew our minds the last time they were here. They have amazing tricks, great soulful clowns, and a wonderful sense of artistry.”

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NOW: Do you have a favorite circus character?

PL: I love white clowns but I’m also partial to some red ones. White clowns are the more delicate souls while red ones are just sassy bad.

NOW: Do you think there is a contemporary genre of circus, like modern dance is to ballet?

PL: Yes, Cirque du Soleil has added European glamour, new narratives and story ideas, rock music, and thrilling new tricks. Cirque is the master of these but there is a crop of new circus artists that make it a very rich time in the history of the circus.

NOW: Are circuses just for kids?

PL: Only for kids that don’t grow up completely in their hearts. So I think this means the circus – with all its romance and fun – is for everybody.

– Regina Baraban

SEEN CLOWNING AROUND!

Photos: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

Dancing Plates & Soulful Clowns

NOW: What is your best circus memory?

PL: I was nineteen years old in Carbondale, Illinois and walking back from an evening with friends in the early morning hours and I heard this ROAR! The circus was sneaking into town prior to setting up their tents and all the animals were prowling their cages and making their best animal noises—as if to say, we’ve arrived! It was very magical to be on a deserted small town street in the early spring with all the colored carts, wagons, and trucks like a private parade.

Telluride by the sea EVENING SPONSORS SERIES 23-25 SPONSOR: September • The Historic Theater Clear Eye Photo; Aphrodite Photo Tickets: $200 Patron Pass; $85 Weekend Pass; $12.50 Individual ticket The Music Hall and the Telluride Film Festival collaborate on an exclusive presentation of six new features, brought directly from their Colorado debuts. This unique Portsmouth event packs one late September weekend with the latest international cinema, private parties, delicious food, and inspired conversations with like-minded cinephiles.

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SPONSORS: HarbourLight Stratgeic Marketing; Jackson Lewis, LLP; Jane James; Now or Never Media; The Portsmouth Brewery; Radici; Seatrade International Co., Inc.; Smuttynose Brewing Company, Inc.; TMS Architects; The Wire; NHPTV

STEPHEN GREENBLATT

Tuesday, September 27 • 7pm • The Music Hall Loft Ticket package: $41, $38 members. Includes reserved seat,

book ($26.95), bar beverage; and author presentation, Q&A, and book signing meet-and-greet

The New York Times bestselling author of Will in the World and celebrated Harvard University professor will discuss his new nonfiction work, about the great cultural “swerve” known as the Renaissance – a tale of history and discovery.

“Complexly intelligent.”

– THE NEW YORKER

SERIES SPONSOR:

Keb' Mo'

Wednesday, September 28 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $54, $39 With three Grammys under his belt for Best Contemporary Blues albums, this latter day blues master draws on rock, folk, pop, and jazz to create his up-to-date earthy and urbane Delta sound. This singer/ songwriter has it all: a husky voice, slide guitar, and heartfelt lyrics.

SERIES SPONSORS:

“His pieces are daydreams on the blues” – NEW YORK TIMES

EVENING SPONSORS: Clear Eye Photo; Hometown Oil; Sheds USA

MADELEINE PEYROUX

Tuesday, October 4 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $44, $32

“An enigmatic personal syle that is all her own” – NY TIMES

Known for intimately arranged covers of early American blues and jazz standards, Madeleine Peyroux carries her jazz sensibilities as she moves into new "rootsier" territory as a songwriter. She returns to The Music Hall with her band touring behind their June release Standin’ on the Rooftop.

SERIES SPONSORS:

EVENING SPONSORS: Clear Eye Photo; The Provident Bank TheMusicHall.org

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AUTUMN 2011 CHRIS BOHJALIAN

Thursday, October 6 • 7pm • The Music Hall Loft Ticket package: $39, $36 members

Includes reserved seat, book ($25), bar beverage; and author presentation, Q&A, and book signing meet-and-greet The author of New York Times bestsellers Midwives and The Double Bind joins us with his latest novel, a riveting ghost story centered on a tragic airplane crash. The Night Strangers has all the hallmarks readers have come to expect from this award-winning novelist.

“Bohjalian goes ghostly...”

– LIBRARY JOURNAL

SERIES SPONSOR:

KINGS of SALSA

Wednesday, October 12 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $50, $35 Intoxicating. Exuberant. Nine “gods and goddesses of the dance floor” (Bangkok Post) backed by a nine-piece band sway to high voltage Havana classics, street salsa, and hip hop. Cool, contemporary Cuba pays homage to its musical legacy with a mind blowing modern twist.

“Sizzling eroticism and feverish euphoria” – Culture & Media

SPONSORS: Best Western Wynwood Hotel & Suites

MARTHA CLARKE'S ANGEL REAPERS

Saturday, October 22 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $65, $48

Shaker founder Ann Lee (1736-1784), a visionary mystic and powerful spiritual leader, is the inspiration for this breathtaking gold mine of dramatic content and mesmerizing theatrical dance. The piece slips in and out of reality and embraces Ann's visions and those of her followers.

Funded in part by the National Dance Project of the New England Found for the Arts. NDP is supported by lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, with additional funding from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Community Connections fund of the MetLife FOundation, and the Boeing Company Charitable Trust.

WoMEN FULLY CLOTHED

Friday, October 28 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $29, $22 Four Second City vets riff on career and family: Kathryn Greenwood of "Whose Line Is It Anyway;" Robin Duke of "Saturday Night Live;" Jayne Eastwood from My Big Fat Greek Wedding; and Teresa Pavlinek of "The Jane Show." The Toronto Star calls them "an all-estrogen comedy dream team!”

SPONSORS: Carpe Diem Coffee Roasting Company; Harbour Women's Health; Whole Life Health Care; WSCA 106.1 Portsmouth Community Radio

“The balance between spiritual expression and sexual repression” – Classical Voice “...funniest women in Canada!” – Eugene Levy

CHUCK PALAHNIUK

Thursday, November 3 • 7:30pm EVENING SPONSORS TheSERIES HistoricSPONSOR: Theater • Ticket price: $13 Clear Eye Photo; Aphrodite Photo Book $24.95; $22.45 in advance with voucher The bestselling author of Survivor and Fight Club and Choke (both made into movies) takes the stage with a tale of adolescence...which we all know is a form of hell! Don't miss this brilliant bad boy of American fiction. Live music by Dreadnaught; rebroadcast on NH Public Radio.

SERIES PARTNERS: SERIES SPONSORS: Calypso Communications; New England Audio Tech; Piscataqua Landscaping Company, Inc.; RMC Research Corporation; Haunted Milk Design

“Outrageous...hilarious” – NEWSDAY

LILY TOMLIN

Wednesday, November 9 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $68, $64 One of America's foremost comediennes, Lily Tomlin burst on the scene with "Laugh-In" and continues to pick up awards: six Emmys, two Tonys, and one Grammy. Her Music Hall debut!

SPONSOR: Wells Fargo Advisors

NATIONAL ACROBATS OF THE PEOPLe'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA – Direct from beijing

“A show the whole family will enjoy!”

– STATE THEATER, NJ

Thursday, November 10 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $40, $30

Daring feats. Extraordinary flexibility. A dizzying, colorful theatrical spectacular of an ancient Chinese art from international award winners who set the standard for acrobatic art.

SPONSORS: Allergy Associates of New Hampshire; Piscataqua Savings Bank; RAM Printing; Robert's Maine Grill

Handsome Little Devils Present Squirm Burpee Circus – A Vaudevillian Melodrama

“Very clever” – JAY LENO

Saturday, November 25 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $32, $25

Exhilarating, high-skill circus acts. An eye-catching cast, with a beautiful, Cirque-like aesthetic, perform explosive acts and American melodrama like The Human Cannon, and Chainsaw Juggling!

SPONSORS: NHPR

EDITOR's PICK "Hitting the best parties with my Telluride Patron Pass, and never waiting in line for a movie."

TheMusicHall.org

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2011

Celebrate the Season with shows, strolls, and stayovers

Experience the Magic IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

SPONSORS:

Scenes from Vintage Christmas

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Cuddle up with a free trolley ride through red-bricked Market Square, enjoy a first class show at The Music Hall’s Historic Theater, step back in time at the Strawbery Banke Museum, stroll through snowflakes to the many eclectic shops and galleries, and sample the famous culinary specialties for which Portsmouth restaurants are known.

Come for the day, stay for the weekend! It’s Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth – now in its seventh year – celebrating the winter, the warmth, the light, and the memories of holidays past.

Vintage Christmas takes place the first three Saturdays and Sundays in December 2011, with a wide selection of Music Hall performances geared to the entire family. This is the time to slow down and appreciate the true spirit of the season, says Seacoast historian J. Dennis Robinson.

“Traditions,” he notes, “are like speed bumps. They slow things down, and create opportunities for memory and reflection. That seems especially true here in New England where the classic symbols of the holiday – warm hearth, new fallen snow, a crisp starry sky, the sound of bells and caroling, the scent of pine and wood smoke – are ubiquitous. Our local vintage holiday comes especially easy because we are surrounded by so many of the historic buildings that housed the generations come and gone.

We can walk down narrow lanes and, with little imagination required, conjure the same scenes in centuries past. And we do our ancestors a disservice if we imagine them finding the meaning of the holiday with ease. It has always been difficult to pause in the midst of so much activity.

But the pause is the gift...being thankful for simple things, even for a moment, is the purpose of the pause. That is the miraculous message that seems to be coming at us from every religion and from every era during the holidays.”

"One of North America’s 100 Best Events for 2011" - ABA

– Kathleen Soldati

Photos: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo, except horsedrawn sleigh image, by Ralph Morang/NewEnglandPhoto.net

WINTER

LEAHY FAMILY CHRISTMAS

Saturday, December 3 • 8pm & Sunday, December 4 • 2pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $38, $30

“Leahy makes Christmas a true family affair!”

– CALGARY HERALD

The eight siblings of this Canadian powerhouse band, known for their fiddle-driven Celtic/world music and step dancing, will fill you with their infectious Irish spirit as they perform their favorite Celtic medleys and traditional Christmas carols.

SPONSOR: Northeast Delta Dental; Willis Programs

A Merry Funny New England Christmas

Juston McKinney WITH BOB LORD and The Gaudy Baubles

“Destined for stardom” – NY TIMES

Thursday, December 8 • 7:30pm Friday, December 9 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $40, $30

Comedy Central star Juston McKinney is back in New England with four national headlining comedians and the effervescent Vegas band, the Gaudy Baubles, for a hilarious holiday extravaganza featuring that down-home Yankee sensibility colliding head on with a glittery showbiz Xmas!

SPONSOR: GreenPages

A Christmas Celtic Sojourn

Saturday, December 10 • 3pm & 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $42, $32

“Our new Christmas tradition!”

– DAMAMMA.cOM

Back by popular demand, the Christmas spectacular that has sold out shows throughout New England! Top flight Irish performers join Brian O’Donovan, host of NPR’s Celtic Sojourn, as he explores traditional and contemporary music from the Celtic countries and England.

SPONSORS: Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, P.A. Certified Public Accountants

MESSIAH SING!

Tuesday, December 20 • 7:30pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $15 Grab your score and join best-loved area choruses and conductors in a transcendent community sing in our glorious hall. It’s a “happening” - great fun and one of the best ways to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays.

“The audience members were the stars” – PORTSMOUTH HERALD

Sponsoring all of our holiday shows...

TheMusicHall.org

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THE MET @ THE MUSIC HALL

best

The of big city life Right here in

Portsmouth

ANNA BOLENA (Donizetti) Sunday, October 23 • 1pm (Rebroadcast) Anna Netrebko as the ill-fated queen driven insane by her unfaithful king. Marco Armiliato conducts.

DON GIOVANNI (Mozart) Saturday, October 29 • 1pm Mariusz Kwiecien brings his youthful and sensual interpretation of Mozart’s timeless anti-hero to the Met.

Afternoons at the Opera

You don’t have to travel to New York City to see great opera: There’s nothing more thrilling than experiencing one of the best opera companies in the world, The Metropolitan Opera, in our elegant Historic Theater or intimate Loft. Weekend afternoon performances are broadcast live from Lincoln Center in vivid high definition on our huge screen. The Original Opera Box Lunch and champagne are available at several points during the broadcast.

At intermission, on-screen experts discuss the opera, interview the stars, and give you a glimpse behind the curtain.

SIEGFRIED (Wagner) Saturday, November 5 • 12pm In part three of the Ring, Wagner’s cosmic vision focuses on his hero’s early conquests.

SATYAGRAHA (Glass) Saturday, November 19 • 1pm The Met’s visually extravagant production, back for an encore engagement with Richard Croft as Gandhi.

RODELINDA (Handel) Sunday, December 4 • The Music Hall Loft • 3pm Sensational in the 2004 Met premiere of this production, Renée Fleming reprises the title role.

Opera Circle

More fabulous events are in store for opera fans with The Music Hall’s Opera Circle, a new initiative that brings together like-minded music lovers with opera experts for social, fun, and informative evenings. Each season will be launched with an opening party and discussion that reveals the upcoming Met @ The Music Hall broadcasts.

There will also be individual opera discussions peppered throughout the season, all with local opera experts in attendance to facilitate and illuminate the discourse. Met @ The Music Hall subscribers and sponsors as well as major donors will be the first to hear about these events – space will be limited!

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FAUST (Gounod)

Sunday, December 11 • 1pm

Jonas Kaufmann in the title role; René Pape as the devil; Marina Poplavskaya as Marguerite.

THE ENCHANTED ISLAND (Handel, Rameau, Vivaldi & others) Saturday, January 21 • 1pm An original Baroque fantasy inspired by musical pastiches and masques of the 18th century.

GÖTTERDÄMMERUNG (Wagner) Sunday, February 12 • 12pm With its cataclysmic climax, the Met’s new Ring cycle, directed by Robert Lepage, is completed.

ERNANI (Verdi) Saturday, February 25 • 1pm Angela Meade takes center stage in Verdi’s thrilling early gem.

MANON (Massenet) Saturday, April 7 • 12pm Anna Netrebko’s dazzling portrayal of the tragic heroine travels from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

LA TRAVIATA (Verdi) Saturday, April 14 • 1pm Natalie Dessay puts on the red dress in this stunning production, her first Violetta at the Met.

SPONSORS: Beswick Engineering Company, Inc.; Cambridge Trust Company of New Hampshire; DTC Lawyers Donahue, Tucker, and Ciandella, PLLC; RiverWoods at Exeter; Tate and Foss Sotheby's International Realty; NHPTV

seen @ THE MUSIC HALL

CIRQUE MECHANICS Presents BOOMTOWN

Saturday, February 11 • 4pm & 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $40, $28

A jaw-dropping aerial adventure with breathtaking acrobatics and fantastic machinery. Set in a Gold-Rush era mining town, featuring world-class circus stars from Cirque du Soleil and the Pickle Family Circus. It’s big time entertainment at The Music Hall!

“Eye-catching, ear-catching and engrossingly entertaining” – NY TIMES

at a Glance

Contents/Calendar 2011-2012

SPONSOR: The Port Inn

Soweto Gospel Choir

Monday, February 13 • 7pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $42, $36 Direct from South Africa, this awe-inspiring vocal ensemble performs tribal, traditional and popular African and Western gospel in eight languages. Earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, a capella, and charismatic performances uplift the soul and express their country’s hopes for the future.

“Spirited and spectacular” – NY TIMES

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Ringing in the holidays while singing our hearts out with friends and family at Messiah Sing!

TheMusicHall.org TheMusicHall.org

Things We Love

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Visiting the historic Strawbery Banke Museum before a performance

Laughing our heads off at A Merry Funny New England Christmas with Juston McKinney

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SPRING 2012

IN

\

SPRING DELIGHT

Ring Spring

It's Never too Late to Fall in Love with Ballet: An Interview with Philip Marcus

Philip Marcus is a New Castle resident who fell in love with Portsmouth when he moved to the area six years ago. He didn’t start attending and appreciating the ballet until he was an adult living in San Francisco and Boston. In April 2011, he saw Swan Lake at The Music Hall and was blown away by the spectacle of formal dance in the Historic Theater.

Spring in Portsmouth Portsmouth “just explodes in the spring,” says Philip Marcus.

“People are chomping at the bit to be outdoors and do all sorts of things. With The Music Hall Historic Theater and the Loft in the center of town, you can walk everywhere before a performance – wander around Strawbery Banke, grab a meal, go shopping – it’s easy to spend the day in town. And I never have a problem finding parking.”

There are restaurants to suit every palate and budget, Marcus notes—all within walking distance. For adults who want a quiet meal, he likes Jumpin’ Jay's Fish Café, and Café Mediterraneo. For families with kids, he suggests Flatbread Company and Popovers on the Square.

“Personally, I only go to restaurants that support The Music Hall,” he says. “And there are lots of choices.”

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NOW: What is special about seeing ballet at the Historic Theater?

PM: The formality of the historic architecture enhances the ballet. Without the red velvet curtain, the proscenium arch, and the beautiful dome, it would feel very different. I was also struck by how the ballet troupe could perform on that relatively small stage and how much it will help to get the extra stage footage recommended in The Music Hall's Treasure the Future Campaign.

NOW: How important is it to expose children to the ballet?

PM: Any introduction to live theater is important. When I went to Swan Lake, it warmed my heart to see so many kids in the audience. It’s particularly meaningful today for kids to turn off their cell phones and learn the protocol that goes along with seeing a live performance. At Swan Lake, the children were amazingly quiet and well-behaved. I think this has something to do with the formality of the beautiful Music Hall surroundings. Many children were also dressed for the occasion.

Another wonderful thing is that Music Hall ballet tickets are affordable for families, and in the 2011-2012 season there will be special pricing for kids. The ballet is a great opportunity to expose children to another world. I believe that it is like planting a seed. Even if a child doesn’t immediately love ballet, you are lighting a pilot light that will ignite later on. – REGINA BARABAN

seen @ THE BALLET

Photos: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

Photo: Pernoldphoto.com

NOW: What do you love about ballet?

PM: Coming to the ballet as an adult gave me a keen appreciation of what goes into the performance, both behind and on the stage. The dancers move together with such precision, and they have to work incredibly hard to stay in shape. I am in awe of what they do. Had I been introduced as a child, I imagine it would have been even more magical.

ALTAN

Friday, March 9 • 8pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $34, $28 The most talked-about traditional group to emerge from Ireland, Altan plays the music of Donegal, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Propelled by the acclaimed vocals of Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh and backed by double fiddle, flute, guitar, accordion, and bouzouki, the band seamlessly blends dazzling instrumental prowess with gorgeously delicate vocals.

at a Glance

Contents/Calendar 2011-2012

SPONSORS: GreenPages; Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, P.A. Certified Public Accountants

Moscow Festival Ballet: Sleeping Beauty

Sunday, April 1 • 4pm • The Historic Theater Tickets: $50, $38 • New this year: 15 & under $15

“The hottest group in the Celtic realm!” – BOSTON GLOBE “Deserved ‘bravos’ within minutes of the opening steps” – LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL

This timeless classic brings sumptous sets, exquisite costumes and spectacular dancers from across Russia. Choreographed in strict association with Tchaikovsky's music, it tells the dramatic story of a young girl's coming of age and the triumph of good over evil.

SPONSORS: Best Western Wynwood Hotel & Suites; Holloway Automotive Group

JUSTIN ROBERTS

Kids RUL

E!

and the Not Ready for Naptime Players

Sunday, May 20 • 3pm The Historic Theater • Tickets: $19, $14

With numerous national awards and recognition and a devoted fan base, Justin Roberts and his band dish out intelligent and whimsically rocking music for kids and their parents. Justin Roberts is truly one of the “all-stars” of the indie family music scene.

SPONSORS: Clear Channel

People-watching while having a pre-show Bellini at the Loft

“The Buddy Holly of the kids’ world.” – Time Out NY Kids

2 3

Taking our favorite 10-year-old to the ballet

Touring Portsmouth’s dream kitchens at The Music Hall’s Annual Kitchen Tour TheMusicHall.org

Things We Love

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MR. ER BUST

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The Seacoast's Dream Kitchens Ingenious, breathtaking, inspirational—these are just some of the accolades heard from visitors to our Annual Kitchen Tour. A harbinger of spring, this self-guided tour attracts more than 1,200 people who come out for a behind-the-scenes look at some of the Seacoast’s most unique residential kitchens.

“Each year the tour is held in a different location, and we look for different kinds of kitchens and layouts to showcase,” says Meghan Durkee, Corporate and Special Events Manager at The Music Hall. "Some kitchens have the 'wow' factor; others offer clever ideas for people to use in their own homes."

It’s a great way for people to have a full, fun day for a low ticket price – it was $20 for members in 2011,” adds Durkee. She serves as a member of the Kitchen Tour committee with co-chairs Ann Kendall and Betsy Cole, both Seacoast residents.

The popular tour keeps people coming back year after year, often with friends or family. Tour-goers are given an easy-tofollow map, and a guidebook with detailed descriptions of the kitchens as well as information on all of the artisans, designers, and

21st Annual

kitchen tour

Saturday, May 5, 2012 10am – 3pm A benefit for The Music Hall architects responsible for layout and design.

Proceeds from the tour are used toward operating costs to support The Music Hall.

What hot new trends in kitchen design will you see for Spring 2012? Mum’s the

EXPLORE + LEARN Through unique programming paired with on-stage events, including in-depth master classes and discussion groups, The Music Hall educates “students” of all ages. These dynamic programs do more than help The Music Hall live out its mission “to be an active and vital arts center for the enrichment of the Seacoast community.” In addition,

word, but based on their experience of the past few years, the Kitchen Tour co-chairs and Cori McGrath, Olde Port Properties predict: • Open-concept kitchens as hubs for social gathering • Interesting contemporary designs with antique accents • Mini-offices in kitchen nooks • Clutter-free counters with small appliances hidden in pantries • White or antique white cabinetry • Hardwood or cork flooring • Splashes of color on walls, with neutral cabinets and countertops • Areas designed for kids to help cook or do their homework.

– Regina Baraban

EXPAND YOUR MIND.

they bring participants a depth of educational experience and inspiration sorely needed in this age of budget cutbacks. Funding from members, donors, and sponsors make it possible for everyone in our small community to experience the power of engaging in the arts, and the thrill of “thinking big” with panelists and writers in programs more

typically available in major urban centers.

Whether they are getting off the school bus or simply getting offline for a unique “live” experience, everyone benefits when they Explore + Learn at The Music Hall!

SPONSOR: FairPoint Communications

seen @ THE SEACOAST’S LARGEST PERFORMING ARTS CLASSROOM

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Photo: GregWestPhotography.com

In Vogue

Photos: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

Kitchens

GOURMET SPACE

SPRING 2012

KIDS RULE!

Kids RUL

E!

Mr. Buster the mascot says, “don’t miss the fun at The Music Hall!”

Each year, The Music Hall’s Kids RULE! series brings to the stage at the Historic Theater and the Loft top live shows, 12 movies (one each month), and 14 matinees in the School Days Series. It adds up to more than 25 events yearly for kids.

MR. ER BUST

Kids have tons of fun at the tons of events for kids at The Music Hall every year!

According to the Anne E. Casey Foundation, New Hampshire is "the best place to raise kids."

The Music Hall is the best place to bring them!

LEARNING LIVE! Look for the School Days Series brochure...

SPONSOR:

About School Days Series For 17 years, the Music Hall’s School Days Series has brought young learners from 80 local schools, homeschoolers, and families to the Historic Theater for high caliber, affordable matinees – attracting more than 20,000 school children annually from Fall to Spring.

The upcoming season features shows based on best-selling books like Goodnight Moon, science fun with the zany Doktor Kaboom, and aquatic fun in ImaginOcean featuring Tony Award nominee John Tartaglia. “School Days is the best-kept secret at The Music Hall,” says Deputy Director of Programming and Curator Therese LaGamma. “These are the top shows shown at international children’s festivals, and Seacoast students can see them for a very low ticket price.” Find detailed study guides for each School Days Series performance at TheMusicHall.org.

and see all the exciting shows booked for the 2011-2012 season!

SPONSORS: Bank of America Charitable Foundation; Demoulas Foundation; French Foundation; Irving Oil Service Stations & Travel Plazas; Kohl's; Morgan Stanley Foundation; Measured Progress, Inc.; New England Audio Tech LLC; Target; Unitil

TheMusicHall.org NOWNOW 21 1 TheMusicHall.org

SEEN @ THE MUSIC HALL

HE EEK OF T 12 SEASON P SNEAK 2011-20

Each spring, The Music Hall’s 300+ Corporate Partners and friends in the business community enjoy a “sneak peek” party debuting the season ahead. Joined this year by major donors, our special guests got the inside scoop from Music Hall curators and board members.

Gourmet treats were provided by sponsoring restaurants. In welcoming words, Corporate Sponsor George Antoniadis of the PlaneSense fractional aircraft program talked about the boldness, vision, and determination it takes to succeed in business. He likened The Music Hall’s work – its recent opening of the Loft and mission in the community – to his own successes and to the work of everyone in the room.

Glasses were raised in thanks at center stage!

Special guests got

EDITOR's PICK "I give Music Hall gift memberships for all kinds of occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays."

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Photos: David Murray/Clear Eye Photo

the inside scoop on upcoming shows...

PURCHASING TICKETS!

Box Office INFORMATION

ONLINE TheMusicHall.org

28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801 (603) 436-2400 HOURS: 12 noon to 6pm, Monday – Saturday, closed most holidays.

On performance days – open until 30 minutes after curtain time.

For Sunday matinee performances – open at noon.

For Sunday evening performances – open at 4pm.

For film walk-up sales – open 30 minutes before film.

BY PHONE (603) 436-2400 IN PERSON 28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801 ORDER FORM

Available for pick up at our Box Office or call (603) 436-2400 and our staff will mail you one free of charge. Also available for download at TheMusicHall.org. Forms may be dropped off at the Box Office or mailed to the address above.

Membership BENEFITS Friend $50 – $94

• Advanced purchases for Music Hall Presents performances • Home delivery of NOW @ The Music Hall • Receipt of E-news • Season Playbill recognition • Invitation to members-only events • Discounts on tickets to Music Hall benefit events • Discounts at local restaurants and merchants

Advocate $95 – $149 Friend level benefits plus…

• Two complimentary film passes (valid for the Historic Theater and the Loft) • 10% discount on Music Hall Presents performances at the Historic Theater and the Loft • 10% discount on Music Hall merchandise at the Loft

Contributor $150 – $249 Advocate level benefits plus…

• Two additional complimentary film passes – total of four • A voucher for four to a Historical Tour of The Music Hall Supporter $250 – $499 Contributor level benefits plus…

• Two complimentary tickets for a Kids RULE! or Writers on a New England Stage performance Patron $500 – $999 Supporter level benefits plus…

• A voucher for Music Hall Presents performances (up to $75 value) • Two passes to attend a Writers on a New England Stage VIP Reception • Invite to the annual Sneak Peek of upcoming season Backer $1,000 – $2,499 Patron level benefits plus…

• Invitations to all Writers on a New England Stage VIP Receptions • Vouchers for Music Hall Presents performances (up to $150 value) • 20% discount on Music Hall Presents performances • Two Advocate gift memberships • 10% discount on Founders Lobby reception rentals

Founder $2,500 – $4,999 Backer level benefits plus…

• A voucher for Music Hall Presents performances (up to $150 value) or two Weekend Passes for Telluride by the Sea • Two additional Advocate gift memberships – total of four • Additional 10% discount on Founders Lobby reception rentals (total of 20%) Stakeholder $5,000+ Founder level benefits plus…

• Concierge ticket service • Reception and preferred seating for Stakeholder Soiree events • Invitation to Stakeholders’ Annual Round Table • Additional 5% discount on Founders Lobby rentals (total of 25%)

Tickets may be purchased in the following manner: Online:

At TheMusicHall.org. Online purchases are subject to a $4.00 per ticket nonrefundable surcharge.

By phone: Call (603) 436-2400 and charge to your Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express card. Phone orders are subject to a $4.00 per ticket nonrefundable service fee (up to five tickets).

By mail: With a completed order form to The Music Hall Box Office, 28 Chestnut Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801.

In person: At the Box Office window at 28 Chestnut Street

(cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover & American Express).

Discounts - Discounted tickets for most shows are available to members (Advocate level and above, see Membership Benefits on order form), children (under 12), students, and seniors (age 60 and over).

Group Rates - Group rates may be available for certain performances. Call (603) 4333100 ext. 4012 to make arrangements. Call early to ensure the best possible seating.

Last Call Tickets - Where applicable, discounted tickets for Music Hall Presents events may be purchased on a “first come, first served” basis at the Box Office, 15 minutes prior to curtain time.

Gift Certificates - Available in any denomination at the box office, redeemable toward any Music Hall Presents event. Gift certificates and credits must be redeemed noon to 6pm Monday through Saturday.

Refunds & Exchanges - Tickets to Music Hall Presents performances may be returned no later than 48 hours before the event for a Music Hall credit only. Members will not be charged for this service. Non-members will be charged a $2 fee per ticket. Within 48 hours of an event, tickets may be returned to the box office as a tax-deductible donation to The Music Hall. No refunds or exchanges on non-Music Hall Presents events.

Weather - If The Music Hall cancels or postpones a performance, a full refund of the printed ticket price will be available through the box office (phone and internet service fees are non-refundable). The Music Hall does not close for inclement weather, and does not give refunds or exchanges to those unable to attend an event because of weather.

The Music Hall does everything in its power to remain open for all performances.

Parking - The Music Hall does not offer private parking; however, a drop-off area located at the main entrance to the theater provides access to the lobby. The Portsmouth Parking Garage is located on Hanover Street (with additional entrances on Fleet and Ladd streets), a short walk to The Music Hall.

Disabled Access - The Music Hall is a multi-level historical facility. A staffed elevator provides direct access to the theater’s orchestra level of the auditorium and the concessions lobby on the second level. A limited amount of accessible seating is available to patrons with disabilities and their family or friends. Our staff makes every effort to assist and accommodate all patrons. The Music Hall is equipped with an FM assisted listening device available to patrons who are hard of hearing. A unisex accessible restroom is located on the street level. For specific ticket or access information, please call the box office at (603) 436-2400. One-month advance notice for sign language interpretation is requested. For individuals who do not use traditional print, please call to request large print or Braille formats. The Music Hall thanks the Rye Lions Club for providing a wheelchair for use by our patrons. Please make any special seating requests when ordering tickets.

TheMusicHall.org

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at a Glance Programming & Shows 2011-2012*

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June 2011 Intimately Yours

Jim Brickman

Friday, June 3 • 8pm Intimately Yours

Get the Led Out

Saturday, June 4 • 8pm

Date

4

Intimately Yours

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Writers in the Loft

Tuesday, October 4 • 7:30pm

Chris Bohjalian

Ann Patchett

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Kings of Salsa

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Currents @ the Loft

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Martha Clarke’s Angel Reapers

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Met @ The Music Hall

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Women Fully Clothed

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Met @ The Music Hall

Friday, June 10 • 7:30 pm

This Evening Not Yet Rated: Juston McKinney with Bob Lord & The Gaudy Baubles HD Broadcast: Roundabout Theatre Company on Broadway

Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest Saturday, June 18 • 7pm

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Writers on a New England Stage

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Nat’l Theater of London HD Broadcast

David McCullough

Cherry Orchard

Thursday, June 30 • 7pm

July

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Intimately Yours

k.d. lang & The Siss Boom Bang Tuesday, July 12 • 7:30pm

Writers on a New England Stage

Ben Mezrich

Friday, July 21 • 7:30pm

Miss Richfield 1981: Thirty Years on the Throne!

Sunday, July 24 • 7pm

August

21

Miss Richfield 1981: Thirty Years on the Throne!

23 29

Buddy Guy

Tuesday, August 23 • 7:30pm

Monday, August 29 • 7:30pm

September

23

Telluride by the Sea

27

Writers in the Loft

28

Intimately Yours

(603) 436-2400

Tuesday, September 27 • 7pm

Keb Mo

Saturday, October 29 • 1pm

5 9

Lily Tomlin

Chuck Palahniuk

Thursday, November 3 • 7:30pm

Wednesday, November 9 • 7:30pm

25

Handsome Little Devils Squirm Burpee Circus

Satyagraha (Glass)

Saturday, December 11 • 1pm Tuesday, December 20 • 7:30pm

January 2012

21

Met @ The Music Hall

The Enchanged Island (Handel, Rameau, Vivaldi & Others) Saturday, January 21 • 1pm

February 2012

11

Cirque Mechanics Boomtown

12

Met @ The Music Hall

17

Soweto Gospel Choir

25

Met @ The Music Hall

Saturday, February 11 • 4pm & 8pm

Götterdämmerung (Wagner)

Saturday, February 12 • 12pm

Monday, February 13 • 7pm

Ernani (Verdi)

Saturday, February 25 • 1pm

March 2012

9

Altan

Friday, March 9 • 8pm

April 2012

1

December 2011

7

Met @ The Music Hall

14

Met @ The Music Hall

Leahy Family Christmas

Saturday, December 3 • 8pm & Sunday, December 4 • 2pm Met @ The Music Hall

Rodelinda (Handel)

Sunday, December 4 • 1pm (in the Loft)

A Merry Funny New England Christmas starring Juston McKinney and the Gaudy Baubles

Moscow Festival Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Sunday, April 1 • 4pm

Saturday, November 19 • 1pm

Saturday, November 25 • 8pm

8/9

Faust (Gounod)

National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China Met @ The Music Hall

4

Messiah Sing!

Saturday, November 5 • 12pm

19

3/4

20

Sigfriend (Wagner)

Thursday, November 10 • 7:30pm

September 23-25 • 7pm

Stephen Greenblatt

Don Giovanni (Mozart)

Met @ The Music Hall

Intimately Yours

An Evening with Richard Thompson (solo acoustic)

Friday, October 28 • 8pm

3

10

Met @ The Music Hall

Anna Bolena (Donizetti)

Sunday, October 23 • 1pm

December 2011

11

Saturday, October 22 • 8pm

Writers on a New England Stage

Sunday, August 21 • 7pm Intimately Yours

Wednesday, October 12 • 7:30pm

November 2011

Thursday, June 23 • 7:30 pm

Date

Thursday, October 6 • 7pm

Writers on a New England Stage

18

NOW

Madeleine Peyroux

10

Saturday, June 11 • 7:30 & 9:30pm

24

October 2011

Manon (Massenet)

Saturday, April 7 • 12pm

La Traviati (Verdi)

Saturday, April 14 • 1pm

May 2012

5 20

21st Annual Kitchen Tour

Saturday, May 5 • 10am-3pm

Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players Sunday, May 20 • 3pm Kids RULE! @ The Historic Theater

Thursday, December 8 • 7:30pm Friday, December 9 • 8pm

10

Christmas Celtic Sojourn

Saturday, December 10 • 3 & 8pm

Key

Date

@ The Loft @The Historic Theater

Wednesday, September 28 • 7:30pm *As of May 1, 2011. Visit TheMusicHall.org for updated listings – new shows added throughout the season!

The Music Hall’s Quarterly Magazine

28 Chestnut Street Portsmouth, NH 03801

Pulitzer Prize winner

David McCullough with his new book The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris page 8

Summer 2011