FALL ARTS GUIDE

There are so many great arts offerings happening this Fall that we couldn’t possibly fit them all. Here are some of our favorites

Ririe-Woodbury

Dance Company marks its 60th anniversary with a retrospective season opener.

“GROUNDWORKS” is a celebration of dance that pays homage to the company’s visionary co-founders, Shirley Ririe and Joan Woodbury.

Part of the show is the aptly named “Then and Now,” a tribute that will showcase the artistry of today’s talented dancers, who will bring to life reconstructed excerpts of over 200 productions from RWDC’s extensive repertoire, complemented by archival footage of the original performers. Included are Joan Woodbury’s whimsical “L’ invasion” (1991) and Shirley Ririe’s uplifting “Banners of Freedom” (1990).

GROUNDWORKS will also pay homage to Alwin Nikolais, renowned as the father of multimedia in dance, bringing his work to the stage after a hiatus since 2016. Nikolais’ choreography played a pivotal role in the formation of Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company with his artistic philosophies and spirit of experimentation.

“Alwin Nikolais’ choreography gives our contemporary repertory an important historical context,” said Daniel Char- on, Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company’s artistic director. “It represents an integral chapter in the evolution of modern dance where Nikolais was creating breathtaking, groundbreaking, never-been done before work. He was the first choreographer to fuse dance with a variety of innovative multimedia elements as a means to create a unique theatrical experience. These visually stunning explorations still inspire today’s choreographers. Nikolais remains an inspiration whose sense of exploration and curiosity continually reminds us of the power of the imagination and our ability to innovate.”

The tribute to Nikolais includes his iconic piece “Liturgies” (1983), which explores themes of faith and fervor through a mesmerizing blend of lighting, projections, music, costumes, and movement.

Charon brings his own creation “On Being” (2021) to the stage, taking audiences on a profound journey of healing and introspection. This elegant piece reflects the interconnectedness of the community, a theme that resonates deeply after a year of social distancing.

The show takes place at the Jeanne Wagner Theater in the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center on September 21, 22, and 23. For more information and tickets, visit www.ririewoodbury.com.

JRC Events & Sequoia

Full Set 2023 Queer Arts Festival

September 13–16

Full Set is a Salt Lake City-based queer arts festival brought to you by JRC Events and Sequoia, presenting The Crown Jewels — a ‘full set’ of some of the finest drag artists and queer performers from Utah, each themed after a different precious gem.

Sept. 13 — COMEDY GOLD hosted By: Daniel Spencer with standup performances by Brandon Medina Cruz, Hollie Jay, and Sam D’Antuono. This event is free, held at Blue Gene’s 239 S 500 East. 21+

Sept. 14 — OPALESCENT hosted by Mari Cona and Jenna Tea. Performances by Mitski Avalox, Schade the Queen, Rose, Sky Faux, Lanie Bryant, and Lexi Gold. Food from Thotty Treats. Doors at 6, show at 7 at Kilby Court, 741 S Kilby Court. All ages.

Sept. 14 — AMETHYST PRISM hosted by Kay Bye with performances from

Rachael Jenkins, Agony Ray, Nancy Raygun, Willie Touchya, Trix R Treat, Divina 2.0, and Lexis Monroig. Pop-up shop Queerations. Doors at 8, show at 9:30 at Liquid Joe’s, 1249 E. 3300 South. 21+

Sept. 15 — EMERALD ENVY FEA-

TURING WILLAM . Hosted by Gaye. Special guests Marrlo Suzzanne, M’Lady Wood, Jaliah J. Jackson, Lady Facade, Izzy Lovely, Sophia Azul. Beats by DJ Sheāde. Doors at 9, meet & greet at 9:30. First set at 11, second set at midnight. Metro Music Hall, 615 W. 100 South, 21+

Sept. 16 — RUBY RED, hosted by Sequoia, with performances from Miz Diamond Wigfall, King Cyborg, Darcey Willey, Cherry Poppins, and Tequila Rose. Food truck onsite. Doors at 6, show at 7, at Blue Gene’s, 239 S 500 East. 21+

Sept. 16 — DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH , hosted by Sequoia and Kory Edgewood, with performances by Andre-MarQuis Mitchell, Miz Diamond Wigfall, Icky Rogers, Gia Bianca Stephens, Shelley Dissolve, Jax Creative, Ellissdee, Jul McQueen Stephens, Ms. Meredith, LaLa Sing, Lady Dy, and beats by DJ Sheāde. Doors at 9, show at 10 at Urban Lounge, 241 S 500 East, 21+ Tickets are available at jrcslc.com

PYGmalion Theatre

‘The

November 3–18

Playwright Lauren Gunderson’s play, “The Half-Life of Marie Curie,” tells of the true story of Marie Curie and her relationship with Hertha Ayrton. Curie was the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 and is the only woman who received a second Nobel Prize in a different field, Chemistry in 1911. Hertha was an electromechanical engineer and suffragette. Both women were widows, mothers of girls, and scientists who had a passion for finding the “proof.”

The play is a testament to women. Curie, a Polish immigrant to France, has an affair with a married fellow scientist six years after her husband died. She is scandalized by the press to the point she questions her self-worth and becomes nearly suicidal. English friend Ayrton goes to France to implore her to spend the summer in England at her seaside cottage.

The play focuses on this summer where Marie and Hertha share their pain, their loves, and their passions. Their relationship is powerful and meaningful. Insightful quotes in the play include, “Love wounds us,” “Sometimes love is protest,” and “We love our lovers, and we adore our children, but our life’s passion is proof.”

“Half Life Marie Curie” by Lauren Gunderson opens November 3–18 at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center Black Box featuring April Fossen and Stephanie Howell. Fran Pruyn directing. Tickets will be available through arttix.org

Pioneer Theatre Company

Agatha Christie’s ‘Murder on the Orient Express’

September 22 – October 7

PTC kicks off its 62nd season with the spellbinding excitement and intrigue of one of Agatha Christie’s greatest whodunit, adapted for the stage by Tony Award-winning Ken Ludwig. Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning, it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated, and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule

Poirot to identify the murderer — in case they decide to strike again. BroadwayWorld calls Ludwig’s adaptation “A love letter to the original material, with a swift-moving script … Everything you could want – broadly drawn characters, exotic settings, and a spectacular murder with no shortage of suspects.”

Richard O’Brien’s ‘The Rocky Horror Show’

October 20–31

Pioneer Theatre Company’s favorite way to celebrate Halloween. A groundbreaking cult musical and beloved glam rock tribute to B-horror films, “The Rocky Horror Show” returns with some of the most iconic characters in musical theatre history: squares Brad and Janet, mad scientist Dr. Frank N. Furter, his “monster,” and, of course, a swath of drive-in usherettes and creepy sidekicks. Celebrating the landmark musical’s 50th anniversary. Let’s all do the time warp again!

‘Christmas in Connecticut’

December 1–16

From the bucolic paradise of her Connecticut farm, famed Smart Housekeeping columnist Liz Lane dishes out advice on marriage, cooking, and homemaking to eager housewives across the country. There are just a few small details of which her readers aren’t aware: Liz actually lives in a tiny New York City apartment, she has never been married, and she can’t cook. When a beloved war hero who is a fan of the columnist is invited by Liz’s publisher to Christmas on the nonexistent farm, a musical comedy of errors ensues.

With lyrics by Jonathan Larson Award recipient Amanda Yesnowitz, music by Grammy Award winner Jason Howland (composer of Paradise Square and Little Women — not to mention a PTC alum as musical supervisor/orchestrator on the world premiere of “Shucked”), and a book by Emmy Award winner Patrick Pacheco and celebrated entertainment journalist Erik Forrest Jackson, this new musical adaptation of the classic 1945 Warner Brothers film had its debut in 2022 at Goodspeed Musicals in Connecticut (naturally). “Christmas in Connecticut” is destined to become a new yuletide tradition, and PTC audiences will get to experience the only produc- tion in the nation this holiday season. Pioneer Theatre Co., 300 S. University St., tickets.pioneertheatre.org or 801-581-6961.

Plan-B Theatre Company

‘Radio Hour Episode

17: Sherlock Holmes & The Final Problem’

Friday, October 27, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

You are the live studio audience (both performances are live broadcasts) of RADIO HOUR on KUER’s RadioWest for the first time in a decade as Doug Fabrizio returns to the role of Sherlock Holmes that he first played in 2012 in “Radio Hour Episode 7: Sherlock Holmes & The Blue Carbuncle.”

What if Dr. Watson was a woman and Sherlock Holmes wasn’t always right? On the run from Moriarty, the keenest criminal mind they’ve ever faced, Holmes is unsure of his powers, and Watson is unsure of him. Jeanne Wagner Theatre, tickets at my.arttix.org/31639 year, they will produce the play “Art and Class” by local favorite Matthew Ivan Bennett. The play is a timely take on what happens when we try to control what our students see, think, and feel, especially when it comes to art. Regent Street Black Box, 144 Regent Street, tickets at my.arttix.org/31629

Ziegfeld Theater

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

September 1–23

Wasatch Theatre Company

Art and Class

September 7–11

The Page-to-Stage Festival is an annual WTC tradition going back almost as long as the organization itself. This

Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs by Menken and Schwartz. Peter Parnell’s new book embraces story theatre and features verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel. The musical begins as the bells of Notre Dame sound through the famed cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer who longs to be “Out There,” observes all of Paris reveling in the Feast of Fools. Held captive by his devious caretaker, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Frollo are equally enthralled. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to save them all.

3934 S Washington Blvd., Ogden, Utah. Tickets at ZigArts.com

Young Frankenstein

October 6–28

Comedy genius, Mel Brooks, adapts his legendarily funny film into a brilliant stage creation – Young Frankenstein.

Grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. “It’s alive!” he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather’s. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds.

3934 S Washington Blvd., Ogden, Utah. Tickets at ZigArts.com

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, the Musical

December 1–23

Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. With a dazzling score featuring well-known standards, including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial title song, White Christmas is an uplifting musical worthy of year-round productions.

3934 S Washington Blvd., Ogden, Utah. Tickets at ZigArts.com

Ballet West Dracula

October 20–28

Mysterious and spooky, powerful and dramatic with flying vampires and pyrotechnics! The dark and brooding Dracula surrounded by his corps of brides and hungering for more blood, this ballet sinks its teeth into intricate choreography as the dark tale unfolds, set to the ominous music of Franz Liszt.

Come see why this ballet version of Dracula is becoming a Utah favorite.

Firebird

November 3–11

The tale of a powerful, mystical bird, a wistful dream for humanity, and a joyful expression of American pride. These three works celebrate the 60th anniversary of Ballet West’s artistry with magic, creativity, plus pomp and circumstance. An original piece choreographed by Ballet West’s founder, Willam Christensen, Firebird, is based on the folktale of a magical, flaming bird set to the sweeping and colorful score by Igor Stravinsky. Fever Dream by newly-retired and long-term company artist Joshua Whitehead immerses the audience into a dream-like world. The quintessential Balanchine Stars and Stripes shows off pure showmanship and creative genius. You’ll be tapping your toes to the music of John Phillip Sousa, often referred to as “The American March King.”

The Nutcracker

December 8–27

America’s first Nutcracker returns. Last year, more than 42,000 attended the hottest ticket in town. Hailed as the first and longest-running in America, Ballet West’s production of “The Nutcracker” has been recognized by Gov. Spencer J. Cox as a national treasure that should be celebrated by locals and tourists alike. Experience a true legacy that brings families and friends back year after year. Capitol Theatre, tickets at boxoffice.balletwest.org

Misc. Shows

Comedians McKenzie Goodwin and Rachel Scanlon host this raunchy and hilarious queer show that will have your body rocking with laughter and sexual tension. Goodwin has been described as the “Norah Jones of comedy” due to her low energy, soft voice, and repertoire of material that slaps HARD. Yes, she’s gay… stop asking. Scanlon has performed all over the country and legend has it, is the best comedian to ever live. Tickets at WiseGuysComedy.com

Out of the Shadows Theater Group — The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a live performance by The Latter Day Transvestites

September 21–23

Is everyone ready to Time Warp again? In conjunction with FanX Salt Lake, at. The preshow festivities and fun for each show begin at 7:30pm, seating begins at 7pm. Line up at least 30 minutes early to get a good seat and in-line entertainment. Tickets are $25 and include a Transylvanian Pack, aka Tranny Pack, with a squirt gun, newspaper, noisemakers, rubber glove, party hat, balloon, and cards (no outside props that are food-related or messy will be allowed).

8pm at the Alliance Theater in historic Trolley Square, Tickets at showclix.com/ event/rocky-horror-at-alliance-theater-2023

Draper Historic Theatre — Sister Act

September 8-25

Wiseguys Comedy Club

— Two Dykes & a Mic

September 10

“Two Dykes and a Mic” is a weekly comedy podcast and touring live show.

Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet. Featuring original music by Tony and Oscar winner Alan Menken. When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent. Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood. Tickets at draperhistorictheatre.org

Gina Bachauer

Celebrating their 48th anniversary season, four renowned pianists will present favorites of the classical piano literature, with music of Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, and Liszt all taking prominence.

ARISTO SHAM will perform September 20–29. The 2018 Bachauer

Silver Medalist offers a program full of passionate expression and virtuosity with Beethoven’s Waldstein Sonata, Handel’s Harmonious Blacksmith, and Ravel’s complete Gaspard de la nuit.

JOSÉ RAMÓN MENDEZ will perform November 10. Acclaimed as “the Spanish pianist of his generation,” José Ramón Méndez makes his Bachauer debut in a concert of evocative lyricism showcasing the music of Chopin and famed Spanish composers Albéniz and Granados. Both performances are at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center and begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets through bachauer.com

Salt Lake Men’s Choir — Annual Christmas Concert

December 8–10

Utah’s Other Choir is still accepting new singers who want to join the 40th annual Christmas Concert at First Baptist Church. A “family” tradition, this concert is promising old favorites, soon-to-be new favorites, and the ability to finally get into the holiday mood. Tickets will be available at saltlakemenschoir. org and at the door. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. Q