Joanne Shaw Taylor
Join #1 Billboard Blues Artist Joanne Shaw Taylor and her amazing band as they perform songs from her critically acclaimed new studio album, Nobody’s Fool which cited as “The most versatile album in Joanne Shaw Taylor’s career”. Joanne will also dig deep into her rich back catalogue where she will hand-pick songs from her albums Reckless Heart, Wild, The Dirty Truth, Almost Always Never, Diamonds in the Dirt, and White Sugar. Taylor has become one of the hottest live acts on the modern Blues scene, and soon you’ll see why. You don’t want to miss Blues Rock Phenom, Joanne Shaw Taylor in this unforgettable night of soul and blues music!
Watch Joanne’s music video, “Won’t Be Fooled Again” from her latest studio album Nobody’s Fool here: https://bit.ly/ytwontbefooled
Insight Presented by Gin Dance Company
This production is comprised of three pieces each with very different meanings, cultural influences, and styles.
The first piece, “Insight”, a brand new original work that was inspired by the quote “When an old person dies, a library burns down.” This powerful quote reminds us of the immense wealth of knowledge and experience that older generations possess. Shu-Chen, through her choreography and dance, expresses the awakening message that we should respect more and care more for our seniors and appreciate all they have done to give younger generations the world they will inherent from them. We need to hear their stories and learn their lessons so we can benefit and grow from the wisdom they have to share.
Second, a collaboration with kinetic sculpture artist, Kevin Reese. This work is called “I Am Here” in which GDC’s Artistic Director Shu-Chen Cuff, as a 1st generation immigrant to the U.S., delves into her experience of the desire, dreams, struggles, opportunities, and celebration of immigrating to this country. Using the kinetic sculpture design and dance, the audience will get to see and understand how the immigrants life experience come together with the community.
Third, “A Cup of Tea”, an Asian culturally influenced work with live music accompaniment by Chinese Dulcimer musician, Chao Tian. In this work, Shu-Chen, through dance, delves into the culture and philosophy of the Chinese tea ceremony and reveals that the tea ceremonies and rituals contain an adoration of the beautiful among the sordid facts of everyday life, as well as a sense of refinement, an inner spiritual content, humility, restraint and simplicity. By sharing this work with the community, we hope to give the audience an experience that will inspire them to look first inwardly as they explore the introspective nature of the production, then outwardly to appreciate and connect with the people and possibilities that surround us all.
Celtic Thunder: Odyssey
“Odyssey,” a new show from internationally acclaimed group Celtic Thunder, is a fascinating exploration of Irish music and culture, firmly grounded in the ensemble’s impressive history, while ambitiously forging new paths. The word ‘Odyssey’ implies a significant journey, and that’s precisely what audiences are invited on – a sweeping voyage through the heartlands of traditional Irish music, the rhythmic pulse of contemporary Irish music, and the innovative original arrangements that are emblematic of Celtic Thunder’s unique sound.
Celtic Thunder’s shared musical chemistry, steeped in their Irish heritage, gives the show its compelling power, while each member adds their distinctive voice and charm to this musical journey, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to a broad spectrum of tastes. The “Odyssey” songbook weaves a rich tapestry of emotional and musical tones.
Audiences will be swept up in an energetic rendition of “Go Lassie Go,” a traditional folk song that has been given a new lease of life through Celtic Thunder’s vibrant harmonies and fresh musical interpretation. The poignant “City of Chicago” serves as a moving tribute to the Irish diaspora, resonating deeply with its heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies. And “The Parting Glass,” an iconic classic from the annals of Irish music, is delivered with such profound emotion that it reverberates through the soul.
The talented Celtic Thunder Band lends their instrumental prowess throughout, providing an authentic and sonically rich backdrop to the vocal performances. Their expert musicianship underscores the music’s Irish roots, while their versatility ensures that every song, regardless of genre, is treated with the respect and creativity it deserves.
Memorable musical moments take place on a stage that brilliantly embodies the ethereal mystique of Celtic folklore and the grounded reality of contemporary Irish life. World-class production quality, with a stunning lighting design, paints an atmospheric picture that enhances the emotive resonance of the songs. Detailed and elegant costumes strike a balance between traditional Celtic attire and modern aesthetics, symbolizing the group’s successful fusion of the old and the new.
“Odyssey” is not simply a concert; it’s a powerful theatrical experience that honors Celtic Thunder’s rich musical legacy and simultaneously blazes new trails. An evocative journey through time, sound, and culture, as educational as it is entertaining. The captivating blend of music, storytelling, and atmospheric stagecraft makes “Odyssey” a must-see spectacle for fans of Celtic Thunder and Irish music in general.