Opening Nights - 2018 Fall Program - Volume 1

F L O R I D A S TAT E UNIVERSITY FA L L 2 0 1 8 VO LU M E I

THE SOUNDTRACK OF YOUR LIFE

WE HELP ORCHESTRATE YOUR TRAVELS IN TALLAHASSEE AND BEYOND

L e g a c yTo y o t a . c o m

“

is “Les more!

Les Akers • Owner

18/19

SPONSORS P L AT I N U M L E V E L

RON SACHS & GAY WEBSTER-SACHS

GOLD LEVEL J IM B. TAY LO R

KE N K ATO & N AN N AGY

Dave Montrois, Bobby Dick, Mark Webb, Kim Dixon, Clinton Alexander FINANCIAL ADVISORS

FSU License Plate

SILVER LEVEL JIM & BETTY ANN RODGERS

LAURIE & KELLY DOZIER ENDOWMENT HERB & MARY JERVIS

BERNADETTE & ROGER LUCA

MIKEY BESTEBREURTJE & WILSON BAKER

BRONZE LEVEL C H AR L ES S. & SUSAN A. ST RAT TON

Architects Lewis + Whitlock

CYN T H I A T I E & J OH N TAYLOR

DYL AN SU M N E R & R EGAN JAG E R

Florida Autism Center Start here. Go anywhere.

ARCHITECTURE INTERIOR DESIGN PLANNING

GILCHRIST ROSS CROWE

JANET HINKL E

L AR RY & J O DE E B

LEE HINKLE

L I N DA SM I T H

ARCHITECTS

STEP H AN I E & E RW I N JAC KSO N

RO D & V IRG I N I A VAUG H N

T E R ESA B E AZ L EY W I DM E R

IN-KIND SPONSORS

GRANT SUPPORT

SPONSOR SUPPORT DOES NOT INDICATE ARTISTS’ ENDORSEMENT OF ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE.

, Marisa Chanin, B.S. 17 President’s Undergraduate Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner

What does preeminence mean?

u. ed fs

It means some of the finest arts programs in the world. It means being one of only four U.S. universities to receive the most prestigious award for internationalization. It means elite research and the world record-breaking National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. It means a $10 billion economic impact on our state. And it means stellar alumni shaping the future like Marisa Chanin. Preeminence means Florida State University.

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One of the nation’s great universities: wide-ranging in academic excellence, tenaciously entrepreneurial, and a trailblazer in preparing one of the most diverse student populations in the nation to become globally competent and competitive. Preeminence means vaulting 17 spots in three years among Top 50 public universities. It means a 4-year graduation rate that is 15th in the country.

Stimulate Your Curiosity

W

elcome to the beginning of Opening Nights at Florida State University’s 21st Season. It’s our hope that you’ll find artists and attractions that appeal to you as well as those that are unfamiliar to you but stimulate your curiosity.

I encourage you to explore cultural horizons that exist in the 11 countries represented by this season’s performances. The past 20 years established a foundation that inspired the diverse and vibrant offerings. A significant factor to selecting the artists was their delivery, whether it is vocally, instrumentally, through movement, or a combination of these elements. The best in class were chosen regardless of whether the performers are seasoned veterans or emerging artists.

Performances will be held on and off campus as we continue to reach new audiences and provide artistic programming in closer proximity to many of the neighborhoods that make up our community.

The in-school and community outreach component of our program, “Opening Nights in Class” is expanding and further developing educational arts programming for local K-12 schools, college students and the public. Please visit the education section of our website at OpeningNights.fsu.edu to see a listing of classes with our visiting artists that are free and open to the public.

We look forward to seeing you during the upcoming months of programs. If you have suggestions for artists that you think would be good additions to the Opening Nights offerings, please let me know.

Approach me at one of the performances or send an email to mblachly@fsu.edu with your thoughts and recommendations.

Thanks, and see you at the shows!

Michael Blachly Director, Opening Nights at Florida State University

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 5

WE M AKE NORTHWEST FLORIDA A WONDERFUL PL ACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PL AY.

WE M AKE NORTHWEST FLORIDA A WONDERFUL PL ACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PL AY.

ARTS

E D U C ATI O N

ARTS

E D U C ATI O N

ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT

H E A LT H C A R H E A LT H C A R E

The St. Joe Community Foundation was created with the express purpose of making Northwest Florida a wonderful place to live, work and play. Over the Sponsor ofover Opening Nights to enhance past 16 years, the FoundationProud has contributed $18 Million The St. Joe Community Foundation was createdatwith the express performances Florida Statepurpose of cultural strengthen improve the makingarts, Northwest Florida aeducation, wonderful place to live, healthcare work Overprotect the University Panama Cityand play.and environment. can we help nonprofit organization? past 16 years,How the Foundation has your contributed over $18 Million toArts, enhance Providing funding for Education, Cultural Healthcare and the Environment. Over $20 million cultural arts, strengthen education, improve healthcare and protect the granted in Northwest Florida since 1999. environment. How can we help your nonprofit organization?

How can we Help You? How can we Help You? FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT JOEFOUNDATION.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT JOEFOUNDATION.COM © The St. Joe Company 20158 All Rights Reserved. “St. Joe Community Foundation” is a service mark of The St. Joe Company or its affiliates. © The St. Joe Company 2015 All Rights Reserved. “St. Joe Community Foundation” is a service mark of The St. Joe Company or its affiliates.

CONTENTS Florida State University John Thrasher, President Opening Nights Staff Michael Blachly Director Caroline Poole Director of Development Bethany Atwell Assistant Director Lori Elliott Marketing & Communications Manager Calla MacNamara Education & Engagement Manager Amanda Hartsfield Multimedia Design Specialist University Communications, Creative Services

Graeme James

19

Late Night Tailgate

21

Hanzhi Wang

23

Rodney Johnson Assistant Director of Creative Services University Communications, Creative Services

Opening Nights Development Council

13

A.J. Croce

15

Brian Regan

17

1964 The Tribute

Gus Corbella, Chair Michael Obrecht, Chair-elect Ruth Akers Teresa Atkins Lauren Bacon Sara Bayliss Brandi Brown Kimberly Criser Eric Friall

25

Heather Mitchell

Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir

Nan Nagy Ron Sachs Susan Stratton Erin VanSickle Brian Wolfe

27

The HillBenders

Cover: Hanzhi Wang Photo by Matt Dine OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 7

2018-19 MEMBERS A S O F 8 / 2 0 / 2 0 1 8 Producer’s Circle

Raymond & Stella Cottrell

Nada Carey

Todd & Jeri Hunter

Talbot D’Alemberte & Patsy Palmer

Kathryn Karrh Cashin

Myra & Julian Hurt

Susan & Hugh Catts

Doug & Melissa Ingram

Jann & Ray Bellamy

Clark, Davis, McKinney, Zimmerman

Pete & Bonnie Chamlis

Jenny Jeffers

Logan & Maryanne Brooks

Bill & Caryl Donnellan

Mary & David Coburn

Mark & Lisa Jones

Phillip & Betty Brown

Jamie & Matthew Forrest

Andre & Eleanor Connan

Lynn & Roland Jones

Gus & Tanya Corbella

The Girvin Group, Inc.

Bill & Janet Cotterall

Martin Kavka & Tip Tomberlin

Marshall & Kimberly Criser

Bill Hall & Martha Olive-Hall

Jim & Sandy Dafoe

John & Linda Kilgore

Janet & Craig Dennis

Myron & Judy Hayden

Kathleen Daly & Reinhart Lerch

Barbara Hamby & David Kirby

Robert & Jan Estevez

Calynne & Lou Hill

Mike & Jeri Damasiewicz

Bob & Gail Knight

Eric & Andrea Friall

Mart P. Hill

William & Mary Davis

Ron & Grace Labasky

TD & Kathi Giddings

Bret & Leigh Ingerman

Dr. Ruth DeBusk

Stacey Lampkin

David & Kathy Hale

Robyn Jackson

Sandra & William Dixon

Lance & Cary Langston

Sally Karioth & Gerald Ensley

Wendy Johnston

Pamala J Doffek

Raoul Lavin & Greg Burke

Jon & Jean Kline

Elizabeth Dudek

Bill & Dottie Lee

Debby Kearney

Jennings & Cyndi Knox

Patrick & Kathy Dunnigan

Brian Lockwood

A. Lawton Langford

Jane & John Marks

Dr. Grady Enlow & June Dollar

Jim & Sharon Lowe

Jennifer Fitzwater & Geof Mansfield

Steve & Linda Evans

Leah Trzcinski Martineau

The Hon. Stephen Everett & Meghan Everett

Marge Masterman

Laura & Bill Kirchhoff Jan & Mark Pudlow

Ken & Marilynn Evert

Emoryette McDonald

Doug & Debbie Russell

Keith & Vangie Fields

Yvonne E. McIntosh, Ph.D.

Sandra Schoenfisch

Susan & Jack Fiorito

McNeal/Dunn Family

Ronald Shaeffer

Patricia J. Flowers

Frank & Francesca Melichar

Josh & Wendy Somerset

Barbara Foorman

Susan Potts

James & Sherrill Ragans

Bass Sox Mercer Law Firm

Ted & Haley Frazee

Dr. Jayne M. Standley

Kip & Bev Wells

Barbara Ann Frederich

Dr. Sara Hart & Abraham Middleton

Louise & Marc Freeman

Emily & Pete Millett

Elenita Gomez & Jack Brennan

Mark Mustian & Greta Sliger

Tamara & Bart Aitken Law Office of Linda A. Bailey

Regional Therapy Services Cynthia Mincy Senator Bill Montford Paula Moyer Jones & Greg Jones Mike & Judy Pate Piekarewicz Family

Janet R. Thornton

Novey+Gonzalez Family Law

Rick & Nancy McClure

Marjorie Turnbull

Friend Level

Carol Gregg Hart

Barbara & Gary Alford

Gina & Scott Gorman

Linda & Ed Oaksford

Tanya & Tony Weaver MD

Drs. Charles & Sharon Aronovitch

Bruce & Elizabeth Gould

Stephen Peters

Bill Graham & Shelley Hill

Lamar & Leslie Polston

Karen & Bob Cohen

Dave & Margaret Groves

Audrey Post

Six Pillars Financial Advisors

Kristin & Sheldon Gusky

Efren & Emerlinda Baltazar

Helen D. Haines

Greg & Sharon Beaumont

David & Kathy Hale

Anonymous

Linda Harkey

Carol Berkowitz

Sharon & John Harris

Rob Contreras & Ellen Berler

Brenda Buchan & Tracy Hatch

Nancy Bivins

Rick Hays & Deborah Williams

Boebinger Family

Ken & Debbie Hodges

Patterson Lamb, Jean Sadowski & Sunny Phillips

Scott & Jennifer Boyles

Lori Holcomb & Robert Fingar

Doug & Cynthia Sessions

Stephen & Yvonne Brown

Sharon E. Holmes

Bobbi & Mark Shapiro

Steven & Mary Bryan

Edward W. Horan, P.A.

Debbie Shapiro

Stan & Ramona Wilcox John D. Woods MD

Partner Level Jersey Mike’s Subs Sara & Slater Bayliss Joe Beckham & Patti Sudduth Bob & Mary Bedford Michael & Judy Blachly Eileen & Don Bourassa Grossman, Furlow & Bayo, LLC Steve Carter & Phyllis Thompson

8 | 2018–19 OPENING NIGHTS

Mary Anne Price Diverse Computing, Inc. Joanne & David Rasmussen John & Amy Recht Fred & Anna Roberson Eleanore Rosenberg & Larry Sack

Donnajo Smith

Liz Dameron

Gary & Patricia Smith

Bob & Trudy Deyle

William & Meredith Snowden Kathleen Laufenberg & Kent Spriggs Elfie Stamm Barbara Stansell Mabel Wells & Tony Starace Joyce & Lee Stillwell Kent Strauss Management & Realty Del Suggs & Denice Jones Warren W. & Paula E. Sutton Elizabeth Swiman & Mark Bertolami James & Shelley Tinney Richard Turner Dr. Ernesto & Lisa Umana Richard Wagner & Annie Michell Linda & Kenny Walker Stan & Paula Warmath David & Jane Watson Jason & Brenda Watts Lisa & Bernie Waxman Andrew Welch Carmen Whiddon Leslie Williams Gary & Wendy Williams Lynda Roser & Marilyn Yon David & Mary Jean Yon Gary Yordon & Berneice Cox

Associate Level

Jeannie Head Dixon

Sharon Strickland & Richard Pearlman Prof. Svetlana Pevnitskaya

John Dozier & Martha Paradeis

Tom & Dianne Phillips

Linda Enfinger

Kenneth J. & Charlotte Orth Reckford

Rick & Joyce Fausone The Fennema Family Barbara B Foley David & Paula Fountain Connie Lee Garrett

Bill & Connie Reinhardt Dottie Roberts & Doug Bruce Joann Sapolsky Claudia & John Scholz

Ann & Bill Brattain Diane Brown Walt & Debbie Bunnell Gary & Kathy Burnett Barbara Busharis & Stan Tozer Joseph & Shirley Cain Dr & Mrs Richard Chichetti Betty Lou & Marian Christ Richard & Lauren Clary

Genevieve C. Scott

Christine Coble, Charlene Estes & Sara Staskiews

Richard Senesac, Ph.D.

Dennie Hill & Vicki Combs

DeLopez & Shahawy

Carol J Cooper

Dr. Cedric & Nadine Shepheard

Andra Scott Cornelius

Mr. & Mrs. Charles C. Shields

Janis & Russell Courson

Mirella & Theo Siegrist

Bob & Ellen Crabtree

Donald Hansard & Nada Marz

Carey Smith

Doug & Dianne Croley

Sue Hansen

Alicia Smith

Margaret & Russell Dancy

Myles Hollander

John & Maggie Stewart

Ron & Donna Krell

Horvat Family

Val Sullivan & Val Kibler

Drs. Michael & Nancy Diamonti

Liz Jameson

Dan Taylor & Tony Archer

Richard & Nora Doran

Amy M. Jones

Forrest Watson

Rodney & Virlindia Doss

Connie & Bobby Jones

Robert & Dianne Weinstein

Jane & Mike Dunn

Matthew Keelean

Ash & Jan Williams

Mary Eichin

Laurence & Lucinda Keesey

Marilynn Wills

Mark Fontaine

Jim & Lupe Kennedy

Lynne & Oscar Winston

Tim & Jamela Fordyce

Greg & Angela Knecht

John & Libby Woodward

Scott Frazier & Kelly Jones

Anthony M & Mallen E Komlyn

Nancy Wright

John Geringer

Ira Kramer & Paul Deitchman

Marilyn Young & Michael Launer

Rosanne Gervasi

Jennifer & Jay LaVia

Jawole Jo Zollar

Jacque & Mitchell Gilberg

Drs. Benjamin & Mary Sterner Lawson

Richard & Kathy Zorn

Paige Gill & Beau Jackson

Dr. Jim Lee

Debut Level

Terry & Durene Gilbert Jeff & Leah Glass Marie Beverly Go Richard & Christine Gordon Frank Kapplow & Mona Hamilton

Howard Glassman & Diane Salz Steven & Dale Ann Grigas

Todd & Jill Adams

Ken & Lisa LeGette

Ingolf Askevold

Gary & Suzie Lemberg

Francisco “Frank� Alarcon

Dr. Freddie Groomes-McLendon

Ludmila De Faria

Jane Lo & SJ Sher

Thomas & Dana Ando

Greg Hajcak

Ron & Genny Blazek

Leslie Lundberg

Randy & Cathy Armour

Lynda Hartnig & Tom Nicholson

Byron Block

Tiffany Lynn

Florence Helen Ashby

Eleanor Hawkins

Charles Dodson & Samantha Boge

Anne Mackenzie & Friends

Carolyn Aziz & Suheyl Muskara

Karen Hawkins

Douglas & Joyce Mann

John Balberchak

Christine Hazelip

Dr. Marion & Martin Merzer

Darryl & Cathy Beacher

William Heebink

Jayne Mittan

Megan Eng Benson

Stewart Hinson

Robert & Linda Clickner

Rodney Vickers & Almasi Musoke Vickers

Jeff Blair & Deborah Lawson Facilitated Solutions, LLC

Jim Cobbe

Dianne Nagle & Bill Pickron

Craig Bloch Piano

Sue & Mark Isaac

Margaret & Chris Cooksey

Joan Nolte

Scott Bole

Wade S. Johnson

Charles (Jack) Craig

Michael & Julie Obrecht

OliverSperry Renovation

Jeffrey & Jessica Kahn

Martha & Andrew Creel

Dr. Sara C Pankaskie

Brittany Brafford

Chet Kaufman

Jenny Bryant Dominic & Debbie Calabro Anonymous

SunTrust Bank PWG Rick & Linda Hyson

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 9

FINE &

Performing Arts AT TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

ART EXHIBIT: TCC ART INSTRUCTORS Aug. – Sept. 27 Monday – Friday 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.

TCC Fine Art Gallery

THEATRE TCC! PRESENTS: THE DINING ROOM Sept. 27 – 29 | 8 p.m.

Oct. 5 – 6 | 8 p.m.

Oct. 7 | 2 p.m.

Turner Auditorium

ART EXHIBIT: 500 YEARS OF PRINTMAKING - THE FSU COLLECTION Oct. 11 – December 13 Monday – Friday 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.

TCC Fine Art Gallery

THEATRE TCC! PRESENTS: THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Nov. 15 – 17 | 8 p.m.

Nov. 30 – Dec. 1 | 8 p.m.

Dec. 2 | 2 p.m.

Turner Auditorium

THEATRE TCC! PRESENTS: SPRING AWAKENING April 4 – 6 | 8 p.m.

April 12 – 13 | 8 p.m.

April 14 | 2 p.m.

Turner Auditorium

2018-19 MEMBERS

Melanie Mason & Blake Canter

Eric & Kimberley Ramcharran

Mr. Bruce Campbell

Barbara Mason White

Pat Ramsey

Shaw Stiller

Mr. George W. & Dr. Mary R. Massey

Phil & Kathy Reeves

Amber & Sam Stoner

Glenn Mayne

In loving memory of Curtis & Trudi King

Lon Sweat & Nancy Brand

Christine Keller

JScott Construction LLC

LaShawn D Riggans

Susan McConnell

Jan Timm

Dr. Steve & Beth Kelly

Richard Roberts

John & Kathi McMillan

Lavinia Tope

Patsy Killian

Don & Amy Rockwell

Neal & Jane Meadows

Jon & Angela Turner

Kelly & Rip Kirby

Mark & Wendy Rodin

Frank & Midge Mercer

Marianna Tutwiler

Marjorie Kirsch & Thom Henderson

Margo Rogers

James & Judith Underhill

Lise Ryder

Richard & Nevelda LaCondre

Lee K. Metcalf

Phyllis Underwood

Matt Scheiner & Lisa Qualls

Charles & Dian LaTour

Archie Gardner & Michael Moore

Erin VanSickle Tommy & Kim Verran

Mark & Jan LeBar

Jason & Vivian Moore

Sheryyl Schofield

Bob & Suzi Wattendorf

Thomas & Carol Lehman

Lee & Lisa Nichols

Sealey Real Estate Solutions Eileen & Floyd Self

Aaron & Flor Wayt

Brenda Selfe

Karen E. Weimer & Paul R. Weimer

Betty Serow

Stacy & Zach Wheeler

Leah Sherman & Noreen Reilly

James and Nancy Wilkinson

Hilmar & Karen Skagfield

Jonathan & Kelli Williams

Tom & Dianne Skelton

Ronald & Annette Wilson

Lane & Fraser Smith

Ken Winker

Roary Snider

Bill Woolley & Maria Jimenez

Kamala Snow

Jennifer & Benjamin Wright

CONTINUED

Steve Leitman Harriet C. LeMaster Terry & Fran Lewis Mrs. Susan & Jason Lichtstein Jan Taylor & Tom Long Margaret Mancuso Seminole Sitters Jim & Henree Martin

Rhonda & Raymond Merritt

Greg & Jerilyn Nikiel Debbie Justice & Ross Obley M. L. Pearson Tom & Vivian Pelham Dr. Christine Peterson LuMarie Polivka-West Dan & Katie Pugh Elizabeth Pulliam & Stephen Hodges

Heather Terhune

Insurance.

It’s a Beautiful Thing

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OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 11

YOUR STORIES, OUR COMMUNITY POWERED BY

THURSDAY

September

27 7:30 P.M.

LOCATION

TICKETS

Photo by Shelby Duncan

Photo courtesy of Croce Music Group

Opperman Music Hall

$45 | students $22

openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE

A.J. Croce

pop, blues, folk, jazz

Croce Plays Croce “A.J. Croce has wisdom beyond his years.

The future of entertainment is safe in his hands!” — Willie Nelson A.J. Croce has always traveled on his own musical road. For more than 20 years, the creative pop iconoclast has tapped a variety of Americana sounds in crafting his music. Croce’s nine albums have appeared on Top 40, AAA, Americana, College, and Jazz charts, and when his breakout sophomore CD That’s Me in the Bar was reissued recently, it wound up charting in two separate decades. Always interested in exploring new musical territory, the Nashville-based singer/songwriter has created a very special concert experience that celebrates both his own music and that of his father, the late troubadour Jim Croce. Entitled “Croce Play Croce,” the evening finds A.J. Croce performing his songs, his father’s tunes and music that influenced both of them.

Continued on page 29

SUPPORTED BY

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 13

PROUD SPONSOR OF OPENING NIGHTS

and laughing out loud Public Relations. Public Affairs. Crisis. | Tallahassee. Orlando. Boca Raton. Washington, D.C. | 850.222.1996 | sachsmedia.com

MONDAY

October

1

7:30 P.M. LOCATION

Ruby Diamond Concert Hall TICKETS

$65 | $55 | $45 | $25 students $32 | $27 | $22 | $12 openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE

comedy Photo by Joe Henson

Brian Regan Critics, fans and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian, “The funniest stand-up alive,” and Entertainment Weekly calling him, “Your favorite comedian’s favorite comedian.”

Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian’s nonstop theater tour continuously fills the most beautiful venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year.

Continued on page 31

SUPPORTED BY

RO N SACHS & GAY W EBSTER-SACHS OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 15

come together 1964 PROUD TO PROUD TO SPONSOR SPONSOR

and celebrate Opening Nights’ 21st Season

THE TRIBUTE

402.7500 www.ccbg.com

Insurance.

It’s a Beautiful Thing

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Photo by Steven Gardner

THURSDAY

October

4

7:30 P.M. LOCATION

Ruby Diamond Concert Hall TICKETS

$50 | $40 | $30 | $25 students $25 | $20 | $15 | $12 openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE

pop

1964 The Tribute Since the early eighties, 1964 The Tribute has been thrilling audiences around the globe by taking them on journey through a quintessential moment in music history that will live forever. Over 20 years of researching and performing have made “1964 The Tribute” masters of their craft. Hailed by critics and fans alike as THE most authentic and endearing Beatles tribute band has also earned them the distinction from Rolling Stone magazine as the “Best Beatles Tribute on Earth.” 1964 recreates an early sixties live Beatles concert with period instruments, clothing, hairstyles and onstage banter with an accuracy that is unmatched. 1964 meticulously recreates the “magic” of those live Beatles’ performances with artful precision and unerring accuracy. For those that never saw The Beatles live and always wanted to know what it must have been like…this is as close as anyone could possibly get to…feeling the magic!

Continued on page 31

SUPPORTED BY

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 17

The world is a stage. <br >

At AT&T, we've set the stage for your performance for more than 140 years. And we can't wait for the encore.

We're pleased to support Opening Nights at Florida State University.

<br >

<br >

Š 2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. AT&T, Globe logo, Mobilizing Your World and DIRECTV are registered trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. <br >

Luxury Redefined With Scandinavian Design The 2017 Volvo S90 makes a new statement for luxury with its exquisitely designed interior, featuring premium materials that are complimented by cutting edge technology.

Every aspect of the interior space exudes elegance, from the tablet-sized touch screen interface to the surrounding solid wood accents, smooth leather surfaces, and chrome details.

Plus, get the most out of your driving experience with a driver-oriented chassis that is perfectly blended with premium comforts in the 2017 Volvo S90.

Discover a new era for luxury with the expertise of Scandinavian design at Capital Volvo.

Capital Eurocars 3963 W. Tennessee St. Tallahassee, FL 32304 (850) 574-3777 Capital-Volvo.com Sales: Monday - Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 9am-6pm Service: Monday - Friday 7:30am-6pm, Saturday 8am-1pm

MON & TUES

October

8&9 7:30 P.M. LOCATION

Goodwood Museum & Gardens TICKETS

$40 | students $20

openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE

folk, indie

Graeme James

The Times are Changing Tour Award-winning songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Graeme James is bringing a captivating live show to North America for the very first time. Known for his high energy performances, featuring a loop pedal and layers of electric violin, guitar, bass, ukulele, mandolin, harmonica, percussion and velveteen vocals; this is a one man show you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss. Hailing from New Zealand, Graeme James started his musical journey busking on the streets of his hometown Wellington. The response from the public was so positive that it kick started a summer road trip centered around street performances. A major breakthrough came later that summer in the tourist mecca of Queenstown where he would play nightly, busking concerts to crowds of 200 to 300 people by the lakefront. This started to gather what would become a large, loyal and global fan base. That year, on the recommendation of a fellow street performer, Graeme ended up releasing the first of two very successful cover albums.

SUPPORTED BY

Continued on page 35 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 19

ENSURING ACCOUNTABILITY

THE TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT AND TALLAHASSEE.COM ARE INVESTED IN WATCHDOG JOURNALISM Every day, we’re determined to uncover the truth, hold the powerful accountable and separate fact from fiction because we know an informed community is a better community. And we don’t just think empowering you with the facts and being part of the solution is important … we believe it’s our responsibility.

PROUD TO CALL TALLAHASSEE HOME. | DEDICATED TO MAKING AN IMPACT.

Tallahassee Democrat.

SATURDAY

October

13 7:30 P.M.

LOCATION

The Moon TICKETS

$35 | students $17

openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE

comedy (mature material)

Late Night Tailgate Late Night Tailgate is a topical and unpredictable live comedy and spirited sports discussion show that will tackle the biggest topics in professional and college sports as well as touch upon current events, entertainment, pop culture—and all things incendiary and debatable.

Saturday Night Live co-head writer Brian Tucker provides creative direction for the show, which features Steve Rannazzisi’s stand-up, commentary from our panel including former NFL quarterback Sage Rosenfels and comedian and writer Sarah Tiana, interactive audience participation (games, trivia, prizes and questions about the big game), pre-taped video segments with the teams and coaches, and live celebrity sports interviews curated for Tallahassee.

Continued on page 37

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 21

AX L E .R

K

RIN D .

EAT

DAILY HAPPY HOUR FROM 4-7PM Enjoy savory tapas, refreshing drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere at Juicy Blue or our outdoor bar, AQUA. The happy hour menu features 2-4-1 cocktails, beers, and wines. *Excludes select brands*

850 422 4200

www.FourPointsTallahasseeDowntown.com 316 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee FL 32301

WEDNESDAY

October

17 7:30 P.M. LOCATION

St. John’s Episcopal Church TICKETS

$30 | students $15

openingnights.fsu.edu 850.644.6500 GENRE Photo by Matt Dine

classical

Hanzhi Wang, accordion Praised for her captivating stage presence and performances that are technically and musically masterful, Hanzhi Wang is the first accordionist to win a place on the roster of Young Concert Artists in its 58-year history. Ms. Wang’s debut opens the Young Concert Artists Series in New York, in The Peter Marino Concert at Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall. Her Washington, DC debut opens the Young Concert Artists Series at the Kennedy Center, co-presented with Washington Performing Arts. In July 2018 Musical America named Hanzhi Wang “New Artist of the Month.” In August 2018 Naxos released its first-ever solo accordion CD, Ms. Wang’s In the Path of Hans Christian Andersen. It features music by Danish composers including “The Little Match Girl,” written for her by Martin Lohse. Ms. Wang’s artistry has been recognized by other contemporary composers with works dedicated to her by James Black, Martin Lohse and Sophia Gubaidulina, with whom she has worked extensively.

Continued on page 39 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 23

We can help you achieve your personal goals - and your goal to help others Merrill Lynch is proud to support Opening Nights Performing Arts.

Giving back to your community is important to you - and to us.

That’s why we’re committed to helping you make a difference.

MDWD Wealth Mgmt Advisors Merrill Lynch 215 S. Monroe Street Suite 300 Tallahassee, FL 32301 850.599.8965 www.fa.ml.com/MDWD

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and Member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

© 2018 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

ARV3MQ8V | MLWM-101-AD | 470945PM-1017 | 10/2017

Congratulations Bravo Opening Nights on another exciting season. Bank of America is honored to continue its support of this fantastic organization.

When members of the community support the arts, they help inspire and enrich everyone. Artistic diversity can be a powerful force for unity, creating shared experiences and a desire for excellence.

Bank of America is proud to support Opening Nights at Florida State University for its success in bringing the arts to performers and audiences throughout our community.

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Photo by Karel Suster

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Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir Spiritual Journey Through the Centuries

The Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir was founded in 1932 by Jan Kühn, a distinguished singer, director and choirmaster. Originally founded for the needs of the Czech Radio in Prague, the choir gained notoriety, and in 1952, became part of the Czech Philharmonic, and remained so for 40 years. The choir is now one of the most significant Czech artistic collectives, known not only in Europe, but on all five continents. The choir performed in Japan, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa or Australia and New Zealand. Over the course of its existence it has given thousands of talented children a love of music and art. Its most talented children have grown into distinguished musicians—conductors, directors, composers, singers and instrumentalists. Its tradition and the breadth of its artistic scope make it a unique artistic institution, not only in the Czech Republic but throughout Europe.

Continued on page 39 OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 25

Carlton Fields is pleased to sponsor the 2018-2019 season of Opening Nights Performing Arts Series and Festival.

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The HillBenders

The Who’s Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry “We wanted to pair bluegrass with the other American music we grew up with— rock and roll!” — HillBender Nolan Lawrence “Ever since I was a young boy I played the silver ball,” maybe not your standard bluegrass lyric, but a line known by all the world from the biggest rock opera of all time, The Who’s Tommy. Now, 45 years after its original release, this classic has been fully realized as a full-length bluegrass tribute featuring Springfield, Missouri’s The HillBenders.

Conceived and produced by SXSW co-founder and longtime musician/producer Louis Jay Meyers, this Bluegrass Opry brings a new perspective to Tommy while paying total respect to its creators.

SUPPORTED BY Continued on page 41

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 27

“My father made heros out of everyday people.”

-A.J. Croce

To commemorate what would have been Jim Croce’s 70th birthday several years ago, A.J. performed a concert of his father’s tunes for the first time. Making it a family affair, the show was held at Croce’s, a San Diego club owned by Ingrid Croce (A.J.’s mom and Jim’s widow). The San Diego Union Tribune’s George Varga described A.J.’s performance as a “touching tribute” [that was] all the more touching coming from the son who has grown to become every bit his dad’s artistic equal.”

The evening set the stage for A.J. Croce’s current “Croce Plays Croce” concert, which presents a selection of his own tunes alongside his father’s songs, and including the vintage folk, blues, R&B and early rock ’n’ roll numbers that inspired the two Croces. Sam Cooke, for example, will be one of the artists A.J. covers since his dad frequently did a Cooke tune in his set. A.J. also describes where the songs came from and the connections to the Croces’ music. Not a tribute show, the evening is an entertaining look at how the two men’s songs relate to each other and to the American music that inspired them.

“Croce Plays Croce” features a complete set of classics by A.J.’s father Jim Croce, popular A.J. Croce songs, and music that influenced them both. A.J. photo by Joshua Black Wilkins. Jim photo courtesy of Croce Music Group

A.J. Croce Continued from pg. 13

A.J. was only two years old when Jim Croce died in a tragic airplane crash in 1973, so he didn’t know his father’s music firsthand.

Instead, “I came to love it in the same way everyone else did,” he explained, “by listening to the albums.” While he describes his father’s music as “part of me, part of my life,” A.J. never really performed those songs live. As a piano player, his interests tended to favor the blues and jazz-rooted music of musicians like Ray Charles and Allen Toussaint.

A few years ago, however, A.J. was digitizing some of his father’s old tapes and came across a cassette filled with covers of old blues and

folk tunes by the likes of Fats Waller, Bessie Smith and Pink Anderson. It was a revelation to him. “He was playing stuff I played myself,” A.J. revealed, adding that “stuff made sense” discovering that his father and he had “all the music in common.”

As he started to learn his father’s tunes, A.J. had to do it “the old fashion way, by listening to the recordings” because there were no chord books of Jim Croce music. A.J., who was developing his own guitar playing prowess, was particularly impressed with the complexities of his father’s compositions, especially in interplay between Croce and his longtime collaborator, lead guitarist Maury Muehleisen, who died with Croce in that fatal plane crash.

Jim Croce found long-overdue success in 1972 following years of struggling to make a name in the music business. That year he released two albums, You Don’t Mess Around With Jim and Life and Times, that spawned the hit singles “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim,” “Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels),” “Time in a Bottle” and “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” (the latter two tunes both reached Number #1). His final studio effort, I Got a Name, was released in December of 1973, less than three months after his death. Three more hits (“Workin’ at the Car Wash Blues,” “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song” and the title song) came from that album, which reached #2 in the album charts. A.J. pointed out that these three classic albums amazingly were recorded in just a one-and-a-half-year time period. Jim Croce, who was just 30 years old when he died, has had his folk-rock music remain popular over the years. His record sales have surpassed the 45 million mark, and his songs have appeared on over 375 compilations.

A.J. describes his new album, Just Like Medicine, as a “soul-inspired” record. A.J. collaborated with the legendary producer/songsmith Dan Penn on the release, which features contributions from the great Muscle Shoals OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 29

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SEARCY DENNEY SCAROLA BARNHART k SHIPLEY PA

ATTORNEYS AT LAW WEST PALM BEACH / TALLAHASSEE 800.780.8607 WWW.SEARCYLAW.COM

bassist David Hood, blues guitar master Colin Linden and the renowned gospel singers the McCrary Sisters. This project marks the follow up to A.J.’s last album, the critically acclaimed Twelve Tales, which was released on Nashville-based Compass Records. On that 2014 release, A.J. partnered up with six celebrated producers (Jack Clement, Allen Toussaint, Tony Berg, Mitchell Froom, Greg Cohen and Kevin Killen) who each helmed two tunes. Steve Leggett,in All Music Guide, proclaimed it a “special achievement,” while Blurt’s Lee Zimmerman hailed it as “a pop-perfect album … [that’s] a contender as the breakout bonanza of the year.”

Brian Regan Continued from pg. 15

Brian premiered his seventh hour of comedy, the Netflix special, Brian Regan: Nunchucks And Flamethrowers, on Nov. 21, 2017. This is the first special in a two-special deal with Netflix, joining Brian with Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Jerry Seinfeld and others in multispecial deals with the leader in worldwide streaming. Brian’s second Netflix special is planned for release in 2019.

Taking a leap into the acting world, director Peter Farrelly personally cast Brian in his new TV series, Loudermilk, on The Audience Network. Loudermilk premiered to rave reviews on Oct. 17, 2017, with Brian earning accolades in the role of “Mugsy,” a recovering addict who is estranged from his family. Brian shot the second season of Loudermilk this past summer.

Brian appeared at Carnegie Hall on Nov. 11, 2017, following years of performances in New York City’s finest theaters, including Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall, The Beacon Theater and Radio City Music Hall. Brian’s tour has included regular visits to Denver’s legendary 8,600-seat Red Rocks Amphitheater and the 12,500-seat EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City.

In 2015, Brian made history with his stand-up special, Brian Regan: Live From Radio City Music Hall, as the first live broadcast of a standup special in Comedy Central’s history.

A regular on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy

In 2015, Brian made history with his stand-up special, Brian Regan: Live From Radio City Music Hall, as the first live broadcast of a stand-up special in Comedy Central’s history.

Fallon, Brian is the rare guest who the show invites on for two segments: a performance segment and a segment on the couch to chat with Jimmy. Previously, Brian was a regular guest on The Late Show with David Letterman, making 28 appearances on the CBS show.

Brian made a scene-stealing cameo in Chris Rock’s film, Top Five, and he is a guest on Seinfeld’s Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, which is now streaming on Netflix.

Brian has seven hour-long comedy releases: Brian Regan: Nunchucks and Flamethrowers (2017) – Available on Netflix Brian Regan: Live From Radio City Music Hall (2015) – Broadcast live on Comedy Central, now available on CD & DVD and as a video or audio download All By Myself (2010) only available as a CD or download only through his website

The Epitome of Hyperbole (2008) – Premiered on Comedy Central, now available on DVD Brian Regan Standing Up (2007) – Premiered on Comedy Central, now available on DVD I Walked on the Moon (2004) - Available on DVD or as an audio or video download only through his website Brian Regan Live (1997) - Available on CD

1964 The Tribute Continued from pg. 17

MARK BENSON (JOHN LENNON)

Mark was introduced to music playing drums and piano at the age of 8.

At 17, he started playing guitar and became OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 31

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For those that never saw The Beatles live and always wanted to know what it must have been like…this is as close as anyone could possibly get to…feeling the magic! Photo by Steven Gardner

fascinated by the different sounds that different guitars made and started servicing, repairing and building guitars, which he learned how to do at Lay’s Guitar Repair in Akron, Ohio.

Is Love, Nine Hours in November, Bootleg Vol.

ATP, all while working full time as a land

Mark says, “1964 shows the audience what it

Mac, not a natural ‘south paw’, spent the better

He made guitars for Eddie Van Halen and Jackson Browne and sold vintage guitars to The Rolling Stones, The Who, Bad Company, Hall and Oates, Ted Nugent, ZZ Top, The Eagles, Alvin Lee, Joe Walsh, The Allman Brothers, The Cars, David Lindley, Cheap Trick and the Doobie Brothers.

sixties and generates the same feeling of happiness

guitar left handed, like Paul McCartney. In

Mark played guitar in the local Ohio bands Ashes, Raintree, Coconut, Mr. French and Bock (with 1964 co-founder, the late Gary Grimes).

In 1984 Mark and Gary, started “1964 The Tribute.”

“We had no idea when we first started this band, that it would lead to us performing at so many of the venues The Beatles played, like Carnegie Hall, Red Rocks Amphitheater, The Deauville Hotel, Shea Stadium, and The Cavern in Liverpool, England.”

He currently produces all aspects of the show and produced the “1964” CDs, All You Need

1 and 30/50 Celebration.

was like to attend a Beatles concert in the early

that is still generated by the music of The Beatles.

We get so much of this positive energy back from our audiences, it reassures us that for now, we are where we are supposed to be.”

MAC RUFFING (PAUL MCCARTNEY)

Mac was born and raised near Cleveland, Ohio, and as a young child started listening to his

older sisters’ Beatles records. The first album he ever bought was The Beatles 1962-66,

which is exactly what 1964 The Tribute does, and is still his favorite music.

Mac started playing the drums at 15, and at

17 he bought a Kingston violin bass (a Hofner

knockoff) at a local music store and unknowingly started his roll as “Paul.”

He played in several Southern California

original, Top 40 and Beatles cover groups, including Help!, Imagine, The Yanks and

surveyor.

part of a year training himself to play the bass 1993 he joined the Beatles tribute Beatlemania

Live!, touring the world, which led to his “passing the audition” in 2009 and joining the

touring cast of the Beatles show ‘RAIN’ on Broadway and in theaters and performing arts centers all over the world.

In 1982 he met 1964 The Tribute co-founders,

Mark and Gary, and over the years subbed on occasion with the band. He joined the band full time in 2013, and has since been performing

some of the world’s best music with the world’s best Beatles tribute band.

Mac also plays the piano and guitar. Mac has

immersed himself in the role of Paul McCartney and looks forward to recreating the magic of the Beatles at every 1964 The Tribute show.

TOM WORK (GEORGE HARRISON)

Tom is a co-founder of “1964” The Tribute, OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 33

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and is the act’s first George. Tom began playing guitar at the age of 7, and following high school he studied music at the University of Akron. Since the late 1960s Tom has played and sung in a variety of ensembles. During high school and college he played flute, sousaphone and bassoon in the marching and symphony bands; professionally, Tom has worked in well over a dozen cover bands, most notably Dogs ‘n Kids, The Lou Ciriano Combo, My Old School and The Jerry Bruno Orchestra.

Tom even sang lead for eight years in a barbershop quartet (believe it or not, it’s true!).

Tom also worked in over 20 musical theatre productions, both onstage in leading roles, and behind the scenes as producer and music director.

“Performing onstage in a band is really where I belong,” Tom says, “although conducting the pit orchestra, for me, is every bit as exciting—and even more challenging! It’s a very rewarding experience to help extract top-notch performances from people, to guide performers to their pinnacle. There’s nothing quite like sitting in the orchestra pit on opening night and hearing an actor deliver his or her best-ever performance!”

then Shake, Rattle N’ Roll and played the nightclubs there for 10 years. He then moved to Las Vegas and played the Nevada casino circuit. Capitalizing on his experience he backed such greats as Chris Montez, Billy Swan, Jewel Akens, Al Wilson, J.J. Jackson, The Coasters, The Drifters, The Dell Vikings, 7 show/lounge acts and too many Elvis impersonators to mention.

Graeme James

Still wanting to achieve his personal “Ringo” goal he joined two Beatles tributes, spending eight years in this endeavor. His personality shines onstage as he authentically reproduces every beat and moves his head to the music portraying Ringo with precision and style.

This accomplished artist transports the audience to the carefree magical era with his voice when he performs “Boys” and “Act Naturally.” Bobby is thrilled to be a member of 1964 The Tribute! He states, “In the tribute world, you can’t get any closer or higher up than this for authenticity, style and sound in the same way The Beatles performed live.”

Unsigned Only. “Alive” was the lead single

Continued from pg. 19

Graeme had always written his own songs, but it wasn’t until 2015 that he began to release them. His original music met with immediate interest and his first single “Alive” placed second in the singer-songwriter/folk category of the international songwriting competition, from his debut album News From Nowhere, which took Graeme on a string of sold out shows around New Zealand and Australia.

Just a few months after releasing News From

Nowhere on Spotify, his music started to gain significant traction with international

audiences, especially in the United States and Canada. This led to him being discovered on Spotify by Nettwerk CEO Terry McBride and the resulting label signing has helped propel him onto the international stage, cementing him as a folk artist to watch.

In 2006 Tom returned to 1964 The Tribute, ending a 12-year sabbatical. “During my time away from 1964 I worked with a few of the other Beatles shows,” he notes. “I learned a great deal and forged close friendships with some great people, but there’s nowhere I’d rather be, no group of performers I’d rather work with than 1964. It’s great to be back!”

BOBBY POTTER (RINGO STARR)

Bobby was born in Indiana. He started taking snare drum lessons in the 5th grade and got his first set of drums in the 7th grade. Later, when The Beatles arrived on the music scene, he made it a personal goal to be like Ringo.

He played in 3 bands through high school­—a Tijuana Brass band, high school pep band and a top 40 band. He helped form a popular local band that performed in his hometown and surrounding area teen clubs. He later moved to Champaign, Illinois, and joined a band that performed in and around the tri-state area.

Wanting to spread his wings he then set his sights on the west coast and moved to Los Angeles where he helped form The Finders,

Graeme James has accumulated over 15 million streams on Spotify, giving him significant traction with international audiences.

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 35

The law firm of Nelson Mullins Broad and Cassel is proud to sponsor and support Opening Nights in its mission to enrich the community through education and art.

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Having accumulated over 15 million streams online, Graeme is excited to be releasing a new single and embarking on a 34-date tour of North America. “The Times Are Changing” Tour allows fans new and old the opportunity to see his exciting one man show for the first time.

Graeme is excited to be joined by U.S. singersongwriter Alex Preston. Preston was sprung into the spotlight when he placed second on American Idol 2014 and has since worked with artists such as Jason Mraz, Of Monsters and Men, Zoe Deschanel and Randy Jackson.

Late Night Tailgate Continued from pg. 21

SAGE ROSENFELS

Sage Rosenfels is a former 12-year NFL journeyman quarterback, playing for the Washington Redskins, the Miami Dolphins (twice), the Houston Texans, the Minnesota Vikings (twice) and the New York Giants. A 4th Round pick in the 2001 NFL Draft, Sage was a two-year starter at Iowa State University, where he led the program to its first bowl win and best record in program history. In high school, Sage was an all-around athlete, lettering in football, basketball, baseball, tennis and track, and a member of the National Honor Society to boot, graduating from Maquoketa High School in 1996 with a 4.0 GPA. Sage

Sage Rosenfels

now lives in Omaha, where he spends time with his three children. In his post-playing career, Sage now uses his unique insight and football acumen as a writing contributor for The Athletic Minnesota and theScore.com. Sage also serves as a color analyst for Iowa State games on Cyclones TV and a radio host for ESPN 1500 in Minnesota. Additionally, Sage has found a passion for philanthropy, most recently helping build houses in developing nations.

McArthur,” the fantasy football league

SARAH TIANA

where he honed his skills amongst comedy

commissioner on the show.

Steve filmed his second, one-hour comedy special, Breaking Dad, at the historic Wilbur

Theatre in Boston. This special follows Rannazzisi’s 2013 critically acclaimed Comedy Central special Steve Rannazzisi: Manchild.

Pursuing his dream, Steve moved to Los Angeles and began performing at the worldfamous Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard,

Originally from Calhoun, Georgia, Sarah Tiana has been seen on @Midnight on Comedy Central, Chelsea Lately, The Josh Wolf Show and is a writer for Jeff Ross and The Burn. An avid sports fan, Sarah wrote for the ESPY awards and the Rob Riggle NFL segments on FOX.

veterans such as Eddie Griffin, Joe Rogan, and

A downright ‘Merican, Sarah has done over 12 tours of comedy for the troops, including Germany, Singapore, Afghanistan, and several Wounded Warrior Facilities. A trip to Iraq at the beginning of the war is highlighted in the documentary film, We Love You Mrs. Bevins. She can be seen at The World Famous Comedy Store, Twitter, and in numerous unhealthy relationships in and around Los Angeles.

sitcom, Big Day, and in See Jayne Run. Steve

STEVE RANNAZZISI

For over 15 years, Steve Rannazzisi has made audiences laugh. Rannazzisi starred in the critically acclaimed FX Network comedy series, The League, which is produced by Jeff and Jackie Schaffer. Steve plays “Kevin

Sarah Tiana

Andrew Dice Clay. He quickly caught the attention of Ashton Kutcher and got his first taste of television as a cast member on MTV’s Punk’d in 2003.

He was then cast as a series regular on the ABC also appeared on Kitchen Confidential alongside

Bradley Cooper, Samantha Who? with Christina Applegate, and additional shows

such as State of Romance, Love Bites, Trust Me, Out-Sourced and his own web series Daddy Knows Best.

Steve is also a prolific stand-up comedian. His stand-up has appeared on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and is featured in the stand-up special Pauly Shore & Friends.

A die hard New York Giants, Yankees, Knicks and Rangers fan, Steve resides in New York and Los Angeles with his family.

Steve Rannazzisi OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 37

Dr. Linda J. Smith

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and Portugal’s International Accordion Festival. To inspire the next generation of young accordionists, Ms. Wang has lectured, performed and given master classes at the Manhattan School of Music, Royal Danish Academy of Music, Tianjin Music Conservatory, Beijing’s Capital Normal University, Tilburg and Ghent Music Conservatories (Belgium), and the inaugural 2018 Nordaccordion Festival in Norway.

Hanzhi Wang holds YCA’s Ruth Laredo Prize and the Mortimer Levitt Career Development Award for Women Artists of YCA. She earned her Bachelor’s degree at the China Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and her Master’s degree at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen as a student of Geir Draugsvoll.

Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir Continued from pg. 25

The choir’s outstanding reputation is evidenced by the numerous awards and official honors it has won, including the European Grand Prix in 1998. The choir is regularly invited to major music festivals and on concert tours. In addition to giving independent performances, it also collaborates with leading orchestras and operas. The Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir has worked with the National Theatre in Prague since 1936, where children from the choir take roles in operas.

Competition in Italy. She has served on the

Among the choir’s greatest achievements are appearances at La Scala, Milan, Carnegie Hall in New York, the Tchaikovsky Hall of the Moscow Conservatoire, and the Bregenzer Festspiele. The Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir has also emerged victorious in a number of international choir competitions (Paris, Princeton, Wuppertal, Tolosa, Arezzo), including a world record three wins at the prestigious competition at Tolos in Spain.

During its existence, the choir has recorded over 50 CDs of both Czech and international music.

The Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir has its own unique and exceptional sound.

jury for the Accordion Competition of Rome

The naturalness of the children’s voices, their

Hanzhi Wang is the first accordionist to win a place on the roster of Young Concert Artists in its 50year history. Photo by Matt Dine

Hanzhi Wang

Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle (North

Continued from pg. 23

Arts Prize; and at the Krannert Center at the

As First Prize Winner of the 2017 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, Ms. Wang won performance prizes with the Candlelight Concert Society in Columbia,

Carolina); the University of Florida Performing University of Illinois in Urbana. Ms. Wang also appears next season with the IRIS Orchestra in Tennessee, at the Bravo! Vail Music Festival, and at YCA alumnus Alexander

Maryland; the Sinfonia Gulf Coast in Destin,

Fiterstein’s Clarinet Academy in Minneapolis.

Florida; the Tri-I Noon Recitals at Rockefeller

In 2015, Ms. Wang won First Prize in the 40th

University in New York City; the Vancouver Recital Society; Tannery Pond Concerts (New York), the Usedom (Germany) Festival; the

Castelfidardo International Accordion

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 39

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The HillBenders

“The Dynamic bluegrass quintet with their high-octane shows, tight harmonies and stunning instrumental prowess, appeals to anyone that enjoys a fun performance.” purity and polish are immediately captivating.

The choir currently has almost 900 members, making it the largest choir in the Czech Republic, with children attending the choir from three years of age. The choir’s best concert division is, in age and sound, more akin to a youth choir.

octane shows, tight harmonies and stunning

something new. At the same time we’re not

instrumental prowess, have been winning fans

afraid to be looked down upon—all of that

and making waves at every festival where they have been invited, and consequently re-invited to since their formation in 2008. Signed to Nashville-based roots music company the Compass Records Group, The HillBenders released their album Can You Hear Me? in

September 2012, presenting an intensely

The HillBenders Continued from pg. 27

charismatic album imbued with the spirit and energy of their live shows.

“Our music appeals to anyone that can enjoy

formality melts away when we just be ourselves.”

The HillBenders recognize their ability to bridge the gap between the common music consumer and the bluegrass genre, selecting material for the album that defies any hillbilly stigmas. Nolan comments, “With our widely varied influences, we’re all trying to bring in songs that unify. We wanted to pair bluegrass with the other American music we grew up

The original rock opera composed by guitarist Pete Townshend tells the story about a deaf, dumb and blind boy, including his experiences with life and the relationship with his family.

It’s amazing to hear banjo, dobro, mandolin, bass, and guitar bring the same energy and vision to Tommy as The Who did with a full rock band and orchestra.

a fun performance. We share a passion for the

says Chad “Gravy Boat” Graves. “They are

Nolan Lawrence - Mandolin

The dynamic bluegrass quintet with their high-

saying that it is really refreshing to see

Chad “Gravy Boat” Graves - Dobro

music, a passion to perform,” says guitarist Jim Rea. “It’s evident we have fun on stage. People come up to us and say sarcastically, ‘liven up!”’

“A lot of people, even at the more traditional festivals, tell us ‘You guys are so fun to listen to!’ This comes from the die-hard traditionalists,

with—rock and roll!”

THE BAND Mark Cassidy - Banjo Gary Rea - Bass Jim Rea - Guitar

OPENINGNIGHTS.FSU.EDU | 41

PR IM E M E R ID IAN BAN K INVITES YOU TO JOIN US IN WELCOMING A FRESH NE W VOICE IN MODERN BLUEGR ASS

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Tallahassee is a city of artistic expression and we support Opening Nights as a shining example of creativity in our community.

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The purpose of “Opening Nights in Class” is to educate, illuminate and inspire.

Opening Nights at Florida State University is committed to providing our campus and the Big Bend area with educational and engaging opportunities so that students and residents can enjoy cultural activities. Our series of educational programs provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences through school performances, master classes and workshops with world-renowned performers at no charge to participants. Through the generous contribution of these supporters, Opening Nights is able to expand its educational offerings during the 2018-19 Season.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS Graeme James - AT&T High School Series Graeme James will take Lincoln High School students on his unconventional musical journey from the streets to the stage. Sharing his stories of learning the violin at a young age to “busking” with his dad, Graeme measures his success by performing to evolving crowds, setting and achieving crowd funding goals and reminiscing about the day he discovered the power of the loop pedal. As part of this musical journey, Graeme will have band, chorus, orchestra, guitar and piano students participate by creating an original song live on stage.

Hanzhi Wang

As a graduate of the China Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing and Young Concert Artist, Hanzhi Wang’s career has already taken her around the globe with performances in Europe, America and Asia. Ms. Wang will interact with students as part of FSU’s Center for Global Engagement’s Engage Your World: Intercultural Dialogue Series. The mission of this series is to bring people from diverse backgrounds together to respectfully discuss a variety of global topics.

Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir

Raa Middle School will host the Prague Philharmonic Children’s Choir for a one-of-a-kind dance performance. Raa became an arts magnet school during the 2008-09 school year, giving students the choice to study drama, band, choir, dance and the visual arts. The choir’s performance serves to inspire and demonstrate to students that they can pursue a successful and fulfilling career in the performing arts—even at a young age.

Opening Nights in Class is striving to expand arts programming to more students in Leon County and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions about how you, your school, students or community group can be involved, please contact Calla MacNamara at cmacnamara@fsu.edu or 850-644-2469.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Florida State University’s Opening Nights has partnered with the Florida Center for Reading Research to develop educational materials for K-12 students that enhance learning beyond the performance. Created and designed for each individual performance and grade appropriate, these original resources use evidence-based educational strategies that complement and enrich traditional literacy curriculum. This collaborative partnership is enriching students and educators learning experience by inspiring creativity and achievement through the performing arts.

The Florida Center for Reading Research is a multidisciplinary research center at Florida State University that explores all aspects of reading research—basic research into literacy-related skills for typically developing readers and those who struggle, studies of effective prevention and intervention, and psychometric work on formative assessment. For more information, please contact Nathan Archer at narcher@fcrr.org.

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