State of the Arts
Letter from Afghanistan Page 29
Page 23
Page 28
The newspaper for the new millennium
510-494-1999
tricityvoice@aol.com
March 9, 2012
www.tricityvoice.com
BY JULIE GRABOWSKI PHOTOS BY DANIEL DESMARAIS Take a thrilling journey through the evolution of man with the dynamic artistry of Cirque du Soleil in their Bay Area production of TOTEM. Fourteen acts follow the rise and progression of the human species, stirring the senses, firing the imagination, and revealing the wonder of human abilities. “Inspired by the foundation narratives of the first peoples, TOTEM explores the birth and evolution of the world, the relentless curiosity of human beings and their constant desire to excel,” says show writer and director Robert Lepage. “The word TOTEM suggests that human beings carry in their bodies the full potential of
Vol. 11 No. 20
all living species, even the Thunderbird’s desire to fly to the top of the TOTEM.” A giant turtle rests on the island stage in a reed-lined marsh, a symbol of the Earth and the origins of life. Clothed in 4,500 mirrors, crystals, and reflective elements, The Crystal Man (Joseph Putignano) represents the life force; his singular, shimmering decent from the heights of the Grand Chapiteau (Big Top) sparking the beginning of life. At his touch, the turtle skin is drawn away to reveal a catch of frogs and fish at play on its skeleton, leaping and spinning around parallel bars in a jubilant display of early life. The wonder and awe continues throughout the evening as attendees are treated to one impressive feat after another. continued on page 2
INDEX It’s a date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Mind Twisters . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Movie Theater List . . . . . . . . . 8
Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Obituary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Places of Worship . . . . . . . . . 36
Public Notices. . . . . . . . . . . . 20