CFP NEWS Headlines:
Gillioz Theatre to show "Blue Velvet" (1986) and “Rear Window ” (1954) / Fresh Features Trio of Artists in July / Visual Artist Alliance of Springfield Art Show / Auditions for Springfield-Drury Civic Orchestra / 3rd Annual "Sounds on the Square" Summer Concert Series / Librarian-columnist Jeanne Duffey to speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at Springfield Writers' Guild / Springfield Little Theatre Announces AUDITION NOTICE for Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" / Maschino’s to Host Art Exhibition / Springfield Regional Arts Council and Forest Institute Partner on “Mixed Media Fast and Fun” / Springfield Regional Arts Council to Host "Wonders Of Watercolor" Workshop / Springfield Symphony Names New Marketing Manager Ellie Swogger / Opening Artist Reception to be Held at The Center for Plastic Surgery / Springfield Little Theatre Announces AUDITION NOTICE for Mel Brooks' "THE PRODUCERS" / Park Central Square Art Show & Exhibit / Springfield Regional Arts Council Announces New Executive Director / Librarian-Columnist Jeanne Duffey to speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at Springfield Writers' Guild / 3rd Annual "Sounds on the Square" Summer Concert Series / Springfield Native Jay Jackson Innovates with Shakespeare Sings / June 5 Art Walk adds another venue, artist / Marilyn Quigley and Allan Young To Speak To Creamery Writers' Workshops / Second Annual Springfield Little Film Festival / Drury Singers to Perform in the Vatican / Brenda Turner Paintings on Display at Circuit Clerk's Office / 16th Century Japanese Woodblock Print Demonstration at Creamery / Springfield Regional Arts Council's Sandra CH Smith Resigns / Phelps Helps Concert Series for Charity Returns in 2009 / MoPoetry Slam / First Show Me Art! Exhibition and IDEA Expo Panel on Public Art at Creamery / Local Library Jumps On The Art Wagon / The Skinny Improv and The Swan Repertory Theatre Company: Call for Talent / Arts Council to Host Encaustic Monotype Workshop / Springfield Art Museum Announces 2009 Summer Studio Classes / Notice to all Artists and Crafters / Missouri Literary Festival Launches Fiction Contest / Family Fun Galore at Art On The Farm June 6 & 7 / Greene County Offices to Host Local Artwork / Local Author To Share Recipe For Making Money Selling Stories / C-Street Jam goes Green / Columbia Art League presents the 51st annual Art in the Park / Springfield Little Theatre Announces Their Newest Staff Member Kim McCracken / Artsfest 2009 Award Winners / Seymour Area Arts Council: Art in the Park / Springfield Symphony Rounding Out the Season with Grammy Nominated Irish Group – “Cherish the Ladies” / Springfield Ballet and Ozarks Food Harvest Present Dance Chance In-Studio Performance / Trio De Jewel: Three dames and their gems, to open this Friday / Gillioz Theatre company begins season with Waiting for Godot / Creamery To Hold Sea Glass Creations Workshop May 16th / Pizza House Shares Rare Photographs / Creamery to Host "Watermedia Collage Workshop"

 

 
Arts & Entertainment Press Releases:
Gillioz Theatre to show "Blue Velvet" (1986)
Thu 7/2/2009 1:56 PM

SPRINGFIELD, MO – The Gillioz Theatre, in partnership with Poor Thespians Productions, will present the film “Blue Velvet” (1986) at 10 pm July 9th – July 11th. Tickets are only $5, general admission. Tickets may be purchased at the Gillioz Theatre Box Office one hour prior to the 10 pm shows June 25th – 27th or by calling (417) 863-9491.

The Gillioz Theatre, in partnership with Poor Thespians Productions, brings a new “After Dark Film Series” to the largest screen in Springfield! The After Dark Series will present cutting-edge cinema classics to contrast the mainstream revival classics usually seen at the Gillioz Theatre.

The movie tells the story of a man who returns to his home town after being away and discovers a severed human ear in a field. Not satisfied with the police's pace, he and the police detective's daughter carry out their own investigation. The object of his investigation turns out to be a beautiful and mysterious woman involved with a violent and perversely evil man.

Tickets may be purchased at the Gillioz Theatre Box Office one hour prior to the 10 pm shows July 9th – July 11th or by calling (417) 863-9491. The Gillioz Theatre is located at 325 Park Central East.

For more information, contact Janie Ellenburg, Office Manager for the Gillioz Theatre, or visit www.gillioz.org.

Gillioz Theatre to show “Rear Window ” (1954)
Thu 7/2/2009 1:56 PM

Springfield, MO – The Gillioz Theatre, in partnership with Poor Thespians Productions will present the film “Rear Window” (1954) at 7:00 p.m. July 10th & July 11th. This Alfred Hitchcock classic is the perfect excuse to sit close and hold on tight to your special someone during this date night.

Tickets will be available for $5.00 at the Gillioz Theatre Box Office one hour before show time or you may call (417) 863-9491.

Photographer L.B. "Jeff" Jeffries is confined to his small apartment with a broken leg. To pass the time, he watches the goings-on of his motley assortment of neighbors--a frustrated yet fun-loving composer, a middle-aged couple with a small dog, a dancer who seems to enjoy practicing her routines while scantily clad, a pair of reclusive newlyweds, a lonely woman who seems to live in a fantasy world, and a salesman and his invalid wife. One day the wife inexplicably disappears, and the salesman starts doing things that lead Jeff to suspect that he may have murdered her. Unfortunately, he has no proof and no one seems to believe him. Eventually, however, things start falling together in a way that makes it look like Jeff might just be right after all. Finally he, his girlfriend Lisa and his nurse Stella come up with a plan to catch the killer red-handed. But doing so could put all of their lives in danger.

Tickets may be purchased at the Gillioz Theatre Box Office one hour prior to the 7 pm shows July 10 & July 11th or by calling (417) 863-9491. The Gillioz Theatre is located at 325 Park Central East.

For more information, contact Janie Ellenburg, Office Manager for the Gillioz Theatre, or visit www.gillioz.org.

Fresh Features Trio of Artists in July
Tue 6/30/2009 1:07 PM

JUNE 30, 2009 – Fresh, a collective gallery of fine art and craft located at the southwest corner of Campbell Avenue and Walnut Street in downtown Springfield, is proud to announce a trio of featured artists for July, two of whom have been accepted into Watercolor USA 2009.

DOLORES BAUER is a retired health professional and self-described “hobby painter,” as well as a mother of two and grandmother of three who has been married for 43 years. Dolores works in watercolor and acrylic, and in her art she focuses on the capacity to touch or move the viewer. She is a new member of Watercolor USA 2009.
ALICIA FARRIS is an award-winning Missouri artist who works in watercolor and acrylic. A Springfield resident since 1993, Alicia strives to express her passion for color and for the beauty of nature in her paintings. She is a member of the Springfield Regional Arts Council, Springfield Visual Arts Alliance, Springfield Plein Air, Missouri Watercolor Society, Best of Missouri Hands, a signature member of St. Louis Watercolor Society and Watercolor USA 2009.

 

MARY HAMILTON graduated from Southwest Missouri State University – now MSU – in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in art education. Living in Springfield for 35 years, she taught at Springfield Public Schools for 15 years and is now a full-time artist whose talents are expressed in acrylic, mixed media, pen and ink, watercolor and graphite.

Visual Artist Alliance of Springfield Art Show
Mon 6/29/2009 2:25 PM

The Visual Artist Alliance of Springfield (formerly SVAA) will hold a reception for its Summer 2009 Juried Art Show from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 31, on the fifth floor of the Juanita K. Hammonds Hall for the Performing Arts. The Art Show continues until Saturday, September 12. The show and reception are FREE and open to the public. The event is accessible to the disabled.

Any artist 16 years or older is welcome to enter work to be juried for the Summer Art Show on Saturday, July 25 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Juanita K. Hammons Hall. There is an entry fee for nonmembers, but members may enter up to three works at no charge. Membership is $25 per year, and is prorated if you join later in the year.

Auditions for Springfield-Drury Civic Orchestra
Fri 6/26/2009 3:50 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., June 26, 2009 —The Springfield-Drury Civic Orchestra is now accepting new members for the 2009-2010 season.

All players of orchestral string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments are welcome to audition. The Springfield-Drury Civic Orchestra, a regional community orchestra serving Southwest Missouri and Northern Arkansas, presents three concerts during the academic year. The orchestra comprises a mixture of dedicated enthusiasts, professional educators and performers, and advanced college and high school students.

For more information, please contact the Music Director, Dr. Christopher Koch, at (417) 873-7298 or e-mail him at ckoch@drury.edu. Visit the Springfield-Drury Orchestra online at http://sdco.drury.edu for detailed information and performance excerpts.

3rd Annual "Sounds on the Square" Summer Concert Series
Mon 6/15/2009 12:40 PM

June 19 & 20

Springfield, MO - June 15, 2009 Pension Consultants Inc. and the Urban Districts Alliance present the 3rd weekend of performances for the 3rd annual "Sounds on the Square" free summer concert series, featuring local musical groups in a one-of-a-kind out door venue, Park Central Square. It's another great weekend of local musical talent performing downtown. Bring your lawn chairs, throw down a blanket or enjoy dinner on the square in one of three outdoor cafes while enjoying great local music.

This free family-friendly event continues on June 19 starting at 5 pm and on June 20 at 7 pm. It will also be the third weekend for the Downtown Friday Night Farmers Market on Park Central Square from 3:30 to 8 pm.

The music begins at 5:00 pm on Friday, June 19th with a student band from the Pelligrino School of Music called Ultimate Evolution. At 6:00 pm its Electra 225, a band formed with four veteran musicians from the Springfield, MO area, they have years of experience playing with several different bands using those experiences to create a unique sound. 7:00 pm will kick off 90 a minute accordion extravaganza with The Accordion Connection featuring Lou LeBrun, Sharon Fox, John Stanczak, CJ Willoughby, Jane Pearson, Sharon Mahurin. Le Grande Dames start at 8:00 pm Sharon Fox and Lou BeBrun who both began studying the accordion since the age of 7 and both are former instructors who are determined to show just what an accordion can do. Our final accordion performance will showcase Lou LeBrun at 8:30. The final performance of the evening will be The Departed beginning at 9:00 pm. The Departed is another student band from the Pelligrino School of music.

On Saturday, June 20th the music begins at 7 pm with Nathaniel Carol & Sam Lowry followed by the featured performers of the evening Tony Menown and the Expectations.

A close knit group that performs original songs and cover tunes the Expectations return to Sounds on the Square having played in both the 2007 and the 2008 concert seasons. Featuring Tony Menown, Dustin Willliams, Chris More, and Jerry Menown on lead guitar their music comes from a variety of influences including Bob Dylan, Steely Dan, and Elvis Costello.

The "Sounds on the Square" summer concert series continues in July with scheduled performances on July 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25. Friday night performances begin at 5 pm with Saturday night performances beginning at 7 pm.

For a complete list of scheduled performances as presented by event sponsors, Pension Consultants, Empire Bank, Hoover Music, Community Improvement District, Trader's Printing and Sounds Great, The Band Room and The FourFour, please visit www.itsalldowntown.com.
 
Librarian-columnist Jeanne Duffey to speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at Springfield Writers' Guild
Mon 6/15/2009 10:53 AM

Librarian and columnist Jeanne Duffey will speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at the next Springfield Writers' Guild meeting, Saturday, June 27, at 1 :00 p.m. at the Heritage Cafeteria, on Battlefield Road at Fremont Street in Springfield. Her SWG presentation will address such topics as what books are popular now, and why—and what, and if, some kinds of publications are now passé.

Duffey currently writes a weekly column for the Springfield News-Leader. She worked as a reporter for several years on both daily and weekly newspapers after graduating from the journalism school at the University of Missouri. In the following years she says she "moved around the Midwest to almost everything you could do with a journalism degree— advertising copywriter, magazine production editor, agency vice president."

For the past 20 years, Duffey has marketed and promoted the Springfield-Greene County Library District, "a product I can really get behind where I use all the skills I've gained through the years."

Preceding her presentation will be the regular mentor/critique hour beginning at 11 a.m. A lunch break will follow at 12 noon. The one o'clock presentation and the critique hour are both open to visitors. Only the work of members of the guild will be critiqued, however the session has proved to be a valuable learning tool for all who attend.

Springfield Little Theatre Announces AUDITION NOTICE for Disney's "Alice in Wonderland"
Mon 6/15/2009 7:03 AM

Springfield MO - June 15, 2009 - Join Alice's madcap adventures in Wonderland as she chases the White Rabbit, races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with the Tweedles, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar, and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game! This fast-paced stage adaptation of Alice in Wonderland features updated dialogue and new arrangements of such classic Disney songs as "I'm Late," "The Un-birthday Song" and "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah."

Book adapted and additional lyrics by David Simpatico

Music Adapted and Arranged Additional Music and Lyrics by Bryan Louiselle

Based on the 1951 Disney film "Alice in Wonderland" and the novels
"The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking Glass" by Lewis Carroll

Auditions for SPRINGFIELD LITTLE THEATRE'S opening production of its 75th Anniversary Family Series Season, Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND, JUNIOR, will be held Monday, August 17 and Tuesday, August 18 at 7:00 p.m. on stage at the Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut. Callbacks are scheduled for Wednesday, August 19 at 7:00 p.m.

All auditioning should prepare a one-minute vocal selection and bring sheet music. An accompanist will be provided.

Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND, JUNIOR will be directed and choreographed by Lorianne Dunn.

Roles are plentiful in Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND, JUNIOR. The show requires a large cast of performers 18 and under.

Performance dates:

Thursday, October 22, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 23, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 24, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 24, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 25, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 29, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 30, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 31, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 31, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 1, 2:30 p.m.

In addition, two days of special daytime performances for area school children will be held:Tuesday, October 27 at 9:30 a.m.; 11:15 a.m., and 1:00 p.m. and Wednesday, October 28 at 9:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m.; and 1:00 p.m. ALL cast members will be expected to be available for ALL performances-no exceptions. Additional promotional appearances TBA.

Rehearsals for Disney's ALICE IN WONDERLAND, JUNIOR will be held Sunday afternoons between the hours of 1:00-5:00 p.m. and Monday-Thursdays between the hours of 6:00-8:00 p.m. until September 27. From September 27-October 21, rehearsals will be scheduled Sunday-Thursdays between the hours of 6:00-10:00 p.m. (Of course, not everyone will be called every evening, with the exception of tech week October 18-21.)

Maschino’s to Host Art Exhibition
Thu 6/11/2009 12:13 PM

Maschino’s and the Springfield Regional Arts Council have teamed up to feature local and regional artists as part of the Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program. Opening June 22, work by Dale Augustson, Robert Calhoun and Rosalie Perryman will be featured throughout Maschino’s. Meet the artists during an opening reception on Friday, June 26, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. The exhibit will remain through August 2 and is free and open to the public Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dale Augustson works in a variety of media including stained glass, acrylic collage painting, and mosaics. Augustson teaches classes at Ozark Technical Community College where he also has work on display in the Continuing Education office. His work has been on display regularly at Hawthorne Gallery and Tall Grass Art Gallery in the Chicago area. Augustson is a member of the Springfield Visual Arts Alliance, Barton County Arts Council, and The Best of Missouri Hands.

Robert Calhoun strives to help the viewer understand and feel what he creates. Through his work in portraiture, Calhoun tells stories of his subject. Calhoun derives great satisfaction from the simple tactile sensations of mixing oils or acrylics and the magic of seeing, smelling, and feeling his art come alive. Calhoun will be on hand during the reception presenting a live painting demonstration.

Rosalie Perryman has been an amateur photographer, watercolor, oil, acrylic and digital artist for 10 years. Perryman uses her passion for photography to capture nature and to see the beauty of nature in an artistic way. Work by Perryman has been exhibited at Waverly House Gallery, Bellwether Gallery, area libraries and restaurants. Perryman works out of her studio at the Jubilee Theatre Center in Marshfield.

For more information about this exhibit or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-2787(ARTS) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Springfield Regional Arts Council and Forest Institute Partner on “Mixed Media Fast and Fun”
Wed 6/10/2009 4:02 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a one-day mixed media workshop every Friday in June, starting June 12, at Forest Institute, 2885 W. Battlefield, Springfield, MO, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Locked into the corporate world and need a creative break? Experienced professional artist Stephanie Cramer will open up a new world of fast and fun creative energy as she helps you see and explore colors, shapes, forms, motion, time, dreams, and even your life history so you can express these relationships with acrylic paint and mixed media.

Bring photocopies of your handwritten letters, poems, stamps, tickets, playing cards, scrabble letters, anything at all that you want to incorporate into an abstract painting. Sign up for one class, but two classes are even better for you to complete your painting.

This workshop is for the beginner as well as the intermediate painter. Cost of the workshop is $15 per class plus an additional $15 for materials, and lunch is provided.

Pre-registration is required. To register, call 417-823-3469 or visit www.forest.edu/cps-workshops.aspx.

Springfield Regional Arts Council to Host "Wonders Of Watercolor" Workshop
Tue 6/9/2009 12:30 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a three-day Watercolor Workshop for adults with artist Alicia Farris. The workshop will be held at The Creamery Arts Center, 411 N. Sherman Parkway, on June 23, 24, and 25 from 9:00 AM to Noon.

Explore the versatility of painting with transparent watercolor from the fundamentals of color, value and composition to techniques such as wet on wet, dry brush, glazing, texturing and color mixing. Join the fun and discover the wonder and challenges of watercolor painting! At the end of the first day there will be an optional but recommended group visit to the Springfield Art Museum to see the national watercolor show, Watercolor USA, where we will gain inspiration, as well as look for styles and techniques that we have discussed and practiced in class.

This workshop is for the beginner as well as the intermediate painter. Cost of the workshop is $69 and a supply list will be available upon registration. Registration deadline is Tuesday, June 16. To register, call the Arts Council, 417-862-2787 (ARTS) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Springfield Symphony Names New Marketing Manager Ellie Swogger
Tue 6/9/2009 10:21 AM

Springfield Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce the recent hire of its new marketing manager, Ellie Swogger.

Swogger will be taking on the marketing duties of former marketing manager, Lisa Spigelman, as well as putting her design background to use. Spigelman left the Symphony near the end of May, after nearly two years of exceptional service to the Symphony.

“I’m so pleased to welcome Ellie,” says Music Director Ron Spigelman, “she brings us not only terrific marketing and writing skills, but also graphic design and photography plus tremendous energy and passion for the arts. She has already hit the ground running preparing for our 75th anniversary season.”

Swogger interned for the prestigious non-profit Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City last summer as a marketing assistant and has been employed by the Springfield Ballet for the past four (4) years as choreographer of the children’s productions, ballet instructor, and office assistant.

She received her bachelor’s degree last December from Drury University in arts administration and design arts with minors in architecture and global studies.
Opening Artist Reception to be Held at The Center for Plastic Surgery
Tue 6/9/2009 10:05 AM

Celebrate the opening of a new exhibition at The Center for Plastic Surgery offices of Dr. Carl Price and Dr. Arthur Hawes on Thursday, June 11, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Located at 3555 S. National in the Ferrell-Duncan Clinic, artists Ann Meese and Jody Luther will exhibit work as part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program. The exhibit will open on Tuesday, July 9 and remain through August 4. Both the reception and the exhibit are free and open to the public.

Jody Luther, a native Ozarker, lived in Arizona for 32 years, working as a teacher and a Registered Nurse. Luther works in many different media and loves to experiment with different materials.
After graduating from MSU with a BS in Education, Ann Meese began a 35-year career as a teacher and later a school administrator. The awareness of nature’s beauty is what inspires her to paint. Public is welcome to visit this free exhibition Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information about reception or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Springfield Little Theatre Announces AUDITION NOTICE for Mel Brooks' "THE PRODUCERS"
Mon 6/8/2009 3:28 PM

Springfield MO - June 8, 2009 - Outrageous, hilarious, a teeny bit offensive, off the wall, and the winner of a record 12 Tony Awards are just a few things that THE PRODUCERS is. But it is never boring and you will find yourself holding your sides with laughter as Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom sing and dance their way through the greatest show biz scam that there ever was!

Auditions for Springfield Little Theatre's opening production of its 75th Anniversary Season, THE PRODUCERS, will be held Monday, July 13 and Tuesday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. on stage at the Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut. Callbacks are scheduled for Wednesday, July 15 at 7:00 p.m.

All auditioning should prepare a one-minute vocal selection and bring sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. All those wishing to audition for a dancing role should come dressed to learn a dance combination. Women, please wear character shoes.

THE PRODUCERS will be directed by Beth Domann, choreographed by Lorianne Dunn, and musical direction by Susan Gravatt.

THE PRODUCERS requires a large cast of adult performers.

On Saturday, June 13th the music begins at 7 pm with George Layman. A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, George has been playing for over 25 years and most recently he was selected to play "in the round" writers night at The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville where Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins were discovered. As a solo artist, George brings a combination of country and Southern style rock performing cover songs and original tunes that are sure to keep you in your seat. At 8:30 the final performer of the evening is
Neil Pille. Also known as "Two Wheel Neil" this local musician performs in a folk and acoustic style and is a motorcycle enthusiast that who writes and creates arrangements for other riders.

 Performance dates:
Thursday, September 24, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, September 25, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 26, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 27, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 1, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 2, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 3, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 4, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 8, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 9, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 10, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 11, 2:30 p.m.

In addition, the cast of THE PRODUCERS will be performing at the Landers Theatre Centennial Celebration performance to be held on Friday, September 18 at 7:30 p.m. (with a possible matinee showing on Saturday, September 19 at 2:30 p.m.). Additional promotional appearances TBA.

Most rehearsals will be held Sunday-Thursday evenings between the hours of 6:00-10:00 p.m.

Please call 869-3869 x12 or x21 for more information or e-mail bdomann@hotmail.com or lorianned@springfieldlittletheatre.org.

3rd Annual "Sounds on the Square" Summer Concert Series
Mon 6/8/2009 10:19 AM

Springfield, MO - June 8, 2009 Pension Consultants Inc. and the Urban Districts Alliance present the 2nd weekend of performances for the 3rd annual "Sounds on the Square" free summer concert series, featuring local musical groups in a one-of-a-kind out door venue, Park Central Square. It's another great weekend of local musical talent performing downtown. Bring your lawn chairs, throw down a blanket or enjoy dinner on the square in one of three outdoor cafes while enjoying great local music.

This free family-friendly event continues June 12 starting at 5 pm and on June 13 at 7 pm. It will also be the second weekend for the Downtown Friday Night Farmers Market on Park Central Square from 3:30 to 8 pm and a new event on June 13, the Park Central Square Art Show & Exhibit from 6 to 9 pm.

Friday, June 12th performances begin at 5 pm and will feature "Black Box Review' voted Springfield's number one DJ's by GO Magazine and performing regularly at Outland on South Avenue. The Black Box Review will be rocking Park Central Square for your listening and dancing pleasure. At 7:30 pm stick around for The Cadence: Icon Drum Corp back from a great run on the reality TV show, "America's Got Talent". Picture six men surrounded by 50 gallon oil drums, paint buckets, piping, and hub caps pounding out unique beats and rhythms. The final performance of the evening at 8 pm will be Eddie Gumucio & The Electrics. Now in his twelfth year as a recording and touring artist, this local favorite will be performing songs from his latest release Skin & Bones and his previous CD When There You Were....

The "Sounds on the Square" summer concert series is scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings on the first three weekends in June (19 and 20) and the last three weekends in July (10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25). Friday night performances begin at 5 pm with Saturday night performances beginning at 7 pm.

For a complete list of scheduled performances as presented by event sponsors, Pension Consultants, Empire Bank, Hoover Music, Community Improvement District, Trader's Printing and Sounds Great, The Band Room and The FourFour, please visit www.itsalldowntown.com.

Admission is FREE -- so plan to come out before or after dinner at one of the 40 Downtown restaurants.

Park Central Square Art Show & Exhibit
Mon 6/8/2009 9:13 AM

Springfield, MO - The Urban Districts Alliance is proud to present the Park Central Square Art Show & Exhibit on Saturday, June 13 from 6 to 9 pm. Center City Art Galleries have been invited to showcase the work of local artists on Park Central Square during the Sounds on the Square free summer concert series. Some of the participating galleries include Hawthorn Galleries featuring artists Cathey DeLisle; Obelisk Home featuring Stephanie Cramer, Jacob Burmood, Jake Johnson and Jane Thrup; photographer James Radke whose collection of jazz musicians in black and white is currently on exhibit at Randy Bacon Galleries; Springfield Hot Glass featuring the work of Gabe and Terry Bloodworth and Designed 2B Different Inc,. a collective gallery featuring local artwork including the wildlife work of Don Griffin.

The Park Central Square Art Show & Exhibit is free and open to the public.

Springfield Regional Arts Council Announces New Executive Director
Mon 6/1/2009 1:14 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council Board of Directors has selected Leah Hamilton Jenkins as new Executive Director.

The board on May 20 voted unanimously to install Jenkins with a start date of Monday, June 1, 2009.

Jenkins most recently was the coordinator of the Arts Programming Sustainability Initiative (APSI), an effort led by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks to focus on long-term sustainability for the arts, emphasizing planned giving and endowment building strategies. She was formerly the Education Director at the Arts Council.

Jenkins is a native of Springfield, MO and graduate of Kickapoo High School. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Kansas and holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Music from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. Jenkins is a local recipient of the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship and was recently named 40 under 40 by the Springfield Business Journal for her work in the Arts. She has performed locally with the Springfield Little Theatre, Springfield Contemporary Theatre, Inc., Springfield Regional Opera and Springfield Symphony Orchestra. She also has taught for the Children’s Choirs of Southwest Missouri.
Librarian/columnist Jeanne Duffey to speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at Springfield Writers' Guild
Mon 6/1/2009 1:14 PM

Librarian and columnist Jeanne Duffey will speak on "What's Hot and What's Not" at the next Springfield Writers' Guild meeting, Saturday, June 27, at 1 :00 p.m. at the Heritage Cafeteria, on Battlefield Road at Fremont Street in Springfield. Her SWG presentation will address such topics as what books are popular now, and why—and what, and if, some kinds of publications are now passé.

Duffey currently writes a weekly column for the Springfield News-Leader. She worked as a reporter for several years on both daily and weekly newspapers after graduating from the journalism school at the University of Missouri. In the following years she says she "moved around the Midwest to almost everything you could do with a journalism degree— advertising copywriter, magazine production editor, agency vice president."

For the past 20 years, Duffey has marketed and promoted the Springfield-Greene County Library District, "a product I can really get behind where I use all the skills I've gained through the years."

Preceding her presentation will be the regular mentor/critique hour beginning at 11 a.m. A lunch break will follow at 12 noon. The one o'clock presentation and the critique hour are both open to visitors. Only the work of members of the guild will be critiqued, however the session has proved to be a valuable learning tool for all who attend.

For more information on the Springfield Writers' Guild, go to www.swgsite.org or e-mail Reta Stewart Allen at: allenreta@sbcglobal.net.

3rd Annual "Sounds on the Square" Summer Concert Series
Fri 5/29/2009 5:03 PM

Springfield, MO - The Urban Districts Alliance and presenting sponsor Pension Consultants bring you the 3rd annual "Sounds on the Square" free summer concert series, featuring local musical groups in a one-of-a-kind out door venue, Park Central Square. Enjoy an amazing variety of music as you sit under the stars in the heart of downtown. Bring your lawn chairs, throw down a blanket or enjoy dinner on the square in one of three outdoor cafes while enjoying great local music.

This free family-friendly event will kick off on Friday June 5 and is a featured event in the IDEA Exposition, a series of events jointly presented by St. John's, Missouri State University, and the Urban Districts Alliance in downtown Springfield and features educational and entertainment opportunities for the entire family, First Friday Art Walk, and the opening night of the Downtown Friday Night Farmers Market on Park Central Square which will be held every Friday through October from 3:30 to 8 pm.

"Sounds on the Square" has expanded from nine performances over three weekends in 2008 to twelve performances over six weekends in 2009, with Friday evening concerts starting at 5 pm. "The concert series was so popular last year that we ended up adding 5 more performances at the end of the summer" said event manager Kathryn Vicat. "With the addition of our title sponsor, Pension Consultants, we were not only able to plan for twelve weekend performances and move up our start time on Friday nights, but also add an additional 30 performances." With more than 40 bands coming out to Park Central Square it makes for a great evening whether you make the square your destination or if you are passing through on your way to dinner, a movie or a show.

Pension Consultants Inc., a downtown professional firm, became title sponsor of the event in 2009. "We are proud to be downtown and enjoy the quality of life we possess here," explained Pension Consultants partner Brian Allen. "Me, my partner and our employees do more than just work here, we consider ourselves part of the downtown community. As such, we have looked for opportunities to work together with our neighbors to make downtown even better. The Sounds on the Square event is a good fit. Bringing people together in a family oriented environment to listen to local musicians is a great idea and we're delighted to be a part of it."

"Sounds on the Square" will feature a great variety of local musical talent ranging from bluegrass, 80's rock, folk, reggae, jazz, country, cowboy poetry, DJ's, theatrical performances and local favorites like the piano players from Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar and the drummers of Cadence as featured on "America's Got Talent" television show. Scheduling bands for this concert series can be a challenge, but not this year explains Vicat, "Response from local bands has been huge and we feel incredibly lucky to have the high quality eclectic line-up that we do. That would not have been possible without the support of Chris DeRosier of TheFourFour local music blog or Brett Baker of The Band Room who were a key component in contacting local talent."

Friday, June 5th performances begin at 5 pm and will feature a sneak performance from Springfield Little Theatre's Meshuggah Nuns; a zany, madcap, often uproarious, fast-paced show which is guaranteed to leave you laughing. The fun-loving nuns are on an all expense paid "Faiths of All Nations" cruise aboard the USS Golden Delicious when ship encounters a seven day long storm at sea which incapacitates all but one of the cruise's entertainment staff so it's the Little Sisters of Hoboken to the rescue. Meshuggah Nuns opens at the Springfield Little Theatre on Thursday, June 12. Following this performance is Brother Wiley, with their James Taylor meets Crosby, Stills & Nash, with a dash of The Byrds, sprinkled with Buffalo Springfield, and shredded Pure Prairie League layered across the top kind of sound. At 7:30 p.m. is The Lowdown Fancy with their funk/folk band style love to have fun, and really love to have fun with music, and especially love when people come and have some musical fun with them. The headline performance of the evening is The Honkytonk Renovators starting at 8:30 p.m. Performing a little bluegrass, a little country, and a little southern rock, The Honkytonk Renovators offer something for everyone. Comprised of musicians from some of Springfield's hottest bands, these guys are guaranteed to put on an amazing show that will make you dance in your seat.

On Saturday, June 6th the music begins at 7 pm with Bring Your Green Hat. One of Springfield's hottest bands, BYGH can be seen performing at many downtown hot spots and beyond. This is a 4-piece "groove rock" band with musical styles range from rock, reggae, psychedelic, and funk. At 8:00 p.m the Jah Kings will follow Bring Your Green Hat with their absolutely original sound, like no other before it. Some call it "Funky Roots Reggae with strong Jazz seasoning". Local favorite, Alexander Kofi, will be the final performer of the evening with a smooth easy listening acoustic set featuring a collection of songs steeped in love, unity and revelation.

The "Sounds on the Square" summer concert series is scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings on the first three weekends in June (5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20) and the last three weekends in July (10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25). Friday night performances begin at 5 pm with Saturday night performances beginning at 7 pm.

For a complete list of scheduled performances as presented by event sponsors, Pension Consultants, Empire Bank, Community Improvement District, Trader's Printing and Sounds Great, The Band Room and The FourFour, please visit www.itsalldowntown.com.

Admission is FREE -- so plan to come out before or after dinner at one of the 40 Downtown restaurants.

Springfield Native Jay Jackson Innovates with Shakespeare Sings
Wed 5/27/2009 2:44 PM

SPRINGFIELD, MO-The Springfield Regional Opera presents “Shakespeare Sings” in conjunction with the Swan Repertory Theatre. The exciting event will stun audiences at The Skinny Improv at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday May 30 and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday May 31.

The novelty Shakespeare event will cost $15 per ticket or $7 per student rush tickets. The Skinny Improv is located at 301 Park Central East in Downtown Springfield. To purchase tickets please call 863-1960.

“To be in such an intimate space will bring a visceral response to the words of Shakespeare”, says Springfield native and director Jay Jackson. The event will also include music from famous composers Cole Porter, George and Ira Gershwin and many others. Mr. Jackson’s combination of historical lyricists will enable audiences to take a trip down memory lane. This is an event which allows audiences to interact with the words of Shakespeare in a way they never thought possible.

Jay Jackson recently directed Verdi’s “La Traviata” for New Orleans Opera. He is experienced and brilliant with his leading focus as director. The broad range of his talent will be gracefully displayed onstage for “Shakespeare Sings”. His homecoming event should not be missed by theatre patrons.

Springfield Regional Opera supports the operatic arts; brings professional opera to the people in Southwest Missouri; and provides leadership in public education of the operatic performing arts and the development of professional operatic performing artists. For more information about Springfield Regional Opera, visit http://sropera.com/ .

June 5 Art Walk adds another venue, artist
Wed 5/27/2009 1:12 PM

First Friday Art Walk is pleased to announce a new venue for our June 5 event, as well as the addition of a second featured artist at Fresh Gallery.

Inveno Health, located at 431 N. Boonville, will join First Friday Art Walk in June featuring works by beloved Springfield painter Stephanie Cramer. Inveno, a new medical device manufacturer and distributor located on the IDEA Commons*, is celebrating its presence in downtown Springfield with art, opening its doors to the public during the June 5 Art Walk. For more information about Inveno Health, please email info@invenohealth.com.

Meanwhile, Fresh Gallery is pleased to announce a second featured artist for June. Fresh will feature Painter Sharon Warren. Fresh's other featured artist is Photographer Clarissa French.

First Friday Art Walk runs 6-10 p.m. June 5 featuring new art, live music, hands-on activities, fun and fellowship in 23 participating galleries.

*IDEA is an acronym for Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship and the Arts. The IDEA Commons is Missouri State University’s vision for a new type of urban research park that is blended with residential, retail and entertainment facilities, and supported by university programs.

MSU and Urban Districts Alliance present the IDEA Exposition June 2-5, beginning with Discover JVIC 6-8 p.m. June 2 at the Discovery Center, 438 E. St. Louis, and culminating with First Friday Art Walk 6-10 p.m. For more information on the IDEA Exposition, please visit itsalldowntown.com, or view the MSU press release online at http://www.cfpmidweek.com.

Marilyn Quigley and Allan Young To Speak To Creamery Writers' Workshops
Wed 5/20/2009 4:23 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council's Creamery Writers Workshop will feature local authors sharing information on preserving family histories (May 28) and writing short stories (June 11). The group meets in The Creamery Arts Center across from Hammons Field on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

On May 28th, Marilyn Quigley, associate professor of English at Evangel University, will speak on how to preserve family history through a self-published book. She has directed the composition program at Evangel for 23 years and teaches all levels of composition as well as creative writing and an introductory literature course.

Quigley, who began her career in the Springfield Public Schools at Central High Schoo, has published a children's musical, short stories, articles and poetry. She will discuss her process of collecting and organizing information as well as experiencing on-site observations that culminated in a book about her uncle's World War II experiences in the Battle of the Bulge. What began as her goal of producing spiral-bound accounts for only her family ended with the 250-page self-published book, "Hell Frozen Over", which has sold over 900 copies.

The goal of Quigley's visit to the writers group is to encourage writers to find and publish their own families' stories. She will discuss the advantageds and disadvantages of self-publishing and explain the print-on-demand (POD) system.

On June 11, Allan Young will discuss the art of writing short stories. Allan is well-known in local writing circles for the many stories he has had published and the many courses he has taught in the area. He says a short story should consist of five sections and should be able to be read in 30 minutes. Precise writing, clear descriptions and vivid dialogue are subjects he will touch on at the meeting.

For more information about Creamery Writers Workshop which is free and open to all ages, genres and levels of expertise, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or info@SpringfieldArts.org

Second Annual Springfield Little Film Festival
Mon 5/18/2009 5:01 PM

Attention Local Filmmakers and Film Lovers Alike:

The Second Annual Springfield Little Film Festival is Just Around the Corner Springfield, MO, May 7, 2009 –In cooperation with the Springfield Little Theatre's historic Landerʼs Theatre and Moxie Cinema, Springfieldʼs premiere art-house movie theater, local filmmakers will have the opportunity to showcase their work and compete in the second annual Springfield Little Film Festival on July 9th and 10th, 2009. Tickets for the festival will be $7 per evening, and proceeds from the event will benefit the Missouri State University Digital Film Production Scholarship Fund.

The festival features a two-night event showcasing the talent of local southwest Missouri filmmakers. Each night, following the screenings, filmmakers will be brought on stage to answer questions from the audience about their films. The festival will culminate with the exciting new silent film competition, which requires filmmakers to bring in local musicians to play live during their original silent film. The silent film competition, a tribute to the early days of cinema, is a great opportunity to exhibit the incredible talent in both film and music located in southwest Missouri.

There are three categories in which filmmakers can compete: (1) Short-short film: no more than 10 minutes, (2) Short film: 10 minutes – 45 minutes, and (3) Silent short film: no more than 5 minutes with live music accompaniment. There is a $10 entrance fee for each category if submitted by early registration on June 15th; or a $15 entrance fee for each category if submitted by the deadline of June 30th. Filmmakers will be competing for prizes in each category. For applications, guidelines and further information visit www.springfieldlittlefilmfestival.com or email springfieldlittlefilmfestival@gmail.com.

The premier of the Springfield Little Film festival in 2008 featured Missouri State University filmmakers, with the proceeds of the festival benefitting the Missouri State University Digital Film Production Scholarship Fund. In its second year, the Springfield Little Film Festival will carry on the tradition of donating the proceeds to the MSU Digital Film Production Scholarship Fund, but it is widening its boundaries beyond MSU students to include any local filmmakers within Greene County, Lawrence County, Stone County or Christian County. The Springfield Little Film Festival encourages local filmmakers toward excellence by providing an affordable, accessible festival in which to compete and showcase their talent.

Drury Singers to Perform in the Vatican
Mon 5/18/2009 5:01 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., May 18, 2008 — The Drury Singers will depart for a three-week tour of Italy on May 21, 2009. They will begin their tour by spending four days in Rome then work their way up to Milano.

The Drury Singers will perform in some of the most prestigious churches in Europe. They will sing during Sunday evening Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. In Venice, the choir will perform in St. Mark’s Basilica. The Drury Singers will perform eight concerts throughout their tour, sometimes with local choirs.

Aside from concerts, the tour is filled with activities for the students including sightseeing as a group, free time to explore and even a full day on the beach in Rimini.

The tour will take the Drury Singers to several other cities, including Arezzo, Montecatini, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Viareggio, San Marino, Urbino, Ferrara, Padua, Verona and Milano.

Brenda Turner Paintings on Display at Circuit Clerk's Office
Tue 5/19/2009 10:18 AM

The Circuit Clerk's office is proud to present, in conjunction with the Springfield Regional Arts Council, some of the works of art by Brenda Turner. Brenda has been painting for over 30 years and was inspired as a child watching the Baylock Brothers paint at Silver Dollar City.

Brenda's paintings will remind you of the simpler times in life when your word was as good as a handshake. She likes to paint scenes inspired by the many trips to her grandpa's farm and nature.

The public is welcome to stop by the Circuit Clerk's office and view these paintings. We are located on the second floor of the Judicial Center at 1010 N. Boonville, Springfield, Missouri. Brenda's artwork will be on display through July 7, 2009.

16th Century Japanese Woodblock Print Demonstration at Creamery
Mon 5/18/2009 3:45 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council will be hosting members of the Japanese Watercolor Federation on Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to noon, as Federation members demonstrate printmaking techniques using 16th century woodblocks. The free demonstration will take place in The Creamery Arts Center Exhibition Hall across from Hammons Field.

Demonstrations will be done by Atsuhiko Sakai, Ei Nakamura, Hiroko Tadakuma, and Yoko Shirakawa, all watercolor masters in Japan who are in Springfield to attend the U.S. and Japan Watercolor Exhibition Exchange held by the Springfield Art Museum.

The technique of woodblock prints has been used in Japan to produce Buddhist text since the 8th century. Enormous popularity of secular illustrated books encouraged the development of single-sheet print in the 17th century. Ukiyo-e prints were produced by the collaborative efforts of the artists, the woodblock designer, carver, printer, and publisher.

In 17th century Europe, Impressionism was inspired by the boldness and simplicity of Japanese woodblock prints. The use of pure bright colors, the lack of modeling in the figures and the casual approach to the laws of perspective promoted many painters to rethink their own approach.

Springfield Regional Arts Council's Sandra CH Smith Resigns
Fri 5/15/2009 1:42 PM

After much deliveration and gnashing of teeth, I have submitted my resignation to the SRAC Board and my last day will be May 22nd. I own Cliff Cottage Inn in Eureka Springs and have learned that absentee ownership is not the best way to protect an investment of fifteen years, especially in this poor economic climate. I am returning to Eureka to try and build my business back up since Social Security won't even cover chocolates! I want to thank the Board, the members and everyone in Springfield who has helped us to achieve many positive results in "transforming lives and enriching our Community through the Arts." I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to bring a host of Arts programs and activities to Springfield and the 27 counties SRAC serves. Thank you for your incredible support in those efforts.
Sincerely, Sandra CH Smith

Phelps Helps Concert Series for Charity Returns in 2009
Thu 5/14/2009 6:03 PM

After taking a year off due to construction at the Springfield Art Museum, the Phelps Helps Concert Series returns this year by presenting "Third Thursdays". All concerts begin at 7:00 pm and are held at the outdoor stage immediately west of the Springfield Art Museum on the third Thursday of May, June, July and September. The concerts will be moved indoors to the Museum auditorium in the event of rain. Each concert is free to the public and benefits a local charity chosen by the performers. Donations will be accepted and a raffle of donated goods and services by local businesses will be held to raise money for the designated charity. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy some of Springfield's best musical talent under the stars at one of the city's most beautiful and historical venues. The Phelps Helps Concert Series is sponsored by the Springfield Art Museum and the Phelps Neighborhood Association.

"Blues Night"
May 21
Organic Soul and Steve Smith & The Sneakers
Charity: C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

"Classical Night"
June 18
Members of the Springfield Symphony
Charity: The Alzheimer's Associatiion

"Jazz Night"
July 16
Three4Jazz and The Linda Sala Jazz Project
Charity: The Family Violence Center

"Mayapple Records Night"
September 17
Dallas Jones and Brother Wiley
Charity: The Kitchen

For music samples go to phelpsneighborhood.org
MoPoetry Slam
Wed 5/13/2009 6:01 AM

SPRINGFIELD, MO - Thursday, May 28th at 7pm the Gillioz Theatre teams up with Poor Thespian Productions and MoPoetry to present MoPoetry Slam. Tickets are General Admission and available for only $5. To order tickets please contact the Gillioz Theatre Box Office at (417) 863-9491.

Featuring a Nationally Touring Spoken Word Poet

WHAT IS IT?
A Poetry Slam is a spoken word competition open to any and all poets. The poems are original works, three minutes in length, performed without props, costumes, or musical accompaniment. Each poem is scored by judges chosen from the audience. High scoring poets move on to finals where there are cash prizes for the top poets.

This is not a poetry reading where the audience sits quietly and golf claps for everyone. Instead this is a high energy, in your face poetry, where rhyme scheme is just a means to end up with the greatest poetry performance you've ever seen. This is full audience participation, boo or cheer just let us hear what you think of the show.

WANT TO COMPETE?
Poets' sign up begins at 6:30 pm and only the first poets signed up will get to compete for honor, glory, and cold hard cash.

MORE INFORMATION
Rather you are a front row Shakespeare fan or if a Rock and Roll remix of Thoreau is more your style then this is a poetry event you do not want to miss. For advanced tickets please call the Gillioz Theatre Box Office at (417) 863-7843 or you may purchase tickets the night of the show starting at 6pm.

First Show Me Art! Exhibition and IDEA Expo Panel on Public Art at Creamery
Tue 5/12/2009 5:08 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council will host its first Show Me Art! Exhibition at The Creamery Arts Center from June 5 through June 29. This extravaganza exhibition will feature works by artists from the 27 counties the Springfield Regional Arts Council serves in S.W. Missouri, from Blue Eye to Warsaw! The art will open exhibitions throughout the S.W. region beginning May 16. (PDF INVITATION CLICK HERE)

Each of the four "quadrants" of this large area will be sending 20 paintings to represent their area. Artists will be on hand to meet and greet and several of the counties will be sending musicians as well. Prior to the opening reception at 4:30 p.m. in The Creamery, the public is invited to attend a free forum from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. in The Creamery Board Room where a panel discussion will take place organized as part of the IDEA Exposition (Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship and Art). Subject of the panel will be the Role of Public Art in Economic Development. Panelists are: Allen Casey (Developer and Architect),Dwain Crigger (MSU professor and St. John’s Healing Art Program curator),Bob Noble (Missouri Arts Council Board, owner of Noble & Associates) andRuss RuBert (Internationally-renowned Springfield sculptor). The IDEA Exposition is sponsored by Urban Districts Alliance, Missouri State University, and St. John's Health System.

After enjoying a reception at The Creamery beginning at 4:30p.m. on June 5, attendees, including Senator Norma Champion and Representative Charlie Norr and Mrs. Norr, can hop on a free shuttle that will take them downtown to the Arts Council's newest endeavor, its Fresh Gallery at the corner of Campbell and Walnut Streets. Fresh, a collective gallery of 24 local member artists, will have all its artists in the gallery to welcome attendees.

The first annual Show Me Art! Exhibitions will actually begin May 16 and run through May 31 in three locations prior to the grand finale exhibition at The Creamery. Those locations are the Powers Museum in Carthage, Bonniebrook in Walnut Shade, and The Springs Gallery in El Dorado Springs. Twenty pieces from each show as well as twenty pieces from the “Colors of the Ozarks” exhibit recently held in Lebanon will travel to Springfield for display at The Creamery Arts Center for the June 5-June 29 show.

The Powers Museum, located at 1617 West Oak, Carthage, Mo, will open on Saturday, May 16 with a reception 6 p.m.-8 p.m. The exhibit will be open to the public the following dates: May 17 and 24, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; May 18, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.; May 23 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; May 20-22 and May 27-29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Since 1988, the Powers Museum has focused on Carthage’s history with annual exhibits and has fostered the study of Carthage history through its archives, educational programming, and cooperative community events.

The Springs Gallery, located at 105 Hwy 54, El Dorado Springs, Mo, will host an opening reception on Saturday, May 16, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. The exhibit will be open to the public, May 16-29, Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The Springs Gallery is a new contemporary art gallery located in the rustic Ozarks of Missouri in El Dorado Springs. The gallery exhibits work of local, national and international artists.

Bonniebrook, located at 485 Rose O’Neill Rd, Walnut Shade, Mo will open its regional exhibition on Saturday, May 23 with a reception 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. The exhibit will remain open to the public through May 31. Exhibit hours at Bonniebrook are Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays, noon-4 p.m. Bonniebrook was the family homestead of American artist Rose O’Neill.

For more information, contact Springfield Regional Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or go to www.SpringfieldArts.org

Local Library Jumps On The Art Wagon
Tue 5/12/2009 4:07 PM

Everyone is jumping on the Arts Council's "art wagon", from the Mid-Town Carnegie Branch Library to a beauty salon and a lawyer’s office. Each will host local artwork for approximately eight weeks as part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program. The exhibits will open on Friday, May 22 and will remain through Friday, July 17.

Swank Salon, located at 3657 E. Sunshine, will host work by Ina Crisman, of Springfield. Crisman has been painting for about five years and uses painting as a distinct form of self-expression. Mostly self-taught, Crisman’s subject matter includes portraits, landscapes, architecture and abstracts. As a member of the Splatter Artists’ Studio, Crisman finds great inspiration through her association with other fellow artists. The exhibit is free and open to the public, Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Mid-Town Carnegie Branch Library, located at 397 E. Central St., will host work by BethElLee. She will be exhibiting work from The Native Bride Collection, one of her first compilations to be published. BethElLee has been an art enthusiast since her early teens, trying various mediums from fine art to graphic design.

 
Fulnecky Law, located at 1530 E. Primrose, Suite E, will host work by Eliza M. Rhoads-Pope who is originally from Osage County in Missouri where she was farm-raised and corn-fed. She will be exhibiting her series called “The Nature Series”. The collection consists of photographs taken across the United States in the last five years capturing the essence of nature. One goal of her work is to promote awareness of the delicacy and fragility of our environment.

For more information about these exhibitions or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

The Skinny Improv and The Swan Repertory Theatre Company: Call for Talent
Tue 5/12/2009 2:50 PM

Seeking preshow talent for the 2009 Springfield Shakespeare Festival in Jordan Valley Park from May 27-June 7

Got Talent? The 2nd Annual Springfield Shakespeare Festival wants you!

This year's festival will take place in Jordan Valley Park from May 27 - June 7, 2009, and will present William Shakespeare's world famous comedy, Much Ado About Nothing. Before the show begins, we are looking for local talent of all kinds to take part in the festival's pre-show. All varieties of talent are encouraged to participate; jugglers, baton twirlers, yodelers, and tap dancing frogs are all welcome. So if you or someone you know has an undeniable talent and the urge to perform, or simply for more information on this event, contact Jeff Jenkins at The Skinny Improv, 301 Park Central East. By phone, 417-831-LAFF, Attn: Jeff Jenkins or email info@theskinnyimprov.com . We hope to see you there!

Much Ado about Nothing by William Shakespeare

The Springfield Shakespeare Festival is proud to annouce its third sensational season with a production of William Shakepeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" at beautiful Jordan Valley Park, May 27- June 7 Wednesday thru Sunday at 8:15 pm with a preshow begninning at 7 pm. This production is FREE, with donations being accepted..

About The Swan Repertory Theatre Company

The Swan Repertory Theatre Company was founded in 2008 by Marc Whitmore and Jeff Jenkins as a joint effort between Skinny Improv Creative, Inc, and Stonegate Creative Group.

The Swan Repertory Theatre Company exists to bring professional classical theatre to Southwest Missouri. Through performances, education, and training, SwanRep will strive to bring a much-needed focus to important and classical works.

The Swan Reperotry Theatre Company will work to bring in professional actors, designers, and directors in order to enhance the already vital theatre arts community in Springfield. According to Managing Executive Director Jeff Jenkins, "The Swan Rep is happening at an exciting time in the development of the theatre community in Springfield. By striving to bring in professional performers and couple them with the strong local talent pool, I believe that this concept will prove to be a win-win for Springfield."

The Swan Repertory Theate Company launced its first show at The Springfield Shakespeare Festival located in Jordan Valley Park. The Springfield Shakespeare Festival is a FREE outdoor festival that performs in late May and early June. The 2008 festival saw almost 3000 people come out to enjoy a hysterical performance of "A Midsummer Nights Dream" The Swan Repertory Theatre Company will perform at The Skinny Improv Theatre and The Gillioz Theatre both located in beautiful downtown Springfield, Mo.

Arts Council to Host Encaustic Monotype Workshop
Mon 5/11/2009 7:27 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a one-day Encaustic Monotype printmaking workshop for adults with artist Kathlene J. Allie at The Creamery Arts Center (across from Hammons Field) on May 30, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Encaustic Monotype is an innovative contemporary process and a painterly approach to printmaking. The encaustic monotype combines the ancient painting medium of encaustic with the popular monotype process. Encaustic sticks (beeswax and pigment in solid form) are used to draw on a heated metal plate. The wax melts instantly and is manipulated with brushes and other tools. Absorbent paper is laid on the plate, the back is rubbed, and the image is transferred to the paper by hand.

Instructor Kathlene Allie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Painting and Photography from the University of Kansas and Masters of Arts in Painting from Pittsburg State University. She is an adjunct art professor at Missouri State University and full time art professor at Ozarks Technical Community College.

Cost for the workshop is $55 and supplies are provided. The deadline to register is May 22nd. To register, call The Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Springfield Art Museum Announces 2009 Summer Studio Classes
Mon 5/11/2009 11:31 AM

Springfield – The Springfield Art Museum is offering studio art classes for children and adults 7 July through 7 August 2009.

Registration for the Summer Studio Classes begins 26 May and will continue through 26 June. Early registration is encouraged and must be done in person or by mail. Telephone or email registration will not be accepted.

Adult day classes offered are Beginning Watercolor, Beginning Drawing, and Acrylics. Workshops in Pottery, Watercolor and Figure drawing will meet on Thursday evenings. Fees for the adult workshops and classes range from $27.50 to $55 plus materials.

This year the Museum is offering several sections of the more popular children’s classes in an effort to accommodate all the students. Classes fill rapidly therefore early registration is still encouraged.

The children’s classes include: Early Works (ages 3 ½ - 5); Pottery (grades K – 8); Art is Elementary (grades K – 2); Multicultural Arts (grades 3 – 5); Cartooning (grades 3 - 5); and Beginning Drawing and Painting (grades K – 2 and grades 6- 12). The cost of the children’s classes is $40 and includes the materials. Children’s classes will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays or Wednesdays and Fridays.

Registration forms with class descriptions, dates and times can be obtained by calling or visiting the Museum or through the Museum’s web site, www.springfieldmogov.org/egov/art/. For information, contact the Museum Educator at 417-837-5700.

The Springfield Art Museum is closed on Mondays, City of Springfield and National holidays.

The Museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. Admission is free.

Notice to all Artists and Crafters
Sat 5/9/2009 6:41 PM

First Christian Church in Kimberling City is pleased to be hosting the Table Rock Arts and Crafts Show on September 11 and 12.

This is a juried show. There will be both inside and outside booths available. Food and drinks will be available on the premises.

Applications and show brochures can be obtained by calling the church at 417-739-2673 or emailing info@fcc-kimberlingcity.com or by mail to First Christian Church, 5 Hilltop Drive, Kimberling City, MO 65686. Completed contracts must be received by July 17th.

Tables are going fast, but there are still some spaces available, so be sure to contact them soon.

If you have any questions or need further information, please call Barbara Anglum at 739-5803 or Sherry Bedore at 739-5491.

Missouri Literary Festival Launches Fiction Contest
Fri 5/8/2009 3:06 PM

Short story contest open to all ages; cash prizes of $100 to $300 to be awarded

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – The Missouri Literary Festival, A Celebration of Arts, Literature & Literacy, is proud to announce the Missouri Literary Festival Award for Short Fiction.

This short story contest is open to all writers who would like to share their creative work. Each author will have a chance to win one of three cash awards plus receive special recognition during Missouri’s premier literary festival.

Prizes will be awarded as follows: Winner, $300; Second place, $200; Third place, $100. Outstanding works will be presented in a public reading at the Park Central Square Branch Library during the Literary Festival, which will be held Oct. 2, 3 and 4.

Guidelines
1. Each story must be no longer than 3,000 words.

2. Each story must be the unpublished (and not under consideration of being published) original work of the entrant.

3. All entries must be accompanied by an official entry form, which contains the name, address, e-mail address, and phone number of the author, as well as the title of the story. Each entry must be typed, double-spaced on one side of 8 1/2 x 11 paper and no longer than 3,000 words. Please submit the story using Microsoft Word or as an RTF Text file. Entry forms are available on the festival Web site, www.missouriliteraryfestival.org.

4. Names and copyright markings must be omitted from the manuscript, which will go to judges anonymously. Include the title and page number at the head or foot of each page.

5. Only one entry per person. A $15 fee is required when the story is submitted. Personal checks or postal money orders preferred.

6. Do not send originals – no entries will be returned.

7. Entries must be received no later than 9:00 PM, Friday, July 31. Mail a print copy of your story to Attn. Brandon Bowman, Missouri Literary Festival, 411 North Sherman Parkway, Springfield, MO 65802. You should also email a copy of your manuscript to FictionPrize@gmail.com.

8. Copyrights of winning manuscripts remain in the name of the authors, but the Missouri Literary Festival reserves the right to publish the winning entries and any honorable mentions and to reproduce them electronically on our website.

9. Prizes – Winner $300, Second Place $200, Third Place $100
Judging will be handled by the Writers Hall of Fame.

For more information, call William Brandon Bowman, (417) 865-0450.

Family Fun Galore at Art On The Farm June 6 & 7
Thu 5/7/2009 5:44 PM

The Lebanon Art Guild is sponsoring its annual "Art On The Farm" family outdoor festival June 6 and 7, noon to 6:00 p.m., at the farm of Bill and Vera Harrill, 23488 Highway N, Lebanon. Admission is free although the Guild won't turn down any tax-deductible contributions at the gate!

This year's event promises to be more exciting than ever as many area artists gather to exhibit and demonstrate their multi-varied artistic talents. There will also be children's activities, art demonstrations, art lessons, music, poetry, hay rides, an art auction and down-home food catered by Maria's Cafe.

To get there from Lebanon, take Highway 32 east for 7 miles to Highway N. Turn left on Hwy. N and go two miles to #23488 where you'll go down a private road for about a quarter of a mile. For more information or if you get lost, call 417-532-1895 or 417-588-3768. You can also email lagg@lebanonartguild.org.

Greene County Offices to Host Local Artwork
Wed 5/6/2009 3:23 PM

 

As part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places Program, the Greene County Commissioner’s Office and the Greene County Circuit Clerk’s Office will each host an exhibition of local artwork opening on Tuesday, May 12. Teresa Dilsaver of Republic will be featured at the Commissioner’s Office and Brenda Turner of Niangua will be featured at the Circuit Clerk’s Office. Both exhibits will remain through Tuesday, July 7.

Teresa Dilsaver has always loved to draw, but later started oil painting after discovering the Painter’s Corner and Dorothy Dent’s studio in Republic. Her work highlights antique machinery, old barns and bridges. Dilsaver loves the idea of capturing these small pieces of history on canvas. The exhibit hours at the Greene County Commissioner’s Office are Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Brenda Turner was born in Nebraska and came to Southwest Missouri in the early '60s. After graduating from high school, Turner started painting and has continued to teach herself for the last 30 years. She draws her inspiration from childhood memories of watching the Baylock Brothers paint at Silver Dollar City. When she paints, Turner is reminded of a simple time in life when a person’s word was only as good as a handshake. The exhibit hours at the Greene County Circuit Clerk’s Office are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information about this exhibit or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Local Author To Share Recipe For Making Money Selling Stories
Wed 5/6/2009 3:54 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will feature local author Shirley McCann at its May 14th Creamery Writers Workshop when McCann will speak on "The Short Road to Success: Making money writing short stories".
The group will meet in The Creamery Arts Center across from Hammons Field from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

McCann's fiction has appeared in Woman’s World Magazine, Orchard Press Mysteries, Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine, Story House Coffee, and several of the confession magazines. She is a member of Mystery Writers of America and The Romance Writers of America, and is also the founder of Sleuths’ Ink, a mystery writers group which has been meeting in Springfield for 11 years.

Creamery Writers Workshop is open to all writers, regardless of age, expertise or genre, and is a literary outreach program of the Springfield Regional Arts Council. For more information, call 417-862-ARTS(2787) or send an email to Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

C-Street Jam goes Green
Wed 5/6/2009 12:45 PM

This Saturday, May 9, Commercial Street will host the 4th annual C-Street Jam Music Festival. This year expect a whole new experience. Not only does the event last all afternoon and into the night, it will showcase three times more talent and extend over 3 blocks of the Historic C-Street District. It will also reflect the community’s commitment to sustainable practices in creative and educational ways.

A Green Friendly Approach
The day of the Jam, Allied Waste will be providing onsite Single-Stream Recycling, which allows one container to collect all recyleable materials. This new, simple, straight forward approach to recycling will be on display and for use by attendees, reducing the environmental impact of the event.

Another “green” demonstration that attendees will enjoy is the Ozarks Technical Community College art exhibit titled, “Trash Transformed”. OTC 3D Design students, under Instructor Kat Allie, will display a 3 dimensional art installation created from found and discarded materials. For their final project, the students have utilized their knowledge of elements and principles of art to communicate a message through the creation of a site-specific sculpture.

“It is my class’s goal to create a sculpture that utilizes all discarded objects and reinvents them in a lyrical and kinetic way. The content of the installation will focus on the inhibiting effects that trash and unrecycled material can have on the beauty and breath of our world and our lives,” stated Kat Allie, OTC Instructor of Fine Arts.

Even the beverages at the event will be “green”. Boulevard Wheat will debut their new environmentally friendly packaging. It will be served in 16 oz aluminum beer bottles. Miller Lite will also be available in 16 oz aluminum bottles and both will be recycled as part of the single-stream recycling project.

Other Happenings
In addition to being earth friendly, this year’s C-Street Jam is bigger and better. It will last from 3pm to 10pm with after parties at Lindbergs, QEnoteca Wine Bar and Ruthie’s. The Jam also showcases more than 20 bands on 6 stages and merchant venues. In addition, there will be a Guitar Hero Music contest at Big Mommas. The grand prize winner of the contest will receive a Fender Electric Guitar, along with amp lessons and more.

For additional information, contact Donnie Rodgers, Community Development Coordinator for the Urban Districts Alliance at 417-880-3435 or by email at donnie@itsalldowntown.com. A complete lineup of acts and entertainment can be found at www.itsalldowntown.com.

Columbia Art League presents the 51st annual Art in the Park
Tue 5/5/2009 4:48 PM

The 51st annual Art in the Park will take place on June 6 and 7 at Stephens Lake Park in Columbia, Missouri with 105 visual artists from across the country and an entertainment line-up of magic, music and whimsy.

“One of the great things about this year’s festival is that we have over 50 new artists attending,” says Diana Moxon, the Columbia Art League’s Executive Director and event organizer. “Art in the Park is continually evolving so that each year there are new artists to meet, or a new twist to the entertainment.”

Adding the twist this year is a line-up of magicians, puppeteers, circus performers, ventriloquists and mime artists lending the festival the tag of “Experience the Magic of Art in the Park”. Topping the magical billing is Las Vegas, Nevada-based magician Dan Sperry and Kansas City Magician, Eric Vaughn. Moxon tracked down Sperry after seeing him perform at the Missouri Theatre in December. “He’s one of those performers you can’t take your eyes off,” she explains. “The kids in the audience were absolutely rapt with him.”

The visual arts though, remain the main focus of the event, and Moxon is keen to emphasize the art-buying opportunities that the festival presents. “Artists have a lot of choices about which fairs and festivals they want to attend. On any given weekend there are tens of festivals across the mid-west, and it’s important to remember that these events are the artists’ bread and butter, and that we as a community need to make them feel welcome by shopping with them.”

Moxon is keen to point out that art buying does not necessarily imply a large expenditure. “You can buy a $10 pair of hand-made earrings, a $15 unique ceramic mug, a $40 hand-carved wood bowl or if you want to splurge you can buy a $2,000 piece of stained glass. There is something at Art in the Park for all pockets.”

Aside from the fine art and crafts, the entertainment line-up will feature St Louis-based

ventriloquist Mike Niehaus, Kansas City-based StoneLion Puppet theatre, and from St Louis Every Day Circus’ stilt-walkers, mime-artists and jugglers, who will be wandering the festival. Jazz, blue-grass and folk music augment the stage schedule, while elsewhere kids’ art projects, wine tasting, a food court, face-painting, wax-hand airbrushing, and tie-dye t-shirt creations provide added attractions.

For the artists a total of $3,300 is available in cash awards, provided by the festival’s corporate sponsors, Boone County National Bank, Commerce Bank, and UMB. Other major festival sponsors include Artlandish Art Gallery, Central Dairy, the Columbia Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Columbia Office of Cultural Affairs and media sponsors: Mediacom, KPLA/KFRU radio stations and the Columbia Daily Tribune.

As most event organizers are finding this year, corporate sponsors are thin on the ground. “We’re hugely grateful to the city of Columbia for their ongoing support of Art in the Park. It would be hard to create this size of event without the Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Office of Cultural Affairs’ support. It’s a huge undertaking for a small organization like the Columbia Art League to pull off a giant event like Art in the Park every year, and our sponsors are crucial to making that happen.”

Adding to the marketing mix this year, the festival will have two bill boards on I-70 to promote the event. “Art in the Park is quintessential summer in Columbia, and we’re going to do all we can to make sure that it’s a great event so that artists keep Columbia on their annual schedule,” concludes Moxon.

Springfield Little Theatre Announces Their Newest Staff Member Kim McCracken
Tue 5/5/2009 12:22 PM
Springfield, Missouri - May 5, 2009 - Springfield Little Theatre is excited to have a new staff member on board as they gear up for their 2009-2010 anniversary season. Kim McCracken, Director of Development, is very proud to be joining the staff of SLT. Kim received her BA in Theatre from Truman State University. Following a theatre management internship with Playhouse on the Square in Memphis, Kim moved back to Springfield to work in the non-profit world.

Kim will be working towards securing underwriting and sponsorship for shows along with planning and promoting special fundraising events. She is very excited to be bringing her fundraising experience and her love of theatre to Springfield Little Theatre this year!
Artsfest 2009 Award Winners
Sat 5/2/2009 10:30 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council and the 2009 Artsfest Committee is proud to announce this year's Artsfest award winners. The following artists received cash awards for their artwork at Artsfest 2009:

Best of Show - Kwang Cha Brown
3-D Best of Show - Zoe & Bryan Keeland
2-D Best of Show - Gavyn Sky
Award of Excellence - Jennifer Linders
Award of Excellence - Peggy Corpeny
Award of Excellence - Kate Pino
Award of Excellence - Alice Jaeger-Ashland
Award of Excellence - Robert Langford

Over $5,000 in cash awards were presented at this year's Artsfest. Artsfest features over 130 artists who are selected by a jury process. The awards given represent art in many mediums including painting, photography, clay, printmaking, and jewelry. Award winners will be on display during Sunday's festival hours.

Kwang Cha Brown received Best of Show at this year's festival. She traveled to Artsfest from Bloomington, Indiana. She is located in booth 34. Kwang Cha is a native of South Korea and says of her artwork, "my paintings are a window to my spirit."

Seymour Area Arts Council: Art in the Park
Sat 5/2/2009 12:40 AM

Date: May 30, 2009 (Rain Day is June 27, 2009)
Time: 10am-3pm
Place: Park at the Square in Seymour
Cost: Free

The Seymour Area Arts Council is proud to present our first annual “Art in the Park” event.

Art in the Park is for children ages 3-12 (and their families). There will be face painting, a story telling tent, & 10 activities stations for the kids to make their own art: (1) Sidewalk Art; (2) Mural Painting; (3) Udder Painting; (4) Wood & Cardboard Sculpture; (5) Collage and Doll Making; (6) Plaster of Paris Bag Sculpture & Beetle Painting; (7) Jewelry Making; (8) Paper Sculpture; (9) Print Making; and (10) Hand-made Musical Instruments.

The mural painted by the kids will be on display at a local business for a month after the event. The children will be able to take all other artwork home at the end of the event. Bring your own lawn chairs. For more information, please visit our website: http://www.seymourarts.org. The Seymour Area Arts Council is committed to bringing art, music, and cultural events to our rural community.

Springfield Symphony Rounding Out the Season with Grammy Nominated Irish Group – “Cherish the Ladies”
Fri 5/1/2009 3:55 PM

On Saturday May 16th, 2009, the Springfield Symphony will bring its 2008-2009 season to a close with the all-girl singing and dancing sensation known as “Cherish the Ladies” - the most sought-after Irish-American group in Celtic music today. With a unique and spectacular blend of virtuosic instrumental talents, breathtaking vocals and stunning step dancing – this powerhouse group of gals brings together all the facets of Irish traditional culture in an immensely humorous and entertaining package.

Music Director, Ron Spigelman, says “I’ve had the great pleasure of performing with this incredible group three times now and was determined to bring them to Springfield – “world class” doesn’t even begin to describe how great they are! Group leader and world-champion Irish Flutist, Joanie Madden, is the complete entertainer and she even makes me dance”!

Known for their high energy jigs and soaring ballads, they will join the Orchestra for a second-half show that will have you singing, whistling and dancing in the aisles!

For Single tickets - please contact Hammons Hall Box Office at
(417) 836-7678
1-888-476-7849
www.missouristatetix.com

Ticket prices range from $9.00 to $32.00
(Including Senior and Student Discounts)
Juanita K. Hammons Hall
7:30pm – Performance
7:00pm – Preconcert Music in the lobby by First and Calvary Camerata

Contact: Ron Spigelman, Music Director, Springfield Symphony (417) 299-4232
Lisa Spigelman, Marketing Manager, Springfield Symphony (417) 864-6683
Janice Bennett, Executive Director, Springfield Symphony (417) 864-6683

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and is an EOE. Additional funding for all Springfield Symphony Orchestra programs and projects is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency

Springfield Ballet and Ozarks Food Harvest Present Dance Chance In-Studio Performance
Thu 4/30/2009 2:52 PM

Springfield Ballet will partner with Ozarks Food Harvest to present its first Dance Chance in-studio performance May 13, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. at The Creamery Arts Center. Admission is a can of food to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest.

Dance Chance is a community outreach dance program that was formed in 2007, in collaboration with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. Springfield Ballet partners with Robberson Elementary School, The Community Center of Springfield, and Caring Communities to provide transportation, tuition scholarships and dance instruction to its participants. Dance Chance is a 32 week program that coincides with Springfield Ballet’s existing fall and spring semesters.

This is the first Dance Chance performance since the program began. Nearly one hundred children have benefited from this program in its short existence.

“It’s a joy to see how our Dance Chancers progress throughout a semester both as dancers and as people. It’s amazing to see how dance touches these kids’ lives. We are very proud of what they accomplish in this program. The students in Springfield Ballet School have the opportunity to perform and share their love of dance with others, and we though our Dance Chance kids should have the same opportunity,” says Katie Cornwell, business affairs manager.

Springfield Ballet was founded in 1976 and is a not-for-profit arts organization dedicated to helping expand public awareness of, participation in, and an appreciation of a broader range of the arts through dance. Springfield Ballet offers dance education, performances and community outreach programs for the Springfield and surrounding communities.

Trio De Jewel: Three dames and their gems, to open this Friday
Wed 4/29/2009 3:11 PM

Body parts say, “Hello!” to wearable art

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Three regional artisans will unite to showcase a unique collection of handmade, wearable works of art at Trio De Jewel, hosted by The Josh Mitchell Fine Art Gallery, Friday, May 1 through May 31.

Featured artists, Kyleen Koshak of Euphoria Design, Marty Holder of Willow Leaf Design, and Charlotte Johnson’s Gallery of Jewel, have collaborated for this exclusive opportunity for the Springfield community to experience the historical art of bead design & jewelry.

Each artisan’s distinctive style turns the neckline, wrists, ankle, and ears into a timeless visual statement. Koshak’s line features “seed,” beaded heirloom works. Marty Holder’s works fuse dichroic glasses and combines silver, copper, brass, beads and other unique items. Johnson’s line, inspired by nature, focuses on the therapeutic properties of semi-precious stones and gems.

“These artists have a love and innate ability to pay attention to detail,” Josh Mitchell states, “Which truly helps create jewelry that lifts the soul & hearts of the viewer as well as the wearer.”

The opening reception for the exhibit will be held Friday, May 1, from 6 to 10 pm at The Josh Mitchell Fine Art Gallery/Pickwick Framing. Both the exhibit and opening reception are free and open to the public. Trio De Jewel will be open to the public for the entire month of May.

Guests are invited to explore and enjoy the three distinctive techniques and materials that become collectable creations and wearable art.

The Josh Mitchell Fine Art Gallery/The Art Station and Pickwick Underground Framing showcases fine art pieces and offers custom framing solutions for the community. For more information about Trio De Jewel and other upcoming fine art events, please contact Josh Mitchell at 863‐9770 or josh@joshmitchell.com.

Gillioz Theatre company begins season with Waiting for Godot
Wed 4/29/2009 2:46 PM

SPRINGFIELD, MO.— Poor Thespian Productions (PTP) is only weeks away from the start of their first season at the Gillioz Theatre. The co-owners of the PTP, Jon Herbert, Artistic Director and Kenneth Wilson, Managing Director, have put together four entertaining performances for the upcoming season. To start off the season, PTP is performing a classic, Waiting for Godot.

Waiting for Godot, written by Samuel Beckett, will be performed on May 8-10 and May 15-17 of 2009. This classic play, which is being directed by Bryant Turnage, is a tragic comedy about two men who are waiting for the mysterious Godot to arrive. The two men discuss why they were put on this earth and assume that there has to be a reason for their existence. They turn to the mysterious Godot for the answers.

“I've always loved this play,” said Herbert. “And as I get older, I grow to love it more because I think it speaks to a spiritual and psychological crisis that is universal and timeless. I believe it is quite common to feel, at some point in life, the absurdity of being alienated in the universe--hopelessly stuck in longing between the vastness of eternal numbing existence and the glimmer of hope for some meaning.”

Herbert and Wilson are excited to put on this classic production for the public to witness. They hope to get the public more engaged in the theatre and increase their awareness on PTP’s high quality performances and affordable prices.

“Waiting for Godot is one of those plays that everybody's heard of, but many people haven't seen,” said Herbert. “Maybe this is because it doesn't get produced very often (at least not here in Springfield). I hope that the many people who haven't seen it will say to themselves, You know, I really ought to see that while I can! And why not? Five dollars is not a lot to pay for one of the most memorable nights in the theatre you've ever had seeing one of the greatest plays of theatre history.”

Tickets may be purchased via phone only by calling the Gillioz Theatre box office Monday through Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 417-863-9491. They are glad to hold all advance ticket sales at the Will Call window for pick up prior to an event. For more information about the historic Gillioz Theatre, please call 417-863-7843 or visit www.gillioz.org.

Creamery To Hold Sea Glass Creations Workshop May 16th
Wed 4/29/2009 12:18 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council is offering a one-day workshop on Sea Glass Creations at The Creamery Arts Center, 411 N. Sherman Parkway, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on May 16.

The workshop, taught by local artist and Arts Council board member Denene Taliaferro, is for adults 16 and over, but children accompanied by an adult may also take the class. Participants will learn to make simple sea glass creations without going out to sea. Included in the workshop will be instructions on how to make wire-wrapped sea glass pieces to create one-of-a kind jewelry and mobiles.

Workshop cost is $35 and does not include supplies. Deadline for registration is May 8th and a supply list will be provided at time of registration.

For more information or to register contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council, (417)-862-ARTS(2787) or email info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Pizza House Shares Rare Photographs
Mon 4/27/2009 8:17 PM

Oversized Images of Early 20th Century Ozarks' Life to be unveiled for Art Walk

SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI – With its own fifty-year tradition as a landmark Springfield eatery, Pizza House will now contribute to the preservation of local area history with a permanent display of unique photographs depicting early 20th Century recreational life in the Ozarks. Taken between 1908 and 1913, the series of outdoor images were captured by photo hobbyist Steven W. Schneider, a well-known north side businessman and Frisco railroad employee who was the great grandfather of Pizza House owner Stacey Schneider.

“After he retired from the Frisco, my great grandfather had Schneider’s General Store at 2622 North National,” Schneider said. “Their home was behind the store, and it was after great grandpa died in the 1980s that my Aunt Mary found a box full of glass negatives when they were getting the property ready for auction.” Mary Schneider Watkins, a professional portrait photographer, took the fragile negatives back to her Kansas City studio and made prints that were subsequently shared with family members.

When Stacey Schneider purchased Pizza House in 2008, her Aunt Mary provided a number of those prints to complement the decor of the century-old building that became its new home on Commercial Street.

“After we hung those framed 8x10 prints on the back-bar behind the counter, people kept wanting to get back into our work area so they could see them up close,” Schneider said.

“That’s when we got the idea to have super-sized enlargements made so everyone could really see the detail in them, and it’s worked out great. I’m seeing things in them now I never noticed before.”

After re-touching by a graphic artist to repair blemishes resulting from flaws in the original glass negatives, Quality Sign and Trim, a local company specializing in truck wrap graphics, created the 32 by 40-inch enlargements, mounting them on a rigid but light weight material called gator board. The photos capture images of outings on the White River before it was dammed to form Taneycomo and Table Rock lakes, including a group of fly-fishermen knee-deep in the water while wearing their Sunday best and two shots of a foot-powered sightseeing boat named City of Springfield. After their unveiling at this Friday’s Art Walk (May 1st), the series of oversized images will remain as a permanent part of the Pizza House décor.

Pizza House is located at 312 East Commercial Street.

Creamery to Host "Watermedia Collage Workshop"
Mon 4/27/2009 12:36 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a three-day painting workshop for adults,"Watermedia Birch Tree Collage", with well-known artist Shirley Nachtrieb. The workshop will be held at The Creamery Arts Center (across from Hammons Field) on May 12, 13 and 14, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Participants will learn to create new and unusual textures in the abstract art form using a variety of papers, string, gauze, found papers and other materials. Design elements and principles will be discussed and special techniques will be demonstrated.

Shirley Nachtrieb, a graduate of Fontbonne College, resides in St. Charles and has been a freelance artist and teacher for over 30 years. She is a signature member of the Society of Layerists in Multimedia, St. Louis Watercolor Society, the International Society of Experimental Artists, and the Missouri Watercolor Society. She is also a distinguished member of the St. Louis Artist Guild and a juried member of the Best of Missouri Hands. Nachtrieb paints and teaches throughout Missouri and other States.

Nachtrieb¹s artwork is earthy, organic and multimedia. She enjoys painting from nature then interpreting her images into collages using additional textures. She works experimentally, painting positive and negative shapes then adding embellishments. Her painting mediums include watercolor, pastel, acrylics, mixed media, fiber, and handmade books.

The three-day workshop, for adults age 18 and over, is $100. Supplies are not included and a list will be provided. Deadline to register is May 7. To register, call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

ArtsFiesta/Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Sat 4/25/2009 5:36 AM

Can’t go to Mexico? We’re bringing Mexico to you!

Presented by Sister Cities Association, ArtsFiesta! Is a Cinco de Mayo celebration of Mexican art, culture and music. Mariachi group Femenil Nuevo Tecalitlán (an all female band) and the famous Mexican singer Felipe Villalobos will travel from Springfield’s sister city of Tlaquepaque, Mexico to perform at this very important event.

The Mexican festival will include authentic music and dancing including special performances by Grupo Latinoamericano. ArtsFiesta also will feature children’s arts and crafts, a soccer shoot-out area and giveaways, market area and tasty Mexican food.

During the family-friendly festival, visitors will clap to the beat of the mariachi music and the dance performances. Truly this is a chance to rub shoulders with Mexico!

The event runs from 6-10 p.m., May 1, in Springfield’s downtown Founders Park, 330 E. Water St.

Fresh Gallery to Feature Two Locals
Thu 4/23/2009 6:01 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council's newly-opened gallery, Fresh - a collective of fine art & craft at the southwest corner of Campbell and Walnut in downtown Springfield will feature two local artists for the May 1st First Friday Art Walk: Dolores Bauer and Joy Hyde.

Dolores Bauer, who was just selected to participate in Watercolor U.S.A., does not focus on technical skills required to achieve “likeness.” She attempts to find the capacity to touch or move and hopes the painting connects with the viewer. Her most influential instructors include Wade Thompson at Missouri State University, Joy Hyde at the Springfield Art Museum, Bill H. Armstrong at the Creamery and Debbie Sutherland at Artworx Studio. Bauer appreciates the opportunity to paint in "plein air" where there is one light source allowing nature to be her teacher.

Joy Hyde
Dolores Bauer

A third generation artist, Joy Hyde moved from California to the Midwest in the late '70s. She is a member of the Springfield Regional Art Council and has taught watercolor art at the Springfield Art Museum for seven years. She has a studio at Artworx on Walnut street and is pleased to have been selected as a member of the new Fresh Gallery.

Fresh is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. It is open until 10:00 p.m. on all First Fridays. For more information, call the gallery, 862-9300.

Ride your bike to Art Walk on May 1
Wed 4/22/2009 12:16 PM

(April 22, 2009) First Friday Art Walk invites patrons to leave their cars behind and bike downtown for the May 1 Art Walk. Ozark Greenways will close off the square for bike parking, bike displays including art bikes and tall bikes, demonstrations of the city bus bike racks, registration for the Bike, Bus, Walk Challenge May 11-15, and more.

“Ozark Greenways does a fantastic job of promoting alternative transportation, and Art Walk is proud to partner with this effort to raise awareness of greener, healthier people-moving options,” said Clarissa French, Art Walk communications director. “This is the third year that Art Walk has partnered with Ozark Greenways to promote Bike, Bus, Walk Week, and it is always a great addition to our May event.”

Artwork still sought during recession
Wed 4/22/2009 9:07 AM

Traditional, technological arts in higher demand

SPRINGFIELD — Art galleries across the nation are struggling to keep their doors open due to drastic decreases in sales and other fundraising endeavors. Ironically, Keith Ekstam, professor of art and design at Missouri State University, says that some art forms are gaining popularity.

“It seems that traditional arts – those made directly by the hand of the artist or craftsperson – are more popular than ever,” Ekstam said. “Some say this is because of the fast-paced lives we live, which are dominated by various contemporary technologies.”

While technology has changed the way people live their daily lives, it has also impacted the arts community. New technology has expanded the categories of art to include more computer-generated forms. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 218,000 artists working in 2006, and 40 percent of those were classified as multimedia artists or animators.

“The development of computers has led to much greater use of those technologies in art-making, as well as graphic design and illustration,” Ekstam added.

More traditional visual arts are what Ekstam is known for; he has taught, been published and recognized internationally for his work with ceramics. In the visual arts segment of the industry, he continues to see artists completing new works and new faces pursuing work in this field.

“At Missouri State, our art and design department continues to grow,” he said. “New facilities planned for the Brick City area in downtown Springfield will help to alleviate space for the students who study here and will bring even more talented students to the Ozarks. The IDEA Commons area will likely become the place for creative activities within this region.”

Even if the recession made it impossible to make money as an artist, artwork would still be completed - that is where the term “starving artist” originated, he noted.

“Visual artists will continue to make their work no matter what the economy is doing because ultimately it is not about the economy but about engaging in the meaningful and necessary human activity of self expression,” said Ekstam.

Readers Theater To Study Shakespeare Beginning April 29
Mon 4/20/2009 5:55 PM

A third session of Springfield Regional Arts Council's popular Creamery Readers Theater will meet April 29, May 6 and 13 to study Shakespeare's “Much Ado About Nothing”. The play will be performed free in Jordan Valley Park by the Springfield Shakespeare Festival from May 27 to June 7 and Readers Theater will give you a chance to study the play before you attend a performance.

Readers Theater will meet from 7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Creamery Arts Library on April 29 and May 6. On May 13 the group will attend a stage rehearsal and participate in a discussion with the cast and director.

In “Much Ado About Nothing” the lovers Hero and Claudio are due to be married in a week. To pass the time before the nuptials, they conspire with Don Pedro, prince of Aragon, to trick their friends, Beatrice and Benedick, into confessing their love for each other. However, the prince’s illegitimate brother is jealous of both Don Pedro’s power and strong friendships and plans to sabotage the wedding. Bickering, blundering, deception, discovery, and ultimately love are in abundance in Shakespeare’s classic.

Join fellow thespians as we read aloud this witty work of art! Cost is $10 to cover the script. Call the Arts Council to register by Thursday, April 23rd in time for scripts to be ordered, 417-862-ARTS(2787).

Creamery To Offer Smorgasbord of Art for May 1 First Friday
Mon 4/20/2009 5:23 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council (SRAC) will offer a diverse array of art for the May 1st First Friday Art Walk including whimsical painted furniture by Ann Marie Rausch, paintings by Ann Meese (SRAC's elementary schools artist-in-residence) artwork by area art teachers whose schools have enjoyed the artist-in-residence program, and students from Missouri State University's art class taught by Sharon Harper.

Rausch grew up in Springfield and left to attend Kansas State University where she received a BA in Architecture and Design. She had an 18-year career in architecture before retiring to start a family. She started pursuing a full-time career in art as her family grew up and while trying to get her watercolor illustrations published in children books, she discovered acrylics, furniture and wall murals.

" I love creating original artworks that are bright, colorful and useable," says Rausch who lives with her husband, George, and two sons on a blueberry farm in Monett.

Ann Meese retired two years ago as director of Catholic Schools and immediately returned to her past life as an artist. She was hired by SRAC to serve as the Council's artist-in-residence and over the past year, spent a day in more than 30 rural schools in the 27 counties of SW Missouri that SRAC serves, sharing her art with more than 15,000 elementary students. Several art teachers from those schools will be showing their own paintings at The Creamery as well.

Bachelor of Fine Arts students from Missouri State University will be exhibiting their sculpture, ceramics and photography as their Senior Show which will add to the excitement of all the art on display throughout the month of May. Students exhibiting are Carrie Iggulden, Tracy Link and Sarah Jackson.

Photography and Works in Oil Featured at Maschino’s Opening April 29
Mon 4/20/2009 4:49 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program at Maschino’s, located at 1715 S. Campbell, will host artwork by local artists Carl James and Christina Schanda. The exhibit will open on Wednesday, April 29 and a “Meet-the-Artist” reception will take place on Friday, May 8, 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. The exhibit, which is free and open to the public, will remain through June 16.

Carl James has seriously pursued photography for the past 10 years. He became interested in photography as a way to record his explorations in the natural environment of Southwest Missouri and Northern Arkansas. '

“Photography is a way for me to see beyond the mundane and focus on the beautiful interplay of light and space,” says Carl.

Jame's work has been exhibited extensively in Springfield venues including the Busch Municipal building, Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts and Springfield Public Libraries.

Christina Schanda grew up in Forsyth where she lives today. Self-described as a “mood artist”, Schanda is very active in her community serving on the Dr. Mary King-Long Scholarshop Fund, Skaggs Regional Hospital Board of Trustees, and the Community Foundation. Schanda enjoys working with oil on canvas and her work is usually described as abstract.

For more information about this exhibit or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Creamery Teen Writers To Plunge Into Slam Poetry Wednesday Night
Mon 4/20/2009 3:56 PM

The Creamery Writers Workshop For Teens will meet this Wednesday, April 22, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to hear a presentation by Michael Sowers (Well Fed Head Books owner) and poets from MoPoetry Slam who will introduce the teen writers to slam poetry.

The group meets every Wednesday evening in The Creamery Arts Center's board room and is open to all teenagers regardless of writing style or expertise. Funded by the Springfield Regional Arts Council and a grant from Rotary Clubs, the workshop publishes an anthology each year of the writers' works.

For more information, call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or go to www.SpringfieldArts.org.

Arts Council Announces 2009 Arts Adventures
Fri 4/17/2009 5:54 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council has put together an exciting schedule for its 2009 Arts Adventures starting with a trip to Harry S. Truman country (Independence) on April 25. Other trips include the Pulitzer Foundation of the Arts and the St. Louis Art Museum on May 30, the Nelson-Atkins Museum on June 27, a July 25 visit to the pre-civil war town of Lexington, the Powell Gardens in Kingsville on Aug. 22, a visit to Hermann along the Missouri River on Sept. 26, and finally, a visit to historic St. Genevieve on Oct. 24.

The adventures will be lead by William (Bucky) Bowman with the SRAC's director Sandra CH Smith sharing information about the locations as well. As always, Champagne and goodies are served after the museum outings. Some last-minute scholarships are available if the trip isn't fully booked.

For information or to sign up, call Springfield Regional Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787). You can also see a full listing of the adventures on the Council's website, www.SpringfieldArts.org

Creamery Writers To Learn About Poetry and the Human Experience
Fri 4/17/2009 5:38 PM

“Poet, Poetry, and the Entire Spectrum of Human Experience” will be the topic for the Creamery Writers’ Workshop next Thursday night April 23, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in The Creamery Arts Center.

Featured speaker will be Evangel Professor Eliezer Oyola, a native of Puerto Rico, Oyola who graduated from the University of Maryland where he received his B.A. in French and Spanish, an M.A. and his PhD. He joined the faculty of Evangel University in Springfield a year after his doctorate in 1976.

Besides doing research abroad, Oyola has a book on Spanish medieval literature, Spanish grammar and has presented numerous papers at National and International conferences. Besides his main interest in creative writing, which has been mostly poetry in Spanish and in English, he has published various articles on other literary themes and is currently working on a biographical novel.

All writers interested in developing their craft are invited to attend this Creamery Writers Workshop which is open free to all writers regardless of age, expertise or genre. For information call the Springfield Regional Arts Council at (417) 862-ARTS (2787) or visit www.SpringfieldArts.org.

Arts Council Launches 2nd Annual Arf-Fest April 26
Fri 4/17/2009 5:03 PM

For all you doglovers out there, the Springfield Regional Arts Council will host its second annual Arf-Fest on Sunday, April 26, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge on Commercial Street.

Here's your chance to dress Bowser or Rover up in a costume, die his or her "hair", put on the ribbons and bows for the now famous "Dog Parade and Beauty Show" which will take place at 3:00 p.m. Prizes will be given for the Biggest and Littlest dog in the Parade and there will be a price in the Owner-Dog Look Alike Contest. Prizes will also be given for the "Best-dressed Beauty in the Ruff".

Springfield's Plein Air (painting outdoors) artists will be on hand to do dog portraits and to exhibit works they have done in the past of our furry friends. Tickets are available on location with $5 per dog and handler and $3 for those people coming in without a dog. Children 10 and under are free. A portion of the proceeds of this event will go to ther Springfield Animal Advocacy Foundation (SAAF). For further information, contact Springfield Regional Arts Council, 862-ARTS(2787).

Emily Wilker of Springfield Glendale High School Wins 2009 Congressional Art Competition
Fri 4/17/2009 1:43 PM

Springfield, Missouri – Emily Wilker, a senior at Springfield Glendale High School, took top honors in the 13th Annual Seventh Congressional District High School Art Competition held at the Springfield Art Museum tonight. The contest, sponsored by Southwest Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt, drew 19 entries. Wilker’s watercolor portrait of a Guatemalan orphan titled “Genesis Baby,” was judged the best in show by art faculty members from six Southwest Missouri colleges and universities who lent their expertise in scoring the paintings.

"The challenge of picking a winning painting from the many exceptional works submitted by gifted students from Southwest Missouri gets more and more difficult each year,” said Congressman Blunt, who quickly added that he himself was not a judge. “These works of art were produced by talented students, guided by the skills and inspiration of Southwest Missouri’s best art instructors,” Blunt said during award ceremonies.

Wilker’s winning painting will hang in the U.S. Capitol complex for a year starting in June. “Genesi’s Baby” will take the place of 2008 art winner Jessica Bebout’s computer generated self-portrait. Bebout represented Clever High School in 2008.

Wilker’s (pictured left with Congressman Blunt and her painting) life-like portrait is the result of her participation in The Memory Project. Started in 2003 by Wisconsin graduate student Ben Schumaker, The Memory Project is described as “a unique initiative in which advanced high school art students create original portraits for children who have been abandoned, orphaned, abused, or neglected.” Art students, like Wilker, receive pictures of children who are waiting for portraits. Once finished, the portraits are delivered to the children. Wilker has completed four such portraits for orphaned children, but “Genesis Baby” could not be sent to the child because materials used in the painting were not easily protected. A copy was made for the child and the original entered in the 7th District High School competition. “What a great story,” Congressman Blunt said.

Wilker is the daughter of Karl and Julie Wilker. She expects to enter the Kansas City Art Institute on scholarship this fall. For Glendale High School, it’s the fifth time one of art teacher Tracy Bruton’s students has won one of the three top prizes.

Judges awarded an honorable mention to Springfield Kickapoo High School senior Vincent Penka for his ball point pen/acrylic titled “Quixotic.” Penka’s work will be displayed in Congressman Blunt’s Springfield Constituent Service Office on East Sunshine over the next year, replacing the 2008 Glendale High School piece by Kayla Byers. Nick Magnifico, a senior at Strafford High School also won honors with his untitled pen and ink drawing. His work will be displayed in Blunt’s Joplin Constituent Service Office in NorthPark Mall.

Background on The Memory Project

According to The Memory Project’s website, Schumaker, while volunteering in Guatemala, encountered a Guatemalan man who had grown up in an orphanage. The man explained that he did not have any personal belongings from his youth: no photographs, no keepsakes, and no parents to help him look back on his own development. His advice was simple: try to help the kids collect special items that will contribute to their sense of identity and personal self-worth. During the first year of the project, school year 2004-05, approximately 500 portraits were produced for children in Guatemala, Mexico, Haiti, and Nepal by high school students speckled throughout the United States. With more than 16,000 portraits were produced in the 2007-2008 school year, and The Memory Project expects to surpass 20,000 portraits during the 2008-09 school year. All of the portraits are done by advanced high school artists from nearly every state in the United States.

Jon Schueler Exhibition Opens at the Springfield Art Museum
Thu 4/16/2009 3:52 PM

The Springfield Art Museum announces the April 25 opening of Jon Schueler: Weathering. A preview reception will be held April 24, 2009, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. hosted by the Southwest Missouri Museum Associates. The public is invited.

Featuring 18 paintings, this exhibition explores the work of Jon Schueler, a second generation Abstract Expressionist painter who studied under Clyfford Still and Richard Diebenkorn at the California School of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Using the methods of abstract painting, Schueler’s work was fueled by an overwhelming passion for expressing nature; both the changing moods of the sea and sky as well as the reflection of the landscape through the nature of paint itself. Schueler once wrote that he wanted to create “Not a painting of nature, but a painting most like nature. This is what I would like my painting to be.”

Although not always tied to a specific landscape, Schueler’s work was most often inspired by the coastal lands surrounding the small fishing village of Mallaig, in the Scottish Highlands. This rugged terrain, overwhelmed by volatile changes in weather, was the near-perfect physical manifestation of Schueler’s ideal landscape and became a pivotal focus of his work from the late 1950s onward.

This exhibition includes a number of very large, rarely seen horizontal paintings, which provide a unique opportunity to be surrounded by Schueler’s distinctive merging of abstraction and nature. All of the paintings are on loan from the artist’s estate with the cooperation of the artist’s widow, Magda Salvesen.

Jon Schueler lived and worked in New York, spending three months of the year in Mallaig, Scotland, from 1975 till his death in 1992. He had his first one-man show at the Stable Gallery in New York in 1954. He continued to enjoy a number of solo exhibitions in both the United States and Scotland including a 1975 exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art. His work is held by a number of public collections including the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the City Art Centre in Edinburgh, Scotland. The Estate is represented by David Findlay, Jr. Fine Art in New York.

Jon Schueler: Weathering was organized and curated by Sarah E. Buhr, Curator of Exhibitions at the Springfield Art Museum. The exhibition will be on view in the Gertrude Vanderveer Spratlen and Bill H. Armstrong galleries; part of the Museum’s new West Wing expansion. The exhibit will run through May 31, 2009. A 24-page exhibition catalogue is available featuring color illustrations of all 18 paintings, an exhibition checklist and an essay by the exhibition curator.

Springfield Art Museum

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 9:00 – 5:00
Thursday: 9:00 – 8:00
Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00
Closed: Monday, City of Springfield, and National Holidays
1111 East Brookside Drive Springfield, Missouri 65807 Phone 417-837-5700 Fax: 417-837-5704

Westside Public Health Center to host “Meet-the-Artist” reception
Thu 4/16/2009 12:29 PM

One of the newest venues in the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program, the Westside Public Health Center (660 S. Scenic), will host a “Meet-the-Artist” reception on Monday, April 20, 3 p.m-6 p.m. Artwork by Rosalie Perryman of Marshfield will be featured. The exhibition will be available for public viewing through Monday, May 25.

Perryman has been a photographer and worked in watercolor, oil, acrylic and digital art for 10 years. She uses her passion for photography to capture nature and to see the beauty of nature in an artistic way. Work by Perryman has been exhibited at Waverly House Gallery, Bellwether Gallery, area libraries and restaurants. She works out of her studio at the Jubilee Theatre Center in Marshfield.

Watch for SRAC's upcoming Art in Public Places exhibits coming to a business near you. If you are interested in participating in the Art in Public Places Program either as an artist or as a business, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email info@springfieldarts.org.

Springfield Ballet presents Ballet Through the Eras
Tue 4/14/2009 2:26 PM

Springfield Ballet presents Ballet Through the Eras…featuring four ballets from three different eras in history. The majestic Pas de Quatre from the romantic era, the mystical Firebird, from the Diaghilev era, Clumsy Plunge, a modern ballet performed to music by Radiohead, and the contemporary Tango Ballet, choreographed and staged by Springfield Ballet’s founding school director, Mark Carlson. This exciting and versatile performance is sure to have something for everyone!

Ballet Through the Eras
Landers Theatre
311 E. Walnut
Springfield, MO

April 18 7 p.m.
April 19 2 p.m.

Tickets: $16-$22

Tickets are available at the Landers Theatre Box Office by calling 869-1334 or online at springfieldlittletheatre.org.

Local and regional artists share their talents to fight hunger
Tue 4/14/2009 8:05 AM

The Art of Ending Hunger art auction to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest

SPRINGFIELD, Mo – Local artists and food bank supporters will unite at The Art of Ending Hunger, annual art benefit auction for Ozarks Food Harvest at Patton Alley Pub, Saturday, April 18.

Event guests will enjoy one-of-a-kind artwork, hors d’oeuvres, cash bar and conversation with the food bank’s family of supporters. This year’s event will feature both a live and silent auction; with all proceeds directly benefitting Ozarks Food Harvest’s child and family feeding programs.

Liz Delany, of Alice@95.5’s ‘Kevin & Liz Show’, will again emcee the event along with auctioneer, Jack Tough. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the silent auction and live auction bidding will begin at 8:00 pm. Live music by the Silver Hammer Band will begin at 9:30 pm.

More than 30 artists and their works will be auctioned. Among the list of contributing artists are Susan Sommer-Luarca, Kristi Mashburn, Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, and Springfield Pottery owners, Nathan and Jennifer Falter.

“There has never been a more important time to become involved in hunger relief,” artist contributor, Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, states, “families & children who have never had to seek help before are now wondering how they will put food on their table.”

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door or in advance by calling 865-3411.

Ozarks Food Harvest distributes more than 5 million pounds of food annually to a network of more than 350 hunger relief organizations; serving more than 53,000 individuals each month. The Food Bank offers direct relief through its Mobile Food Pantry™ program, Kids Cafe® after-school feeding program, Weekend Backpack Program™ and its Club F.U.N.® children’s health and nutrition classes. For 25 years, The Food Bank has been Transforming Hunger Into Hope™ to the 29 counties in its service area.

Annual Outdoor Poetry Festival Announced
Tue 4/14/2009 1:53 AM

"Poetry In The Park," an outdoor festival celebrating National Poetry Month with live music and poetry readings, will be held Sunday, April 26th from 1 through 6 p.m. at Lake Springfield in Springfield rain or shine. The event is sponsored by Springfield's own Poets & Friends.

All poets, published or aspiring, along with family and friends are invited to participate in the potluck picnic and other activites which will feature readings of poets' original works alternating with live music professionally performed by Terry Armes and guest(s).

The event will be staged at Northwoods Pavilion, the fenced in recreation area formerly known as the City Utilities Special Use Area which is just up the hill from the new marina at Lake Springfield. Although there are plenty of picnic tables, David J. Thomas of Poets & Friends suggests possibly bringing lawn chairs or lawn blankets, if you prefer, along with a dish to contribute to the potluck picnic, your own non-alcoholic beverages and place settings. The facility has a covered pavilion, raised stage, running water, electricity, restrooms, cooking grills, playground with swings, basketball court, lots of green space and plenty of parking. Watch for signs and balloons marking the way. Maps and flyers are available upon request and attached to this message. This event is free of charge and open to the public.

The poetry-lovers' picnics, held every April, are sponsored by Poets & Friends - www.poetsandfriends.com , founding chapter of the Missouri State Poetry Society (MSPS) - www.nfsps.com/mo which is affiliated with the National Federation of State Poetry Societies (NFSPS) - www.nfsps.com . Membership is open to all interested poets, published or aspiring. Chapters throughout the state hold monthly meetings to read, discuss and critique poetry. Springfield's Poets & Friends chapter meets on the fourth Monday of the month at Brentwood Library.

Arts Council Presents 2008 Ozzie Awards At Fresh Gallery Opening
Mon 4/13/2009 6:26 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council presented the 2008 Ozzie Awards Thursday night at the grand opening of the Council's new collective art gallery, Fresh. Guests at the event had the chance to simultaneously take part in the festivities of the Ozzies as well as the grand opening of the Council's newest project, Fresh.

Receiving the 2008 Ozzie Awards were: William Brandon (Bucky) Bowman and Jeanie Morris who tied for the Individual Award presented to each by last year's individual awardee, Gary Ellison; the Organization Award went to all four local Rotary Clubs (Rotary Club of Springfield - Downtown, Rotary Club Southeast, Rotary Club North and Rotary Club Sunrise) presented by SRAC Board president Gloria Galanes; the Legacy (posthumous) Award went to Studio 55 presented by Jeanie Morris to honor the art group's founders and artist members which included founding member Bernard Wardlow, now deceased, and artists Marge Hill, Elizabeth Donegan, Sis Engler and Pat Backler, all deceased.

Two new Ozzie Awards were introduced this year to honor an individual and a corporation or business known for collecting art by local artists: the Art Collector - Individual Award went to Debra Sutherland, presented by SRAC Board member Nancy Dornan Brown, and the Art Collector - Organization Award went to St. John's Hospital for its Healing Art Program, presented by Allen Casey, a member of the SRAC ad hoc Art Attack committee.

Fresh, SRAC's newest addition to its long list of programs to support the arts, is home to 24 Springfield area artists who have all been juried in as members of the collective gallery which they all share in operating. They come from a wide variety of specialty backgrounds including jewelry, watercolors, fibers, oils, sculptures, wearable art, mixed media and photography. The artists were pleased to have the Ozzie Awards serve as the inaugural event of their new space.

As the Ozzies seek to recognize outstanding commitments to the arts by individuals and groups, Fresh was a fitting venue for the celebration. Hors d'oeuvre and Champagne were provided by the Layman Group of Morgan Stanley and SRAC Board members, members of the Arts Council and patrons of the arts all enjoyed the gala event.

Fresh is located on the southwest corner of Campbell Avenue and Walnut Street and is available for rent to the public for private parties and workshops. The gallery is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. All First Fridays it will be open until 10:00 p.m. and each month two members will serve as featured artists. Those featured for the month of April are Bruce Burnaugh, sculptor, and Carol Penprase, fiber artist.

Springfield Little Theatre Announces Upcoming Performances of The Buddy Holly Story
Mon 4/13/2009 3:25 PM

Springfield, Missouri - April 12, 2009 - "The day the music died." Fifty years ago a plane crash killed rock legend, Buddy Holly. Springfield Little Theatre proudly presents a celebration of the man, his music and life, that encompasses a unique mixture of innocence, determination, humor and charm that was Buddy Holly.

The Buddy Holly Story portrays Holly's brief life and meteoric rise to fame and rock 'n roll stardom. It includes songs such as "Peggy Sue," "That'll Be The Day," "Oh Boy," Everyday," "Maybe Baby," and more.

The show dates for The Buddy Holly Story are May 1-17, with performances at 7:30 on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 2:30 matinees on Sundays. Ticket prices are $15.00-$25.00 and can be purchased by calling the box office at 417.869.1334 or on the website at www.springfieldlittletheatre.org

Capture Color at Free Art Day - April 25
Mon 4/13/2009 1:57 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council invites the community to its bi-monthly Free Art Day, Saturday, April 25th from 10 AM to noon at The Creamery Arts Center across from Hammons Field.

April's Free Art Day will feature five hands-on art activities, including making KOI Fish Windsocks, Mexican Bracelets, Hand coloring Art Unites People, Painting a 3-D Community Mural and storytelling with the Springfield-Greene County Library.

Says Sandra CH Smith, executive director of the Arts Council, "This is a perfect time to bring young children to The Creamery and have some quality time doing fun arts projects with them. You¹ll all have some great lifetime souvenirs of the experience!"

Free Art Day is free and open to the community. No registration is required. The Arts Council recommends allowing 45 min. to complete all activities. Anyone interested in volunteering to help Arts Council staff with some of the art activities is invited to call as well to sign up.

For more information, call the Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS(2787) or visit www.SpringfieldArts.org.

Hundreds of Barbershop Singers to Compete in Springfield April 24-25
Mon 4/13/2009 10:58 AM

Springfield, Mo. – About 400 barbershop singers are expected to attend the annual Spring Contest and Convention of the Central States District of Barbershop Harmony Society competition April 24-25 at the Gillioz Theatre in Springfield.

The Quartet Finals and Show of Champions at 6:30 p.m. April 25 is open to the public. Tickets are $29 at the door. The box office opens at 6 p.m.

Other highlights of the event include honoring the Four Pitchikers, who began singing together in 1950 in Nixa. The quartet will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of winning the 1959 international competition in Chicago.

The Barbershop Harmony competition is being hosted by the local Sho-Me Statesmen chorus.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra: “Brunch with Beethoven”
Wed 4/8/2009 10:16 AM

When: Sunday April 26, 2009
11:00am – 2:00pm

Where: Ramada Oasis and Conference Center
2550 North Glenstone

And this year promises to be bigger and better than ever! This is your chance to sample the finest fare from all the restaurants you know and love, including Clearwater Cafe, the Moon River Grill, Big Cedar Lodge and Chateau on the Lake in Branson, the Tower Club, Fremont Hills, Hickory Hills and Twin Oaks Country Clubs, and even a sushi bar from Nakato Japanese Steak House, to name just a few.

Served buffet style with a side order of the Symphony, you can help yourself to this feast for the senses prepared exclusively by members of the Springfield/Branson Chef’s Association. There will be a silent auction including restaurant and golf club gift certificates, furniture and Chef Steve Oshita of Nakato who will provide a fabulous 5 course meal (including sushi) for 8-10 people in the home of the highest bidder. There will also be door prizes and other surprises.

Tickets are just $30 for adults ($35 at the door) and $10 for children (10 and under). If you call now we will also give you a Springfield Symphony Live! CD at no extra charge – but hurry, supplies are limited!

The Springfield Symphony takes great pride in its long history of providing the city of Springfield and the surrounding area with high quality, wholesome entertainment that is truly family-friendly, and this event is no exception. So don’t miss this opportunity to gather with family or friends, to entertain clients, or even reward your staff - all while enjoying the very best that the Ozarks has to offer!

For more information or to purchase tickets please call the Symphony office at (417) 864-6683 today.

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and is an EOE. Additional funding for all Springfield Symphony Orchestra programs and projects is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency

 

Drury University Music Department presents Gilbert & Sullivan Gala
Tue 4/7/2009 1:35 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., April 7, 2009 —The Drury University Opera Workshop will present a Gilbert and Sullivan Gala, performing scenes from The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, and The Pirates of Penzance on April 24 and 25 in Clara Thompson Hall.

These three operas are Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular works and include such famous numbers as “Three Little Maids from School”, “I am a Pirate King”, and the ever popular “I am the very model of a modern Major-General”. Joining the Opera Workshop is the Drury Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Christopher Koch.

Between 1871-1896, William S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan wrote 14 comic operas. Gilbert (who wrote the words) created a comical world of mistaken identity and farcical characters, while Sullivan (who wrote the music) contributed timeless melodies. Gilbert and Sullivan operas still enjoy broad international success and are regularly performed in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Great Britain.

Performances are Friday, April 24 at 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 pm, and will take place in Clara Thompson Hall on the Drury University campus. Both performances are free and open to the public, though donations to the Opera Workshop are gratefully accepted.

Ozzie Awards and Fresh Gallery Opening To Share the Limelight
Tue 4/7/2009 5:36 PM

The Board of the Springfield Regional Arts Council would like to invite you to the 2008 Ozzie Awards in celebration of those who have contributed significantly to the Arts in Springfield. The Awards will be presented Thursday night, April 16, from 6 to 9pm, in conjunction with the Grand Opening of the Arts Council's new art gallery, Fresh - a collective gallery of fine art and craft. The event will be held in the Fresh Gallery at the S.W. Corner of Campbell and Walnut in the former Corner Printing Building. There is convenient parking in the new College Station parking garage on Campbell a block away from Fresh.

There will be five Ozzie Awards presented: One for Individual, one for Organization/Corporation, one Legacy Award, and two new ones....one for Art Collector - Individual and another for Art Collector - Organization/Business. The nominating committee has worked very diligently in their selection of nominees.

This will also give you a great opportunity to see all the wonderful art on display by the 25 talented artist members of Fresh which is a collective gallery, managed and run by the member artists, themselves. You'll have a chance to meet all the artists and chat with them about their styles and techniques.

Although we are not asking for a real firm RSVP, we would appreciate it if you knew you were definitely coming if you would kindly call our office to let us know so that we will have numbers for the caterer. Hors d'oeuvre and Champagne will be served courtesy of The Layman Group of Morgan Stanley.

Here is a postcard with all the info you will need. We hope to see you at this felicitous occasion!

Local Author/Publisher To Address Creamery Writers Workshop
Mon 4/6/2009 8:01 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will welcome Allan Young as the featured speaker at its Creamery Writers Workshop this Thursday night, April 9, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in The Creamery Arts Center. His topic will be "Writing Short Stories".

As a young engineer, Young wrote two highly successful texts and changed the emphasis of his career to writing. He became the owner of a publishing business, became a writer, an editor and then a writing instructor. Young believes a good short story requires precise writing, clear descriptions and vivid dialogue. In addition, a short story should be written so that it can be read in thirty minutes.

The Creamery Writers Workshop is free and open to all writers regardless of age, genre or expertise. For more information, call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or write to Info@SpringfieldArts.org

Graphic design and digital art to be featured at The Center for Plastic Surgery
Mon 4/6/2009 7:04 PM

The Center for Plastic Surgery offices of Dr. Carl Price and Dr. Arthur Hawes in the Ferrell-Duncan Clinic (5th floor, 3555 S. National) will host its third exhibition as part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program. Featuring local artists Steve McGuire and Alan O’Neal, the exhibition will open on April 13 and remain through May 29. The public is welcome to visit this free exhibition Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

 
Steve McGuire was born and raised in Springfield. After graduating college, he worked for a clothing company as a production artist before leaving to create McGuire Design Group, a freelance graphic art firm. Since 1994, McGuire Design Group has served both large and small businesses and specializes in all forms of advertising. Steve also teaches several classes at Ozark Technical Community College in the Adult Continuing Education Department.
Alan O’Neal, Willard, is a retired engineer and a self-taught photographer. Influenced greatly by rural areas, he has a strong fondness for nature which is reflected in his photographs. In 2004, O'Neal began exploring digital art, the process of taking a photo and creating an alternate image. He finds this process fun and also challenging for many times it yields a new image that looks nothing like the original. Often, it is difficult to see where the photo stops and where the changes begin. O'Neal also constructs all of the frames for his photographs, processed from logs to the finished product.

For more information about this exhibit or about the Art in Public Places program, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Westside Public Health Center to host its first Art in Public Places exhibit
Mon 4/6/2009 4:44 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council has added a new venue to its Art in Public Places program. The Westside Public Health Center at 660 S. Scenic will be hosting an exhibition of original work by Rosalie Perryman of Marshfield. The exhibit will open on Friday, April 10 and remain through Monday, May 25. A “Meet-the-Artist” reception will be held on Monday, April 20, from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. This exhibit and reception are both free and open to the public. Exhibit hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rosalie Perryman has been an amateur photographer, watercolor, oil, acrylic and digital artist for 10 years. Perryman uses her passion for photography to capture nature and to see the beauty of nature in an artistic way. Work by Perryman has been exhibited at Waverly House Gallery, Bellwether Gallery, area libraries and restaurants. Perryman works out of her studio at the Jubilee Theatre Center in Marshfield.

Watch for upcoming Art in Public Places exhibits coming to a business near you. If you are interested in participating in the Art in Public Places Program, either as an artists or as a business, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email info@springfieldarts.org.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra: “It’s Organic!”
Mon 4/6/2009 11:48 AM

Join the Springfield Symphony on Saturday April 18th as we raise the roof with Saint-Saëns incredible Organ Symphony, featuring Organ soloist Jeremy Chesman, Missouri State University Carillonist and Assistant Professor of Music. Easily one of the most spectacular symphonies ever written the dramatic ending is sure to rattle the rafters! The program will begin with the overture to Lucio Silla – an opera written by Mozart while in his mid-teens and which shows off his trail-blazing originality.

Our featured guest artist for the evening is virtuoso Violinist, Augustin Hadelich, who is widely considered to be a rising superstar in the music world. He will perform the Beethoven Violin Concerto - one of the cornerstones of the Violin repertory - a powerful work full of drama, beauty and passion that ends with a dance full of spirit and fire!

The Symphony will also be presenting a special Free Matinee at 2:00pm at Hammons Hall on the day of the concert featuring excerpts from the evening’s program, including the first movement of the Beethoven Violin Concerto. There will be an “Instrument Zoo” in the lobby prior to the performance, courtesy of Palen Music, where kids can try out different instruments first hand, as well as a Free Cookie and Punch Reception immediately following the show. The program will be approximately one hour in length and is completely free and open to the public, however, everyone attending must have a ticket and these are available through the Symphony office.

The Springfield Symphony is committed to making music accessible to all the citizens of Springfield and the surrounding area and to contributing directly to the incredible quality of life we are so fortunate to enjoy here in the Ozarks. Through free performances such as this, we are actively working to reduce and remove some of the monetary and logistic constraints that may prevent certain groups and individuals within the community from attending the Symphony and experiencing the joy and exhilaration of live music. Groups who have attended in the past include children and families from Ronald McDonald House, The Boys and Girl’s Town of Missouri, the Children’s Miracle Network, Make A Wish Foundation, Judevine, Arc of the Ozarks, A Sporting Chance, and the Missouri Council for the Blind, to name just a few.

The Springfield Symphony will be accepting non-perishable food donations for the Ozarks Food Harvest at both the afternoon and evening performances as part of Orchestras Feeding America, a national food drive organized by the League of American Orchestras, Feeding America and Participant Media. . Please help us fee hungry children in the Ozarks!

For Single tickets to the evening performance - please contact Hammons Hall Box Office at
(417) 836-7678
1-888-476-7849
www.missouristatetix.com

Ticket prices range from $9.00 to $29.00 (Including Senior and Student Discounts)

Juanita K. Hammons Hall
6:30pm – Free Preconcert Lecture by Ron Spigelman in the Hall
7:00pm – Free Preconcert Music Program in the lobby by
Starla’s Swinging Strings
7:30pm – Performance

For tickets to the Free Hour-Long Matinee – please contact the Symphony office directly at (417) 864-6683

**Please note - the Free Matinee is NOT the full evening program**

Contact: Ron Spigelman, Music Director, Springfield Symphony (417) 299-4232
Lisa Spigelman, Marketing Manager, Springfield Symphony (417) 864-6683
Janice Bennett, Executive Director, Springfield Symphony (417) 864-6683

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and is an EOE. Additional funding for all Springfield Symphony Orchestra programs and projects is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency
Springfield Visual Arts Alliance Spring Art Show and Reception
Sat 4/4/2009 11:47 AM

The Springfield Visual Arts Alliance will hold a reception for its Spring Juried Art Show from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 8, on the fifth floor of the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. The Art Show continues until July 24. The show and reception are FREE and open to the public. The event is accessible to the disabled. For more information, leave a voicemail at 862-ARTS (2787).

Any artist 16 years or older is welcome to enter work to be juried for the Spring Art Show on May 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Juanita K. Hammons Hall. There is an entry fee for nonmembers, but members may enter up to three works at no cost. Membership dues are $25 per year.

Local art exhibit challenges the eye as well as the conscience
Fri 4/3/2009 10:34 AM

Recycled Art Combines Relationships and Sustainability for the Future

The Josh Mitchell Fine Art Gallery encourages the community to, “Get away from throw away!” as it debuts a new exhibit crafted from recycled photographic materials, April 3 through May 1.

This expressive large scale, 3D exhibit captures the spirit of true sustainability through its collaborative creation. The main pieces of the show, 'Hanging cartridges' and 'Rhythm and Hues', are actual products made from by‐products of previous photographic projects.

 
‘Hanging Cartridges’, is a ceiling to floor, suspension mobile of more than 360 plastic inkjet cartridges; which artist Josh Mitchell saved for two years, while holding the concept in mind. With the help of Drury University student architect, Justin Petersburg, Mitchell was able to string the idea into reality.
‘Rhythm and Hues,’ a six foot photographic wall hanging, is a woven creation Mitchell and artist Macklin Rice pieced together from a year’s worth of paper and canvas waste.

The piece has already been selected for a juried exhibit in St. Louis and soon afterward will travel to the Springfield Downtown YMCA. Mitchell hopes that these various appearances will inspire the same sense of sustainability and collaboration in the community.

Mitchell, states, “Recycling fosters relationships! You can't build complex things alone. Recycling can be made bigger by all of us pitching in small things.”
These expressive pieces are reminders to help urge viewers to ‘Get away from throw away’. Mitchell believes the reward can be very big to the community and that's the new art wave.

The opening reception for the exhibit will be held Friday, April 3, from 6 to 10 pm at The Josh Mitchell Fine Art Gallery/The Art Station, 1427 E. Cherry St. Both the exhibit and opening reception are free and open to the public.‘Get away from throw away!’, contact josh@joshmitchell.com or 863-9770.

Missouri Literary Festival
Wed 4/1/2009 3:15 PM

Business author Bo Burlingham will speak on “Regaining Mojo” at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2, at Drury’s Clara Thompson Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Please contact Becky Lane, (417) 829-8222, for more information.

In light of Bo Burlingham’s April 2 visit to Drury University as part of Drury’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation Convocation Series, the Missouri Literary Festival is proud to announce that Burlingham will join forces with fellow business authors Jack Stack and Norm Brodsky to present Business by the Book, a business-focused seminar and luncheon 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 2. Tickets will be $35.

Burlingham, the author of “Small Giants: Companies that Choose to be Great Instead of Big” and an editor-at-large for Inc. magazine, collaborated with Springfield ReManufacturing Co. founder and open-book management pioneer Jack Stack on his books “The Great Game of Business” and “A Stake in the Outcome.” Burlingham has also collaborated with Norm Brodsky, who writes the Street Smarts column for Inc. and The Morning Norm at Inc.com.

The business authors’ seminar is one of several special events slated for the three-day literary festival, a first-time event which will be held Oct. 2-4 at Hammons Field and The Creamery Arts Center. The festival will feature programs, panels and book signings by writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry, including novelists Daniel Woodrell and Katie Estill, children’s author David Harrison, women’s issues expert Nancy O’Reilly, Missouri Poet Laureate Walter Bargen and 2001 U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins. The festival will also offer a full slate of children’s authors, programs and activities; live music, theater and dance performances; a poetry slam and workshops by Top 10 spoken-word poet Joaquin Zihuatanejo; an appearance by author and recording artist Jennifer Rothschild; and of course, books, books, books.

Besides Business by the Book, special ticketed events during the festival will include an Authors Gala with the festival writers and Saturday Brunch with Laura Shapiro, who will discuss her new biography of Julia Child.

The Missouri Literary Festival, a Celebration of Arts, Literature and Literacy, is a nonprofit event focused on raising funds to benefit arts programming and literacy organizations. General admission will be $5 for ages 11 and up; children 10 and under get in free. Festival beneficiaries are Springfield Regional Arts Council, Ozarks Literacy Council, Family Literacy Centers of Springfield, the R-12 Title I Schools and the Writers Hall of Fame scholarship program.

For information on sponsorships and booth rental, please contact William Brandon Bowman, festival chair, at (417) 865-0450.

Springfield Symphony Announces Auditions for the 2009-2010 Season
Wed 4/1/2009 12:08 PM

Saturday, May 9th, 2009
Clara Thompson Hall
Drury University
Starting at 2:00pm

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra announces auditions for the following positions: 1st Violin (possibly 3 positions), 2nd Violin, Assistant Principal Viola, Cello (possibly 2 positions), possibly Principal Harp, as well as on-call musicians for all instruments. Auditions will be held in Clara Thompson Hall on the campus of Drury University beginning at 2:00 p.m.

Musicians wanting to audition must send a current resume and a $25 refundable deposit to the Springfield Symphony office at 411 N. Sherman Pkwy, Springfield, MO 65802. The Application deadline is April 24th, 2009. Applicants will be sent an information packet for use in preparing for his/her audition, including the requirements for each instrument, upon receipt of application. Time slots will be allotted and applicants notified two weeks prior to the audition day.

The Springfield Symphony is one of the oldest professional performing arts groups in the City of Springfield, and our regular season runs from September through May. In the 2009-2010 season we will perform 6 classical concerts and 3 pops concerts, as well as a series of Young People’s Concerts and a number of special matinees. All Springfield Symphony Orchestra performances receive funding from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency. Repertoire highlights for the 09/10 season include: Beethoven Symphony No. 5, Berlioz Symphonie Fantastique, Ravel Daphnis and Chloe and Carl Orff Carmina Burana.

In addition to the announced openings, musicians with orchestral experience on other instruments are encouraged to audition for the orchestra’s on-call list of substitute musicians. The Springfield Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and is an EOE.

Swank Salon Newest Venue in Art in Public Places Program
Mon 3/30/2009 7:21 PM

Swank Salon, the newest venue in the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program, will host artwork by local artist Jan Bennicoff opening on Tuesday, April 7 and running through Tuesday, May 19. The exhibition is open for viewing Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m at Swank Salon which is located at 3657 E. Sunshine.

Jan Bennicoff, of Springfield, has training not only as an artist, but also as a writer and a classical soprano. She got her start writing and illustrating for the Outpost Exchange, a natural food publication in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Jan later wrote weekly reviews for music, dance, and theatre productions and illustrated for Today’s Woman Magazine in Springfield. Jan’s work spans a wide array of media including watercolor, egg tempera, and oil. Currently, Jan is a member of the Springfield Visual Arts Alliance and is a juried member of Best of Missouri Hands.

For more information about this exhibition or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Fulnecky Law to Host Fiber Art Exhibition
Tue 3/24/2009 4:38 PM

Artwork by local fiber artists Evelyn Elliott and Carol Penprase will be featured as part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program at Fulnecky Law, 1530 E. Primrose, Suite E. This will be the fifth exhibition Fulnecky Law has offered and it will open on Tuesday, April 7 remaining through May 19, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Evelyn Elliott and Carol Penprase have very different creative backgrounds. Elliott has embroidered most of her life and expanded her skills through self-direction and receiving instruction when available. She is a member of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Ozarks Needle Workers, and Springfield Fiber Artists. Finding inspiration from contemporary English and Australian needle artists, her goal is to show people that embroidery is more than just cross-stitch.

Elliot’s daughter, Carol Penprase, is a graduate of Wayne State University with a degree in fine arts. Penprase uses embroidery to mesh abstract surface designs with forms derived from various sources including cast-off automobile, beads and mirrors. An eclectic artist currently creating with found and recycled objects, Penprase has exhibited works in Michigan and Missouri. She is also one of the juried in member artists of the Arts Council's new gallery, Fresh, opening April 3.

For more information about this reception or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Springfield Symphony: Don’t miss your chance to catch a rising star!
Mon 3/23/2009 4:18 PM

On Saturday April 4th, 2009, gifted young musicians from all over the world will be descending on Springfield, MO, to take part in the 13th Annual Hellam Young Artists' Competition. Founded in 1996 by Dr. Duane and Judy Hellam, under the auspices of the Springfield Symphony, the competition gives young musicians and vocalists the opportunity to compete for substantial cash prizes, and the winner, the opportunity to perform with the Springfield Symphony in a subscription concert the following season.

Students from such prestigious institutions as The Julliard School, The Peabody Institute and the Curtis Institute of Music are regular competitors. Furthermore, past participants have come from as far away as China, Russia, Japan, Brazil and Germany.

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 – 24 years and enrolled in either undergraduate or graduate studies. The preliminary round of the competition is held via CD auditions, from which, the judges pick the top 10 performers to travel to Springfield to take part in the semi-finals.

Of 25 prize winners to date, all remain actively involved in musical careers. Most recently, 2008 Hellam Co-Winner, Tenor - Ben Gulley, was selected as 1 of only 15 singers out of 1000 to participate in the finals of the Metropolitan Opera Council auditions. As part of the process he received coaching on stage at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City from such luminaries as Placido Domingo and Sherill Milnes and at the end of it was invited personally by Domingo to sing in a concert in Spain in which Domingo will be conducting. Furthermore, Gulley will return to Springfield in March 2010 to perform as one of three soloists with the Springfield Symphony in Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana.

Springfield Symphony Music Director, Ron Spigelman, believes that the competition is a unique and wonderful opportunity to bring some of the most talented, up-and-coming musicians in the world here to Springfield.

All rounds of the competition are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Saturday April 4th, 2009
Barnett Recital Hall
Evangel University
Springfield, MO

9:30am – 12:30pm: Semi- Finals
12:30pm – 1:30pm: Lunch Break
1:30pm: Finals

Points of Interest:

● The judges for the 2009 competition are Michael A. Murray, Principal Cello, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Professor of Cello, Missouri State University. Dr. Hye-Jung Hong, Assistant Professor of Piano, Missouri State University and Dr. Grant Peters, Trumpet, Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Professor of Music (Trumpet), Missouri State University.

● Contestants for the 2009 competition will be coming from as far away as Romania, Lithuania and Brazil.

● Competition underwriters act as host families for all 10 semi-final round contestants

For more information about this wonderful competition and the many ways in which you can support it, please visit www.hellamcompetition.com or contact the Symphony office at (417) 864-6683.

Journalist To Address Creamery Writers Workshop
Mon 3/23/2009 11:48 AM

“Writing from an Overseas Hotspot” is the subject of a talk by journalist Jennifer Moore scheduled for the Creamery Writers Workshop this Thursday night, March 26, 7:00 p.m. at The Creamery Arts Center across from Hammons Field. Learn how to use facts for a news story, a feature, a television news clip, or possibly for the basis of a novel at this workshop.

Moore chose a career in news writing when she was still in West Plains High School and then began her studies at the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism. Two semesters were spent in Cairo, Egypt so she could get acquainted with Middle Eastern history and Arabic.

After graduating with honors in 2001, Moore relocated to the Persian Gulf and became a freelance journalist reporting for National Public Radio (NPR) and field producing for CNN’s program, “Inside the Middle East.” She also worked as a freelance writer for the newspaper, “The Gulf News” which is the Persian Gulf’s largest English daily. She reported on issues ranging from the loss of the traditional Bedouin culture to media censorship in the Gulf, and the plight of Iraqi refugees who fled their country after the war began.

After five years in the Persian Gulf, Moore returned to Missouri to be closer to her family and now works as the Senior News Producer at the local NPR station: KSMU. Her daily work includes reporting on local and state news, training the journalism students who come through the MSU journalism program, and anchoring the afternoon newscasts.

The Creamery Writers Workshop, a literary outreach program of the Springfield Regional Arts Council, is open to all writers regardless of age, expertise or genre. Parking is available at The Creamery (north and south sides of the building) or at the Jordan Valley Car Park on Trafficway, just a few minutes' walk across the Park. For more information, go to www.SpringfieldArts.org or call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787).

Evangel students to perform Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”
Thu 3/19/2009 7:14 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Evangel University’s spring theatre musical production, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” will run March 19-21, 26, 28 and April 2-4 at 7:30 p.m. and March 21, 28 and April 4 at 2 p.m. All performances will be in the Barnett Fine Arts Theatre. Reserved seat tickets are $15 or $12 for groups of 10 or more and children under the age of 12. For additional information, contact Elaine Tate 417- 865-2815 ext. 8640. To view available seating, visit www.evangel.edu/TicketSales; then call 417-865-2815 ext. 7134 and leave a message to reserve tickets.The Box Office is open Monday through Wednesday 4-6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 4-7:30 p.m., and for the Saturday matinees 1-2 p.m.

The play is directed by David Smith, associate professor of theatre arts, and the orchestra is directed by Dr. Larry Dissmore, professor of music.

Synopsis

In Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, an arrogant prince has no room in his heart to love others and is cursed into beast form. To break the spell, he must learn to love and be loved in return before the last petal falls from his enchanted rose — but the rose will only bloom until his 21st birthday.

Belle’s father is lost and seeks shelter from the Beast, who imprisons him for trespassing. Belle finds her father and offers to serve his sentence. She sees her captor as nothing more than a Beast, and he views her as difficult and stubborn. As time passes, they learn that their perceptions are wrong.

Cast of characters

Belle: Amber Gathright, senior theatre music major from Reeds Spring, Mo.
Beast: Jordan Thomas, senior theatre arts major from Ozark, Mo.
Gaston: Michael Newbury, freshman biblical studies major from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Lumiere: Gavin Gardner, senior music major from Kansas City, Mo.
Cogsworth: Matthew Coratti, senior electronic media major from Virginia Beach, Va.
Mrs. Potts: Brianna Goode, freshman theatre music major, Hurricane, W.V.
Chip: Jacob Hall, middle school student and son of Tim and Lynne Hall, Pleasant Hope, Mo.
Babette: Anesa Beilfuss, junior theatre major from Branch, Mich.
Wardrobe: Erin Jacobs, junior music, theatre and speech education major from Charlotte, Mich.
Lefou: Salvatore Marchione, junior theatre major from Union, N.J.
Maurice: Sid Griffith, Evangel’s campus pastor

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Tim Rice
Book by Linda Wolverton
Originally Directed by
Robert Jess Roth

Originally Produced by
Disney Theatrical Productions

DISNEY'S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Is presented through special arrangements with Music Theatre International (MTI)
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
421 West 54th street, New York, NY 100019
Phone 212.541.4684 Fax: 212.397.4684
www.MTIShows.com

 

The Chamber Orchestra of the Ozarks presents “Friends Sharing Chamber Music 2”
Thu 3/19/2009 3:01 PM

Who: Chamber Orchestra of the Ozarks
What: A concert of chamber music
When: Saturday, March 28, 2009, at 7:30 pm.
Where: Wesley United Methodist Church, 922 West Republic Road, Springfield, MO.

How: The Chamber Orchestra of the Ozarks is supported by individual contributors, business/corporate sponsors and concert ticket sales. Individual concert tickets are 15.00 at the door, $5.00 for students, children under age 12 are free.

Comment: The Chamber Orchestra of the Ozarks was founded by local music professionals in 1997. Its mission is to enhance and expand the cultural fabric of the Ozarks through the performance and promotion of chamber music throughout the community.

Artistic leadership for the orchestra’s season is the collaborative efforts of the musicians. The Chamber Orchestra of the Ozarks is one of only a few ensembles in the world that use this collaborative method of artistic direction.

Repertoire to be presented on this concert:

F.A. Hoffmeister’s “Adagio” and “Allegro” from the Duo for Violin & Viola, Op. 65. #1
W.A. Mozart’s Piano Quartet in E-flat, K 493
Robert Fuch’s Duets for Violin & Viola, Op. 60: “Leicht bewegt”; “Sehr innig, nicht zu langsam” and “Waltzer”
Anton Dvorak’s Piano Trio in F Minor, Opus 65

About the pieces and composers...

F.A. Hoffmeister’s Duo for Violin & Viola is a part of his very popular chamber music works of the later part of the 18th century. His best known work is a well known and often performed viola concerto. As a young man he studied law but became interested in music and became a publisher. He published many of the works of Beethoven, Haydn and Mozart. His publishing company became part of the well known C.F. Peters Publishers of today.

Hoffmeister commissioned W.A. Mozart to compose a number of piano quartets. The first in G minor did not please the publisher because it was too difficult for amatuer musicians of the time and therefore not profitable. After a fiery exchange of letters, Mozart got himself out the the contract with Hoffmeister and placed his second quartet, the one in E-flat, K. 493, in more appreciative hands. In know time the new piano quartet became all the rage in Europe’s fashionable salons. Often performed with more gusto than finesse.
In the hands of professionals, it is one of Mozart’s greatest chamber music achievements.

Robert Fuchs was a music teacher and composer of the late 19th and early 20th century at the Vienna Conservatory. Among his students were Gustav Mahler, Jean Sibelius and Erich Korngold. Critics describe his music as, “Unfailingly tuneful and enjoyable.” His chamber music, such as the Duets for Violin and Viola, are regarded to be his best work as a composer.

The Piano Trio No. 3 in F Minor, Opus 65 (1883), is Dvorak’s penultimate piano trio. It is a large scale work full of passion and fire; it’s Czech nationalist elements cloaked in Brahmsian rhetoric. The folk-like elements are not used merely for exoticism or local color. They are used in a framework of late Nineteenth Century Austro-German style, exemplified by Brahms.

For more information on this concert call 417-626-8194 or visit us on the web at www.ChamberOrchestraoftheOzarks.org

Arts Council to open its new Fresh Gallery - A Collective of Fine Art & Craft on April 3
Tue 3/17/2009 6:03 PM

After almost seven months of waiting while the building was being renovated, the Springfield Regional Arts Council will open its new gallery April 3rd in conjunction with First Friday Art Walk. Called Fresh - A Collective of Fine Art & Craft, the gallery is located at the S.W. Corner of Campbell and Walnut in the former Corner Printing building. Hours will be Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. On First Fridays, the gallery will be open until 10:00 p.m.
Bruce Burnaugh
Carol Penprase

For the month of April, two member artists have been selected as featured artists: Bruce Burnaugh, a sculptor, and Carol Penprase who does fiber collages. Burnaugh, a stone sculptor, has lived in the Springfield area for fifteen years. In 1990 he travelled to Pietrasanta, Italy for a month as a teacher's assistant in exchange for help with a class working on large marble pieces. In 1991, he founded Rox Stoneworks in Lake Elsinore, California, where he finished granite countertops and other pieces for clients including baseball star Barry Bonds, Wolfgang Puck's Spago, and for Barbie Benton's home at Starwood in Aspen, Co. In 1993, Bruce moved Rox Stoneworks to Ozark, Missouri where he worked on everything from a large table for Kenny Rogers to the restrooms at Lander's Theatre. During that time, Rox did work appearing in Architectural Digest and 417 Magazine which named his "Best bathroom ever" which he designed for Dr. and Mrs. Carl Price.

Carol Penprase, a graduate of Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, concentrated on pottery early in her career. In recent years, she has explored combining traditional art forms with found objects or by using non-art materials in her work. She uses embroidery to mesh abstract surface designs with forms derived from a variety of sources ranging from cast-off automobile parts to beads and mirrors. An eclectic artist interested in creating art that incorporates found and recycled objects, she has exhibited works in Michigan and Missouri ranging from hand-built clay items to digital pieces that are a combination of images and actual computer parts. “Having never met a medium or technique that I didn’t like my goal is to combine them all using fabric as a base medium,” she says.

Fresh will be run by member artists who have signed contracts with the Arts Council. Those juried in for gallery membership, representing a wide range of artistic mediums, are: Dolores Bauer, Janice Brueggemann, Bruce Burnaugh, Stephanie Cramer, Holly Elkins, Alicia Farris, Clarissa French, Mary Hamilton, Joy Hyde, Ann Meese, Jeanie Morris, Angel Nahon, Carol Penprase, Kevin Richardson, Peggy Thatch Sibley, Sandy Strother, Denene Taliaferro, Karla Breeding Trammell, Sharon Warren and Elaine Willig.

All artists will take turns monitoring the gallery one day a month, and have formed committees to take charge of exhibition layouts, hanging operations , publicity and promotion, cleaning and maintenance.

Says Sandra CH Smith, executive director of the Arts Council, "This is a wonderful opportunity for our local artists to share in the gallery experience, giving them a chance to sell their artwork. The Arts Council is charging members a quarterly membership fee and a nominal commission on sale of works just to cover rent, utilities and insurance. We are grateful to a generous donor who is helping us get it open and we are hoping the gallery will be able to stand on its own before too long."

For more information about Fresh, contact the Arts Council, 417-862-(ARTS)2787 or info@SpringfieldArts.org

MSU Music department hosts renowned flamenco artist
Mon 3/16/2009 10:05 AM

Opportunity to hear unique music comes to Springfield

SPRINGFIELD—Missouri State University’s department of music will present a concert by Ronald Radford, flamenco guitarist, at 7 p.m. April 2 in the auditorium of the Springfield Art Museum.

Radford will present a varied and entertaining program of Gypsy melodies and flamenco techniques. He paints a picture for his audience of the flamenco art form, native to southern Spain, by lacing his program with warm and spontaneous commentary. This performance will appeal to all ages and a broad range of musical tastes from those who like the creativity of jazz and the fun of bluegrass to those who love the classics.

“It will be a wonderful opportunity to hear a type of music not heard in Springfield by a recognized master in the field,” said Dr. Dianne Strickland, acting head of the Missouri State music department.

A Fulbright Scholar and protégé of the legendary Carlos Montoya, Radford is widely acclaimed as one of the foremost Flamenco guitarists touring today.

Tickets are $5 for students and senior citizens or $10 for anyone at the door.

Arts Adventures To Rediscover The Legacy of Harry S. Truman
Thu 3/12/2009 7:13 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council's first Arts Adventure of the season will be devoted to rediscovering the legacy of Harry S Truman as the group departs April 25 for Truman's birthplace and farm followed by a visit to Independence for a tour of the church where two Truman weddings were held.

The Arts Adventure begins at 6:30 a.m. with a coffee reception in the Arts Council's offices at The Creamery Arts Center followed by a departure at 7:00 a.m. First stop will be at 8:30 a.m. for a thirty-minute visit to the birthplace of President Truman in Lamar. Next stop will be at the farm in Grandview where Truman grew up for a walk-around as the National Historic Site does not officially open until Memorial Day. Next, the group will visit Trinity Episcopal Church in Independence for a docent tour where President and Mrs. Truman were married and where their daughter, Margaret,"The American Princess", later married Clifton Daniel. A dutch treat lunch on or close to the square in Independence will be enjoyed before a visit to the Reception Center for the Truman Home for a docent tour. The group will next visit the greatly expanded Harry S Truman Library and Museum for a guided tour including the grave sites of President and Mrs. Truman and Margaret and Clifton Daniel.

Rounding out the Adventure wil be a stop at the legendary Savoy Grill in downtown Kansas City which was a favorite haunt of Mr. Truman for an early dutch treat dinner. Four lucky adventurers will get to be seated in Mr. Truman's very own booth! The group will return to Springfield by 9:30 p.m. Asti Spumante, nuts and choclates will be served on the return trip! Round trip transportation, all entrance fees and all docent led tours are included in the cost of $60.00 per person.

To reserve a spot on this first Adventure, call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787).

Local Filmmaker Seeks Actors For Upcoming Film
Thu 3/12/2009 12:06 PM

True Indie Films will hold an open casting call on April 18th at MSU for its first feature film. Auditions will take place from 9:30am to 4:30pm in Craig Hall, Room 101. They are looking for all types in a wide age range, 18 and up, from the seasoned vets to those who have never acted. You can find more information about the movie with character breakdowns, side reads and a character list at www.trueindiefilms.com. If every thing stays on track, filming will take place late August into September. For further inf, email Info@trueindiefilms.com.

Author Tour Features Personal Visits in Homes and Studios
Thu 3/12/2009 10:52 AM

On June 7-14, Writers Hall of Fame, based in Springfield, Mo., is sponsoring a bus tour to visit 15 of Missouri’s most successful and well-known children’s authors, artists, playwrights, and poets.

Tour guide Dr. Linda Benson is professor emeritus of children’s literature at Missouri State University. Graduate and undergraduate college credit is available through Drury University and can be transferred.

The tour begins in St. Louis and moves to Kansas City and southwest Missouri before returning to St. Louis eight days later. Along the way you’ll meet in the homes and studios of Pat and Fred McKissack, Constance Levy, Lynn Rubright, Vicki Grove, C. B. Mordan, Eileen Bluestone Sherman, Cheryl Harness, Dorinda Nicholson, J. B. Cheaney, David Harrison, Judy and Ross Young, Kate Klise, and Veda Boyd Jones.

Other highlights include a riverboat dinner cruise with entertainment, a tour of historic St. Charles with costumed docent, a performance at Shepherd of the Hills Amphitheatre, and visits to Precious Moments Park & Chapel and Laura Ingalls Wilder home and museum.

The tour will include round-trip deluxe motor-coach transportation, seven nights deluxe lodging with hot breakfast and manager’s reception each evening, seven dinners and one lunch. All taxes, service charges, group meal, gratuities and coach driver’s gratuity are included in the price of your ticket. Prices range from $1,169 per person (four in a room) to $1,711 (for a single).

For more information contact David Harrison (dlharrison@mchsi.com). To make reservations, contact Brian Garrison (BGarrison@greatsoutherntravel.com). Reservations require $500 down and the rest by May 8.

Center for Plastic Surgery to Host “Meet-the-Artists” Reception March 17
Wed 3/11/2009 2:54 PM

As part of the Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program, The Center for Plastic Surgery offices of Carl I. Price, MD and Arthur Hawes, MD at Ferrell-Duncan Clinic (5th floor, 3555 S. National) will host a “Meet-the-Artists” reception on Tuesday, March 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Local artists Dee Giles and Ina Crisman will be the featured artists during this free reception where refreshments will be served. This exhibition will remain through April 6.
Dee Giles, of Rogersville, has been painting for more than 27 years, working primarily in oil. She enjoys painting portraits, animals, and landscapes. Paintings and sculptures created by Giles have been sold to collectors and individuals throughout the area. She also spends a lot of time creating work to donate to local charities. Giles has won several awards and honors including People’s Choice Award and First Place at the 2008 Ozark Empire Fair.
 
Ina Crisman, of Springfield, has been painting for about five years and uses painting as a way to express herself. Mostly self-taught, Crisman’s subject matter includes portraits, landscapes, architecture and abstracts. As a member of the Splatter artists’ studio, she finds great inspiration in associating with other artists.

For more information about this reception or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.

Art Tiles Exhibit Opens March 20 at County Office
Wed 3/11/2009 12:20 PM

The Springfield Regional Arts Council’s Art in Public Places program will exhibit work by local porcelain artist Juliet Biggs at the Greene County Commissioner’s Office (933 N. Robberson) opening Friday, March 20 through Friday May 8. This free exhibit is available for public viewing Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Biggs has studied porcelain art for over 25 years and began her studies and creations in Panama City. In 1984, she moved to Springfield and continued creating sculptured porcelain flowers, jewelry, and most recently, individual porcelain art tiles and tile murals. Several tile murals created by Biggs can be found at Dickerson Park Zoo in the Tropical Asia and South America sections.

For more information about this exhibit or to get involved in the Art in Public Places program, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council at 417-862-ARTS (2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org.
Art opening at Waverly House Gallery Friday, April 3rd
Tue 3/10/2009 2:19 PM

NEW watercolors and pastels by Cindy Kopenhafer, sterling and gemstone jewelry by Ann Paris and Raku pottery by Josh Gillispie opening Friday April 3rd with a reception for the artists from 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Waverly House Gallery, 2031 S. Waverly.  This exhibit will continue through April 25th.  For more information visit: www.waverlyhouse.com
Cindy Kopenhafer - Batik
Cindy Kopenhafer - Pastel
Ann Paris - Jewelry
Josh Gillispie - Raku
Springfield Symphony to perform at The Keeter Center for the final time this season!
Tue 3/10/2009 9:39 AM

Join the Springfield Symphony on Sunday March 15th at The Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri, for the final concert of the Symphony’s Keeter Center Brunch Series.

The afternoon will begin with Respighi - one of the greatest musical colorists. His works are full of color, light and shade and Trittico Botticelliano is no exception. Inspired by 3 famous Botticelli paintings – Spring, The Adoration of the Magi and The Birth of Venus - the many bird-like motifs and pastoral dances throughout the work are literally a musical interpretation of the artist’s decorative lines and picturesque images.

Following this the orchestra will perform Mozart’s glorious Sinfonia Concertante for Violin, Viola and Orchestra, written for himself and a friend to show off their virtuosity! The soloists for this performance are Pamela Davis (Violin - Assistant Concertmaster) and Kirsten Weingartner-Weiss (Viola - Assistant Principal Second Violin) – both are incredibly talented members of the Springfield Symphony as well as Branson show veterans (Photo courtesy Preston Dial Studio).

Tickets are available for the brunch and concert combined or just the concert alone and everyone is invited to a FREE Hot Chocolate Reception following the performance where you can meet and mingle with the Music Director, Ron Spigelman, and Symphony musicians.

So in keeping with our season's theme we invite you to come and get up-close and personal with the Springfield Symphony and enjoy what promises to be a true feast for the senses!

Points of interest:

● In Branson, Pamela Davis has performed with the likes of Wayne Newton, Manheim Steamroller, Daniel O’Donnell, Kenny Rogers and Johnny Mathis. Furthermore, she has been an Adjunct Instructor of Music at College of the Ozarks, Elementary Music Educator and Children’s Choir Director at Branson Elementary School for 11 years as well as Assistant Principal and Principal of Hollister Elementary.

● Kirsten Weingartner-Weiss was the Violinist for the Lawrence Welk Show for 12 seasons and has taken part in a number of recitals and performances for the Branson Arts Council. She has also served as a Violin Instructor at College of the Ozarks.

● The March 15th concert is sponsored by Arvest Bank.

● The Royal Oak Auditorium is a 350 seat, state-of-the art facility with a superb natural acoustic that makes for a uniquely intimate, audibly rich performance quite unlike anything else around.

● The Symphony is hoping to return to the Keeter Center next season for another Brunch-time concert series in the months of February, March and April.

Brunch and Concert

Adults: $40 - Children 6 – 12yrs: $16 - Children under 6yrs: $5
(Prices include tax & gratuity)

Concert only

Adults: $15 - Students/Children: $5
For tickets - contact the Symphony Office at (417) 864-6683
**Tickets will also be available at the door**

Art students win Society of Illustrators competition
Tue 3/10/2009 8:22 AM

SPRINGFIELD – Two students from the Missouri State University art and design department recently won the most prestigious award in their field, The Society of Illustrators Scholarship competition. Ashford Stamper, senior art and design major from Kearney; and Jane Colvin, senior art and design major from Washington, will have their work presented at the Museum of American Illustration. Of the 5,600 entries submitted this year, only 146 were accepted.

The mission of the Society is to promote the art and appreciation of illustration, as well as its history and evolving nature, and to encourage high ideals through exhibitions, lectures, education and by fostering a sense of community and open discussion.

“I'm really honored and excited to be included in this show,” said Stamper.

The award ceremony will take place May 8, and the art work will be exhibited May 6-June 6.

“It's extremely exciting to get in and assures me that I might be doing something right after all,” added Colvin.

Creamery To Host "Fun with Chinese Words" Beginning March 31st
Mon 3/9/2009 3:01 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a three-week drawing workshop, "Fun with Chinese Words," taught by Hing Wah Hatch. The workshop for ages 12 and up will be held at The Creamery Arts Center 411 N. Sherman Parkway on the following Tuesdays: March 31, April 7, and April 14, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

In this workshop, Chinese words will be taught using pictures and pictograms. Hatch will tell stories using words and images while students draw the characters in pictograms and classical style. Since all Chinese words come from pictures, Hatch will have students learn words by relating them to the pictures. Students will combine words to form sentences and poetic phrases.

This workshop involves drawing and cost is $65, with all supplies provided. Deadline to register is March 17. For more information, call the Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org

Creamery To Host SATO48 “Script as Blueprint” Seminar
Mon 3/9/2009 2:38 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council will present a free hands-on seminar exploring practical and aesthetic aspects of creating stories for moving media at the Creamery Arts Center, 411 N. Sherman Parkway on April 4 from 10.00a.m. to 4.00p.m.

Filmmakers Kyaw Tha Hla and Jeff Clinkenbeard will conduct the seminar using a lecture/lab format through which attendees will discover some of the many ways ideas flow into and out of a script. Hla and Clinkenbeard are the organizers of the SATO48 Film Challenge in which area filmmakers annually compete to complete films using given criteria within a 48-hour time frame.

There is no cost for this seminar which is offered by the Arts Council as part of its outreach programming. The seminar is open to the public, but advance registration is required and limited to 40 attendees. To register, call the Springfield Regional Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or email Info@SpringfieldArts.org

A Networking Mixer 2009 will follow the seminar, with separate registration required by e-mailing jeffclinkenbeard@gmail.com and he can be contacted for information about the mixer.

Creamery To Hold Gyotaku Printmaking Workshop March 21
Mon 3/9/2009 2:21 PM

Springfield Regional Arts Council is offering a one-day workshop on Gyotaku Printmaking at the Creamery Arts Center, 411 N. Sherman Parkway on March 21st, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The workshop , taught by local artist Denene Taliaferro, is for adults 16 and over and will cost $35, not including supplies . Deadline for registration is March 14th, with a supply list provided at that time.

Students will create cards, wrapping papers, prints for framing and more using this Japanese “fishprinting” process. Gyotaku means fish rubbing and developed into a Japanese art form, which started as a way for fishermen to document sizes and kinds of fish before the fish were sold or eaten.

This workshop is the first of three in a series of “One-Shot Saturday Workshops,” offered by Taliaferro on the third Saturdays in March, April and May. The April 13 workshop , “Painted Papers ", will teach quick and easy techniques using bleach, glue, paint, varnish, and other material to decorate papers. The May 16 workshop, “Sea Glass Creations", will help students learn to make wire wrapped glass pieces to create one-of-a-kind jewelry and mobiles.

For more information or to register, contact the Springfield Regional Arts Council, 417-862-ARTS(2787) or email info@SpringfieldArts.org.

 

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