Due to unforeseen circumstances, Odd-Lot Puppetry Company was forced to postpone its Oct. 25 season premiere of Albert’s Afraid.
All kinks in the show’s technical complexity are ironed out and the black-light puppet musical is rescheduled for Nov. 15 at Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre.
Designed and produced by Brendan James Boyce with music and lyrics by Michael Gordon, Albert’s Afraid is the story of a young bat in his personal journey of self-discovery.
Albert is terrified of everything, especially the dark. But one night his baby sister is blown out the window and he must rescue her before the sun comes up.
During his trek into a dark forest, he meets a series of terrifying night creatures that have their own fears. But nothing is quite as frightening or satisfying as facing your own fears.
Half a dozen songs are sprinkled throughout the 45-minute show with a musical score of upbeat music inspired by 1930s-era cartoons.
The event also includes a free puppet craft area for kids, spooky entertainment and an opportunity to take your photo with Albert.
Tickets for Albert’s Afraid are $12 and $8 for children under the age of seven. Call 780-420-1757 or online at tixonthesquare.ca.
The Richard Eaton Singers launches with Vivera, a combination of two compelling choral works. Joining them are featured members of the University of Alberta Madrigal Singers and the much lauded Alberta Baroque Ensemble.
The 30-member Madrigal Singers get the program underway with several sacred Latin motets including two contemporary works by Scottish composer James MacMillan.
The 100-member singers follow with Antonia Vivaldi’s Gloria and Franz Schubert’s Mass in G, scored for soprano, tenor and baritone soloists.
“They’re two of the choral Top 40,” said conductor Sara Brooks. She is filling in for Dr. Leonard Ratzlaff during his sabbatical year from the university.
“Dr. Ratzlaff chose these pieces because they reach out to the audience and are usually well-received. They are accessible and make for a balanced program.”
Brooks notes that Vivaldi’s 18th century early baroque composition has a denser composition than Schubert’s lighter 19th century romantic flavours.
“There’s a good variety of styles of music for the audience and the singers. Even the orchestra uses different bows. I hope the audience will be intrigued by the difference.”
Vivera takes place Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2:30 p.m. at McDougall United Church. Tickets are $30. Early birds and students are $20. Call 780-428-3737 or [email protected].
