225BatonRouge.com - Blogs

When it comes to the performing arts, fall is the best time of the year. Actors, musicians, and dancers return from their summer excursions and/or their training and rehearsals ready for a new season of performances. Baton Rouge is no exception. In less than ten minutes of Internet research and phone calls, I found several local ensembles and venues that have their own productions or will bring in outstanding guest artists. So get out your pen, paper, and your wallet, because the 225 fall performing arts schedule is out and ready for your enjoyment.

Baton Rouge Little Theater got things off to a great start last weekend when they opened the Lerner and Loewe classic musical My Fair Lady. It runs through October 1. Congrats to the cast for their great review in The Advocate and, kudos to my old friend Jennifer Ellis, who plays Eliza Doolittle. You’ll always be Yum-Yum to me.

Ellis Marsalis brings his legendary piano skills to The Manship Theatre on October 5. This show is bound to be a hit with jazz fans. I plan to be there for that one.

I also plan to be in the audience when the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra brings in soprano Renee’ Fleming on October 8. I’ve seen Ms. Fleming perform in Chicago on more than one occasion. For those of you who aren’t familiar with Ms. Fleming, and don’t realize how MAJOR it is that she’s coming to the 225, let me just tell you: SHE IS A DIVA! Now that term is used very loosely and inappropriately today. In Ms. Fleming’s case, it applies. She is the total diva package in a good way: She’s immensely talented, has performed in operas and recitals all over the globe, has a glamorous persona, and is at the top of her game. Baton Rouge is very fortunate to have her perform here and I’m glad BRSO, with help from Pennington Foundation, was able to pull this one off.

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre opens their season with a performance by Hubbard Street Dance Chicago on October 17. Hubbard Street Dance is a Chicago staple that has gained international success. Whether you are a dance fanatic or a newcomer, you will enjoy yourself.

We can’t forget about the children. Just in time for Halloween, Playmakers of Baton Rouge brings The Legend of Sleepy Hollow to young audiences October 20-28. These professional actors will surely give your children a show to remember. But you may have to let them sleep with you if it gets scary.

If you have young people in your life who can’t sit still, try taking them toOf Moving Colors Productions Creative Movement Classes for Children. The classes start on October 2. Call OMC at 225-338-0804 for more information. The company dancers will perform at the Keep Louisiana Beautiful Gala on October 27. Their full season announcement is coming soon.

I’ve said this before and I must say it again: There are plenty of things to do culturally in Baton Rouge and there is no reason to not take advantage of them. The options are endless, which is a good thing.

I know this is a lot of information to absorb at once. But guess what? There’s so much more going that I didn’t have time or space to report on this week. I look forward to keeping you informed in the weeks and months ahead.