This spring, the Performing Arts Series returns with three extraordinary virtual arts experiences.
“One thing we can be sure of is that we need the arts now, more than ever," Shoshana Zeldner, program manager, special events with the School of the Arts, said. "I am so proud that the Performing Arts Series is continuing to navigate this virtual arena, ensuring that we remain connected to one another and energized by the arts."
The white-hot, award-winning, Irish quintet, Goitse, will launch the return of the Performing Arts Series Thursday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. PDT. Ticketholders will have the opportunity to submit questions in advance and following the performance, band members will answer audience questions from their home studios in Ireland. Each Performing Arts Series event includes unlimited on-demand access for 14 days following the event.
“As a way to make for a truely one-of-a-kind evening, we are collaborating with select local restaurants to develop imaginative take-out menus, inspired by each of our visiting artists,” Zeldner said. “This new partnership is sure to make each performance a very special night in, with the essence of every great night out.”
On Feb. 25, just in time for the performance, ticketholders can order a Goitse inspired Guinness Shepherd's Pie with Garlic Bread ($18) for take-out from Washoe Public House by calling them directly at 775-322-2710. Just mention that you are a Performing Arts Series ticketholder when you place your order. Orders must be placed by 5 p.m., Feb. 25.
Goitse, pronounced, “go-wit-cha,” is an informal Gaelic Irish greeting meaning “come here.” As their name implies, this concert will have you out of your chair and dancing to one of the world’s most popular Irish bands.
Described by Irish Music Magazine as “brimming with energy and creative zeal,” Goitse has toured internationally and recorded five albums since the bandmates met at the prestigious University of Limerick’s Irish World Academy of Music and Dance. Named Live Ireland Radio’s “Traditional Group of the Year,” Chicago Irish American News’ “Group of the Year,” as well as winning the prestigious “Freiburger International Leiter 2016” award in Germany, Goitse have become a leader of the new generation of traditional Irish ensembles.
The band’s unique sound combines their own original compositions with traditional tunes from the Ireland countryside and abroad. Laying the foundations for the music are World and All-Ireland Bodhrán champion Colm Phelan and Conal O’Kane, who is fast making a name for himself as one of the finest guitarists of his generation. Tadhg Ó Meachair plays piano and Alan Reid moves between banjo, bouzouki, mandolin and oud, while the sweet, charismatic voice of Áine McGeeney draws audiences into a song the way few performers can. All the musicians have won acclaim for their outstanding musical talents that contribute to making Goitse one of the world’s most exciting ensembles.
The Performing Arts Series will continue with virtual performances by the soulful a cappella group, Sweet Honey In The Rock® on March 25, and rising star jazz vocalist, Michael Mayo on April 22. Each event will include a live Q&A where audience members will have the opportunity to interact in real-time with guest artists.
“By joining us at a virtual event, you’ll support the Performing Arts Series and ensure performing artists across the world keep sharing their talent and inspiration with all,” Zeldner said. “Each performance this season includes something more intimate and engaging than we traditionally would have planned for in a pre-Covid context. We’re able to connect with our audience and performers in a much more personal way.”
To purchase tickets for the Performing Arts Series, visit the Performing Arts Series website or call the School of the Arts at 775-784-4278 (8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday). Guests can attend all three spring events with the spring 3-pack ($40), or individual event tickets are $15 and free to University of Nevada, Reno students. Each performance will remain available on-demand with unlimited viewing for 14 days following the live event.
In addition to the Performing Arts Series, the School of the Arts presents the Reno Jazz Festival and Lake Tahoe Music Camp as well as world-class visual art exhibitions, musical performances, theatre productions, dance concerts and public arts events presented by the departments of Art, Music, and Theatre and Dance. The School’s degree programs provide a strong foundation in a range of artistic disciplines, enabling students to contribute as artists, educators and scholars at the local level and beyond. Finally, the School, as well as the College of Liberal Arts, encourage broad campus and community participation in the arts through its numerous performances, lectures, exhibitions, core courses and outreach activities that explore diverse cultures and encourage lifelong learning.
The 2020-21 Performing Arts Series is funded in part by WESTAF (the Western States Arts Federation); the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency; the Associated Students of the University of Nevada, the Graduate Student Association, IGT, and the City of Reno Arts and Culture Commission. In-kind support is provided by CLM Design, Advertising, Interactive.
