Oakland Ballet - Fall Program October 25, 2008

The Oakland Ballet Company, led by Ronn Guidi, Artistic Director, begins its second exciting season with two performances on Saturday, October 25 at the historic Paramount Theatre in downtown Oakland. The company will perform excerpts from Ronn Guidi's "Romeo and Juliet," Ron Thiele's "How'd They Catch Me?" and Michael Lowe's "Bamboo" with a special musical selection by Melody of China. Michael Morgan will conduct members of the Oakland East Bay Symphony.

Guidi's "Romeo and Juliet" is set to the classic Prokofiev score. It first premiered at the Paramount Theatre in October 1993 and features exquisite costumes and beautiful set design by Ron Steger. Ron Thiele's "How'd They Catch Me?" is set to Stravinsky's Two Suites for Small Orchestra and is a series of little vignettes embedded with humorous interaction. The World Premiere was in October 1989. Michael Lowe's "Bamboo" is a green kaleidoscopic view of a young artist's perspective on life. From a glimpse through the bamboo stalks in his childhood backyard to the splendor and dazzle of the Chinese New Year parade through Oakland's Chinatown, Lowe brings the delight and wonder of his early years to life in "Bamboo."

Chevron returns as lead sponsor, supporting tickets to the underserved. Support the Alameda County Community Food Bank by donating a nonperishable food item and receive a 20% discount for adults and $10 tickets for children (ages 12 & under). One nonperishable food item per ticket. Tickets must be purchased at the Paramount Theatre Box Office. Drop off bins will be located at the theatre.

Buy your tickets now! For tickets, www.ticketmaster.com or (510) 625-8497. For information, call the Paramount at (510) 465-6400.

$15-$50.

Official Website: http://www.oaklandballet.org