In the blink of an eye Milwaukee has become the fresh water capital of the U.S. So what better way for Present Music to pay homage to its hometown than with a water-themed concert for its 30th anniversary season? This event invites the audience to hear and see life’s basic element in music, art and dance, and is sure to make a big splash as the most logistically complex event Present Music has ever attempted.
Here are five fantastic reasons to take part in the festivities this weekend:
1. There will be painted rain barrels for door prizes and a raffle featuring a pair of ocean kayaks as the grand prize.
2. The following stellar groups will also perform: Danceworks, Milwaukee Choral Artists, Vocal Arts Academy of Milwaukee, Bel Canto Boy Choirs, Cream City Chorus, Milwaukee Mask & Puppet Theatre and UWM’s Dept. of Art and Design.
3. There will be boat demonstrations on the river with canoes, kayaks and even a Chinese dragon boat.
4. UW Milwaukee’s Department of Art and Design will elucidate ideas of water through video, outdoor installations and water-themed artwork and local rock band Herman Astro will play at the after party with fire dancers and bubble artists.
5. In line with their mission of performing contemporary music, Present Music presents the world premiere of Turkish-American composer Kamran Ince’s composition Water in Uihlein Hall.
In a recent article, Present Music Artistic Director Kevin Stalheim says: “Kamran recently called and said he wants all the singers to bring a jar and a spoon. He also wants a large container of water that will be splashed around and amplified.” Apparently, he also insisted upon 17 instrumentalists and 60 vocalists.
Oh, and one more good reason – it’s free!
Present Music’s Water concert will take place on the banks of the Milwaukee River behind the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, Aug. 27, beginning at 7 p.m. Although admission for the event is free, seating inside Uihlein Hall is limited. According to the website on Aug. 20, all tickets have been issued. Click here to be added to the waiting list to see Kamran Inca’s Water. Otherwise, no ticket needed for the other festivities.
One more not to miss: Mexican Fiesta! Aug. 26-28 at Henry W. Maier Festival Park. Just like the expression “Everyone is a little bit Irish on St. Patty’s Day,” I’d like to coin the phrase “Everyone is a little bit Mexican when Mexican Fiesta comes to town.” Learn about traditions and customs of this tight-knit and thriving Milwaukee community in the cultural village or just stuff your face with tacos and churros.
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Photo by Mark Frohna
