#5: Once Upon a Time in Anatolia at UWM’s Union Theatre.
Why? Because this Cannes winner (the “Grand Prize,” 2011’s second place finish to Terrence Malick’s Tree of Life) is the latest and best film from Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan, and has been called a “metaphysical road movie” (you know, like The Hangover). It’s also been called a masterpiece for the way it transforms a police procedural into an ensemble drama worthy of Chekhov (at least that’s the comparison made by Chicago Tribune Michael Phillips). And it’s filled with the director’s gorgeous visions of the desolate Turkish landscape.
#4: Off the Wall Theatre’s The Tempest.
Why? Because few Shakespeare plays provoke more wacked out interpretations than The Tempest, and Dale Gutzman is always willing to take the story of Prospero’s island to a new level. For this production, the usually tiny Off the Wall Theatre will host a cast of sixteen (that’s a little less than half the maximum audience of 35, if you’re keeping track at home), a set of trap doors and special effects, and a live original score performed by composer Glen Quarrie. In other words, a production as vast as “the great globe itself.”
#3: The Edible Book Show at Woodland Pattern Book Center.
Why? Because that “book smell” doesn’t have to be limited to library formaldehyde or bookstore printer’s ink. Woodland Pattern’s annual fundraiser (to benefit its Community Workshop series and Urban Youth Literary Arts Programming) features local artists and culinary creatives turning their favorite books into multi-sensory experiences. Pay your modest money and peruse the palatable creations at your leisure. And then cast your vote for the winner of the Delectability Award. Sorry, no tasting.
#2: The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra at St. Josaphat’s Basilica.
Why? Because the MSO’s expanded programming at this South-Side institution has been a big hit, thanks in part to the captivating presence of conductor Francesco Lecce-Chong, who was appointed the symphony’s Assistant Conductor at the beginning of this season. Here, Lecce-Chong wisely chooses music that makes the most of the vast and resonant space of the basilica, including Arvo Pärt’s gorgeously meditative “Fratres” and music for the MSO Chorus. Also, violist Robert Levine plays “Soul Garden” by the young composer Derek Bermel.
#1: Milwaukee Ballet’s “Spring Repertory” at the Marcus Center.
Why? Because what’s Spring without a little, um, spring—you know—Assemblés, Brisés and Entrechats. We’re not exactly sure what this program of three contemporary dances has in store, but it’s sure to have enough bounce and boing to keep usher in April with verve. Lila York’s “Celts” riffs on Irish folk dancing. Matthew Neenan’s “The Last Glass” is set to Balkan-infused indie rock. And Hubbard Street company member Alejandro Cerrudo’s “Extremely Close” is a dreamy, feathered meditation on love and loss.
Home page photo from “Once Upon a Time in Anatolia.”
