By Dawn Krebs
dkrebs@hometownnewsol.com
ST. LUCIE COUNTY -- Indian River State College is kicking off an entertaining series starting in January featuring a combination of music, comedy and storytelling from four unique performances.
"The Fielden Institute for Lifelong Learning proudly continues an IRSC tradition with 'Center Stage,'" said Robert Lane, marketing specialist for IRSC. "These carefully selected arts and humanities programs are chosen with the audience in mind."
The first performance, "Broadway's Next H!T Musical," is an improve comedy tour that offers the audience an unscripted musical experience. It will be performed on Jan. 24.
The troupe takes suggestions of imaginary songs from audience members and then creates songs and comedy around them. The audience then votes for their favorite song and the cast creates a musical around that song.
In February, Alexandra Cousteau -- granddaughter of the famous explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau -- follows in the family footsteps of creating global awareness on water issues with her storytelling techniques in the program, "This Blue Planet." Ms. Cousteau herself is a filmmaker and marine conservation advocate.
A month later in March, a group of Senate staffers will perform "The Capitol Steps," a satire about the government. Created in 1981, the group takes current headlines and creates song parodies and skits.
Finally, the April performance will feature "Twyla Tharp on the Creative Habit." A choreographer, Ms. Tharp founded her own dance company. She is best known for her dance musical "Movin' Out," set to the music of Billy Joel.
Center Stage performances will be held at the IRSC McAlpin Fine Arts Center, 3209 Virginia Ave., in Fort Pierce. "Broadway's Next H!T Musical" will take place at 4 p.m. on Jan. 24, "This Blue Planet with Alexandra Cousteau" will take place at 4 p.m. on Feb. 21, "The Capitol Steps" will take place at 4 p.m. on March 18 and "Twyla Tharp on the Creative Habit" will take place at 4 p.m. on April 12.
Tickets are $35 per show, or $100 for the entire series. Student and group pricing is available. For more information, call (800) 220-9915.