Joyce Rudolph, Weekend
BURBANK -- Kids On Stage, the children's performing arts experience
sponsored by the Burbank parks department, is returning this week to the
Starlight Bowl in Burbank.
Rob Bowers of Burbank is artistic director and master of ceremonies
for the morning interactive workshop that continues for two weeks and is
aimed for children 4 to 12. This year's theme is "The Music, The Mask and
The Magic."
Limpopo, a group that combines Russian folk music and American rock
'n' roll, is the featured attraction the first week, Bowers said.
The group has done music for film and TV, and comes dressed in
outrageously colored clothes, Bowers said. Group members use Russian
musical instruments, like the balalaika, which is shaped like a triangle
and played like a stand-up bass.
The second week, the star attraction is a physical theater company
called The Chameleons, made up of Keith Berger and Sharon Diskin.
"In their show, called "Adventures in Space," they become inanimate
objects and add marvelous sound effects," he said.
Berger and Diskin take youngsters on an imaginary trip through space
and the universe of their minds, Bowers said.
"It's very funny, and their performance skills are wild and
breathtaking. They really are a delight," he said.
Their act isn't dead silent like a mime, Bowers said. Instead, they
use narration and music, as well as action, to inspire youngsters to
explore their imagination.
In addition, during both weeks, Bowers has planned a workshop called
"Instaplay," which brings all the youngsters together to create their own
show. There is no script and each performance is different. Bowers and
his company combine music with balloons, banners and colorful costumes to
enhance the production. Helping Bowers with this segment are actress and
singer Lisa Dyson and percussionist and recording artist Ed Barguiarena
of Burbank.
"It's a chance for the kids to see great performers and experiment
with being performers themselves," Bowers said.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Kids On Stage, a performing arts experience for children ages 4
to 12.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and July 17, 18
and 19.
COST: $4, on sale from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at
Burbank City Hall Annex, 301 E. Olive Ave. Tickets are available at the
gate, but advance purchase is recommended as some days are already sold
out.
