Now entering its second year as an independent not-for-profit, the organization is taking the advice of local artists by expanding its programming to include the "Riverview Series," "Inspiring Artists Series" and the return of its "Local Showcase Series."
"All three programs work together in an effort to educate both the public and local aspiring artists to the great impact and opportunity that exists by participating in intimate musical events," according to the season announcement.
The 2007-08 Riverview Series — at the Renaissance Hotel, Symphony Room, 107 Sixth Avenue — is a monthly series of national artists. It kicks off with a double-bill of Stephen Schwartz, composer of Broadway's Wicked, and Los Angeles cabaret artist Lee Lessack on Aug. 31. They are followed by Karen Akers on Sept. 28 (she visits after an engagement at The Algonquin's Oak Room), followed by singer-songwriter Amanda McBroom ("The Rose") on Nov. 30.
The new year begins with jazz singer Wesla Whitfield Jan. 11, 2008, followed by Robert Cuccioli Feb. 15, KT Sullivan March 21 and then Mel Carter April 18.
The Inspiring Artists Series, made up of master classes and forums that connect the national artists with local talent for growth, development, and networking, launches Sept. 1 with a chance to sing their favorite Schwartz song with the composer himself in a master class entitled "Connecting the Singer to the Songwriter," followed by lunch and then a session led by Lee Lessak, founder of LML music distribution and the newly created Spot On Entertainment. Lessak's forum is called "Marketing and Distributing your Individual Talent." Come Feb. 16, 2008, Robert Cuccioli, a director and Broadway performer, will offer "Directors and Performers – Bridging the Gap."
These Inspiring Artists events are free to students as part of a special annual subscription to Cabaret Pittsburgh or range from $30-$60 individually.
Cabaret Pittsburgh is also offering an "enhanced" Local Showcase Series, "which will again offer paid performance opportunity to local artists, with the added opportunity to network with specially invited industry professionals."
Two showcases, slated for October 2007 and April 2008, will be announced.
For ticket information, call (412) 394-3353 (ProArts Tickets) or visit www.cabaretpgh.org.
