2009 Performing Arts Series Event Schedule
Events include: Complimentary wine tasting, supper buffet, tours of the Castle, a special presentation on Cherokee’s history and collections, the Performance, dessert/coffee reception and conversation with the performers. A cash bar will also be available.
For online reservations, please click on links below each performance or call 303.688.4600.
RESERVATIONS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE AND MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER DATE.
Friday, May 29
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
The Lamont Steelpan Ensemble presents
The “Kick Off” to Cherokee’s Fourth Annual Performing Arts Series
Enjoy the evocative feel of the Caribbean from the very first note sounded by the members of the Lamont Steelpan Ensemble! This group of accomplished musicians skillfully blends an eclectic mix of music from the Caribbean with Latin American, Brazilian and even contemporary pop music. Their repertoire spotlights the complete tonal range and abilities of this fascinating new 20th century instrument. Based on the 55-gallon oil barrels used on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago shortly after World War II, the Lamont Steelpan Ensemble honors this lively tradition. With every performance, the Ensemble also creates new traditions by inventing upbeat steelpan “grooves” that will be sure to transport you to balmier climes. The group’s music is composed and arranged exclusively for steel drums, primarily by its director, Tom Miller.
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Sunday, June 14
5:30 p.m., Castle - $90
The Denver Center Theatre Company presents
"Broadway at the Castle"
An exciting evening of some of Broadway’s greatest show tunes, performed in the Great Hall of the majestic Cherokee Castle! This performance is directed by Denver Center Theatre Company’s well-know actress, Kathleen McCall, who in the 2008-2009 Season received rave reviews for her role in Richard III and was currently in A Prayer for Owen Meany. Actress Christine Rowan and actor Jeff Roark will delight you with their extraordinary talent and passion! Ms. Rowan has appeared in the DCTC’s recent productions of Quilters, A Christmas Carol, and You Can't Take it with You. Mr. Roark has appeared in the recent productions of A Christmas Carol, The Merry Wives of Windsor and White Christmas
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Sunday, June 28
5:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
The Denver Brass with Celtic Colorado Pipes & Drums
present
"Celtic Echoes at the Castle"
The sound of The Denver Brass' best-selling show comes to Cherokee Ranch! Celtic strains captured the hearts of the first people who pushed westward and new American themes were born of Colorado's rich culture. Under the brilliant stars at Cherokee Ranch you will hear a most magical and inspiring Concert. Goosebumps are guaranteed as The Denver Brass and Celtic Colorado bring you traditional favorites including Scotland the Brave and Amazing Grace, and you will hear new Denver Brass traditions to be treasured in the years ahead! Critics everywhere hail The Denver Brass for exquisite and exhilarating music presented in an intimate and personal manner – more than just a concert!
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Friday, July 17
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent
Adults $45, Children $20
Family picnic and special evening format
(This performance does not include wine tasting)
Denver Center Theatre Academy
presents
William Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet”
Join us for this very special family performance by teen actors from the Denver Center Theatre Academy. Enjoy and delight in these energetic and blossoming actors as they perform their abbreviated version of Shakespeare's classic, Romeo and Juliet, directed by Allison Watrous. DCTA is a part of the education department of The Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Their summer conservatory program is “the most unique challenging actor-training experience in the metro area.” It is designed for students who currently excel in school drama productions and who are considering a serious career in theatre and film. The program offers the distinct opportunity “to rub elbows” with actors from The Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
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Saturday, July 25
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
Lamont School of Music & Lynn Baker
present
“A Jazz Salute to the Baritone”
Guest Vocalist, Ed Battle, with Lamont musicians, Eric Gunnison (piano), Ken Walker (bass), Paul Romaine (drums) and Lynn Baker (saxophone), will present an amazing evening of music from The Great American Songbook, as interpreted by male jazz vocalists such as Joe Williams, Billy Eckstine, and Frank Sinatra. The 1920s-1960s represent a unique period in the history of American popular music—grounded in the Tin Pan Alley era and strongly influenced by the nascent musical form known as jazz. Guest Vocalist, Edward Battle, has been a fixture in the Denver jazz community since the 1970s. Active in both the theater and music scenes, he has received numerous awards for his talent, including representing the State of Colorado at the 1997 recognition of state performers at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
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Saturday, August 8
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
Lynn Baker, Lamont School of Music
& The Rocky Mountain Jazz Repertoire Orchestra
present
“Big Band: Duke Ellington through a Looking Glass”
Truly a night to embrace and remember—Lynn Baker and the Rocky Mountain Jazz Repertoire Orchestra will present, for the audience’s enjoyment and delight, contemporary arrangements of classic Duke Ellington. Duke Ellington influenced millions of people both around the world and at home. He gave American music its own sound for the first time. In his 50-year career, he played over 20,000 performances in Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, as well as Asia. His legacy continues to live on and will endure for generations to come. Perhaps Wynton Marsalis said it best when he said Ellington’s, “music sounds like America.” The 16-member Rocky Mountain Orchestra includes piano, bass, drum, five saxophones, four trumpets and four trombones. Do not miss it!
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Saturday, August 15 CONCERT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT FLAMENCO GUITAR PERFORMANCE ON OCTOBER 24
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
René Heredia’s
Flamenco Fantasy Dance Theatre
presents
“Gypsy Flamenco Fire”
This performance will combine sensuous flamenco rhythm—from the deepest emotion to the lighthearted—with authentic Gypsy choreography and guitar accompaniment. The enchantment of Spain, the excitement of genuine Gypsy Flamenco dance and music, and multiple changes from a wardrobe of lavish costumes—all come together in one exquisite performance! This performance is produced and choreographed by the internationally known flamenco dance teacher and guitarist, René Heredia, who brings his entire dance company to Cherokee Ranch! Mr. Heredia has won numerous awards during his career and has played command performances for President Gerald Ford, President Jimmy Carter, Princess Noor of Jordan, Princess Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer of Monaco and Prince Bandar of Saudi Arabia.
Friday, September 18
6:30 p.m., Castle Veranda Tent - $75
The Denver Brass
presents
“Spirit of the West”
Celebrate the enduring and spine-tingling spirit of the American West! Enjoy an evening of Cherokee Ranch hospitality and the uniquely "Colorado" sounds of The Denver Brass. Music, rich in western tradition and symbolic of America's spirit of adventure, will inspire and remind us of all of the gifts and strength we draw from our western legacy. Unique in the world for its approach to concert programming, and one of just a few professional large brass ensembles in the world, The Denver Brass has enjoyed a success that is directly linked to its universal appeal. People from every background find inspiration in the ensemble’s unique sounds. The Denver Brass is comprised of 14 professional musicians who have dedicated themselves to enhancing the quality of life of the people of Colorado, the United States, and audiences around the world
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Sunday, September 20
5:30 p.m., Castle - $90
Colorado Symphony Orchestra’s
Concertmaster & Principal Violist
present
A Strings Concert
Yumi Hwang-Williams, CSO Concertmaster, and Basil Vendryes, CSO Principal Violist, will perform a selection of duos in a classical and romantic repertoire—selected from among their favorite, challenging and passionate chamber music pieces. To hear these two extraordinary Colorado Symphony Orchestra musicians, in the intimacy of Cherokee Castle’s Great Hall, will be an experience only this special audience will have. Yumi Hwang-Williams has served as Concertmaster of the CSO since 2000 and is Concertmaster for the Cabrillo Festival Orchestra. Today, her exceptional musicianship has earned her a reputation as an artist of considerable stature. Basil Vendryes has been Principal Violist of the CSO since 1993 and is a former member of the San Francisco Symphony, the New York Philharmonic and the Rochester Philharmonic. He has performed as a soloist, recitalist and chamber artist throughout Europe, Asia and the United States and is in demand as violist, teacher and conductor.
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Saturday, October 3
6:30 p.m., Castle - $90
Lamont School of Music
presents
Linda Wang & Alice Rybak,
An Evening of Violin and Piano
Returning from a Summer Concert Tour in China, the dynamic duo of Linda Wang, violin, and Alice Rybak, piano, will perform an exciting evening of violin and piano music, featuring a wide variety of music by composers from around the world. Alice Rybak, who entered the Juilliard School at age seven, is Chair of the Keyboard Department and Instructor of Piano at Lamont. She is the winner of several prestigious competitions and awards and has performed throughout the country, including performances with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, the Amarillo Orchestra and the National Repertory Orchestra. Linda Wang is considered to be among the premier violinists of our time, consistently praised for her artistry, warm singing tone and charismatic performances. Since Ms. Wang’s solo debut at the New York Philharmonic at age nine, her solo engagements have taken her to Carnegie Hall, Amsterdam’s Beurs van Berlage and the Berlin Schauspielhaus. A dedicated teacher, she is currently Assistant Professor of Violin at Lamont.
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Friday, October 9
6:30 p.m., Castle - $90
Guitarist Masakazu Ito, Lamont School of Music
& The Colorado Chamber Players present
"Quintet for Guitar and String Quartet, Op. 143"
and Other Pieces
Guitarist Masakazu Ito, and a string quartet from the Colorado Chamber Players, will perform Quintet for Guitar and String Quartet, Op. 143 by Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. Masakazu Ito will also perform solo works and other chamber music for guitar and strings. Mr. Ito is recognized as one of today's top guitarists, acclaimed by musicians, composers, conductors, and critics for his mastery of the instrument and its repertoire. "He has it all," says guitarist Ricardo Iznaola, "virtuosity, musicality and flair. He is certainly a name to watch." Since Mr. Ito’s professional debut in Tokyo in 1987, he has won top prizes in seven major international guitar competitions. He is currently an Instructor of Guitar at Lamont. The award-winning Colorado Chamber Players is a diverse chamber ensemble of 12 distinguished musicians who produce and perform over 55 concerts annually, primarily in metro Denver.
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Saturday, October 17
6:30 p.m., Castle - $90
Lamont School of Music & Lynn Baker
present
Saxophonist Mel Martin
Mel Martin is the 2009 Guest Artist at the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver. As a composer, arranger, bandleader, saxophonist and flutist, he is one of the most versatile and inventive musicians ever to emerge from the San Francisco Bay Area. During the mid-1970s, Mr. Martin formed the award-winning, innovative jazz group, Listen, one of the first West Coast jazz-fusion bands. Mr. Martin is currently Artistic Director of Bebop and Beyond, a group he formed in 1983, as well as leading The Mel Martin Big Band, the Tenor Conclave, and the Benny Carter All-Star Tribute Band. Mel Martin visits Cherokee Castle in a Jazz Quintet, performing with Lamont School of Music Director of Jazz Studies, Lynn Baker (saxophone), Jeff Jenkins (piano), Mark Simon (bass), and Paul Romaine (drums).
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Saturday, October 24
6:30 p.m., Castle - $90
GYPSY FLAMENCO GUITARIST René Heredia
presents
A Night of Flamenco Music and Dance
This performance is a mixture of music and dance with two wonderful dancers from the Flamenco Fantasy Dance Theatre Company. René Heredia will play solo guitar and also play for the dancers in true flamenco style. With exciting music and lavish costumes, René will also talk about flamenco music and the culture of the Gypsies of Southern Spain and what they have contributed to the art form. It will be a very informative night of music and dance in a wonderful setting! Mr. Heredia performances, master classes and workshops for the last 40 years have won him the Governor’s and Mayor’s Awards for “Excellence in the Arts for Performance and Education”. He also received the award as “Living Legend of Dance in Colorado” from the Carson Brierly Dance Library and was nominated for the Life Time Achievement Award from the Colorado Dance Alliance.
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Sunday, October 25
5:30 p.m., Castle - $90
Colorado Symphony Orchestra
presents
An Evening of Flute, Violin and Viola
Three outstanding musicians from the Colorado Symphony Orchestra will fill the Castle’s Great Hall with the incredible sounds that emanate from the blend of flute, violin and viola. This concert will be an evening to remember! Comprised of Cathy Peterson (flute), Erik Peterson (violin), and Phillip Stevens (viola), the ensemble will perform a diverse array of classical chamber works from the baroque era to 21st century compositions—including variations on Beethoven’s There we shall join hands, Mozart’s Don Giovanni; and other composers including: Hoffmeister and Newmann. Having played together since 2001, the Ivy Street Ensemble has performed throughout Colorado and is often heard in Oregon as part of the Chintimini Chamber Music Festival.
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HOLIDAY CONCERTS IN THE CASTLE - $105
There is no place like the cozy candle-lit interior of Cherokee Castle to gather with close friends
and listen to heart-warming Christmas favorites!
Saturday, November 28
6:30 p.m.
Denver Brass5
presents
"Christmas is Coming, the Goose is Getting Fat!"
Before the halls are decked and the stockings are hung, take time to ponder the excitement of Thanksgiving and the anticipation of a joyous holiday season. From Over the River and Through the Woods to nostalgic sounds of holiday preparation, audience and musicians will together discover the joy of the holiday spirit! Do not miss this opportunity to welcome the season with a smile and joy in your heart! This recital quintet of The Denver Brass is an ensemble internationally recognized for its elegant approach to brass chamber music performance. The ensemble has played a significant role in our Annual Performing Arts Series, returning for the fourth season.
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Sunday, December 6
5:30 p.m.
Colorado Symphony Orchestra presents
Classical Holiday Music with a String Quartet
Please join us for a casual and relaxing evening of string quartet music performed by members of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. This group has been our guests for the last two holiday seasons, and this year's concert promises to be the best yet! Bring your holiday spirit and be prepared to ask questions of this engaging group, who are looking forward to entertaining the audience with a combo of holiday favorites and classical selections. Some of your favorite composers, including Mozart, Borodin and Haydn, will be featured. Members of the quartet are Larisa Fesmire (violin), Brad Watson (violin), Phil Stevens (viola) and Margaret Hoeppner (cello).
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Saturday, December 12
6:30 p.m.
Lynn Baker, Lamont School of Music
& The Lynn Baker Quintet
present
A Jazz Christmas
The Lynn Baker Quintet performs in this exciting musical holiday adventure—making the Castle come alive with jazz-inspired holiday tunes! Included, among others, are Tenor Saxophonist Dexter Gordon’s version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas; the Heath Brothers’ arrangement of Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem, titled Our Little Town; Herbie Hancock’s arrangement of Deck the Halls; and Rashaan Roland Kirk’s arrangement of We Three Kings, called We Free Kings. Mr. Baker, an award-winning composer, performer and educator, is the Director of the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music Program at the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music. He also directs the Lamont Jazz Orchestra, coaches combos, and teaches Jazz Improvisation and Composition, Jazz History, and Jazz Techniques classes.
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Friday, December 18
6:30 p.m.
Denver Brass5
presents
"Christmas Time is Here"
Goosebumps are guaranteed by Colorado’s most elegant and entertaining Recital Quintet as they bring inspiration and love to the season with their trademark Christmas arrangements and traditional carols. This recital quintet of The Denver Brass is an ensemble internationally recognized for its elegant approach to brass chamber music performance. Well known as a “fresh and exciting chamber ensemble,” it is in the forefront of commissioning new works which embody the spirit of American music.
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Sunday, December 20
5:30 p.m.
Colorado Symphony Orchestra
presents
A Noble Holiday Concert with the Colorado Symphony Brass Quintet
Come to Cherokee Ranch to enjoy music inspired by the Castle itself. Scottish stonemasons built the Great Hall in Cherokee Castle with a strong emphasis on old world tradition. The Great Hall provides the perfect setting for brass. Brass instruments were often played in castles for royalty and grand events. The CSO Brass Quintet will play holiday music and carols from the United Kingdom and, in particular, Scotland. Hear music written for nobility, and most certainly intended for Kings. Be prepared to be entertained like royalty as the regal music rings throughout this grand setting. The quintet members are Daniel Kuehn (trumpet), Patrick Tillery (trumpet), David Brussel (horn), Paul Naslund (trombone) and Stephen Dombrowski (tuba). All are full-time members of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. The CSO Brass Quintet has performed annually at the Cherokee Ranch Castle since 2006.
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