This weekend’s events are dominated by Spoleto USA, an annual festival that brings the best in dance, music, opera, art, and theatre to the Charleston area. Several exciting events from Spoleto that are showing this weekend are highlighted below, but for a full list (including shows on dates other than this weekend),
visit SpoletoUSA.org. The Spoleto site also features sample video performances and photography of each of the acts mentioned below.
King Str
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Opening Night Fête. Mix and mingle with the people who make Spoleto possible, including the directors, producers, and artists. This block party will be held at the President’s House at the College of Charleston and will begin immediately after the opening performance of Compagnie Kafïg. Full bar, live music and cocktail supper. Tickets begin at $300 per person, $150 of which is tax deductible. 9 p.m.
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Jared Grimes. This festival exclusive features up-and-coming tap dancer Jared Grimes, who combines traditional tap with hip-hop and jazz. 7 p.m. at the College of Charleston’s Emmett Robinson Theatre. Purchase tickets through the box office at 843.579.3100. May 24, 25, 26 and 27.
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Compagnie Kafïg. The all-male company returns for its second appearance at the Spoleto Festival after becoming an audience favorite in 2002. The company combines the Brazilian martial arts capoeira with samba and hip-hop for a performance like nothing you’ve ever seen. Held at the TD Arena. May 24, 25 and 26. Tickets are available online and run $15 – $65.
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Le Grand C. No clowns or elephants here! This circus company is all the more impressive for the skill of their fearless and athletic acrobats who perform in the traditional French style. Hailing from France, Compagnie XY uses no safety net as they perform astounding feats of acrobatics. Memminger Auditorium. May 24-27 and 29-31. Tickets are available online and begin at $31.50.
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Midsummer Night’s Dream. Get lost in the woods with Puck, Queen Titania, and King Oberon in the Bristol Old Vic Theatre Company’s adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play. This version combines human actors with large puppets to bring the comedy and magic of this play alive. Tickets are available online and begin at $50. Dock Street Theatre. Show runs May 25-28, May 30, June 3, June 5-9.
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Iiro Rantala. Spend the evening with Germany’s pianist of the year, as he plays jazz piano arrangements spanning musical traditions from Bach to his own contemporary compositions. Simons Center Recital Hall. May 26-30. Purchase tickets through the box office at 843.579.3100.
