Seinfeld, Evans, Hanna coming to Weidner

Weidner Center Presents announced today its 2008–09 Performing Arts Series schedule.

The season kicks off with television star Jungle Jack Hanna Saturday, Sept. 20. Hanna is being presented in partnership with the Northeast Wisconsin Zoological Society as a fundraising event for both the Weidner Center Presents Stage Doors Education Series and the N.E.W. Zoological Society’s Conservation Education programs.

Platinum-selling recording artist Sara Evans, the winner of numerous accolades, including Academy of Country Music’s Female Vocalist of the Year, will perform Friday, Sept. 26.

Legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld returns to the Weidner Center Thursday, Oct. 16 for an unforgettable evening of fun and laughs. Also making return appearances are Leahy and Jim Brickman with holiday performances in December.

Sci-Fi fans will get a chance to see some of their favorite actors as L.A. Theatre Works presents a double feature of “War of the Worlds” and “The Lost World.” The show will feature actors from the Sci-Fi Channel, Star Trek and the X-Files. Exact casting will be announced at a later date.

The Wisconsin Public Service Community Connections Series provides local talent the unique opportunity to perform inside Fort Howard Hall at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts. “We’re excited to be able to continue and expand this successful community series,” said Katie Green, Executive Director of Weidner Center Presents, Inc. “Last year’s sellouts prompted us to grow the series to five titles for the 2008–2009 season. We found the community eager to experience the talent we have right here at home, showcased at the world-class Weidner Center.”

The Wisconsin Public Service Community Connections Series begins in November when Dan Riley pays tribute to the songs of the Baby Boomer generation in his show “I’m A Boomer, Baby!” In January, Let Me Be Frank Productions provides a humorous take on one of “The King’s” concerts in The Elvis “Lost” Show. Randy Peterson puts on a very special family concert on Feb. 21, and in April Marc Kotz will chronicle and dance his way from 17th- and 18th-century France to the New World in his performance “Dancing In The Fire: The Monarch, The Missionary, and The Métis.”

Wrapping up in May, the Wisconsin Public Service Community Connections Series and the audience move to the main Weidner Center stage when John Kelley & Fusion Express perform before a cabaret-style seating setup.

The Green Bay Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 95th anniversary season with Bridget-Michaele Reischl returning to the podium for her eighth season as Music Director. Seven concerts in total are offered, and packages can be purchased as part of the Weidner Center Presents 2008–2009 Performing Arts Season. More information about the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra’s 95th Anniversary Season is available online at www.greenbaysymphony.org.

More information about the 2008–2009 Performing Arts Series as well as information on how to become involved in supporting the series can be found online at www.WCPresents.com.

The 2008–09 schedule (times TBA):

Sept. 20: Jungle Jack Hanna
Sept. 26: Sara Evans
Oct. 16: Jerry Seinfeld
Oct. 25: Cherryholmes (opening act Bent Grass)
Nov. 21–22: “I’m a Boomer, Baby!” starring Dan Riley
Dec. 2: A Celtic Christmas
Dec. 12: Jim Brickman Christmas
Jan. 23–24: The Elvis “Lost” Show starring Frank Hermans
Feb. 21: A Very Special Family Concert with Randy Peterson
March 8: Organist Diane Bish
March 24: L.A. Theatre Works presents “War of the Worlds” and “Lost World”
April 25: “Dancing in the Fire: The Monarch, the Missionary and the Métis”
May 3: Organized Rhythm — Percussion and Organ
May 9: John Kelley and Fusion Express