Can't wait for March? There are still tickets available for our Moisture-riffic New Year's Eve Party. Get funky and dance in a new year with your Moisture Festival favorites.
December 21, 2015
Moisture Festival 2016 Tickets Now On Sale!
That's right! Just in time to make the best stocking stuffers, ticket for the 2016 Moisture Festival are now on sale. The festival will run from March 17 through April 13. We look forward to seeing you there!
December 8, 2015
Thank You for a Successful Auction!
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| 2015 Treasure Trove Auction photo by John Cornicello |
Thank you to our fabulous Treasure Trove auction guests last Friday who rocked the Palladium! Snake Suspenders brought music to our ears and Kevin Joyce was en pointe as the most affable and quick-witted emcee of all.
Our fabulous business community and friends donated items from Arts to Whiskey, and our guests had great fun bidding on and winning these awesome items and experiences. Dedicated volunteers made for a seamless event, and our performing artists thrilled, awed and inspired all. Thanks to everyone who helped make this the most successful auction of all – we came out ahead of last year’s number and that can’t be pirated!
We hope to see you at our next event in just a few weeks - our New Year's Eve Extravaganza!
November 12, 2015
Welcome Our New Director of Development, Cheryl Angle!
Join us in welcoming Cheryl Angle to our team as the new Director of Development!
November 7, 2015
New Year's Eve Extravaganza Tickets On Sale Now
As the year rushes to a close, it's time to start thinking about New Year's Eve. And where do you want to ring in 2016? With the Moisture Festival at Hale's Palladium, of course!
You'll get to mingle with friends old and new, enjoy delicious snacks, and see a fabulous Moisture performance. At midnight, we'll have a champagne toast, Godfrey Daniels will fill the room with red balloons, and you can dance your way into 2016! Tickets are on sale now, and the early bird catches the (discount) worm! Prices go up after December 25, so buy your tickets today so you don't miss the last best party of the year!
November 6, 2015
Fabulous Treasures Await You at Our Auction on December 4, Just Four Weeks Away
Today marks just four weeks to go until our Treasure Trove Auction & Show! This fundraiser will help set the stage for our lucky 13th year of comedy and variete in 2016. If you haven't already, mark your calendars for Friday, December 4 at 6 pm.
We've been hard at work accumulating some really amazing items and experiences from our generous sponsors, and preparing a night of laughter and joy, just for you! You'll spend your evening being entertained by the lively Kevin Joyce as
our MC and auctioneer, and the enthralling juggling skills of Rhys
Thomas. Check out the online auction catalog to start planning out your shopping list!
Buy your tickets today so you don't miss out on the fun! If you would like to be a table captain, please call our office at 206.297.1405 and we'll be happy to arrange a table of four, six, or eight just for you. We hope to see you there!
If you cannot make it but still want to help our fundraising efforts, you can donate online, call the number above, or send a check via snail mail to:
Moisture Festival
PO Box 17484
Seattle, WA 98127
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| Kevin Joyce photo by Michelle Bates |
Buy your tickets today so you don't miss out on the fun! If you would like to be a table captain, please call our office at 206.297.1405 and we'll be happy to arrange a table of four, six, or eight just for you. We hope to see you there!
If you cannot make it but still want to help our fundraising efforts, you can donate online, call the number above, or send a check via snail mail to:
Moisture Festival
PO Box 17484
Seattle, WA 98127
July 14, 2015
Moisture Festival is Hiring a Director of Development
EDIT: This position is filled
Moisture Festival, the world largest and longest variety arts festival of its kind, is seeking a skilled professional to fill the position of Director of Development.
Moisture Festival presents an annual Comedy/Varietè extravaganza each spring in the greater Seattle area. Over a four-week period we present 50+ events featuring over 200 artists attracting 13,000 patrons to our shows. Now entering our thirteenth year, our non-profit organization is poised for even greater success. This unique and extremely popular festival showcases varietè, comedy, aerial, vaudeville, cabaret, music and burlesque artists from all over the world.
We are a creative group of performers and arts administrators who work diligently and take our fun very seriously. We are looking for someone who has that same work ethic to join our team. Our goal is to positively impact the world one laugh at a time.
The Director of Development will cultivate and manage new and returning sponsors, grantors and donors. Communication and fulfillment are priorities. We currently have wonderful support from many small businesses, generous donors and in-kind sponsors. Our Director of Development will build on our present level of support and bring a substantial increase to funding through corporate sponsorship, grants, creative fundraising events and creation of a solid individual giving program.
Responsibilities:
• Actively prospect and strategically pursue funding opportunities in all areas
• Acquire and maintain sound knowledge and understanding of Moisture Festival and its philosophy and goals
• Generate revenues through well-researched, well-written and well-documented fund-raising proposals
• Maintain ongoing City and County grants as well as apply for new applicable grants
• Coordinate accurate and timely reporting on all aspects of fundraising strategy
• Maintain accurate funding and contact information in our Little Green Light database, with the support of our part-time Office Assistant
• Develop compelling electronic and written communications, including thank you letters, newsletters and annual reports
• Maintain and cultivate our continuing relationship with current sponsors, donors
• Work with the Board of Directors to hone our annual timeline of funding campaigns
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Minimum of 3 years experience successfully raising funds from community, corporate and private sources in the non-profit sector
• A dynamic sense of humor and harmony
• Ability to problem-solve, adapt to changing priorities, communicate with diverse groups and maintain confidentiality
• Strong time-management skills and ability to prioritize multiple assignments in order to meet tight deadlines
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and independently to achieve specific fundraising goals
• Availability to be present at development oriented Moisture Festival events
We are looking for someone who loves live performance, working with an energetic group of talented individuals and appreciates the value of this art form. This is a minimum 3/4 time position that could be full time with the right person. Our offices are located in Fremont in Seattle. Salary is competitive with the current market.
If this looks like the job you've been waiting for, please e-mail your resume to jobs@moisturefestival.org including a cover letter telling us why you would be a perfect fit. No phone calls please.
Moisture Festival, the world largest and longest variety arts festival of its kind, is seeking a skilled professional to fill the position of Director of Development.
Moisture Festival presents an annual Comedy/Varietè extravaganza each spring in the greater Seattle area. Over a four-week period we present 50+ events featuring over 200 artists attracting 13,000 patrons to our shows. Now entering our thirteenth year, our non-profit organization is poised for even greater success. This unique and extremely popular festival showcases varietè, comedy, aerial, vaudeville, cabaret, music and burlesque artists from all over the world.We are a creative group of performers and arts administrators who work diligently and take our fun very seriously. We are looking for someone who has that same work ethic to join our team. Our goal is to positively impact the world one laugh at a time.
The Director of Development will cultivate and manage new and returning sponsors, grantors and donors. Communication and fulfillment are priorities. We currently have wonderful support from many small businesses, generous donors and in-kind sponsors. Our Director of Development will build on our present level of support and bring a substantial increase to funding through corporate sponsorship, grants, creative fundraising events and creation of a solid individual giving program.
Responsibilities:
• Actively prospect and strategically pursue funding opportunities in all areas
• Acquire and maintain sound knowledge and understanding of Moisture Festival and its philosophy and goals
• Generate revenues through well-researched, well-written and well-documented fund-raising proposals
• Maintain ongoing City and County grants as well as apply for new applicable grants
• Coordinate accurate and timely reporting on all aspects of fundraising strategy
• Maintain accurate funding and contact information in our Little Green Light database, with the support of our part-time Office Assistant
• Develop compelling electronic and written communications, including thank you letters, newsletters and annual reports
• Maintain and cultivate our continuing relationship with current sponsors, donors
• Work with the Board of Directors to hone our annual timeline of funding campaigns
• Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
• Minimum of 3 years experience successfully raising funds from community, corporate and private sources in the non-profit sector
• A dynamic sense of humor and harmony
• Ability to problem-solve, adapt to changing priorities, communicate with diverse groups and maintain confidentiality
• Strong time-management skills and ability to prioritize multiple assignments in order to meet tight deadlines
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and independently to achieve specific fundraising goals
• Availability to be present at development oriented Moisture Festival events
We are looking for someone who loves live performance, working with an energetic group of talented individuals and appreciates the value of this art form. This is a minimum 3/4 time position that could be full time with the right person. Our offices are located in Fremont in Seattle. Salary is competitive with the current market.
If this looks like the job you've been waiting for, please e-mail your resume to jobs@moisturefestival.org including a cover letter telling us why you would be a perfect fit. No phone calls please.
April 7, 2015
But Wait! There's More Moisture!
As we enter the final week of the 2015 Moisture Festival, there may be some of you saying, "Can't we have just one more show? We've had so much fun and we're not ready for it to be over!"
You're in luck... We've added one final show to the Moisture Festival line-up! Saturday, April 18, 7:30 PM at Hale's Palladium will be The Last Laugh & auf wiedersehen. Hacki Ginda, along with Bill Robison and Charly Castors, has a special performance lined up for you, backed by the Royal Famille du Caniveaux Band. Tickets on sale now! This show is one night only, so make sure to buy your tickets before they are gone!
You're in luck... We've added one final show to the Moisture Festival line-up! Saturday, April 18, 7:30 PM at Hale's Palladium will be The Last Laugh & auf wiedersehen. Hacki Ginda, along with Bill Robison and Charly Castors, has a special performance lined up for you, backed by the Royal Famille du Caniveaux Band. Tickets on sale now! This show is one night only, so make sure to buy your tickets before they are gone!
March 31, 2015
Moisture Festival First: Slack-Rope Walker Esther de Monteflores
Moisture Festival bring you slack rope for the first time at Hale's Palladium. Esther de Monteflores is a contemporary circus artist, specializing in slack-rope walking. There are very few artists performing this skill, so don't miss your chance to see it! Esther has years of training in aerial arts, contortion, wire-walking, and handbalancing. She has performed with various troupes including New Old Time Chautauqua, Capistrano Circus, and Wise Fool New Mexico. She was commissioned to choreograph and perform an acrobatic duet on stilts with a local musician for SANCA's ten year anniversary festival. Esther is a powerhouse of new circus arts, so make sure you attend one of these astounding performances!March 23, 2015
A Special Moisture Festival Menu
The Moisture Festival is a community event, surviving and thriving on the generous support of both individual donors and company sponsors. We are so thankful to everyone who gives what they can to keep the Moisture magic alive!
Roxy's and The Backdoor have supported us for the past eight years, providing our performers and volunteers with delicious meals on show days. For the 2015 festival season, The Backdoor at Roxy's has created a special Moisture Festival menu. Every Sunday through Thursday from now through April 19, you can feast on a three course meal created by the chefs at The Backdoor and know that not only will you be satiated and satisfied, but you'll be supporting the world's largest and longest running comedy and variete festival!
Roxy's and The Backdoor have supported us for the past eight years, providing our performers and volunteers with delicious meals on show days. For the 2015 festival season, The Backdoor at Roxy's has created a special Moisture Festival menu. Every Sunday through Thursday from now through April 19, you can feast on a three course meal created by the chefs at The Backdoor and know that not only will you be satiated and satisfied, but you'll be supporting the world's largest and longest running comedy and variete festival!
March 21, 2015
A Peek Into Opening Night!
The twelfth year of the Moisture Festival kicked off on Thursday night, and we're sailing through the first weekend. We have so many amazing acts on stage, so many wonderful volunteers, and tons of smiling faces in the audience! There are three more weeks of exciting shows, and an immeasurable amount of talent yet to experience. Don't miss out on the fun! Buy your tickets today!
As a special treat and a glimpse into opening night, we have a great video put together by Ambodha, a friend of the festival. Check it out!
As a special treat and a glimpse into opening night, we have a great video put together by Ambodha, a friend of the festival. Check it out!
March 12, 2015
American Sign Language Interpreted Shows
Moisture Festival is once again happy to be partnering with Deaf Spotlight and Theaters, Allies, and Deaf Audiences (TADA) to offer American Sign Language interpreted shows. Many thanks to Deaf Spotlight and TADA for making ASL interpreted shows possible!
The following shows will be ASL interpreted
Variete at Hale's Palladium:
April 5, 3:00pm
Burlesque shows at Broadway Performance Hall:
March 27, 7:30pm
April 4, 10:30pm
We highly encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance since shows do sell out.
At these shows we will have a reserved section for our deaf patrons and their parties. When you arrive at the theater for the show, let the Box Office manager know your party should be seated in the ASL section. Our House Manager will show you to your seats.
We hope you can join us!
The following shows will be ASL interpretedVariete at Hale's Palladium:
April 5, 3:00pm
Burlesque shows at Broadway Performance Hall:
March 27, 7:30pm
April 4, 10:30pm
We highly encourage you to purchase your tickets in advance since shows do sell out.
At these shows we will have a reserved section for our deaf patrons and their parties. When you arrive at the theater for the show, let the Box Office manager know your party should be seated in the ASL section. Our House Manager will show you to your seats.We hope you can join us!
March 10, 2015
Award-Winning Prop Comics
The Moisture Festival brings the best in variete and comedy to Seattle every spring, so it's really no surprise that many of our artists have a collection of awards and records. This year, you have the ability to see not just one but TWO performers who have been awarded Seattle's Best Prop Comedian. They both hold Guinness World Records, too! Who said being funny doesn't get you places?!
Alex Zerbe is back this year, full of hilarious antics and boundless energy. From juggling to dancing to magic and singing, you never know quite what The Zaniac will do next! Alex has performed in seventeen different countries, bringing laughter as his co-pilot. On top of his two Guinness World Records and Seattle's Best Prop Comic, Alex has also been honored as Hacky Sack World Champion and Seattle's 3rd Best Air Guitarist. He really sees the audience as part of the show, so if you're lucky, you just might get to be a part of his act! You may have seen him on "America's Got Talent" or "Last Comic Standing", but seeing him up close and personal on stage at the Palladium will be a real treat. Get ready to laugh, and bring the whole family to one of these shows!
Matt Baker was also once awarded Seattle's Best Prop Comedian. His comedy stunt show has been to various countries, on cruise ships, and a number of festivals. You may have seen him on "America's Got Talent", "Last Comic Standing", and "Tosh.0". If you're a world traveler, you may have also seen him on a live television show in Shanghai! Matt first started touring the world at the age of 17 with the first-ever international hacky sack team, and from there developed his repertoire through street performance. Matt holds five Guinness World Records, including one for Most Complete Changeovers Juggling Three Objects in One Minute. This is known as "leaping", and Matt, along with Joe Ricci, performed this feat on New Year's Day in Japan. To see what stunts Matt brings to the Moisture stage this year, make sure to get your tickets to one of these shows!
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| Alex Zerbe photo by Michelle Bates |
Alex Zerbe is back this year, full of hilarious antics and boundless energy. From juggling to dancing to magic and singing, you never know quite what The Zaniac will do next! Alex has performed in seventeen different countries, bringing laughter as his co-pilot. On top of his two Guinness World Records and Seattle's Best Prop Comic, Alex has also been honored as Hacky Sack World Champion and Seattle's 3rd Best Air Guitarist. He really sees the audience as part of the show, so if you're lucky, you just might get to be a part of his act! You may have seen him on "America's Got Talent" or "Last Comic Standing", but seeing him up close and personal on stage at the Palladium will be a real treat. Get ready to laugh, and bring the whole family to one of these shows!
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| Matt Baker photo by Mike Gardiner |
March 9, 2015
More Great Variety to Choose From!
The Moisture Festival is a variety show, so you never know exactly what you'll see each night. We like to invite all kinds of artists and performers to entertain and exhilarate you, so you know that no matter which show you get tickets for, you'll have an amazing time! Here are a couple of acts to have on your radar this festival season.
Get ready for a psychedelic circus
experience, courtesy of Circus Luminescence! This collaborative group uses glowing and black-light props to bring light and wonder to the stage through the circus arts, and we are deLIGHTed to have them perform at the festival this year. Produced by Eli March and based out of Portland, this group has performed at various fairs and festivals including Oregon Country Fair, Pacific Fire Gathering, Black Sheep Family Reunion and Burning Man. Showtimes are posted, so get your tickets for this innovative circus adventure!
The Incredible Incredible is a project between Matthew "Poki" McCorkle and Justin Therrien. They've created a full length story, 'Palindrome', featuring various physical comedy such as string manipulation, shoe poi, and finger tricks. Matthew has traveled to various places with his solo shows (including the Moisture stage!), is a co-founder of the physical comedy duo Button Wagon, and an owner/resident at the Lookout Arts Quarry in Bellingham. He is also a member of Clowns Without Borders. Justin is the world record holder for Longest string passed through nose and mouth in one minute. You'll definitely want to see what this dynamic duo does to bring this full-sized performance to a variety show-sized time slot! Check here for showtimes.
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| Circus Luminescence |
experience, courtesy of Circus Luminescence! This collaborative group uses glowing and black-light props to bring light and wonder to the stage through the circus arts, and we are deLIGHTed to have them perform at the festival this year. Produced by Eli March and based out of Portland, this group has performed at various fairs and festivals including Oregon Country Fair, Pacific Fire Gathering, Black Sheep Family Reunion and Burning Man. Showtimes are posted, so get your tickets for this innovative circus adventure!
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| The Incredible Incredible |
March 5, 2015
Keeping History Alive: Lecture on the Revival of Glasgow's Panopticon
Throughout history, people have been gathering together for entertainment of all kinds, creating community around various art forms. The Romans had the Colosseum, the Greeks had their outdoor theaters... and once the Industrial Revolution led to the creation of the modern city, entertainment was still a focus of the people.
One of the premier spots for those in Glasgow to be entertained in the late 1800's was the Britannia Music Hall, later to be known as the Britannia Panopticon. This building housed many acts over its long history. In fact, it was this very stage where Stan Laurel of Laurel and Hardy first performed professionally at the age of 16. The building itself has gone through a dearth of changes since it first opened in the late 1850's, and still stands today. In 1997, the Britannia Panopticon Music Hall Trust was founded by Judith Bowers to protect and restore this building that held so many magical memories for the people of Glasgow and beyond.
We are so very excited to announce that Judith Bowers, will be in Seattle this Moisture Festival season to present a workshop on the history of the Britannia Panopticon! Judith's book, Glasgow's Lost Theatre: The Story of The Britannia Music Hall was published in September 2014, and provides a detailed, insightful history into this glorious venue. From high kicking dancers and bawdy comics to cinema, Judith's talk takes the listener on a journey through time to the days when the audience really did leave no turn un-stoned.
This will be a FREE event at Hale's Palladium, Monday April 6 at 7:30 PM. No need to buy tickets, just show up to learn the interesting history and hopeful future of this glorious building!
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| Britannia Music Hall circa 1880's |
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| Recent look inside the Britannia Panopticon photo by David Walker |
We are so very excited to announce that Judith Bowers, will be in Seattle this Moisture Festival season to present a workshop on the history of the Britannia Panopticon! Judith's book, Glasgow's Lost Theatre: The Story of The Britannia Music Hall was published in September 2014, and provides a detailed, insightful history into this glorious venue. From high kicking dancers and bawdy comics to cinema, Judith's talk takes the listener on a journey through time to the days when the audience really did leave no turn un-stoned.
This will be a FREE event at Hale's Palladium, Monday April 6 at 7:30 PM. No need to buy tickets, just show up to learn the interesting history and hopeful future of this glorious building!
March 4, 2015
The Doctor Is In: Patch Adams Workshop "Living a Life of Joy"
This year, we are excited to bring back Dr. Patch Adams to present the workshop "Living a Life of Joy". He isn't just an amazingly vivid and fun character played by Robin Williams in the movie "Patch Adams", he is a real-life doctor and activist working towards peace, social justice, and care for all people.
Patch became very interested in whole systems thinking, and imagined the creation of a very different type of hospital that would change the way healthcare was delivered to those who needed it. He spent many years working on these ideas and with the help of friends, created the Gesundheit! Institute, a free hospital ran out of their communal home. Over the years, they saw thousands of patients, but eventually realized that funding for a new facility would be necessary to fulfill their dreams. Patch became busy as a speaker, giving presentations and performances all over the world. He believes that laughter, joy, and creativity are integral to the healing process.
We are very excited that Patch has some time in his busy schedule of spreading joy all over the world to present a workshop this festival season! Living A Life of Joy is a lecture/workshop using an hour of exercises, an hour of ideas on being happy and the remainder to explore the audacious idea of never having another bad day. Patch discusses how to discover the incredible thrill of choosing to live everyday with joy. The focus of this lecture/workshop is life as a choice.
This 4 hour event will be held at Fred Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, April 4 at 12 pm. Get your tickets today!
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| Dr. Patch Adams |
We are very excited that Patch has some time in his busy schedule of spreading joy all over the world to present a workshop this festival season! Living A Life of Joy is a lecture/workshop using an hour of exercises, an hour of ideas on being happy and the remainder to explore the audacious idea of never having another bad day. Patch discusses how to discover the incredible thrill of choosing to live everyday with joy. The focus of this lecture/workshop is life as a choice.
This 4 hour event will be held at Fred Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, April 4 at 12 pm. Get your tickets today!
March 3, 2015
Cascade Leadership Challenge Benefit Show March 29 at Broadway Performance Hall
The Moisture Festival is dedicated to giving back to the community that
gives so much to us! Each year, we choose some shows in which a portion
of ticket sales are donated directly to a community 501(c)3
organization.
We are excited to announce the that matinee variete show on Sunday, March 29 at Broadway Performance Hall will be a benefit show for the Cascade Leadership Challenge!
Cascade Leadership Challenge maintains that being out in the world is the only way to find your place in it. They have created an innovative and exciting program for Seattle area teenagers that combines leadership and life skills training with real world experiences, including whitewater guiding, rock climbing, sea kayaking and mountaineering. The 2015 teen expeditions will include summit attempts of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker, sea kayaking in the San Juan Islands, whitewater rafting in Oregon and a service expedition to Nepal, to include a climb of Nepal's 20,305 foot Imja Tse and a visit to the Tibetan Mt. Everest Advanced Base Camp. CLC is open to youth ages 14-20 and the adults who can keep up with them.
The CLC program emphasizes full immersion, gender, class, and race equity, risk management, personal accountability, and serious fun. Through adventure travel, Seattle youth have the chance to learn both outdoor skills and leadership. The funds raised from this benefit show will be directly used to support program costs. This includes purchasing and maintaining all rafts, ropes, and other adventure travel gear.
You can help them with their mission while enjoying an exhilarating Moisture Festival variete show! Acts are being confirmed as we speak, so check here to see who will be performing!
We are excited to announce the that matinee variete show on Sunday, March 29 at Broadway Performance Hall will be a benefit show for the Cascade Leadership Challenge!
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| Cascade Leadership Challenge Backpacking Trip |
Cascade Leadership Challenge maintains that being out in the world is the only way to find your place in it. They have created an innovative and exciting program for Seattle area teenagers that combines leadership and life skills training with real world experiences, including whitewater guiding, rock climbing, sea kayaking and mountaineering. The 2015 teen expeditions will include summit attempts of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker, sea kayaking in the San Juan Islands, whitewater rafting in Oregon and a service expedition to Nepal, to include a climb of Nepal's 20,305 foot Imja Tse and a visit to the Tibetan Mt. Everest Advanced Base Camp. CLC is open to youth ages 14-20 and the adults who can keep up with them.
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| Cascade Leadership Challenge Rafting Trip |
You can help them with their mission while enjoying an exhilarating Moisture Festival variete show! Acts are being confirmed as we speak, so check here to see who will be performing!
March 2, 2015
Benefit Show for Fremonstor Theatrical March 25 at Hale's Palladium
The Moisture Festival is dedicated to giving back to the community that gives so much to us! Each year, we choose some shows in which a portion of ticket sales are donated directly to a community 501(c)3 organization.
Wednesday, March 25 at 7:30 pm will be a benefit show for Fremonstor Theatrical. Their mission is to support artists and performers incubating and producing art/performance events. In fact, the Moisture Festival was once one of those fledgling events, and Fremonstor Theatrical helped us spread our wings and fly into the fabulous extravaganza we are today!
Fremonstor has also been producing Trolloween for the last 24 years. This year, to celebrate 25 years, they are planning an even more spectacular event on the birthday of the Fremont Troll (Oct 31st at 7pm sharp). Funds generated by this Moisture Festival event will be matched by the Fremont Arts Council and will fund honorariums to artists and staff and pay for new special effects for Trolloween’s 25th year. In honor of this special celebration, we encourage you to dress up as if it were Halloween in Fremont!
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| Trolloween 2014 photo by John Cornicello |
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| Trolloween 2013 photo by John Cornicello |
Fremonstor has also been producing Trolloween for the last 24 years. This year, to celebrate 25 years, they are planning an even more spectacular event on the birthday of the Fremont Troll (Oct 31st at 7pm sharp). Funds generated by this Moisture Festival event will be matched by the Fremont Arts Council and will fund honorariums to artists and staff and pay for new special effects for Trolloween’s 25th year. In honor of this special celebration, we encourage you to dress up as if it were Halloween in Fremont!
February 27, 2015
Special Workshop!! Physical Eloquence: Mime, Gesture, Physical Characters
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| Michael Trautman |
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| Michel Trautman photo by Michelle Bates |
Special thanks to our friends at West of Lenin for hosting this workshop!
You can also see him perform at some of the Moisture Festival variete shows! Dates will be posted here very soon! Now's your chance to decide if you want to sit back and laugh or learn to make people laugh (why not both?!). Remember, the workshop has only 24 seats available, so buy your tickets today!!
February 24, 2015
Laughter, Magic, and Whistling
It takes a special kind of person to be on stage at the Moisture Festival in front of an audience night after night. All of our performers are full of personality and have that special quality required to be in the spotlight, so you can be assured that no matter what show you see, you will have a fun and exciting time! Here are a couple of performers you should have on your radar for the 2015 festival.
Ngaio Bealum was on stage just one night last year at the festival, and the audience wanted more! He started out as a juggler in San Francisco, but now spends most of his time on the road, performing at various festivals, headlining comedy clubs, and occasionally appearing on television shows such as The Sarah Silverman Program and Laughs. Ngaio is also a frequent guest on Doug Benson's podcasts and currently writes for the Sacramento News Review. He even has some feature length film credits under his belt: Nine Months with Hugh Grant, It Burns When I Laugh, and Hey Monster, Hands Off My City. The latter is a film adaptation of a one-man play that was performed at the San Francisco Fringe Festival in 2011. Make sure to check here for your chance to see him this year!
Alfredo Fettucini has been on the Moisture Festival stage before, but it has been awhile since we've seen him! As a young lad, he began performing in San Francisco, setting a bowl out on the street at the Fisherman's Wharf while performing magic tricks. As it can happen when you have talent and personality, cash appeared and the magic continued. Eventually, Alfredo (we think his real name is Bob), met Tom Noddy (we know his other name is The Bubble Guy), who introduced him to the West Coast vaudeville circuit. Many performances and character inventions later, Bob/fredo was well known and well loved. He doesn't do much performing lately, spending most of his time on his other projects, which include 3D photography and film-making. Don't miss your chance to see him this year at these shows!
How well can you whistle? Do you think you could whistle part of an opera? Jason Victor Serinus can! If you've seen the Peanuts cartoon She's a Good Skate, Charlie Brown, you've heard Jason whistle Puccini's "O mio babbino caro" as the voice of Woodstock. Jason is an award-winning whistler, taking home first place in multiple categories at the Carson City, NV Whistle-Offs and the Louisburg, NC International Whistlers' Competition. He was even inducted into the Whistler's Hall of Fame in 2003! Jason has wowed television audiences with his whistling skills on such programs as The Tonight Show, The Merv Griffin show, and CBS Sunday Morning. When he isn't whistling, Jason is writing music reviews for online and print publications, as well as editorials and opinion pieces. The whistling is something you'll have to see to believe, so make sure and get tickets to one (or all!) of these shows!
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| Ngaio Bealum photo by John Cornicello |
Ngaio Bealum was on stage just one night last year at the festival, and the audience wanted more! He started out as a juggler in San Francisco, but now spends most of his time on the road, performing at various festivals, headlining comedy clubs, and occasionally appearing on television shows such as The Sarah Silverman Program and Laughs. Ngaio is also a frequent guest on Doug Benson's podcasts and currently writes for the Sacramento News Review. He even has some feature length film credits under his belt: Nine Months with Hugh Grant, It Burns When I Laugh, and Hey Monster, Hands Off My City. The latter is a film adaptation of a one-man play that was performed at the San Francisco Fringe Festival in 2011. Make sure to check here for your chance to see him this year!
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| Alfredo Fettuccini photo by Michelle Bates |
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| Jason Victor Serinus photo by Michelle Bates |
How well can you whistle? Do you think you could whistle part of an opera? Jason Victor Serinus can! If you've seen the Peanuts cartoon She's a Good Skate, Charlie Brown, you've heard Jason whistle Puccini's "O mio babbino caro" as the voice of Woodstock. Jason is an award-winning whistler, taking home first place in multiple categories at the Carson City, NV Whistle-Offs and the Louisburg, NC International Whistlers' Competition. He was even inducted into the Whistler's Hall of Fame in 2003! Jason has wowed television audiences with his whistling skills on such programs as The Tonight Show, The Merv Griffin show, and CBS Sunday Morning. When he isn't whistling, Jason is writing music reviews for online and print publications, as well as editorials and opinion pieces. The whistling is something you'll have to see to believe, so make sure and get tickets to one (or all!) of these shows!
February 19, 2015
Lofty Ladies
Humans have yet to develop wings, but certain people like to defy that fact and fly anyway. The Moisture Festival always features some aerial artists so you can live the dream of flight vicariously through them. Aerial acts can feature various apparatus such as silks, ropes and hoops, and an aerial trapeze can be flying, swinging, or static. Come see these performers (and more!) fly high at the 2015 festival!
Performing for the first time at the Moisture Festival, Pamela Donohoo is a choreographer, dancer, gymnast and aerial artist who has performed with various performing arts organizations all over the world. She obtained a degree from Stanford University in Cultural and Social Anthropology, and likes to use her amazing kinesthetic talents to create works that highlight social issues around the globe. Pamela says that her vision is to "to generate art that inspires people to think critically and contribute positively to their world." Her piece "Warrior Woman" is an aerial pole and acrobatic dance performance created to pay respect to the peace-building and conflict-enduring women around the world. She has choreographed pieces around other themes such as water, racism and empowerment, and industrialization and sustainability. We are thrilled to have her on stage at this year's Moisture Festival! Check here for showtimes, posted by the end of the month.
Camille Swift is another new face at the festival this year, with training and experience in various aerial arts. She began her training at the Aloft Loft in Chicago, and has also trained in Paris at the Association Volaverunt. Her specialties include static and single-point trapeze. In 2012, Camille started Top Star Trapeze in Champaign, Illinois and has really enjoyed teaching classes that focus on building strength, flexibility, and aerial awareness. One of her newest projects is with Acrobatica Infiniti Circus. This bills itself as a "nerd circus", combining circus, cosplay, and genre fiction. In addition to all of these things, Camille has recently come to Seattle for some training with a Moisture Festival veteran group, Duo Rose. We can't wait to see what she brings to the stage this year! Check back later this month for her performance schedule.
This year, we are pleased to welcome a solo act from a very talented aerialist that we've had the pleasure of seeing perform in the past. PJ, also known as Jennifer Perry, has been onstage (abovestage?!) at the Moisture Festival in the past with the Aerialistas, and we are excited to see what she'll do this year. PJ graduated from Western Washington University and is now a Kinesiologist and a Pilates Instructor as well as an aerialist. She has been performing since 2008, both locally and internationally, with the Aerialistas, Dream Science Circus, and the Bellingham Circus Guild. PJ has also spent a year living in Saudia Arabia teaching Pilates to the royal family! Her knowledge of the physical form and ability to utilize that knowledge is something you will definitely want to see! Check here in late February for a schedule of her performances.
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| Pamela Donohoo |
Performing for the first time at the Moisture Festival, Pamela Donohoo is a choreographer, dancer, gymnast and aerial artist who has performed with various performing arts organizations all over the world. She obtained a degree from Stanford University in Cultural and Social Anthropology, and likes to use her amazing kinesthetic talents to create works that highlight social issues around the globe. Pamela says that her vision is to "to generate art that inspires people to think critically and contribute positively to their world." Her piece "Warrior Woman" is an aerial pole and acrobatic dance performance created to pay respect to the peace-building and conflict-enduring women around the world. She has choreographed pieces around other themes such as water, racism and empowerment, and industrialization and sustainability. We are thrilled to have her on stage at this year's Moisture Festival! Check here for showtimes, posted by the end of the month.
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| Camille Swift photo by Nancy Behall |
.jpg) |
| PJ (Jennifer Perry) |
This year, we are pleased to welcome a solo act from a very talented aerialist that we've had the pleasure of seeing perform in the past. PJ, also known as Jennifer Perry, has been onstage (abovestage?!) at the Moisture Festival in the past with the Aerialistas, and we are excited to see what she'll do this year. PJ graduated from Western Washington University and is now a Kinesiologist and a Pilates Instructor as well as an aerialist. She has been performing since 2008, both locally and internationally, with the Aerialistas, Dream Science Circus, and the Bellingham Circus Guild. PJ has also spent a year living in Saudia Arabia teaching Pilates to the royal family! Her knowledge of the physical form and ability to utilize that knowledge is something you will definitely want to see! Check here in late February for a schedule of her performances.
February 17, 2015
Clowning Around at the Moisture Festival
Did you know there is actually a word for the fear of clowns? Coulrophobia is a word that hasn't been around for long, showing up mostly online rather than in any known printed dictionary. The clowns coming to this year's Moisture Festival are certainly not scary, though you may find yourself laughing until you cry. Don't be afraid to buy tickets to see these performers!
First, we have a returning act who has been captivating audiences all over the world with her unique style of clowning. Iman Lizarazu started her stage performance at age six as Mouse in the Nutcracker Ballet. In addition to training in classical ballet, Iman began learning circus arts from the Moscow Circus training gym, and her love of this craft grew. She studied circus in Dresden, miming in Paris, and even astrophysics! Yes, Iman has a PhD in Astrophysics from the Max Planck Institute in Munich. She has been active in both Clowns Without Borders and Doctors Without Borders, performing in Kosovo, St. Petersburg, and Cuba. Nairobi, Africa now has a circus school thanks to Iman! She has been juggling, miming, and clowning her way around the world for years, and we never know when she'll turn up next on the Moisture Festival stage! Make sure you check her performance schedule and get tickets to a show!
Another talented performer who started performing in a single-digit age is Benedikt Negro. His first professional performance at age nine was as a sideshow artist, making money performing magic at various street festivals. Benedikt's interest in the circus arts grew, and he went to pantomime school in Berlin. After that, he was offered an amazing gig! Since 2002, Benedikt has been the lead character of Cirque du Soleil's "O" at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. In addition to years on the Cirque stage, Benedikt has toured with Circus Apollo and "Hallucination Company". He also teaches a workshop in Mime and Pantomime. We're excited to have him at the festival for the first time in 2015. Benedikt's talents are amazing, so check here to find out when you can see him perform!
New to the Moisture Festival stage but not new to performing is the intriguing Michael Davis! His clown education began in the 70's when he was handpicked out
of over 2,000 applicants to attend Clown College, then spent several
years on the road clowning around with the Ringling Brothers Circus. You may have seen him on Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Late Night with David Letterman, Sesame Street... the list goes on! He's even performed on Broadway (NYC, not Capitol Hill, Seattle) in "Sugar Babies" with Mickey Rooney and Ann Miller. To add to the list of places you may have seen him, he's performed as Chef Tad Overdone at Teatro Zinzanni right here in Seattle. We are really excited that the stars have aligned to bring Michael to the Palladium this year! Show times will be posted here by the end of the month, so make sure to check back and grab some tickets for the whole family!
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| Imam Lizarazu photo by John Cornicello |
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| Benedikt Negro |
Another talented performer who started performing in a single-digit age is Benedikt Negro. His first professional performance at age nine was as a sideshow artist, making money performing magic at various street festivals. Benedikt's interest in the circus arts grew, and he went to pantomime school in Berlin. After that, he was offered an amazing gig! Since 2002, Benedikt has been the lead character of Cirque du Soleil's "O" at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. In addition to years on the Cirque stage, Benedikt has toured with Circus Apollo and "Hallucination Company". He also teaches a workshop in Mime and Pantomime. We're excited to have him at the festival for the first time in 2015. Benedikt's talents are amazing, so check here to find out when you can see him perform!
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| Michael Davis |
February 13, 2015
Moisture Festival and Teatro ZinZanni Present: MishMash Circus Bash!
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| MishMash Circus Bash 2014 photo by Michelle Bates |
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| Teatro Zinzanni |
The tent will open at 6:30 so you have plenty of time to get comfortable, and have a bite to eat if you choose. The Teatro ZinZanni kitchen will be serving an a la carte menu if you would like to purchase dinner. Food and beverages are not included in the ticket price. The full bar in the lobby will open at 6pm. Beverages are also available from your server once you are seated.
You won't want to miss this special event! Get tickets today for Tuesday April 7th or Wednesday Aptil 8th! Early bird discount through Feb 20.
February 12, 2015
Magical Moisture Acts!
The Oxford-English dictionary defines magic as "the power of apparently influencing the course of events by using mysterious or supernatural forces". One could also define it as "awesome, exhilarating fun" and "something amazing to see at the Moisture Festival". Whatever definition you choose, you'll want to keep your eyes open for these enchanting entertainers!
Jen Kramer will be at the Moisture Festival for the first time this year, and we are so excited to have her! She currently headlines a regular show at the Wyndham Grand Desert Resort in Las Vegas, and has also performed in multiple countries, on numerous television shows and been profiled in print and online publications. The secret is out... Jen Kramer is marvelously magical!
Somehow, she has also found the time to attend Yale, graduating with distinction in 2014 as a Theater Studies major. During her time there, she was also the founder and president of the Yale Magic Society. Jen has used her talents to bring joy to the Winthrop University Hospital's Cancer Center for Kids, the HUC-JIR soup kitchen in Manhattan, and while in high school, started a magic rehabilitation program at Mount Sinai Hospital. Oh, and to top it all off, Jen is a black belt in Shotokan Karate! Is there anything she can't do? Check here later this month for showtimes so you can see the magic of Jen Kramer for yourself!
The Moisture Festival is the world's largest and longest running comedy/variete festival, so it makes sense that we would feature a magician who has been performing in the longest-running magic show in the San Francisco Bay area. Majinga the Magician's "Magique Bazaar" has been wowing audiences with magic, variety acts, dancers, and more since 1998. He's even been published... "Book of Magic" from Klutz Press has sold over two million copies, and he's contributed to a handful of other books about magic.
Majinga the Magician was touring Indonesia and China when he saw something fascinating that he could not ignore. "Bian Lian" (change of face) originated over 300 years ago from the Sichuan Opera, and Majinga spent an intense four years studying this feat and creating his own character, Lian Qi Bian. He has respectfully resurrected this ancient art form and astounded audiences at the Magique Bazaar in San Francisco and the Magic Castle in Hollywood. Majinga is a must-see, so make sure you get tickets to one of his performances! Check back at the end of February for show dates and times here.
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| Jen Kramer |
Somehow, she has also found the time to attend Yale, graduating with distinction in 2014 as a Theater Studies major. During her time there, she was also the founder and president of the Yale Magic Society. Jen has used her talents to bring joy to the Winthrop University Hospital's Cancer Center for Kids, the HUC-JIR soup kitchen in Manhattan, and while in high school, started a magic rehabilitation program at Mount Sinai Hospital. Oh, and to top it all off, Jen is a black belt in Shotokan Karate! Is there anything she can't do? Check here later this month for showtimes so you can see the magic of Jen Kramer for yourself!
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| Majinga the Magician |
Majinga the Magician was touring Indonesia and China when he saw something fascinating that he could not ignore. "Bian Lian" (change of face) originated over 300 years ago from the Sichuan Opera, and Majinga spent an intense four years studying this feat and creating his own character, Lian Qi Bian. He has respectfully resurrected this ancient art form and astounded audiences at the Magique Bazaar in San Francisco and the Magic Castle in Hollywood. Majinga is a must-see, so make sure you get tickets to one of his performances! Check back at the end of February for show dates and times here.
February 10, 2015
When Half Is Just as Good as a Whole
Some of our acts are going for double duty... being on-stage as a duo, then also performing solo. You will love them together and separately, so make sure not to miss any of these stellar acts at the 2015 Moisture Festival!
The Raspyni Brothers have been delighting audiences with their hilarious antics for decades, opening for various music and comedic acts, appearing on "The Tonight Show", and have even been awarded World Juggling Champions four times! These unrelated siblings are masterful at taking everyday objects and turning them into interesting, flying objects. They will return this year, so check the list of their show dates right here in the coming weeks. As you can see from this photo, you may even get a chance to be part of the show!
One-half of the Raspyni Brothers is Dan Holzman, and we know his solo performance will be a whole lot of fun! He has been juggling since childhood, and has spent some time juggling all kinds of objects. When asked once about what unusual props he has used in a routine, his answer was, "a blowgun, battleaxe, and a head of cabbage." Dan is also in the Guinness Book of World Records, and you may have seen a younger version of him in the 1974 cult classic film "It's Alive!" With so many talents, it's hard to say exactly what he'll bring to the stage this year. Check for his showtimes here later this month.
Back in 2012, Kamikaze FireFlies wowed our Moisture Festival audience by crowd-surfing the audience in large plastic bubbles. We never know quite what they'll do next, but we do know it is always a good time! The dynamic duo of Rob Williams and Casey Martin will knock your socks off, even if you aren't wearing socks! They have both been involved with performing for delighted audiences for years, so check here to see what dates they will be on the Moisture Festival stage.
When not performing as a part of the Kamikaze FireFlies, Rob Williams can also be found doing solo performances. The last time he performed solo for the Moisture Festival, we discovered he was great at making sandwiches. You think that sounds kind of unimpressive, and that basically anyone can make a sandwich? What if I told you that from start to finish, opening packages and all, he made the sandwich with his feet? Now THAT is impressive! Don't worry, just like any good chef, he washed up before starting. You won't want to miss whatever Rob dishes up next, so buy tickets to one of the dates we'll list here in the next couple weeks!
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| Raspyni Brothers photo by John Cornicello |
The Raspyni Brothers have been delighting audiences with their hilarious antics for decades, opening for various music and comedic acts, appearing on "The Tonight Show", and have even been awarded World Juggling Champions four times! These unrelated siblings are masterful at taking everyday objects and turning them into interesting, flying objects. They will return this year, so check the list of their show dates right here in the coming weeks. As you can see from this photo, you may even get a chance to be part of the show!
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| Dan Holzman photo by Mark Gardiner |
One-half of the Raspyni Brothers is Dan Holzman, and we know his solo performance will be a whole lot of fun! He has been juggling since childhood, and has spent some time juggling all kinds of objects. When asked once about what unusual props he has used in a routine, his answer was, "a blowgun, battleaxe, and a head of cabbage." Dan is also in the Guinness Book of World Records, and you may have seen a younger version of him in the 1974 cult classic film "It's Alive!" With so many talents, it's hard to say exactly what he'll bring to the stage this year. Check for his showtimes here later this month.
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| Kamikaze FireFlies photo by Michelle Bates |
Back in 2012, Kamikaze FireFlies wowed our Moisture Festival audience by crowd-surfing the audience in large plastic bubbles. We never know quite what they'll do next, but we do know it is always a good time! The dynamic duo of Rob Williams and Casey Martin will knock your socks off, even if you aren't wearing socks! They have both been involved with performing for delighted audiences for years, so check here to see what dates they will be on the Moisture Festival stage.
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| Rob Williams photo by John Cornicello |
When not performing as a part of the Kamikaze FireFlies, Rob Williams can also be found doing solo performances. The last time he performed solo for the Moisture Festival, we discovered he was great at making sandwiches. You think that sounds kind of unimpressive, and that basically anyone can make a sandwich? What if I told you that from start to finish, opening packages and all, he made the sandwich with his feet? Now THAT is impressive! Don't worry, just like any good chef, he washed up before starting. You won't want to miss whatever Rob dishes up next, so buy tickets to one of the dates we'll list here in the next couple weeks!
February 5, 2015
Frank Olivier's Twisted Cabaret Returns to Seattle!
Frank Olivier’s Twisted Cabaret and Pandemonium Vaudeville Show is a one-man show with a cast of a dozen characters, each more talented and demented than the last. Frank Olivier has performed around the globe, bringing his world class comedy juggling act to literally millions of people. In this show, Frank delivers more than just amazing juggling and comedy. Each night Frank takes on a dozen different roles performing a dozen different acts as well as singing and dancing his way into your heart.
To learn more about Frank Olivier's Twisted Cabaret, visit the website: www.TwistedCabaret.com
Tickets at: http://twistedcabaret.strangertickets.com
Fabulous Festival Favorites!
There are some acts that we just love to see return to the festival each year! If you've missed any of these performers before, you can stop kicking yourself and get your tickets now for their 2015 festival performances. The comedic antics of these three performers will have you oooohing, ahhhhing, and making any other sounds of excitement you tend to make when you see impressive feats of physical comedy and dexterous skill.
Henrik Bothe was born in Denmark, but luckily for us, he had access to The Ed Sullivan show. The plate-spinning act set his brain a-spinning, and he began practicing, much to the dismay of his mother's dishes. This led him down the path of performing arts, and he has expanded his abilities beyond plate-spinning to include juggling, balancing, and even escaping a straightjacket WHILE riding a unicycle! Once, he even performed a juggling act on "A Prairie Home Companion". You wouldn't want to miss a performer who is so good that they wanted him to juggle on a radio show! Show dates and times will be posted in late February here.
An act that manages to be both charming and wildly impressive is the talented Lindsay Benner. After receiving her BFA in acting, she continued crafting her talents and expanding her horizons to include solo variety acts. Lindsay has performed at various festivals, college campuses, on television programs such as The Tonight Show and has even appeared in movies! Her unique brand of comedy, juggling, and bringing happiness to audiences all over the world is a must-see. The schedule of performances will soon be updated here, so check back to make sure you get tickets for one of her shows!
Bill Robison is another fascinating festival favorite that we've enjoyed watching over the years. His high-energy antics will delight everyone in your party, young and old alike. Comedy is an art form, and Bill is certainly an artist! He's been working on bringing laughter and fun to audiences for over 25 years, and some of those audiences have been right here at Hale's Palladium. You may have seen him outside before the festival in his Floaty Boat, playing songs on the ukelele while floating around in his canoe, but if not, check out the video below! You can see Bill's performance schedule on the Moisture stage posted here in late February.
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| Henrik Bothe |
Henrik Bothe was born in Denmark, but luckily for us, he had access to The Ed Sullivan show. The plate-spinning act set his brain a-spinning, and he began practicing, much to the dismay of his mother's dishes. This led him down the path of performing arts, and he has expanded his abilities beyond plate-spinning to include juggling, balancing, and even escaping a straightjacket WHILE riding a unicycle! Once, he even performed a juggling act on "A Prairie Home Companion". You wouldn't want to miss a performer who is so good that they wanted him to juggle on a radio show! Show dates and times will be posted in late February here.
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| Lindsay Benner photo by John Cornicello |
An act that manages to be both charming and wildly impressive is the talented Lindsay Benner. After receiving her BFA in acting, she continued crafting her talents and expanding her horizons to include solo variety acts. Lindsay has performed at various festivals, college campuses, on television programs such as The Tonight Show and has even appeared in movies! Her unique brand of comedy, juggling, and bringing happiness to audiences all over the world is a must-see. The schedule of performances will soon be updated here, so check back to make sure you get tickets for one of her shows!
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| Bill Robison |
Bill Robison is another fascinating festival favorite that we've enjoyed watching over the years. His high-energy antics will delight everyone in your party, young and old alike. Comedy is an art form, and Bill is certainly an artist! He's been working on bringing laughter and fun to audiences for over 25 years, and some of those audiences have been right here at Hale's Palladium. You may have seen him outside before the festival in his Floaty Boat, playing songs on the ukelele while floating around in his canoe, but if not, check out the video below! You can see Bill's performance schedule on the Moisture stage posted here in late February.
February 3, 2015
Music Groups at Moisture Festival 2015
Part of the great variety of our variete includes musical acts, and we have some talented artists lined up for you this year! These two bands include strong voices and interesting lyrics, both telling stories of sorts while showcasing amazing aural aptitude.
First, we have an A Capella quartet like no other... The Bobs! This Grammy-nominated group takes what you think you know about music and turns it upside-down, and side-ways, cross-wise... you get the point. Though they started their musical career performing uniquely arranged covers of popular songs, the Bobs have created their own songs over the years and released a number of albums, including 2013's "Biographies", highlighting famous and not-so-famous people throughout history.
It has been over 30 years since the Bobs first sang a note together, and though the owners of the voices have changed, the group remains a strong, cohesive vocal unit that will make you smile with their captivating harmonies and clever lyrics. The Seattle Times once described them as "a musical equivalent of a Gary Larson drawing", but you won't have to go to the Far Side to see them. Just check here for show dates, grab your friends and family, and head on over to Hale's Palladium to see the Bobs!
Another band you won't want to miss is Uncle Bonsai. This group adds an acoustic guitar to their three part vocal harmonies, and humorous and sometimes strange lyrics weave stories to entertain you. In 2013, they released a "bedtime book for grownups", The Monster in the Closet/Go to Sleep. This book of 2 songs, illustrated by the band members, also includes a recording of the songs, showing that this band can take it to the next level with multimedia offerings.
Having started performing in the early 80's, Uncle Bonsai has opened for many well known bands, including the Bobs! After an eight year hiatus, they reunited in 1998 to create more sonic stories, and now continue to titillate us with their tales. Chris Lunn with Victory Music Review said Uncle Bonsai "are one of the best things to erupt since Mount St. Helens... as startling as a dog with good breath." We think they are just delightful and are thrilled to have them back at the festival. Check here in late February for showtimes.
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| The Bobs photo by John Cornicello |
First, we have an A Capella quartet like no other... The Bobs! This Grammy-nominated group takes what you think you know about music and turns it upside-down, and side-ways, cross-wise... you get the point. Though they started their musical career performing uniquely arranged covers of popular songs, the Bobs have created their own songs over the years and released a number of albums, including 2013's "Biographies", highlighting famous and not-so-famous people throughout history.
It has been over 30 years since the Bobs first sang a note together, and though the owners of the voices have changed, the group remains a strong, cohesive vocal unit that will make you smile with their captivating harmonies and clever lyrics. The Seattle Times once described them as "a musical equivalent of a Gary Larson drawing", but you won't have to go to the Far Side to see them. Just check here for show dates, grab your friends and family, and head on over to Hale's Palladium to see the Bobs!
 |
| Uncle Bonsai photo by Michelle Bates |
Another band you won't want to miss is Uncle Bonsai. This group adds an acoustic guitar to their three part vocal harmonies, and humorous and sometimes strange lyrics weave stories to entertain you. In 2013, they released a "bedtime book for grownups", The Monster in the Closet/Go to Sleep. This book of 2 songs, illustrated by the band members, also includes a recording of the songs, showing that this band can take it to the next level with multimedia offerings.
Having started performing in the early 80's, Uncle Bonsai has opened for many well known bands, including the Bobs! After an eight year hiatus, they reunited in 1998 to create more sonic stories, and now continue to titillate us with their tales. Chris Lunn with Victory Music Review said Uncle Bonsai "are one of the best things to erupt since Mount St. Helens... as startling as a dog with good breath." We think they are just delightful and are thrilled to have them back at the festival. Check here in late February for showtimes.
January 28, 2015
Don't Drop the Ball and Miss These New Acts!
Planning for the festival involves scheduling new and old acts alike. We have been juggling these tasks for twelve years now, and think we've become quite good at balancing known crowd favorites with soon-to-be crowd favorites. This year, you'll want to keep an eye open for these stunning performers who are no strangers to catching the eyes of audiences all over the world.
Jay Gilligan has many talents, and juggling is certainly one of them! He has toured the world with various juggling companies and as a solo act, and when he is not touring and showing off his skills, he teaches juggling in Stockholm, Sweden. Over the years, Jay has performed a number of fascinating shows, including Prototype, a unique experience where the act of juggling creates music! If you want to know more about Jay and his juggling history, check out his recently published book 5 Catches. To see him in action, check back here in late February for his performance dates at Moisture Festival 2015!
Another performer who knows how to captivate a crowd is Steven Ragatz. He has been performing for three decades in multiple locations worldwide, and spent ten years touring with Cirque du Soleil. Steven is at home on any stage, from juggling in front of live orchestras to being the opening act for John Mellencamp! He has even performed on ice. Yes, you read that right... Steven has performed juggling and variety acts on ice! Our stage at Hale's Palladium is made of wood, but Steven Ragatz will transform it with his remarkable circus antics that you are sure to enjoy. Check here for updated show dates near the end of February.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Patrick McGuire was invited to the very first Portland Juggling Festival and eventually made the Pacific Northwest his home. He has toured extensively, including stints with Cirque du Soleil, performing in both Mystere and Quidam. He started work on Mystere just out of high school at the age of 18! Patrick has even appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno. Don't miss this talented character on the Moisture Festival stage! Showtimes will be posted here by the end of next month.
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| Jay Gilligan photo by Hans Vera |
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| Steven Ragatz |
Another performer who knows how to captivate a crowd is Steven Ragatz. He has been performing for three decades in multiple locations worldwide, and spent ten years touring with Cirque du Soleil. Steven is at home on any stage, from juggling in front of live orchestras to being the opening act for John Mellencamp! He has even performed on ice. Yes, you read that right... Steven has performed juggling and variety acts on ice! Our stage at Hale's Palladium is made of wood, but Steven Ragatz will transform it with his remarkable circus antics that you are sure to enjoy. Check here for updated show dates near the end of February.
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| Patrick McGuire |
Originally from Pittsburgh, Patrick McGuire was invited to the very first Portland Juggling Festival and eventually made the Pacific Northwest his home. He has toured extensively, including stints with Cirque du Soleil, performing in both Mystere and Quidam. He started work on Mystere just out of high school at the age of 18! Patrick has even appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno. Don't miss this talented character on the Moisture Festival stage! Showtimes will be posted here by the end of next month.
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