One of the coolest things I’ve seen on an awards show was a few years ago when Pink did a fabric aerial dance while singing “Glitter in the Air.” You can see that graceful art form in person starting Friday, Nov. 8, when AirDance New Mexico presents Whichever Way the Wind Blows at the AirDance ArtSpace (3030 Isleta SW). The show embodies how the winds of change push and pull us, spin us and transport us from one experience to another. In addition to aerial fabric dance, performers will show off their trapeze, hammock and hoop skills, and unveil a new custom-made aerial cube (yep—I’m intrigued). More than just performers, the dancers collaborated to create the show under the direction of Debra Landau. The result: Choreography, creativity and crazy skills intertwine for an extraordinary aerial dance theater experience. That thrill could have you, too, dancing on air. Tickets run just $10 to $15, so catch the show before it breezes by—Friday and Saturday at 8pm, Sunday at 2pm. See airdance.org for more. (Kristi D. Lawrence)
Stage Whispers Crashing The American Dream
Debrianna Mansini, Lorri Oliver and Jean Moran
Good People, which debuted on Broadway to great critical acclaim in 2011, reunites two people from the same rough neighborhood in Boston whose lives have diverged dramatically since they last saw one another. Mike found the good life, while Margaret has all the troubles. When they compare notes at Mike’s canceled birthday party, one has to wonder: What is the connection between being a good person and having the good life? Is it just luck of the draw? From the opening scene in a junked-out alley behind a dollar store, director Janet Davidson brings David Lindsay-Abaire’s all-too-relatable drama to life. Good People runs through Nov. 24; showtimes Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. $18 general admission, students $12. Catch a talkback after the show on Sunday, Nov. 10. For tickets and info, go to vortexabq.org or call 247-8600. The Vortex Theatre is across from the UNM main campus, 2004 1/2 Central SE. (Holly Von Winckel)
Stage Whispers Pop Into Broadway
Hugh Panaro and Cristiane Noll
You don’t have to travel to New York City to see two of Broadway’s biggest stars—they’re coming to you. Christiane Noll and Hugh Panaro lend their golden voices to a special performance at Popejoy Hall, Saturday, Nov. 9 at 6pm. This is the New Mexico Philharmonic’s second concert in its Pops Series. Noll’s resumé includes a Tony nomination for her role as Mother in Ragtime, numerous awards and worldwide performances. Panaro has spent much of his impressive Broadway career playing various stints as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera (not a bad gig if you can get it). The talented pair will belt out Broadway tunes past and present, from “I Got Rhythm” to “Music of the Night,” accompanied by the accomplished musicians of the NM Philharmonic and led by notable guest conductor Christopher Confessore. And with tickets ranging from $20 to $68 at unmtickets.com or by calling 925-5858, you’ll feel the exhilarating rush of seeing a Broadway show without having to shell out money for airfare. Call it your own mini-Broadway staycation. (Kristi D. Lawrence)
