By Reader Staff
The Pend Oreille Arts Council kicks off its annual performing arts season with concert pianist Sean Bostrom on Friday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Panida Theater (300 N. First Ave., in downtown Sandpoint).
Known for his captivating performances blending classical music with comedic flair, à la Victor Borge, Bostrom has delighted audiences in the Pacific Northwest for the past 18 years with his musicianship.
Starting his journey with piano lessons to strengthen his math skills, Bostrom’s dedication and talent led him to study with renowned teachers, participate in prestigious competitions and win scholarships. A passionate educator, he also offers group and private piano lessons, nurturing a love for music in students of all ages and skill levels.
POAC’s season continues through next spring with performances ranging from Celtic rock and folk roots music to multimedia theatrical performances and even a prop comedian who is a two-time Guinness World Record Holder.
Performances will be presented at the Panida and The Hive (207 N. First Ave., in Sandpoint). Per POAC’s mission, ticket prices are affordable, ranging from $5-$25, with a limited number of season passes available at $100 for admission to six shows (season passes do not include the additional Nutcracker performance or Masterpiece Ball, with tickets priced and sold separately).
Friday, Sept. 26: Sean Bostrom — With roots in North Idaho, Bostrom is known for his captivating performances blending classical music with comedic flair. Tickets $20 adult/$10 youth.
Friday, Oct. 24: Masterpiece Ball — An evening of fundraising with live music from Harold’s IGA, signature cocktails and appetizers, mini-art auction and a costume contest. Dress as a living work of art or your favorite artist for an opportunity to support POAC’s education programs. Tickets are $75 (21+ event).
Saturday, Nov. 22: Missoula Children’s Theater: Alice in Wonderland — The Missoula Children’s Theater presents an original adaption of the classic fairy tale, starring local youth. Tickets $20 adult/$5 youth.
Wednesday, Dec. 3: The Nutcracker with Ballet Victoria — The talented dancers of Ballet Victoria will warm audience members’ hearts with holiday cheer and feature local youth, as well. Tickets $45 adult/$20 youth.
Thursday, Jan. 15: Living Voices: “The Klondike”— Experience history with Living Voices, where solo performances and archival film merge to narrate the hunt for gold with one independent young woman who risks everything for the promise of wealth and a fresh start during a time of global turmoil. Tickets $15 adult/$10 youth.
Friday, Feb. 20: Abby Posner — An award-winning singer-songwriter, Posner’s live shows blend folk, roots, electronic and pop. A genre-fluid L.A.-based musician known for mastering nearly any instrument, her performances feature everything from fierce blues guitar solos to complex banjo riffs. With passion and energy comparable to Chris Thile and The Lumineers, she delivers haunting folk songs and upbeat dance hits. Tickets $20 adult/$10 youth.
‘Lucky Friday,’ March 13: Derina Harvey Band — A special St. Patrick’s Day party at The Hive. With her vibrant personality, humor and powerful vocals, Harvey leads this Celtic rock powerhouse, which is a multi-award winning group from Edmonton, Alberta, known for its engaging live shows. Tickets $25 (21+ event).
Friday, April 17: The Zaniac — Alex Zerbe, a.k.a. “The Zaniac,” moves like a rubber band across the stage with a comedic onslaught of absurd ideas, odd skills and fantastic feats that have earned him two Guinness World Records and the title of Seattle’s Funniest Physical Comedian. Tickets $25 adult/$10 youth
Visiting performers also participate in POAC’s Ovations program, a free K-12 outreach that provides quality educational experiences in the performing arts for students who would otherwise not have those opportunities. In addition to all public performances at the Panida and The Hive, workshops, performances and outreach programs are planned throughout the year for the Lake Pend Oreille School District and the Sandpoint community.
“POAC has a long tradition of presenting culturally diverse performances, geared for audiences of all ages, at affordable prices,” stated POAC Executive Director Tone Stolz. “We are thrilled to present a new season of exceptional artistic quality, theatrical excitement and inspiration to the Sandpoint community through the performing arts.”
Tickets to all events are on sale at ArtinSandpoint.org, by phone at 208-263-6139 or at the POAC Gallery (313 N. Second Ave, in downtown Sandpoint).
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for the POAC’s Performing Arts Season and for individual shows. Call the POAC office for details.
