Russian group entertains Central tonight
Greg BurghardtThe Red Army Chorus and Dance Ensemble, a performing group affiliated with the Russian army, will perform tonight at 7:30 p.m. in Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium.
“It’s not something you are going to see in this part of the country ... it’s a rare opportunity to go see something unique and different,” said Robert Ebner, director of University Events, which is sponsoring the show.
The 60 members will perform a variety of dances and songs from all areas of Russia. This is their first year performing at Central, and tonight’s performance is one stop on their 30-city tour of America.
“They were offered last year to me and I didn’t have the funding,” said Ebner. “This year their agency gave me a deal that I couldn’t refuse.”
Ebner encourages students to attend the two-hour performance.
“(Central) is trying to be more international, and events like this broaden awareness of other countries,” he said. “You have to be aware of other cultures and all forms of art to become a well-rounded student, which employers look for.”
In addition to the dancers and singers, the performance will feature a full orchestra, baritone Merab Megreli and Russian bassist Sergey Baikov. The show, led by director and choreographer K. Kirillov, will alternate between soft and rapid numbers and is very exciting to watch, Ebner said.
“I think students will be surprised at the variety of entertainment ... and those other Friday activities will still be there when the show ends,” he said.
The Red Army Chorus and Dance Ensemble was founded in Russia in 1939 and has been touring the world since. Tickets cost $10 for students for any seat and $15 to $25 for the general public. Tickets are available at the Central Box Office or by calling 774-3000.
