5:00PM
Re-Encuentro Cultural Dancers, Mexican Folkloric Dance
5-5:45 p.m. MAIN STAGE (1):
Re-Encuentro Cultural started about 4 years ago dancing for school programs. Based in Fife, they consist of a small group of Hispanics who want to keep our children busy and out of trouble, while at the same time teaching others about our beautiful folkloric outfits and dances. Since their inception they have started danced for the Centro De La Raza, National Night out events, church outings, community street fairs, as well as for retirement centers and senior homes. The group is made of 6 children ranging in ages from 8 – 15.
6:00PM
Grand Cinema Shorts
6-11:30 p.m. Theatre on the Square, 901 Broadway, 2nd Floor.
Join the Grand Cinema at the Theater on the Square – 2nd Floor – for entertaining family films during the First Night festival. These are the Academy Award Short Film Nominations from 2006. The films range in time so just come when you can and see what is showing:
West Bank Story (21 min.) Comedy/Musical – set in Israel a fast-paced, fast-food romance/comedy.
Binta & The Great Idea (30 min.) Comedy/Family/French – set in Senegal the film follows a young girl and her father's great idea.
Eramos Pocos "One Too Many" (16 min.) Comedy/Spanish – the film follows a wife tired of her husband and son's messy ways.
Helmer & Son (13 min) Comedy/Drama/Danish – a son visits his father who is stuck in an armoire at his resthome.
The Danish Poet (14 min) Animation/Romance/Danish – a women narrates the story of how her parents met.
Maestro (5 min.) Animation – follows what a Maestro and his assistant prepare for five minutes before a performance.
The Grand Cinema is Pierce County's only non-profit art house film theater dedicated to bringing independent films to the area. Their mission is to enhance the cultural vitality of the community through the art of film. The Grand Cinema is located at 606 S. Fawcett.
Oh Voices - Other/Piano/Pop
6-6:45 p.m Theatre on the Square - 901 Broadway (7)
Combining feel-good indie music with excellent melodies and harmonies; Oh Voices is bound to please. Jazz-like piano and striking vocal melodies are infused to bring forth such influences as the Beatles, the Beach Boys and Debussy. These Tacoma locals bring forth dynamic pop-folk music that will surely make you smile.
Shakespeare in the Parking Lot Theatre Company
6-7:45 p.m. Poekodan Martial Arts 746 Broadway
A traveling troupe of performers who, through the magic of imagination and innovation, strive to inspire and excite audiences of all ages to engage the works of William Shakespeare. Founded with the goal of taking the fear out of Shakespeare; this traveling troupe offers educational opportunities & engaging theatre productions inspired by the works of William Shakespeare in both non-traditional, and outdoor venues.
The Tokens
6-6:45 p.m., SANFORD AND SONS (6) DOWNSTAIRS
Critics refer to the Tokens as "the mother ship of South Sound improv" (The Ranger) where "the link between theater and improv is exactly the connection they have made." (News Tribune) We are but a simple band of Tacoma / Lakewood -based entertainment powerhouses that enjoy picking apart lofty beliefs and "lifestyles d'jour."
Celluloid Cowboys
6-6:45 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) UPSTAIRS
These four performers, dubbed the Celluloid Cowboys help bring back the sounds of the old west. Three part harmonies alongside sparkling instrumentals illuminate the fading memories of the golden era of Hollywood cowboy music. Reminiscent of cowboy music from the 30’s through the 50’s, these cowboys are bound to bring back memories of the good ole’ days.
Grant Elementary School
6-7:00 p.m. - - SOTA Theatre (5)
Valentine's Performing Pigs
6-6:45 p.m. - RIALTO Theatre (4)
Pig Olympics, a large World Class Stage Act! Jumping pigs, "ham-dunking" mini-pigs, pigs energetically playing soccer, golf, bowling, football, and skateboarding! Different from the pig races, the amazing and hilarious porkers are something people have never witnessed before, and probably never will again. Each incredible and adorable show is followed by a "Meet and Greet" the pigs session with the audience. As seen on Letterman, Oprah, the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Animal Planet. Starring Nellie, World's Smartest Pig!
Reverse PROPAGANDA - Art Exhibit
6 p.m.-Close PANTAGES THEATRE (3)
This walk through exhibit attempts to utilize some of the principals of propaganda that has historically been used to promote feelings of nationalism and to encourage war, to convey a different print of view. The artists involved are: Mary K Johnson, Tim Kapler and Ivan Cunningham.
Gary Stroutsos
6-6:45 p.m. PANTAGES THEATRE (3)
International recording artist and Grammy award winner Gary Stroutsos is a composer, educator, producer, and performer of world flute music drawn from or inspired by traditional cultures and their reverence for the earth. Performing on Native American and Chinese flutes, his repertoire is deeply respectful of ethnic cultures and the spirit of place found around the globe. His work was showcased in the Ken Burns PBS documentary Lewis and Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery, which led to a command performance at the White House for President Bill Clinton in 1997. He is a regular guest on National Public Radio (NPR) and other syndicated programs such as Echoes. He has recorded more than 13 CDs, and he performs extensively throughout the United States and Canada. His CDs have received national acclaim as benchmark recordings of Native American flute music.
Loose Gravel and the Quarry
6-6:45 p.m. MAIN STAGE (1)
Loose Gravel and the Quarry is a Tacoma based hard drivin’ original blues and classic rock band that has been performing the Puget Sound area since 1992. Steve Luhtala aka “Loose Gravel” is the cornerstone for this band with his deep gravelly voice likened to Tom Waits. The sheer dynamics of this band, teetering between a whisper and a thick powerful sound are guaranteed to get you tapping your feet before you know it.
Jean Mann
6-7:45 p.m. PYTHAIN TEMPLE (2)
Self-taught Seattle based singer songwriter jean mann released her 3rd independently produced CD, "daisies and fire" (Fall 07) to great acclaim. jean and multi-instrumentalist side-kick Bill Corral are onto something special with their texture-rich "power duo" live performance, not to be missed. The two co-produced "daisies and fire". When not performing, jean can be found gallivanting barefoot through fields of daisies, having walked through just a little fire to get there. "Listening to jean's music feels like being in a really cool indie film" -Judith Avers. For a sampling of the new album, please visit www.myspace.com/jeanmann
7:00PM
Parade: 7-7:20pm Street Acts: Continuous
Make sure you stop and see the Grand Procession. We will parade down Broadway at 7 p.m., showcasing many of the performers and artists that will be exhibiting at First Night 2008. At the conclusion of the Procession their will be a fire performance to kick off the night! Then, just to keep you interested, First Night will also be hosting a variety of street performances. Stop by and see these performers on your way to shows, between shows, or perhaps instead of a show!
- Strolling historical pirates
- Dockyard Derby Dames
- Captain Jack Sparrow look-a-like
- Street magic by Geoff Kanick and Professor Bamboozle
- Fire spinning, twirling, dancing by Pyro Sutra.
- Lion dances performed by the Institute of Chinese Martial Arts
- SOTA’s very own Crazy Zanies
- Flying Monkeys from SOTA’s Wizard of Oz
- Puppets
- DASH Center for Performing Arts
7:30PM
Sugarcane Mutiny - Rock
7:30-8:15 p.m. Theatre on the Square - 901 Broadway (7)
Self described "literate guitar rock for head bangers who also enjoy reading a good book". Seattle’s Sugarcane Mutiny takes two shots of single-malt rock, adds a dash of twang, and muddles the mix with fresh lime. The band’s lyric-driven songwriting and power-pop beats recall the pub rock of Elvis Costello and Graham Parker, blending the dark humor of a Cracker or Wilco with the loud jangly pop of the Smithereens and Fastball. Reviewers have most frequently compared the band's sound to Billy Idol, X, REM, and U-2, while others say they hear hints of Robbie Robertson, Midnight Oil, Talking Heads and the Cult. Whatever you call it, it's all-original Seattle rock -- loud, wet and quirky.
The Tokens
7:30-8:15 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) DOWNSTAIRS
Critics refer to the Tokens as "the mother ship of South Sound improv" (The Ranger) where "the link between theater and improv is exactly the connection they have made." (News Tribune) We are but a simple band of Tacoma / Lakewood -based entertainment powerhouses that enjoy picking apart lofty beliefs and "lifestyles d'jour."
Folksingers in Hell
7:30-8:15 p.m. - SANFORD AND SONS (6) UPSTAIRS
David Fewster and Heidi Fosner have joined forces to bring you Folksingers in Hell, this acoustic/spoken word duo provides toe-tapping, alternative-folk social commentary on everything you ever needed to know. Lapses of free verse from either artist complimented by the backing of solid acoustic guitar will not only make you hum along, it’s also bound to make you think a little deeper.
Congo Productions
7:30-10:15 p.m. Poekodan Martial Arts 746 Broadway
Stop by and experience a dynamic and energetic performance put on by Congo Productions. This drum circle is bound to bring people together from all different backgrounds to enrich cultural diversity through the spirit of the drums. Audience participation is highly encouraged, stop by pick up a drum and be part of the performance!
First 1 Act by David Domkoski
7:30-8 p.m. - - SOTA Theatre (5)
Geoff Kanick
7:30-8:15 p.m. RIALTO Theatre (4)
An up and coming South Sound entertainer, Geoff combines magic, juggling, and escape art into a classically reinvented performance laced with humor and packed with drama. This show will leave you laughing on the edge of your seat. Geoff has performed at Tall Ships, Ethinc Fest, Freedom Fair, First Night and various fundraising events. Make sure you stop by and see Geoff juggling knives, escaping straight jackets, all while keeping the audience rolling with laughter.
The Smilin’ Scandinavians – Infectious Polka Fun
7:30-8:15 p.m. MAIN STAGE (1)
Bestowed with such labels as, “the Northwest’s most fun polka band”. The these polka connoisseurs have been purveying their own brand of polka fun for over twelve years. They bring a fresh, lively approach to polka music blending Midwestern polka, Scandinavian folk, traditional country western and big band swing! Their spirited shows are bound to break down all your inhibitions and show almost anyone a rollicking good time. This is NOT your father’s polka band!
Over The Water Hurdy Gurdy Association
7:30-8:15 p.m. PYTHAIN TEMPLE (2)
The Hurdy Gurdy is a string instrument that appeared in Western Europe about a thousand years ago and was used to play all types of music, including "serious" orchestral music (Vivaldi wrote music for it) through the Baroque era. Since then it has been primarily a folk instrument. It had a revival during the Romantic era and another revival as part of folk revival in the 70’s in France. The instrument is also actively played in other European countries including Spain, Hungary and Poland. Over The Water Hurdy Gurdy Association produces the largest Hurdy Gurdy festival in North America. They bring musicians from France, Italy and England as well as the US to western Washington to teach. The performing group is made up of board members and friends. They come from a variety of backgrounds including Alden and Callie Hackman who are the preeminent Hurdy Gurdy builders in North America.
One World Taiko
7:30-8:15 p.m. PANTAGES THEATRE (3)
Literally translating to "drum" in Japanese, One World Taiko has been drumming in the US for the past 13 years. The music is drawn from Japan's ancient tradition of lively and spirited festival drumming and One World Taiko's own creative rhythms, arrangements and choreography, adding a modern spirit to ancient traditional Taiko. Performing on drums measuring up to 4 feet long, down to small 'snare' drum size, Taiko uses a variety of drum sizes to produce a slew of sounds; Taiko is music you don't simply hear but also feel.
8:00PM
Ty Acord
8-8:45 p.m. - CLUB SOTA (5)
Samoan Dance
8-8:30 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
8:30PM
The Elephants
8:30-9:15 p.m. Theatre on the Square - 901 Broadway (7) (7)
These four guys are bound to rock. A self-described, "four-piece-instrument swapping-dance-rock- pop-electronic group," this group has been entertaining around the Northwest for the past 3 years. You may have caught some of their tunes on Seattle’s 90.3 KEXP or on 107.7 The End; regardless if your in the mood to swing, dance, or just bob your head make sure you check out The Elephants.
Abztrakt Synergy
8:30-9:15 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) DOWNSTAIRS
Abztrakt Synergy presents a 21st century media synthesis of collaborative live-action painting, poetry, and music in a uniquely performative sculpture and experimental synchronistic-improv surprise. Featuring Aaron Voronoff the Painter, Jeremy Silas the Poet, and friends.
Shakespeare in the Parking Lot Theatre Company
8:30-9:15 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) UPSTAIRS
A traveling troupe of performers who, through the magic of imagination and innovation, strive to inspire and excite audiences of all ages to engage the works of William Shakespeare. Founded with the goal of taking the fear out of Shakespeare; this traveling troupe offers educational opportunities & engaging theatre productions inspired by the works of William Shakespeare in both non-traditional and outdoor venues.
Second 1 Act by David Domkoski
8:30-9 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
Aria Dance Company
8:30-9:15 p.m. RIALTO Theatre (4)
Aria Dance Company is a non-profit organization founded by Christina Vandenberg, Artistic Director; and is dedicated to helping dancers achieve self-discipline and artistic expression through dance. The company is based in Ballet, but also explores Modern, Jazz, Folk, and Character dancing. Aria is supported by the Federal Way Arts Commission, the City of Federal Way, and 4Culture; and is an active member of the South King County Cultural Coalition, and the Federal Way Coalition of the Performing Arts.
The Rumba Kings
8:30-9:15 p.m. MAIN STAGE (1)
Normando Brenis and The Rumba Kings are a talented diversified group who provides an exciting program which draw from a large repertoire of music. From South America, Mexico, all the way to Spain, Normando has a real passion for the guitar. He provides the whole span of music including: flamenco, Latin and contemporary music through both instrumental and vocal performances.
Tingstad & Rumbel
8:30-10:15 p.m. PANTAGES THEATRE (3)
Eric Tingstad's latest release - Southwest CD has been nominated for the 2008 Grammy Award. Tingstad & Rumbel WON the Grammy in 2003 for their Acoustic Garden CD. They have performed together for 22 years with numerous releases on the market, and many Awards to their credit.
8:45PM
The Gypsys feat
8:45-9:15 p.m. - CLUB SOTA (5)
9:00PM
Fire & Ice Celtic Dance
9-9:10 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
9:15PM
Flamenco Dance
9:15-9:25 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
SOTA Jazz Combo
9:15-9:45 p.m. - CULB SOTA (5)
9:30PM
Hip-Hop Show: DASH, Q Dot & Fame Rilla
9:30-11:30 p.m. Theatre on the Square
The DASH Center (Dancing, Acting, and Singing in Harmony) is a home for people to develop natural talent and acquire the skills necessary for a career in the performing arts. The goal of the D.A.S.H. Center is to provide training in all aspects of the performing arts. The Center is a vehicle, to develop talent, confidence and self-esteem. The Center facility is the home for the active, community outreach organization, Reality Check Dance Troupe.
Q Dot
It was just a year ago 24 year old Producer, MC and songwriter Q Dot quietly reached two landmark achievements for an indie act. The first landing at #3 on internet radio chart Radiowave just ahead of superstars Fergie and Jim Jones and the second garnering national video airplay on MTVU. A south Puget Sound native, Q Dot brings his unique, intimate twist on the live hip hop show to Tacoma’s First Night Festival.
Fame Rilla
Southern artists are fueling the most dominate movement in Hip Hop today. Now South Puget sound resident via Houston Texas, Fame Rilla brings a high energy stage show that features his debut single “I mean I mean” currently creating a huge buzz in Europe, Australia and Canada.
Whateverly Brothers Sea Chanteys
9:30-11:30 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) DOWNSTAIRS
The Brothers (Dan Roberts, Chris Glannister & Matthew Moeller) have performed for many years as solo artists and members of obscure folk groups across the Pacific Northwest. Now these three talents are together as the Whateverly Brothers. The music world will never be the same! “It’s a blending of the finest traditions of vocal harmony.” Drawing from a rich and varied musical history, The Whateverly Brothers harken to the folksinger tradition that: “No musical style is sacred” . Hoist anchor! Raise the glass! Sing along!
The Little Brothers
9:30-10:15 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) UPSTAIRS
Combining the power of language with the simple melodic structure of country music, The Little Brothers have created a style of music that can’t help but move people. Rooted deep in Southern shadows of beauty and terror, their songs will hurt you, heal you, and steal you, as long as you’re willing to listen and feel, and find your heart in your hands.
Wizard of OZ excerpts
9:30-9:45 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
Handful of Luvin'
9:30-10:15 p.m. MAIN STAGE (1)
Handful of Luvin’ is a 4-piece folk rock group from Seattle, who has often been compared to the Dave Matthews Band, Spin Doctors. They have made a name for themselves offering a high- energy set reminiscent of the Police and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The band originally began in the spring of 2002 with David John and Andrew Joslyn. Through various transformations, the band found Patrick Files and Mike Knight. Every member of the band brings their own unique background with music to the band. Whether its Gypsy, Folk, Funk, Reggae, or Rock.
Del Rey
9:30-10:15 p.m. PYTHAIN TEMPLE (2)
A powerful exhibition of American vernacular guitar music; Del Rey plays music testament to the hillbilly/smarty-pants/country blues aesthetic. Del Rey provides on resonator ukulele and Steve James is known for his "noble savage" mandolin style.
www.hobemianrecords.com
Professor Bamboozle
9:30-10:15 p.m. & Street performances RIALTO Theatre (4)
Performing a self-described “kitchen sink show“, Professor Bamboozle covers it all. From grand illusions to table-top tricks and straight on through to street performances, Professor Bamboozle’s family variety show is bound to please both young and old. Catch him either at his stage performance or on the street entertaining performing a variety of tricks that will have you rolling with laughter.
9:45PM
Fire & Ice Celtic Dance
9:45-9:55 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
Taylour Woodruff & Friends
9:45-10:15 p.m. - CLUB SOTA (5)
9:55PM
XcLuSive
9:55-10:15 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
10:15PM
Mos Bes
10:15-11 p.m. - SOTA (5) THEATRE
10:30PM
Deborah Page
10:30-11:30 p.m. SANFORD AND SONS (6) UPSTAIRS
One of Tacoma’s best local singer/songwriter, Deborah Page has been wowing local crowds throughout Tacoma with her melodic and moving music. A local favorite at venues such as Sanford & Sons and the Antique Sandwich Company, stop by and listen and perhaps you to will join the growing masses of folk who just can’t seem to get enough of Deborah’s music.
DASH
10:30-11 p.m. - - SOTA (5) THEATRE
Zazou
10:30-11:30 p.m. RIALTO Theatre (4)
Zazou is an acoustic sextet whose vocal and instrumental music is inspired by Django Reinhardt's Jazz Manouche, Parisian accordion aires, tasty tangos, Latin rhythms, American swing, a touch of Hawaiian and even the occasional bird call.
Alex Duncan
10:30-11:50 p.m., MAIN STAGE (1)
leading up to midnight countown Originally from the island of St. Kitts. Alex Duncan has been dazzling crowds with his high-energy performances for over ten years. Citing Reggae as the source for much of his inspiration, Alex’s music has been heavily influenced by both Bob Marley and Buju Banton. With more than 200 live performances a year, Alex is bound to leave a powerful impression on anyone. A unique artist in our time.
Tiller's Folly
10:30-11:30 p.m. PANTAGES THEATRE (3)
For over a decade, Tiller's Folly has been captivating audiences with their music, stories and smoking live shows. From the dynamic vocals, driving acoustic guitar and classic songwriting of Bruce Coughlan, through the wild, virtuoso layers of creative color added by award-winning multi- instrumentalist, Nolan Murray, to the solid driving foundation laid down by bassist and vocalist, Laurence Knight, Tiller's Folly is a high-energy acoustic roots music experience like no other.
11:50
Countdown to Midnight and Fireworks finale
11:50 p.m.-Midnight MAIN STAGE (1)
Come celebrate with us as we count down to Midnight with King 5’s coolest weather guy Rich Marriott at the Pierce Transit Park MAIN STAGE (1) and watch as we welcome 2008 with a great midnight fireworks display!
